For those who appreciate the diversity of wine, botrytis wine is one of the most unique and fascinating styles. Through a natural process where grapes are affected by the Botrytis cinerea fungus, they slowly dry out, concentrating sugar, acidity, and flavors. The result is a wine with complex aromas of honey, dried fruit, and saffron, beautifully balanced by crisp acidity.
What is botrytis wine?
Botrytis wine, also known as noble rot wine, is only produced under specific weather conditions where humid mornings and sunny afternoons allow the fungus to develop properly. Unlike gray rot, which ruins grapes, botrytis enhances them, creating an intense concentration of flavor.
Classic botrytis wines and their flavors
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Sauternes (France) – One of the world’s most famous botrytis wines from Bordeaux, with Château d’Yquem as its most prestigious example. It offers flavors of apricot, saffron, and nuts, complemented by refreshing acidity.
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Tokaji Aszú (Hungary) – A Hungarian classic with a history dating back to the 17th century, where sweetness is measured in "puttonyos." Tokaji boasts notes of dried fruit, orange peel, and caramel.
- Beerenauslese & Trockenbeerenauslese (Germany & Austria) – Elegant botrytis wines primarily made from Riesling, with Trockenbeerenauslese being the most concentrated variety, offering flavors of honey and exotic fruit.
How to pair botrytis wine with food
One of the greatest advantages of botrytis wine is its ability to balance and enhance various flavors in food.
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Blue cheese – The salty and creamy texture of cheeses like Roquefort and Stilton pairs perfectly with the wine’s sweetness.
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Foie gras – The rich taste and fatty texture of foie gras contrast beautifully with the wine’s acidity and fruitiness.
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Desserts – From crème brûlée to fruit-based pastries, as long as the dish isn’t sweeter than the wine.
- Asian cuisine – Spicy and sweet-savory dishes, such as Thai curry or duck with hoisin sauce, pair surprisingly well with botrytis wine’s fruitiness and acidity.
A wine to save and savor
Botrytis wines have an impressive aging potential and can develop for several decades. Over time, their flavors deepen, revealing notes of caramel, dried fruit, and nuts. Keeping a bottle of Sauternes or Tokaji in your wine collection is not just an investment – it’s a guarantee of future enjoyment.
Whether you enjoy botrytis wine with a cheese platter or make it the highlight of a dinner party, it is a wine that deserves a place in every wine lover’s collection.
