Sémillon

A “quiet” white grape that turns silky, honeyed, and surprisingly complex

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Varietal Overview

Sémillon (say “seh-mee-YAWN”) comes from Bordeaux in southwest France, and you’ll most often meet it as a blending partner with Sauvignon Blanc in “Bordeaux-style” whites.

It can show up in two very different moods: dry (soft, citrusy, gently waxy) or lusciously sweet when the grapes get a helpful natural fungus called botrytis (also nicknamed “noble rot”), which concentrates flavors and creates famous sweet wines like Sauternes.

In Napa and Sonoma, Sémillon is around, but it’s less common than Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, so it’s a fun one to recognize when you spot it on a tasting list.

Flavors:

Lemon peel and Meyer lemon
Ripe pear or yellow apple
Chamomile tea (soft, calming floral-herbal)
Beeswax or candle wax (sounds odd, but it reads as cozy and smooth)
Honey or apricot (especially in sweeter styles)
Toasted almond or hazelnut (often more noticeable with age)

Taste Profile:

Body: Medium (not too light, not heavy like some rich Chardonnays)
Acidity: Medium to medium-low (so it feels softer, less “zingy” than Sauvignon Blanc)
Texture: “Waxy” or “oily” (it can feel silky and smooth, almost like a light olive oil slip on the tongue)
Sweetness: Can be bone-dry or very sweet, depending on the style (ask your host if you’re unsure)
Finish: Medium-long, often lingering with citrus, honey, or gentle nuttiness

Serving Suggestions:

Temp: Serve at 48–55°F (cool but not icy). If it’s too cold, it can taste muted. If it warms a bit in the glass, that’s actually helpful for aromas.
Glass: A standard white wine glass is perfect. If it’s a richer, silkier style, a slightly larger bowl helps you smell more.
Decanting: Usually not needed, but if it smells shy right after opening, give it 10 minutes in the glass and a gentle swirl.

Food Pairing:

Roast chicken or turkey with herbs (comfort food match that works for dry styles)
Creamy pasta or risotto with mushrooms (great with that smooth, waxy texture)
Blue cheese or fruit tart (especially if you’re tasting a sweeter, honeyed style like Sauternes)

Related Wineries: St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery