Tag: Semillon

Western Australia – sun, sea and great wine …

The Margaret River region of Western Australia conjures up images of warm sunshine, stunning beaches and great surfing. And of course, a multitude of vineyards. Over 200 in fact, with plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Semillon, and Sauvignon Blanc the most common.

The two last varieties, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc, are both widely planted in the region and are often blended together to create a delightful combination with the light, citrussy character of the Semillon complementing the aromatic and fruity nature of the Sauvignon Blanc. This pairing is now one of Margaret River’s signature styles of wine making.

Vasse Felix Classic Semillon Sauvignon 2020, Margaret River 

This Vasse Felix blend is produced by one of Western Australia’s pioneering wineries. A dry wine with medium acidity, it has pronounced aromas of peach and nectarine on the nose, and crisp, refreshing flavours of lime, grapefruit and pineapple on the palate. A well-balanced wine with a medium finish, this pairs very well with seafood or chicken, and would also go well with a slightly spicy dish. 

Available from Tesco (£12)

Three sweet white wines to round off your meal

In the mood for something a little different? Then here are three sweet white wines to enjoy with your dessert. (Or why not try them as an aperitif or with terrine or blue cheese …)

Les Garonelles, Sauternes 2017 

Les Garonelles, Sauternes 37.5cl 2017, Lucien Lurton Collection

This Sauternes wine is a blend of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes. Pale gold in appearance, it has intense aromas of pear, apricot and peach on the nose, and flavours of passionfruit and apricot on the palate. An elegant, well-balanced wine with a long finish which pairs well with cheesecake, meringue, or a fruit-based dessert. Available Great Wine Co. (£11.50 half bottle)

Disznókö Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos 2017 (Hungary)

Disznoko Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos

This sweet wine from the Tokaj region of Hungary is a recent new discovery and a really pleasant surprise.  Made from a blend of Furmint and Hárslevelü grapes, it has pronounced aromas of honey, marmalade and dried apricot from the get-go, leading to intense flavours of peach, dried apricot, honey and orange peel on the palate. A full-bodied wine, with medium acidity and a long finish, this is a well-balanced, very good wine. Available from Waitrose (£19.99)

Château de Géraud, Monbazillac 2014

Château de Géraud

A delightful wine from Monbazillac, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle grapes. Intense aromas of marmalade, honey and lemon on the nose, and lemon and orange on the palate.  A balanced wine with medium acidity and a long finish, we enjoyed it with a panna cotta with caramel drizzle – heavenly. Cambridge Wine Merchants (£13.99)

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