Sémillon
It has to be said that as title's go 'France's 3rd most important wine' isn't exactly exemplary. Even so, given France's immense standing on the Wine World Stage it certainly isn't a feat to be sniffed at. Semillon is one of the main blending components in the renowned White Burgundy, while it is also grown and very well respected in Australia. Undoubtedly this grape variety is a serious Dark Horse in the wine world; not only does it play a part in producing some of the best sweet wines in Sauterne, it also offers a richer, more interesting option to the standard Sauvignon Blanc.
What am I getting?
Sémillon is seemingly a combination of two other beloved grape varieties: it packs Chardonnay's flavour intensity and body, along side flavours and aromas commonly associated with Sauvignon Blanc. Perhaps the best of both worlds, some would argue. Think along the lines of the citrus scale; lemon, lime, apple and pear. There's also a bit of a waxy feel to this wine, hence it's comparison to Chardonnay. Semillon produced in a warmer climates, such as Australia, tend to take on a more tropical vibe so think papaya and mango.
What can I drink it with?
A moderate body and some banging aromas means this is the perfect wine to drink with spicy foods (particularly Indian spices), and there aren't many so this is no mean feat. It also has a bit of a rep for being the ultimate sushi lover's wine, but if you want to go for a more meaty dish then stick to the white meats: chicken and pork is what you'll be after.
I want it!
You'd be silly not to.
Let's not go crazy...
Lindemans Bin 1355 Hunter Valley Semillon (medium, Australia), £9.99 per bottle
All out...
2015 Semillon, Moss Wood (light-medium, Australia), £18.99 per bottle
What am I getting?
Sémillon is seemingly a combination of two other beloved grape varieties: it packs Chardonnay's flavour intensity and body, along side flavours and aromas commonly associated with Sauvignon Blanc. Perhaps the best of both worlds, some would argue. Think along the lines of the citrus scale; lemon, lime, apple and pear. There's also a bit of a waxy feel to this wine, hence it's comparison to Chardonnay. Semillon produced in a warmer climates, such as Australia, tend to take on a more tropical vibe so think papaya and mango.
What can I drink it with?
A moderate body and some banging aromas means this is the perfect wine to drink with spicy foods (particularly Indian spices), and there aren't many so this is no mean feat. It also has a bit of a rep for being the ultimate sushi lover's wine, but if you want to go for a more meaty dish then stick to the white meats: chicken and pork is what you'll be after.
I want it!
You'd be silly not to.
Let's not go crazy...
Lindemans Bin 1355 Hunter Valley Semillon (medium, Australia), £9.99 per bottle
All out...
2015 Semillon, Moss Wood (light-medium, Australia), £18.99 per bottle