The best way to discover the real character of Sémillon is to:
- try an unblended dry Sémillon. If you hit a brick wall and cannot find one, ask your favorite wine retailer to come to the rescue and order it. Your best examples will come from Australia.
- Then sample a dry white Bordeaux from Graves or Pessac-Léognan where the grape is blended with Sauvignon Blanc. However do select a composite of blends where the ratio of Sémillon to Sauvignon Blanc is greater.
- Last but not least, as your reward for your perseverance and dedication in tracking down these wines, sit back; kick your shoes off; put your feet up and treat yourself and your palate to a Premier Cru Sauternes. If a 750 ml bottle seems a tad too indulgent, Premier Cre Sauternes are also available in half-bottle sizes at a more palatable price. Ü
This sampling running the gamut from unblended dry Sémillon, to blended and dry, to blended and sweet will provide you with the perfect palate profile.
the Singing Sommelière 