Semillon

Also known as Sémillon.

One of only three approved white varieties in Bordeaux (with Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle), historically Bordeaux's most widely planted grape and still around 45-50% of its white plantings. Low acidity, oily texture, and a high yield give age-worthy wines with honey, white-fleshed fruit (pear, peach), apricot, lemon, and dried-grass notes.

Central to Sauternes and Bordeaux's other sweet whites, where its thin skin makes it especially receptive to noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), which concentrates sugar and flavor. In Tuscany, appears as one of several international/complementary white varieties in Montecarlo DOC's blend.