Semillon is a mid-late-ripening technical grape variety originating from France, specifically the Bordeaux region, particularly Sauternes. This variety belongs to the West European eco-geographical group and is widely distributed in Western European countries, North and South America, as well as in Australia and South Africa. Semillon leaves are medium-sized, round, five-lobed with a characteristic light-green hue and fine wrinkling. Bunches are of medium size, can be broad-conical or conical, loose to medium-dense. Berries are golden-yellow, medium-sized, with thin skins and small dark dots, juicy and melting flesh. The vegetative period in Crimea ranges from 125 to 150 days, during which shoots ripen well, and yield reaches 90-100 centners per hectare. Semillon possesses a unique ability to be attacked by noble rot, which allows for the creation of high-quality dessert wines with a rich aroma and high sugar content reaching 40% and above. It is precisely due to this property that the variety gained worldwide fame, especially in appellations Barsac and Sauternes, where the best sweet wines are produced. Moreover, Semillon is often used in blends with Sauvignon Blanc and Mauzac to create both dessert and delicate dry white wines. The grape ripens relatively early, allowing its use for various types of wines by keeping the berries until maximum maturity for dessert options. Despite its popularity, Semillon has poor frost resistance and is susceptible to diseases such as mildew, oidium, and gray rot, which requires careful care and protection. Bush growth varies depending on soil conditions: strong on rich soils, medium on dry slopes. Today, Semillon is gaining popularity not only in France but also in wine regions such as South America, USA (Washington region), Australia, and South Africa, where it is used to produce high-quality white table and dessert wines.
