Tasting Notes

Semillon is believed to have originated in the Bordeau region of France in the 17th century. It became a key grape in the production of Sauternes wine. In the 19th century the grape was planted in Australia and South Africa where it is still grown today. In the late 19th century, the grape was devasted by the phylloxera epidemic in Europe which reduced significantly its plantings in that continent. Today, there has been a resurgence of this grape in the Bordeaux region as well as in Australia and South Africa. It is often blended with other varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc. It is a quietly profound white grape that transforms beautifully with age.

🎯 Overall Character - The overall character of Sémillon wine is characterized by its full-bodied, waxy texture and rich, complex flavours that evolve with age. Young Sémillon wines typically exhibit citrus and apple flavours, evolving to honey, figs, and toasted nuts as they mature.

🌼 On the Nose (Aromatics) - Sémillon is subtle in youth but blossoms with texture and age. It has primary citrus aromas of lemon and lime zest. Primary orchard fruit aromas of pear, yellow apple and Stone fruit aromas of peach and apricot. Semillon also has floral aromas of chamomile and honeysuckle along with herbal aromas of hay, dried grass and lanolin. Secondary aromas offered related to Lees aging is brioche, almond and cream. In richer styles that are oak aged, aromas of toast, vanilla and sweet spice are present.

🍏 On the Palate - Semillon is a medium to full body wine that has medium acidity, a waxy or silky texture and a moderate alcohol level of 12-13.5% ABV. The wine exhibits fruit flavours of lemon, pear, apple and subtle tropical hints. In more mature wines, flavours evolve to honey, apricot, marmalade and almond. Semillon also offers notes of chalk and smoke and is well known for its waxy texture.

🌍 Regional Style Differences -

• Bordeaux, France  – often blended with Sauvignon Blanc. Citrus plus with waxy texture and toast flavours. wax plus toast and age worthy.

• Hunter Valley, Australia – dry style, sharp acidity when young and develops honey and toast flavours with age.

• South Africa – citrus plus stone fruit flavours with a waxy texture and often oaked.

• California – riper fruit, peach, melon, honey and silky texture.

• Sweet Bordeaux – Sauternes – honey, apricot, saffron, marmalade, rich yet lifted by acidity.

🕰️ Aging Profile

Semillon wine can age 5 - 15 years. As the wine ages, it develops richer flavours over time. The citrus and orchard fruit aromas and flavours change to honey, beeswax, toasted nuts, marmalade and lanolin.