Sweet Semillon is one of those Aussie classics that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but it punches well above its weight when you’re after something indulgent, bright, and perfect to end a meal. Most famously from the Riverina in New South Wales, this style is made when the Semillon grapes are affected by botrytis, also known as noble rot, shrivelling the berries to concentrate the sugars, acids and flavours into something lusciously sweet, yet never cloying.

In the glass, you’ll usually find golden hues and big aromatics including honeysuckle, apricot, orange marmalade, tropical fruits, and a beautiful line of citrus that keeps it all feeling fresh. The balance is everything here. Yes, it’s rich, but the signature acidity of Semillon cuts through the sweetness and gives the wine a clean, elegant finish. That’s what makes it so drinkable and food-friendly.

De Bortoli’s Noble One is probably the most recognised name in this space, setting the benchmark for Australian sweet Semillon with decades of consistent quality. But plenty of smaller producers are also nailing the style, especially in regions where late-season misty mornings and dry afternoons create ideal botrytis conditions.