Semillon
TL; DR
Always the bridesmaid, and probably the world's least appreciated great grape.
So, what is it?--red
Semillon is a white grape that is responsible for Australia's most recognisable white wine (although you may have never tried it), France's greatest dessert wine and is planted pretty much all over the world. It can be rich and fat or lean and bright. You should get to know it.
Where does it come from?--aromatic
Semillon originates in Bordeaux, in south-western France, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Beyond its French roots, Semillon has found a second home in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales, Australia. This versatile grape is also grown in South Africa, Argentina, Chile, and parts of the USA, including Washington and California.
Who's famous for it?--racy
- France: Bordeaux remains the historical heartland of Semillon, where it is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc to create the renowned Bordeaux Blanc and Sauternes.
- Australia: The Hunter Valley is renowned for its distinctive, age-worthy Semillon, while the Barossa Valley produces richer, more full-bodied styles.
- Chile: Central Valley is emerging as a notable region for Semillon, offering fresh, vibrant expressions.
- Argentina: Mendoza is known for its high-altitude vineyards that produce crisp and aromatic Semillon.
- USA: Washington and California are making their mark with diverse styles of Semillon, from bright and zesty to rich and oaked.
What does it taste like?--lemon
Young, unoaked Semillon is a delightfully tangy and crisp wine with high acidity and low alcohol. Expect vibrant flavours of crunchy green apple and zesty citrus. As Semillon ages, it transforms remarkably. The high acidity mellows, the wine gains a richer mouthfeel, and complex honeyed tones emerge. These aged Semillons also develop intriguing biscuity nuances, making them a versatile and fascinating wine to explore over time.
Main styles it's known for?--cellar
In Australia, Semillon is synonymous with the Hunter Valley. Here it makes wines that can live for 50 years! In France, it forms part of the magical mixture for Sauternes, the greatest dessert wines in the world. It's also blended with Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux where it makes dry whites that range in quality from simple table wines to age-worthy, complex collectables.
What foods should you be pairing it with?--plum
Younger expressions work best with sushi, fresh vegetables and lighter chicken dishes. Aged Semillon on the other hand tends to handle richer dishes involving roast pork, and roast chicken best. And thanks to its high acidity, no matter if it's young or aged, Semillon can cut through rich and heavy sauces with unparalleled grace.
Fun fact--earth
Semillon has, in the past 200 years, been the most planted grape in South Africa (now only 1% of vineyards), the most planted grape in Chile (now about 2%), and is currently forging a path in Argentina. Perhaps one day it'll get the respect it deserves?