Here are detailed tasting notes for De Bortoli Noble One Semillon 375ml — Australia’s iconic botrytised dessert wine crafted from late-harvest Semillon affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea):
🍯 Appearance
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Bright golden straw to pale amber colour in the glass — typical of a botrytised Semillon with concentrated sugars and extended ageing potential.
👃 Aromas (Nose)
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Luscious stone fruit — ripe nectarines and peaches dominate.
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Citrus zest and marmalade — mandarin and orange marmalade notes add vibrancy.
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Honey, wildflower and vanilla — rich layers of spiced honey, honeycomb and vanilla come through, with subtle nutty or nougat undertones from oak influence.
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A fragrant mix of orange blossom and fig aromas enriches the bouquet, giving a complex and inviting profile.
👄 Palate (Taste & Texture)
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Opulent and sweet yet beautifully balanced — thick, viscous layers of apricot jam, candied citrus peel and honeyed peach fill the palate.
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A touch of spice and toasty oak adds richness without overwhelming the fruit.
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Natural acidity keeps the sweetness in check, giving freshness and structure to the otherwise luscious mouthfeel.
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The wine has a velvety, almost syrupy texture typical of botrytised dessert wines, with sustained intensity and layering of flavour.
🔚 Finish
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Long, lingering and indulgent — citrus peel, dried apricot, honey and nougat carry right through the finish, leaving a memorable impression.
🍷 Overall Style
Noble One is a benchmark Australian dessert wine — opulent yet refined, with gorgeous stone fruit and honeyed character balanced by bright acidity. It reflects the best of botrytised Semillon from the Riverina region, combining richness, complexity and impressive length.
🍽 Perfect Pairings
Classic pairings for this style include:
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Blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola — saltiness balances the sweetness.
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Apricot tart or crème brûlée — complements the honeyed fruit characters.
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Foie gras or pâté — luxurious savoury match.
