Sémillon - The adaptable one

The origin is unclear, it is an old French variety (Sauternes).

Sémillon is a white grape variety that is widespread throughout the world. In South Africa, it was still the dominant grape variety 200 years ago. Today, the trend of that time has changed considerably, so that it is mostly used as a cuvée partner. However, it is enjoying increasing popularity due to its particular suitability as a food companion. Its aroma is reminiscent of lemon, apple, apricot and honey. The cylindrical grapes are medium-sized, shouldered and dense. The roundish berries are medium-sized and golden yellow in colour, turning slightly pink when fully ripe. The berries have a thin skin and a light nutmeg flavour.

Find out more about Sémillon

Profiles

Sémillon is a white grape variety with a long history that originated in France, particularly in the Bordeaux and south-west regions of France. Today it is grown in many parts of the world, including South Africa, where it is experiencing a renaissance. Sémillon is known for its rich, full-bodied character and its ability to produce both fresh, young wines and complex, mature wines. The grapes have a thin skin and ripen into golden yellow berries that can be vinified both dry and sweet.

Fruit★★★

Body★★★

Tannin★★

Acidity★★★

Alcohol★★★

Flavours

Sémillon offers a wide range of flavours, from delicate fruity notes to complex, honeyed and nutty tones. The main flavours include:

Dominant notes:

- Citrus: lemon, lime, grapefruit

- Stone fruit: peach, apricot

- Honey and wax: especially in mature wines

- Floral notes: Camomile, lime blossom

The dominant notes depend strongly on the wine style and age. Young Sémillon wines are often dominated by fresh citrus flavours, while mature examples delight with honey and wax notes.

Harmonises with

Sémillon is a versatile accompaniment to food and goes well with both light and rich dishes. It harmonises particularly well with:

- Fish and seafood: Fried fish, oysters, lobster

- Poultry: Chicken in creamy sauces, duck

- Pasta with creamy sauces: carbonara, creamy mushroom pasta

- Creamy cheeses: Brie, Camembert

Thanks to its balanced acidity and often creamy body, Sémillon complements dishes with creamy or buttery sauces wonderfully. Matured Sémillon wines can also enhance sweeter or nutty notes in dishes. Sémillon is the perfect accompaniment to dishes with a certain elegance and finesse. In South Africa, it is often served with seafood, especially oysters or grilled fish. It is also an excellent accompaniment to Asian-inspired dishes with a slight spiciness or lemongrass flavours. Sweeter Sémillon wines, such as those produced in the Botrytis version, are excellent partners for desserts, especially apple or pear dishes, cheese platters or nut tarts.

General information

Sémillon is playing an increasingly important role in South Africa, especially in regions such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, where the grape variety can develop its full potential in cooler climates. In the past, it was often used as a cuvée partner in blends, especially with Sauvignon Blanc. However, in recent years, single-varietal Sémillon wines have made a comeback, often in limited production, which gives them a special exclusivity. An interesting aspect of Sémillon is its ability to mature over many years and change enormously in the process. Young Sémillon wines are fresh and lively, while older vintages can achieve incredible depth and complexity. In South Africa in particular, the potential of the grape variety is being increasingly recognised and some of the best producers are now offering expressive, single-varietal Sémillon wines that are among the special treasures of the wine world, both in their youth and after years of ageing.