Semillon
The Grape
Semillon is a white wine grape from Bordeaux, France. These vines were known for their vigorous growth and easy cultivation as well for clusters of large round berries. It is thought to have come from the region surrounding the town of Sauternes in the southwest of France.Semillon grapes are grown predominantly in France and Australia but are also to a lesser extent in South Africa, Chile, New Zealand and the United States. The majority of these grapes are grown in warmer climates and blended with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. In the United States, it is used to produce Late Harvest or Ice Wines in Washington and Idaho
The Wine
Semillon is used for both sweet and dry wines. In France, it is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc to produce dry white Bordeaux. When grown in warmer regions, the wines produced have low acidity and silky mouth feel. In cooler regions, when affected by Botrytis the wine takes on a rich, honeyed flavor and is known for aging ability.
