Durian wine has gained attention among connoisseurs and home brewers, despite the fruit's infamous smell. While the odor of durian has been likened to rotten meat or sulfur, the fruit's transformation into wine significantly diminishes this smell. Winemakers are drawn to durian as a non-traditional ingredient, offering complex flavors not commonly found in other fruits.
The taste of durian is described as sweet, creamy, and custardy, with varying interpretations from mango to cheesecake. Durian's unique flavor variance makes it an appealing choice for experimentation in winemaking. Though the fruit can be scarce and expensive in the Western hemisphere, the wine offers a different and more palatable experience for those willing to try it.