White grape
Sémillon
A waxy, lemon-scented white grape with moderate acidity, blended with Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux and central to the sweet wines of Sauternes.
At a glance
- Lemon
- Medium acidity
- Waxy texture
Recognize it
Sémillon often feels rounded and waxy, with lemon and apple. Acidity varies by style. Bottle-aged examples, especially unoaked Hunter Valley Sémillon, can develop toast and honey.
Similar grapes
Chardonnay
Similar broad body and restrained aroma.
Difference Sémillon is waxier and more lemon-driven; Chardonnay more often shows apple, citrus or stone fruit.
Chenin Blanc
Similar waxy texture and age-developed honey.
Difference Chenin usually has higher acidity and more quince or apple.