Lens or sensor?

[LucisPictor]

We often talk about the colour rendition of a certain lens.
In the times of digital cams, I wonder to what extent the lens is responsible for a particular colour cast or a typical character and to what extent the sensor is influencing this.

With film you also have diverging "personalities", a Velvia looks different from a Kodak Gold. But after a while you know the film and if you see a photo by somebody else and you know the film, you can judge the lens.
But you do not know about the white balance of a digital cam that the person has used.

When I shoot, I often use AWB of my Canon. The lenses I like - esp. the Nikkors, strangely enough - produce IMHO perfect results without any post production.

But if I want to "test" and "learn about" a lens' character, I try to use the right WB, so "daylight" for a daylight shot.
Of course, you have to be quick, since outside the colour temperature can change in an instant. The best way would be to measure with a grey card for each lens shortly before shooting - but what a hassle!

What do you think about that?