Ricardo Santos Semillon

Semillon is a varietal that is best known as being grown in France.  In fact, it’s one of three white varieties approved for use in Bordeaux.  It’s also a common grape in Sauternes.   And I think that until I tasted this wine I’ve only had French semillon.  So I was intrigued to see what Argentina could do with this grape.

The aromatics are something that typically makes semillon special, with fragrant fruit, floral and spice aromas.  The aromatics were pleasant with this Argentine semillon, but not exceptional and somewhat restrained.

It offers mostly citrus aromas, like lemon and lime, but also shows some pear, flint and cut grass.  The palate has good acidity and a slightly creamy mouthfeel with flavors like lemon, apple and pear.  The finish is moderately long, with tart apple and mineral flavors.  All told, this is a nice wine.  It’s not necessarily what I would typically look for from a semillon, but it’s tasty and offers a different perspective on this varietal.

Wine: Ricardo Santos Semillon
Variety: Semillon
Vintage: 2012
Alcohol: 14%
Rating: 86
Price: $19.00

Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.