It is Botrytis Cinerea, a fungus that grows on grapes causing them to sweeten and shrivel. This gives the wine honey and ginger flavors. It doesn't grow on every bunch on a vine and it doesn't even grow on every grape in a bunch. It can take as many as seven pickings to get enough grapes to make a vintage. This is very labor intensive and therefore it is reflected in the price.
My tasting that is an example of a Nobel Rot was Sublime 2003 from Chateau La Caussade that I picked up at Evergreen Cellars in Vancouver. Below is my score, but before the dull data stuff I just want to say this is a lovely wine. I love Ports and other dessert wines, so I am not really surprised that I love this one. The flavor is like fruit, Quince, Apricots & Spiced Pears, that have been candied in honey and therefore it stands on its own and really doesn't have to be paired with anything. I need to go get a few more bottles and cellar them, it is delish now, but I am sure that it will be even better in another few years. Note this is a 2003, so it is twelve years old already. If you are adventurous and like sweet you have got to give this one a try.
Wine Studied: Nobel Rot - Semillon 80% - Sauvigon Blanc 20%
Wine Selected: Sublime - Chateau La Caussade 2003
Eye:
Color Depth: Medium
Color Hue: Amber
Clarity: Clear
Nose:
Aroma Intensity: Aromatic
Development: Aged
Aroma: Honey
Mouth:
Dry/Sweet: Sweet
Body: Medium - Full
Acidity: Smooth
Tannins: Low
Balance: Good
Flavor Intensity: Flavorful
Flavor: Quince, Honey Apricots and Spiced Pears
Finish: Med (4-5 sec)
Style: Traditional
Cost: $18.00 at Evergreen Wine Cellar
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