Sémillon/Semillon

Question 1

Sémillon grows primarily in ___________ to ______ climates.

Answer 1

moderate to warm

Question 2

Where might a wine labelled “Sémillon” come from?

a) California
b) France
c) Australia
d) South Africa

Answer 2

b) France (spelling)

Question 3

True or false: Sémillon/Semillon wines are unique in that they possess extremely complex aromas in youth.

Answer 3

False, Sémillon is very simple in youth

Question 4

A dry white blend from Bordeaux AOC might contain which two grapes?

Answer 4

Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon

Question 5

Why might Sémillon be added to Sauvignon Blanc wines from Bordeaux?

Answer 5

to increase aging potential

Question 6

What might one expect from a classic Sauternes AOC wine with respect to sweetness, alcohol, and body?

Answer 6

sweet, high alcohol, full body

Question 7

Why is Sémillon the grape of choice for sweet wine production in Sauternes?

Answer 7

Sémillon is particularly susceptible to botrytis/noble rot

Question 8

On which bank and sub-region of Bordeaux is Sauternes AOC located?

Answer 8

left bank, Graves

Question 9

True or false: Semillon from Australia is used, produced, and blended in a similar way to Sémillon from Bordeaux.

Answer 9

True

Question 10

Which of the following Australian regions produce Sémillon, and what styles are made?

Answer 10

Hunter Valley (dry wines, unoaked)
Barossa Valley (range of styles)