The 2005 Botrytis Semillon “The Noble One” has nearly 70% botrytis infected fruit. It was aged in French oak, 46% new. Medium gold-colored, it offers an enticing nose of orange peel, tangerine, and candied apricots. Balanced with lively acidity, this vibrant wine has a long, pure finish. It can be enjoyed now but will easily evolve for up to a decade. De Bortoli owns estate vineyards in Riverina, Hunter Valley, and Yarra Valley and produces several tiers of dry table wines in addition to their sweet and fortified dessert wines.Importer: De Bortoli Wines, North America; www.debortoli.com.auAlso tasted: 2007 Sauvignon Blanc- Semillon Windy Peak (75), 2007 Viognier Windy Peak (80), 2006 Pinot Noir Vat 10 (78), 2007 Pinot Noir Windy Peak (72), 2006 Pinot Noir Estate Grown (82?), 2006 Shiraz, McLaren Vale

De Bortoli has made Noble One into one of Austrlia’s benchmark dessert wines through consistently strong efforts like the 2005. Scents of vanilla and cinnamon add layers of complexity to the dried apricot and orange marmalade flavors. Medium-bodied and sweet, with a long finish, pair it like you would any fine Sauternes.——J.C.(12/15/2007)—— 90