Sémillon/Semillon Flashcards
Learn characteristics, winemaking/maturation, and important regions of Sémillon/Semillon.
In what kind of climates does Sémillon/Semillon like to grow in?
- Moderate
- Warm
What is the spelling for Sémillon/Semillon in France?
Sémillon
What is the spelling for Sémillon/Semillon where English is spoken?
Semillon
Without the accent over the e (accent aigu).
What are the typical aromas/flavors of a young Sémillon/Semillon?
- Green apple
- Lemon/citrus
- Grass
What is Sémillon/Semillon’s range of body and acidity?
- Light bodied to full bodied
- Medium acidity to high acidity
What is France’s most important region for Sémillon?
Bordeaux
What are the styles of Sémillon produced in Bordeaux?
Still wines, both dry and sweet
What is the grape used to blend with Sémillon in wines labeled Bordeaux AOC?
Sauvignon Blanc
Where is Sauternes AOC?
It is a sub-region within Bordeaux.
Select the correct answer.
Sauternes AOC wines are always:
a) dry, sparkling and not affected by Botrytis
b) sweet, still, and always affected by Botrytis
Sweet, still, always affected by Botrytis
What is the most important white grape grown in Sauternes AOC?
Sémillon
Botrytis/noble rot greatly affects which white grape varietal in Sauternes AOC: Sémillon or Sauvignon Blanc?
Sémillon
What is the typical flavor profile of Sauternes AOC?
- Apricots/stone fruits (concentrated/extra-ripe/dried)
- Vanilla
- Crème Brûlée
- Caramel, honeycomb (on aged Sauternes)
Where in the English-speaking world is Semillon heavily planted?
Australia, especially in the Hunter Valley and Barossa Valley.
Hunter Valley region is roughly 3 hours’ drive north/northwest of Sydney.
Describe the style of Semillon that’s typical for the Hunter Valley.
- Dry
- Light bodied
- Low alcohol
- Neutral flavors in its youth
- Honeyed and nutty flavors when it is aged