Semillon
Grape native to the Bordeaux region, more specifically the Sauternes wine area, Semillon has been proven to be close to Sauvignon Blanc through DNA study. This grape variety found home in many new world vineyards, particularly in the Australian Hunter Valley, where it is produced as a really unique herbaceous, mineral wine style. South Africa and Chile used to have a majority of their vineyards planted with Semillon.
Semillon has been imported to California from Bordeaux in the late 19th century. Some century old vines can still be found in the Wente vineyards, Livermore and the Monte Rosso vineyards in Sonoma. Semillon can mostly be found in vineyards from Napa, Sonoma, Yuba and San Joaquin counties. It is used as a blending partner for Sauvignon Blanc, but some pure Semillon wines can be found as well. Some examples of sweet wines made from botrytis infected grapes cab ne found as well.
This mid-ripening varietal produces big berries yellowish to golden in color. It is highly prone to Botrytis bunch rot, which is used in the right conditions to create some of the most famous sweet wines in the world.
When not fully ripened, Semillon can taste quite herbaceous and shows a greener character. However, at full maturity, the wine develop a fuller, richer palate with some waxy, lanolin aromas and some definitive aging potential.
Australia, Hunter Valley, produces some of the most unique white wine in the world based on Semillon. These low alcohol, high acid Semillon wines are transformed with bottle age into toasty, complex wines.
Semillon is a white grape variety that produces wines with a wide range of styles, from dry to sweet. The food pairings for Semillon can vary depending on the specific style of wine you have.
Dry Semillon: Dry Semillon wines are crisp, medium-bodied, and often have citrus and herbal notes. They pair well with a variety of dishes, including:
Seafood: Grilled or roasted fish, shellfish, and seafood dishes like shrimp scampi or seafood risotto.
Poultry: Roast chicken, turkey, or grilled chicken with herbs.
Salads: Fresh green salads with vinaigrette dressings or salads featuring goat cheese, avocado, or citrus fruits.
Sweet or Botrytized Semillon: Sweet Semillon wines, especially those affected by the noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), are rich, luscious, wines that are often enjoyed on their own as dessert wines, but they can also be paired with:
Foie gras: The rich and savory flavors of foie gras pair beautifully with the sweetness and acidity of a sweet Semillon.
Blue cheese: The sweet and complex flavors of sweet Semillon complement the strong and salty character of blue cheese.
Fruit-based desserts: Desserts like tarts, crumbles, or cakes featuring stone fruits, apricots, or tropical fruits can be a delightful match.
Great Recipe: Pan seared Foie Gras