Friday, May 27, 2011

Pick A Semillon Wine

Even though the Semillon grape is popular and the most widely planted grape in France, few have ever heard its name. This is because the grape is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Semillon does not need to ride the coattails of its more popular siblings, it does just fine on its own.


Instructions


1. Get to know the flavors of Semillon. These wines are full of crisp citrus flavors with a touch of fresh herbs. The finish on young Semillon is quick on the palate.


2. Learn about dry style Semillon. The flavors in dry style Semillon are citrusy and herbaceous. As these wines age, the flavors deepen and become more complex, almost toasty, and offer a lingering finish.


3. Know about sweet-style Semillon. Semillon grapes are quick to mold. In the wine world this is called "noble rot." The result is a sweet, highly concentrated juice. Sweet-style Semillon is rich and complex with lush peach and apricot flavors. The finish is slow and lingering, like honey.


4. Understand when to drink Semillon. One hundred percent Semillon is suitable to drink immediately and does not take well to aging.


5. Become familiar with Semillon wineries. For the sweet-style, choose the Semillon Sauternes region in France. If you prefer dry, go with Semillon from Australia or Hogue Semillon from Washington.







Tags: Semillon from, style Semillon, with Semillon