Definition: Sémillon

It is a blending grape variety, which is very rich but rather closed and not very aromatic when young. It is a resistant grape variety with a thin skin, which ages well and is particularly notable in certain Pessac-Léognan vintages when aged in barrels.
The Sauternes appellation has best revealed its characteristics. In the best years, its thin skin allows botrytis to develop perfectly. On the other hand, in years with rainy harvests, grey rot quickly takes hold of the grapes, which are then condemned.
Apart from Bordeaux, it is now planted in Chile, Argentina, South Africa and Australia. From more than 30,000 hectares at the beginning of the last century, the area planted with Sémillon is estimated at less than 15,000 hectares in 2008. The wines produced are very aromatic, evoking scents of honey, acacia flowers, figs and dried fruit.
In France, the main production areas are Gironde with Sauternes and Barsac, Dordogne with Monbazillac and Lot-et-Garonne.