Sémillon is a golden-skinned grape used in the production of dry and sweet white wines, predominantly in France and Australia. It's known for its rich, full-bodied texture and high yield. The varietal typically produces wines with low acidity and a lush, almost oily texture.
In its ripest form, Sémillon expresses flavors of lemon, apricot, papaya, and mango. When affected by the noble rot, or Botrytis cinerea, Sémillon can produce intensely sweet, complex dessert wines with flavors of honey, ginger, and vanilla. The varietal is also commonly blended with Sauvignon Blanc to balance its richness and add acidity.
In terms of aging, Sémillon wines can be consumed young, but they also have excellent aging potential. Aged Sémillon wines often exhibit deep gold color and flavors of honey, nut, and spice.
Beyond France and Australia, Sémillon is grown in South Africa, Chile, Argentina, and the United States, among other regions. Despite its global presence, Sémillon is somewhat underappreciated and not as widely recognized as other white varietals like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
