Botrytis Wines

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Botrytis wine—also known as noble rot wine—is a luxurious style of dessert wine made from grapes intentionally affected by the Botrytis cinerea fungus. While "mould" might not sound appetising, in the right vineyard conditions, this unique fungus dehydrates the grapes, concentrating their sugars and flavour compounds. The result? Intensely aromatic, lusciously sweet wines with layers of honey, apricot, marmalade and spice—perfect for sipping, cellaring, or serving alongside rich desserts and cheeses.

Our collection of botrytis wines includes iconic bottles from Australia and around the world. Whether you’re a long-time lover of sweet wines or curious about trying something new, these bottles are a masterclass in winemaking alchemy. 

What is Botrytis in Wine? 

Botrytis cinerea is a fungus that, under the right climatic conditions, creates what winemakers call noble rot. Rather than ruining the crop, noble rot causes the grapes to shrivel slightly, concentrating sugars and acids while adding a complex layer of flavour.

Grapes affected by botrytis often produce wines with notes of honeycomb, dried fruits, ginger and citrus peel, along with a trademark rich, silky mouthfeel. Because the yield from botrytised grapes is significantly lower, these wines are often rarer and more expensive, but worth every sip.

What is Botrytis Wine Similar To?

Botrytis wines are typically sweet and share similarities with late-harvest wines, ice wines, and certain fortified wines. However, what sets them apart is the aromatic complexity and textural richness imparted by noble rot.

If you enjoy wines like Sauternes (France), Tokaji Aszú (Hungary), or German Beerenauslese, then Australian botrytis Semillon or other local dessert wines may be your next favourite bottle. 

Is Botrytis Wine Sweet or Dry?

Botrytis wines are generally sweet, though the level of sweetness can vary depending on the grape variety and region. Australian botrytis Semillon, for instance, tends to lean into luscious, golden fruit and honey notes, balanced by vibrant acidity that keeps things from becoming cloying. They’re often labelled as dessert wines or “stickies” in the Aussie vernacular—but their balance of sweetness and freshness makes them enjoyable beyond dessert hour.

What Food Pairs Well With Botrytis Wine?

Botrytis wines are incredibly food-friendly when matched thoughtfully. Try them with:

• Blue cheese or creamy washed-rind cheeses (for a salty-sweet combo)
• Fruit tarts, pavlova, or lemon curd desserts
• Foie gras or pâté for an indulgent starter
• Spicy Asian dishes, where sweetness helps tame the heat

For a classic pairing, serve a chilled glass of botrytis Semillon alongside a slice of pear tart or crème brûlée. 

Where Is Botrytis Wine Made?

While Sauternes in France may be the most famous home of noble rot, Australia has carved out its own reputation, particularly with botrytis Semillon from the Riverina region in NSW. Other standout producers can be found in Hungary (Tokaji), Germany (Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese), and Austria.

Australia’s warm days and humid mornings create ideal conditions for noble rot to thrive, and local winemakers have embraced the challenge with great success. 

Shop Botrytis Wines at The Wine Collective

Whether you're building a cellar of sweet wines or looking for something special to serve at your next dinner party, botrytis wine offers something unforgettable. We source standout bottles from both Australia and overseas to help you explore this deliciously decadent category.

Browse our full white wine range, or speak to a Personal Wine Advisors to find the perfect match.