Grape · White
Sémillon
Moderate climate
About
Thin-skinned grape highly susceptible to botrytis. Dry styles can be made unoaked (Hunter Valley) or oaked; blended with Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux for both dry wines and Sauternes.
Typical profile
Body
Moderate
Acidity
Crisp
Sweetness
Dry
Aromas
What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.
Young · fresh from the glass
Oak influence
Possible
Growing regions
How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.
Australia
Food pairings
Pan-seared foie gras with caramelized pear and briocheRoasted lobster with brown butter and thymeAged Comté cheese with honeycomb and walnutsThai green curry with prawns and jasmine riceRoast chicken with tarragon cream sauceCrème brûlée with vanilla bean and candied citrus
Similar grapes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Sémillon taste like?▼
Young Sémillon offers fresh flavors of apple, lemon, grass, and waxy notes. As it ages, it develops rich honey, nutty, toast, and marmalade characteristics.
Where does Sémillon grow best?▼
Sémillon thrives in moderate climates, with notable success in Bordeaux where it's blended with Sauvignon Blanc, and Australia's Hunter Valley where it's often made as a single varietal. Its thin skin makes it particularly well-suited for areas where noble rot (botrytis) can develop for dessert wines.
What food pairs with Sémillon?▼
Dry Sémillon pairs beautifully with seafood, poultry, and creamy sauces, while its waxy texture complements rich dishes. Sweet botrytis-affected versions are perfect with foie gras, blue cheese, or fruit desserts.
How does Sémillon age?▼
Sémillon ages exceptionally well, transforming from fresh apple and lemon notes to complex honey, nuts, toast, and marmalade flavors. Premium examples can develop beautifully for decades, gaining richness and depth.
Is Sémillon similar to other similar grapes?▼
Sémillon shares some characteristics with Chardonnay in terms of body and aging potential, but has a more waxy texture and different flavor profile. It's often blended with Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux, where the two grapes complement each other perfectly.