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Is Sémillon the Most Underrated White Wine Grape in the World?
In the world of white wine, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc hog most of the spotlight. But there’s one grape that often gets overlooked despite its versatility, age-worthiness, and ability to take on different styles depending on where it’s grown. That grape is Sémillon.
What is Sémillon?
Sémillon is a white grape variety that is believed to have originated in the Bordeaux region of France. It is a key component in the production of many of the world’s most famous sweet wines, including Sauternes and Barsac. In these wines, Sémillon is typically blended with Sauvignon Blanc and sometimes with a third grape variety called Muscadelle.
Where is Sémillon grown?
Although Sémillon is most closely associated with Bordeaux, it is actually grown in a number of other wine regions around the world. These include:
| Region | Country | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux | France | Dry, sweet, and botrytized wines |
| Hunter Valley | Australia | Dry and sweet wines |
| Barossa Valley | Australia | Dry and fortified wines |
| Swan Valley | Australia | Dry and fortified wines |
| Western Cape | South Africa | Dry and sweet wines |
| California | USA | Dry and sweet wines |
What are the characteristics of Sémillon?
Sémillon is a grape that is particularly sensitive to its terroir, which means that it can take on different characteristics depending on where it is grown. However, there are some general characteristics that are often associated with the grape:
- Low acidity: Sémillon is typically lower in acidity than other white wine grapes, which can make it a good candidate for blending with higher-acid grapes like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Full body: Sémillon often produces wines with a full, rich mouthfeel that can be described as oily or waxy. This makes it a good choice for barrel fermentation and ageing.
- Floral and fruit aromas: Depending on where it’s grown, Sémillon can exhibit a range of aromas, from floral notes like honeysuckle to fruit aromas like citrus and stone fruit.
- Age-worthiness: Because of its low acidity and full body, some Sémillon wines can age for decades and even evolve into complex, honeyed wines with time.
What are the different styles of Sémillon?
Sémillon can be used to produce a variety of different wine styles, depending on the winemaker’s choices and the growing conditions of the grapes. Some of the most common styles include:
- Dry white wines: Sémillon can be made into dry white wines that are often blended with Sauvignon Blanc to balance out the grape’s low acidity. These wines can be herbal and grassy with a citrusy finish.
- Sweet white wines: Sémillon is a key component in the production of some of the world’s most famous sweet white wines, including Sauternes and Barsac. In these wines, the grapes are often affected by noble rot, a beneficial fungus that concentrates the sugar and flavour of the grapes.
- Fortified wines: Sémillon can also be used to produce fortified wines, such as Australia’s famous Liqueur Muscat. In these wines, brandy is added to stop the fermentation and preserve some of the grape’s natural sweetness.
Why is Sémillon underrated?
Despite its versatility and age-worthiness, Sémillon remains a relatively obscure grape variety in the world of white wine. There are a few reasons for this:
- Lack of recognition: Sémillon is often overshadowed by more well-known grapes like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. This means that many consumers have never heard of the grape, let alone tasted a wine made from it.
- Perception of sweetness: Because Sémillon is such a popular grape for sweet white wines, some consumers may assume that all Sémillon wines are sweet. This is not the case, but it can be a barrier for some drinkers who prefer dry wines.
- Inconsistency: Because Sémillon is so sensitive to its terroir, it can be difficult for winemakers to produce consistent wines from the grape. This can make it a challenging variety for retailers and consumers to understand and appreciate.
Why should you try Sémillon?
Despite its lack of recognition, Sémillon is a grape that is well worth seeking out. Here are just a few reasons why:
- Food pairing: Sémillon’s full body and low acidity make it a great food pairing wine, particularly with rich, creamy dishes like seafood chowder or chicken Alfredo.
- Age-worthiness: If you’re looking for a white wine that can age and develop complexity over time, Sémillon is a great choice. Some examples from Bordeaux can remain fresh and complex for decades.
- Value: Because Sémillon is not as well-known as some other white wine grapes, it can often be found at very reasonable prices. This means that you can enjoy excellent wine without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
While Sémillon may not be as well-known as some other white wine grapes, it is certainly a variety that is worth exploring. With its versatility, age-worthiness, and range of styles, it has something to offer even the most discerning wine lovers.
FAQ
- Is Sémillon always blended with other grapes? No, Sémillon can be made as a varietal wine, but it is more commonly blended with other grapes.
- What is noble rot? Noble rot is a beneficial fungus that can affect grape clusters under certain conditions, leading to a concentration of sugar and flavours in the grapes.
- What are some good food pairings for Sémillon? Sémillon pairs well with rich, creamy dishes like seafood chowder, chicken Alfredo, and even foie gras.
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