The 2018 De Bortoli Noble One Botrytis Semillon is one of Australia’s most celebrated dessert wines and a benchmark expression of botrytised Semillon. Produced by De Bortoli Wines in the Riverina region of New South Wales, Noble One has achieved international acclaim for its richness, balance, and extraordinary capacity to age gracefully over decades.
Crafted from Semillon grapes affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), the fruit undergoes natural dehydration in the vineyard, concentrating sugars, acidity, and flavour intensity. The Riverina’s warm climate and misty mornings provide ideal conditions for the development of high-quality botrytis, producing wines of remarkable purity and complexity.
The outstanding 2018 vintage delivered exceptional concentration and freshness. Following selective harvesting, the juice was fermented and matured in French oak barrels, enhancing texture, integration, and layered complexity while preserving vibrant acidity.
The wine reveals luxurious aromas of apricot marmalade, honey, candied citrus peel, baked peach, and pineapple, layered with notes of crème brûlée, vanilla bean, ginger spice, and toasted almond. The palate is luscious and intensely flavoured, yet beautifully balanced by bright acidity that provides lift and precision. Rich stone fruit, honeyed citrus, and caramelised nuances flow through a long, silky, and persistent finish.
Presented in the classic 500ml format, the 2018 Noble One is ideal for pairing with blue cheese, foie gras, fruit-based desserts, or enjoying slowly as a contemplative after-dinner wine. Already expressive, it also possesses outstanding cellaring potential and will continue to evolve over 20–30+ years, developing deeper caramel, toffee, and nutty complexity.
A legendary Australian dessert wine and an essential addition to any serious fine wine collection.
