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Graham's 30 Year Old Tawny PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 20%Closure: CorkCrafted in the opulent Graham’s house style, these age-statement Tawnies are known for their richness, smooth texture, and generous dried fruit character. Extended cask ageing in Vila Nova de Gaia brings layered complexity and mellow spice.
Other Reviews....
A step up on the tawny ladder, reflected by the paler tawny colour and copperish tones on the rim; a touch singed on the nose with roasted coffee and an undertone of crème brûlée on the nose and palate (queimada in Portuguese). Concentrated butterscotch sweetness, a touch honeyed but not cloying as the acidity cuts in and offsets this, leading to a long, beautifully poised finish.
97 points
Richard Mayson - DecanterDried cherries, plums and candied fruit with some figs on the nose. Light toffee, too. Medium-to full-bodied, very sweet and layered with dried fruit, smoked wood, caramel and hints of stems. Some dried earth and salted nuts. Very complex. Drink now.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.comBroad in feel and dark in profile, with walnut and hazelnut notes followed by flavors of brown bread, dried fig, bitter orange, singed almond and juniper. A lovely flash of green tea adds sparkle and detail on the finish, but this stays reliant on its bass line throughout. Drink now.
95 points
James Molesworth - Wine SpectatorRemarkably, this is able to show age and long cask aging, but the flavor is still here: figs and honey, balanced out with burnt caramel aged acidity and a rich (but not sweet) finish. Excellent, top quality aged tawny.
95 Points
Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast Magazine -
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Graham's 40 Year Old Tawny PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$450. 00Bottle$5400.00 DozenABV: 20%Closure: CorkCrafted in the opulent Graham’s house style, these age-statement Tawnies are known for their richness, smooth texture, and generous dried fruit character. Extended cask ageing in Vila Nova de Gaia brings layered complexity and mellow spice.
Other Reviews....
With 40 years ageing in small lodge pipes (casks of around 600 litres), 50% of the original volume has been lost to evaporation: the age is evident in the copper-toned greenish tinge and the sweeter more concentrated style. Demerara sugar and spice with glorious length and richness, yet it still retains some youthful clarity on the finish. This fine-tuned blend of old wines going back to the 1970s is one to sip, admire, meditate and marvel.
98 points
Richard Mayson - DecanterFantastic old tawny with a tight and lively palate of dried fruit, figs, bark and walnuts. Custard and some salted nuts, too. It’s full, sweet and glorious. Lovely candied fruit at the end. Drink now.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.comPlump, juicy and forthright in feel, with a core that bursts with mulled dark cherry, dried peach and persimmon, bitter orange and date bread notes. Singed hazelnut and alder add underlying tension to the finish, which sports serious length and drive. Drink now.
96 points
James Molesworth - Wine Spectator -
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Graham's 10 Year Old Tawny PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 20%Closure: CorkCrafted in the opulent Graham’s house style, these age-statement Tawnies are known for their richness, smooth texture, and generous dried fruit character. Extended cask ageing in Vila Nova de Gaia brings layered complexity and mellow spice.
Other Reviews….
A very pretty wood port with cherry, berry, walnut and chocolate aromas and flavors. It’s full-bodied and very sweet with focus, density and length. Fruity, yet pleasantly earthy. Drink now and enjoy.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.comDate, fig and mulled plum fruit flavors form this broad and juicy core. Cinnamon, black tea and hazelnut notes fill in the background. Shows some power, with the cut and drive for balance. Drink now.
92 Points
James Molesworth - Wine SpectatorA luscious, super-moreish tawny, with notes of sweet orange peel, mellow Madeira honey cake, almond/marzipan and salted caramel. Silky, honeyed mouthfeel, with praline to the finish. Satisfying and very complete, this 10-year-old is naughty but nice, polished and toothsome: a great execution of the house style (20cl bottle tasted).
93 Points
Sarah Ahmed - Decanter.comPaler and more evolved colour than the M&S 10 year old tawny port from the Fladgate Partnership (Quinta and Vineyard Bottlers). Much more complex, more concentrated and mature than the M&S 10 year old tawny. Lots of life, transparency and vibrancy. Pretty sweet but good tang and clean freshness on the finish too. Some nuttiness as well as the dried-fruit notes. Very smart fat clear-glass flask. Quite long.
17 / 20 Points
JancisRobinson.com -
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Graham's 20 Year Old Tawny PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$180. 00Bottle$2160.00 DozenABV: 20%Closure: CorkCrafted in the opulent Graham’s house style, these age-statement Tawnies are known for their richness, smooth texture, and generous dried fruit character. Extended cask ageing in Vila Nova de Gaia brings layered complexity and mellow spice.
Other Reviews….
Tawny Port is always exciting, but if you can afford to splash out, go for a 20 Year Old. All the major houses make wonderful aged tawnies and this is always one of the best. Ethereal and mellow on the palate, it boasts flavours of toffee and caramel, burnt orange and raisins, dried plums, hazelnuts and a savoury hint of mushroom on the finish. Wonderful stuff!
96 points
Andy Howard MW - DecanterDried cherry, iodine and peat with some watermelon. Hints of toffee and bark. Medium-to full-bodied, sweet and layered with a tannin texture and rich finish. Tangy and focused. Drink now.
94 Points
JamesSuckling.com (September 2020)Lovely, with date and persimmon notes that are melded seamlessly, picking up light bitter orange, ginger and green tea accents along the way. Echoes of sweet golden raisin and hazelnut linger on the finish, which is polished and long. A beauty. Drink now.
93 Points
James Molesworth - Wine SpectatorPale-medium tawny amber. Curry spice, dark chocolate and clove oak. Good freshness, bringing some dried red and black fruit to support the spice and dark-chocolate style. Long, smoky, dark-chocolate finish with quite well-integrated alcohol.
17 / 20 Points
JancisRobinson.com -
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Harvey's Bristol Cream SherryJerez, SPAINReduced from $32.99$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenABV: 17.5%People with little knowledge of Sherry could be forgiven for thinking that Harvey’s Bristol Cream was actually an English dairy product. Neither the name or the bottle evoke strong images of Spain and her glorious vineyards. There are of course, good reasons for the idiosyncrasies of Harvey’s, the world’s biggest selling sherry brand of all.Around the turn of 19th century, the port of Bristol in Southwest England was a significant shipping town importing amongst other things, large quantities of sherry. One day, a French lady customer of John Harvey & Sons attended a sherry tasting at their Denmark Street premises in Bristol. There she tasted various samples of what was generically termed “Bristol Milk” – a sweet, rich style of sherry that had become extremely popular in England. She then inquired about another barrel of still richer, more luscious sherry. Upon tasting it, she was overwhelmed. She exclaimed “If that was the milk, then this must be the cream!” So Harvey’s Bristol Cream was born, John Harvey capitalising on her comment by registering it as the company's trademark.
So much for the name. The distinctive blue bottle is a more recent marketing quirk circa 1990. Bristol merchants used to have the exclusive import rights for Saxon Smalt which is used for glassmaking. Containing cobalt, this smalt when combined with British lead glass results in Bristol Blue, the colour we now see in the Harvey’s bottle. It is a symbolic connection with the brands origins, and from a marketing point of view serves as a point of difference on store shelves.
Made from Palomino and Pedro Ximenez grapes, Harvey’s Bristol Cream is fortified with young Jerez brandy. It is then aged and blended like a fino, i.e.- in a solera. This is unique for the area, as most other producers simply use vats. Harvey’s is a particularly full and rich style of sherry with an intense dried fruit/raisin character, a sweet palate and rich lingering finish. Enjoyable straight over ice. -
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Henriques & Henriques Finest Dry 5 Year Old Madeira (500ml)Madeira, PORTUGAL$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenClosure: CorkBACKGROUND
Our shipment of Henriques and Henriques Madeira has arrived. We have only shipped the relatively young wines which are 5 years old. They are an excellent introduction to the style.
Madeira is produced on the Portuguese island of Madeira. Henriques and Henriques is the largest independent shipper on the island. The company is focused on the premium end of the Madeira market and enjoys a 15% market share. The company takes its name from the two sons of Joao Joaquim Henriques, a descendent of the first King of Portugal.LAND HOLDINGS
Vineyard holdings on the island are small, with 4000 growers owning an average 0.5ha each - which by local standards is extensive. Henriques and Henriques also have their own vineyards, 6 hectares at Camara de Lobos (located on the south coast). The company also has 10 hectares at Quista Grande.SOIL TYPES
The soils of Madeira are basically volcanic, however, the best soils are a stony decomposed red tufa which is known locally as SAIBRO. The vineyards are planted on very steep terraced slopes.GRAPE VARIETIES
The grape varieties are unusual for Australians and include TINTA NEGRA MOLE, TERRANTEL BASTARDO, and either SERCIAL, VERDELHO BUAL or MALVASIA.VINIFICATION
The vintage on the Island of Madeira is said to be the longest in the world, starting in mid August with the Malvasia grapes being picked on the lower slopes and slowly progressing through the other grape varieties of BUAL, VERDELHO and SERCIAL. Vintage in the highest vineyards is completed in early November.
The fermentation takes place in temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks. Malvasia and Bual are fermented with limited skin contact, whilst for Verdelho and Sercial, only the pressed juice is used. Fortification takes place with the addition of grape brandy, the amount used and the timing of the fortification depends on the style of Madeira that is being produced.
The majority of young Madeira undergo the "EUSTUFAGEM". This process consists of storing the wine for 3 months in hot conditions with temperatures 45°C. The effect is to mimic the long sea voyages that were a part of the traditional aging process. The best wines are left to age 10 years and more in warm cellars which creates that unique "Maderised" fruit quality.TASTING NOTE: A superb Madeira. Brilliant gold colour with deep gold hue. The nose displays a very distinctive rancio top note, followed by pronounced notes of honey and walnut. The palate is magnificent with its distinctive Amontillado character. Strong flavours of rancio are intermeshed with walnut, honey and spice to deliver a powerful flavour sensation. Exceptional length, with very long aftertaste of orange rind and just a touch of marmalade.
Drink (2005)
Alc/Vol: 19.0% -
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Henriques & Henriques Finest Medium Dry 5 Year Old Madeira (500ml)Madeira, PORTUGAL$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenABV: 19%Closure: CorkBACKGROUND
Madeira is produced on the Portuguese island of Madeira. Henriques and Henriques is the largest independent shipper on the island. The company is focused on the premium end of the Madeira market and enjoys a 15% market share. The company takes its name from the two sons of Joao Joaquim Henriques, a descendent of the first King of Portugal.LAND HOLDINGS
Vineyard holdings on the island are small, with 4000 growers owning an average 0.5ha each - which by local standards is extensive. Henriques and Henriques also have their own vineyards, 6 hectares at Camara de Lobos (located on the south coast). The company also has 10 hectares at Quista Grande.SOIL TYPES
The soils of Madeira are basically volcanic, however, the best soils are a stony decomposed red tufa which is known locally as SAIBRO. The vineyards are planted on very steep terraced slopes.GRAPE VARIETIES
The grape varieties are unusual for Australians and include TINTA NEGRA MOLE, TERRANTEL BASTARDO, and either SERCIAL, VERDELHO BUAL or MALVASIA.VINIFICATION
The vintage on the Island of Madeira is said to be the longest in the world, starting in mid August with the Malvasia grapes being picked on the lower slopes and slowly progressing through the other grape varieties of BUAL, VERDELHO and SERCIAL. Vintage in the highest vineyards is completed in early November.
The fermentation takes place in temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks. Malvasia and Bual are fermented with limited skin contact, whilst for Verdelho and Sercial, only the pressed juice is used. Fortification takes place with the addition of grape brandy, the amount used and the timing of the fortification depends on the style of Madeira that is being produced.
The majority of young Madeira undergo the "EUSTUFAGEM". This process consists of storing the wine for 3 months in hot conditions with temperatures 45°C. The effect is to mimic the long sea voyages that were a part of the traditional aging process. The best wines are left to age 10 years and more in warm cellars which creates that unique "Maderised" fruit quality.TASTING NOTE: Brilliant, onion brown colour with faint green olive hue. The nose has an amontillado sherry like lift with distinct rancio character evident over a layer of walnut and spice. Excellent palate length, with layers of orange rind over a walnut, rancio background. Clean finish. Very long rancio walnut aftertaste.
Drink (2005)
Alc/Vol: 19.0% -
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Henriques & Henriques Finest Full Rich 5 Year Old Madeira (500ml)Madeira, PORTUGAL$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenABV: 19%Closure: CorkBACKGROUND
Madeira is produced on the Portuguese island of Madeira. Henriques and Henriques is the largest independent shipper on the island. The company is focused on the premium end of the Madeira market and enjoys a 15% market share. The company takes its name from the two sons of Joao Joaquim Henriques, a descendent of the first King of Portugal.LAND HOLDINGS
Vineyard holdings on the island are small, with 4000 growers owning an average 0.5ha each - which by local standards is extensive. Henriques and Henriques also have their own vineyards, 6 hectares at Camara de Lobos (located on the south coast). The company also has 10 hectares at Quista Grande.SOIL TYPES
The soils of Madeira are basically volcanic, however, the best soils are a stony decomposed red tufa which is known locally as SAIBRO. The vineyards are planted on very steep terraced slopes.GRAPE VARIETIES
The grape varieties are unusual for Australians and include TINTA NEGRA MOLE, TERRANTEL BASTARDO, and either SERCIAL, VERDELHO BUAL or MALVASIA.VINIFICATION
The vintage on the Island of Madeira is said to be the longest in the world, starting in mid August with the Malvasia grapes being picked on the lower slopes and slowly progressing through the other grape varieties of BUAL, VERDELHO and SERCIAL. Vintage in the highest vineyards is completed in early November.
The fermentation takes place in temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks. Malvasia and Bual are fermented with limited skin contact, whilst for Verdelho and Sercial, only the pressed juice is used. Fortification takes place with the addition of grape brandy, the amount used and the timing of the fortification depends on the style of Madeira that is being produced.
The majority of young Madeira undergo the "EUSTUFAGEM". This process consists of storing the wine for 3 months in hot conditions with temperatures 45°C. The effect is to mimic the long sea voyages that were a part of the traditional aging process. The best wines are left to age 10 years and more in warm cellars which creates that unique "Maderised" fruit quality.TASTING NOTE:This is the 'biggest' of the 5 year old Madeira's. Deep onion brown colour, with olive green hue. Aroma of orange rind, toffee and caramel followed by a strong rancio end note. The palate if full bodied, with pronounced rancio flavours. Warm, spicy spirit, perfectly balanced with very long aftertaste of hazelnut, spice, orange rind and rancio.
Drink (2005)
Alc/Vol: 19.0% - Keo Commandaria St.John Dessert Wine (500ml)Troodos Mountains, CYPRUS$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 15%Closure: Cork
The story behind this unusual wine dates back to the time of the Crusades. The island of Cyprus was then a favourite resting ground for Crusades returning from battle and later became a centre for the Knights of the Order of St.John. It was the members of this order who discovered a wine that was been produced in the Troodos Mountains. This wine they named Commanderie after their headquarters, finding it to be not only an excellent drink but also to possess therapeutic properties.
Estienne de Lusignan described Commandaria St.John in 1572 A.D., recording in his book “Descriptions of the island of Cyprus”: “There is a certain grapevine…which ripens at the end of July, whose grapes are not gathered until the end of September. They [the grapes] are put on the roofs the space of three days…then trodden and the pips and stalks removed before fermentation.”Commandaria St. John is then aged in large earthenware jars buried in the ground and fortified with grape brandy.
Other reviews... Tawny colour with a golden rim. Intense bouquet with aromas of dried fruits, oak and a hint of caramel. Luscious, sweet palate displaying dried fruits and spice, finishing with a plummy aftertaste. A most affordable and pleasant aperitif or desert wine. Serve at room temperature. 15% alc./vol.
- La Canellese Extra Dry Vermouth (750ml)ITALY$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenABV: 18%This extra dry style includes aromatic herbs and spices such as costmary, wormwood, ginger, sage, juniper and chamomile. The La Canellese property is surrounded by the beautiful world heritage wine landscapes of Piedmont, on the border between Langhe and Monferrato. In an area traditionally devoted to wine, the family has been working for a century to create aperitifs, spirits and bitters. Naturally fragrant and delicate, Rosa Bertello’s old artisan recipe can be found in every bottle of La Canellese vermouth, enriched and modernized in order to meet contemporary tastes. 18% Alc./Vol.
- Lucano Del Cavaliere Vermouth (700ml)ITALY$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenABV: 18%Vermouth Del Cavaliere has been revived from the liquor tradition of the Vena family which stretches back to the late 19th century. Production started out a few years after their famous amaro, but was interrupted during the First World War and only recently re-commenced. The main ingredient is red wine from Piedmont. The predominant aromatic herb is Artemisia Absinthium. Oregano, coriander, orange and angelica are also included. Described as a style with good bitter sweet balance, the idea behind the label design comes from an old print from the early 1900s which shows a Knight after a long journey who finally gets his prized reward: Lucano! 18% Alc./Vol.
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Lustau Rojo Vermut Vermouth (750ml)Jerez, SPAIN$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 15%A global standard-bearer for high quality Sherry, Lustau has debuted in another category with a delicious Red Vermouth (a white version is on the way). Wormwood, gentian, coriander and orange peel aromas stand out among the array of fragrant plants, fruits and spices featured. Each botanical macerates separately for optimal aroma extraction. Lustau's master blender then combines the botanicals to obtain a perfect blend. Tasting note: Deep umber brown with Sienna edges. Captivates with semi-sweet yet fresh aromas of grapefruit/orange zest, dried coriander and bitter herbs. Keenly balanced by refreshing acidity, following through with appealing flavours of dried fruits, candied citrus and drying earthy root-like notes in the finish. Concludes fruity, vibrant and long. Delicious. 16% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... An interesting newcomer to the market, the base of this vermouth is rich, nutty Sherry—80% amontillado and 20% Pedro Ximenez, to be precise. It has a coffee-brown hue and a bright dried-herb scent. The palate wows with sticky toffee, dried apricot, orange peel and cocoa. Ideal for adding complexity to drinks featuring dark spirits. 92 points - www.wineenthusiast.com ...It's great to see such a nice vermouth made in Jerez. It's a rather sweet and round version, with delicate herbal notes and great citrus touches. Perfect for cocktails and a great sipping drink on its own. It's here to stay. - www.sherrynotes.com - Luxardo Dei Cesari White Sambuca Liqueur (700ml)Padova, ITALY$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 38%Closure: Cork
This hugely popular sambuca from Luxardo is made by macerating aniseed & elderberries in neutral spirit before maturation in oak vats. Typically served 'Con la mosca' - flamed with three floating coffee beans in the glass. 38% ABV
No tasting notes available.
Click here to learn more about Liqueurs
- Chestnut Teal Limited Release Apera (750ml)Mildura, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenABV: 17.5%Named after the native duck found along the Murray River, this medium sweet style was originally produced by Mildara Wines in the early 1950s but ceased in 1998. Ahead of its 65th birthday, the Australian icon has been relaunched by two sherry advocates, Darren Rogers and Peter Stone. “Our hope is that Chestnut Teal will continue to be appreciated as not only an icon of the Australian wine industry, but as a wonderful drink for any occasion,” Mr Stone said. He adds, “It was the weapon of choice after work every night.” The aim has been to recreate the drink in the most authentic manner possible with reports suggesting it looks and tastes identical to the original article. Expect a sweet wine with a drying finish, with flor sherry notes integrated with nutty rancio and a rounded mouthfeel. A lovely aperitif served at room temperature or slightly chilled. 17.5% Alc./Vol.
- Maidenii 7 Year Old Classic Vermouth (500ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 19%
Not exactly cheap, but how many vermouths are aged for seven years in a French oak? A completely unique take on the Maidenii's classic that sees rancio and almost flor-like sherry characters layered into what was already a wonderful aperitif. Arguably the perfect vermouth for drinking neat. Bottled unfiltered. 19% Alc./Vol.
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Maidenii Sweet Vermouth (750ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenABV: 16%Closure: CorkMaidenii Vermouth is a collaboration between French wine maker Gilles Lapalus and Australian bartender Shaun Byrne. In the creation of Maidenii they have sourced leaves, flowers, fruits, herbs, seeds, spices and roots from the gardens of both the old world and the new. The vital components, wormwood and wine, are plucked fresh from Victoria. Other key ingredients include strawberry gum, river mint, sea parsley and wattle seed.
Shaun has been tinkering behind the bar of Melbourne martini haven Gin Palace for over 5 years. This has helped him nurture his interest in capturing and enhancing natural flavours, arising in house-made concoctions and a sophisticated understanding of palates.
Born of a French wine family, Gilles has wine flowing through his veins. He crossed the globe to take over the position of Winemaker at the dynamic Sutton Grange Winery.
The two were bought together by their love of Vermouth; Gilles bringing with him the traditional alchemy of pastoral Europe to complement Shaun’s knowledge of the vibrant food and drink culture of Australia’s young cities.
Tasting note: Bright crimson / cherry appearance. Moderate aroma issues an attractive combination of citrus peel and black fruits with subtle herbaceous undertones. A soft, silky entry is followed by a light to medium bodied mid palate with semi sweet flavours of blood orange and sweet spices. Finish is gently acidic and cleansing - certainly not overly sweet by any measure. Nicely balanced. Concludes with refreshing grape fruit and dried berry notes followed by a gently bitter fade. A welcome entry into a category that of late has become excessively sweet. 16% Alc./Vol.
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Maidenii Dry Vermouth (750ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenABV: 19%This is the latest offering from a collaboration between French wine maker Gilles Lapalus and Australian bartender Shaun Byrne. In the creation of these world class Vermouths, they have sourced leaves, flowers, fruits, herbs, seeds, spices and roots from the gardens of both the old world and the new. The vital components, wormwood and wine, are plucked fresh from Victoria. Other key ingredients include strawberry gum, river mint, sea parsley and wattle seed. The 'Dry' completes a superb triptych of Vermouths and represents their finest effort to date. Tasting note: Pale straw gold colour. Perfumed aromatics open with a fruity / herbaceous burst that includes bay leaf, clove, indian spices and more over a fresh and fruity base wine. The fruitiness comes to the fore after exposure leaning towards stewed apricot / fruit mince pie. Exceptional complexity. The palate is lean, light yet with good depth opening spicy with a dried citrus peel and apricot burst before turning deliciously nutty, spicy and refreshingly acidic towards the finish. Concludes bone dry and delicately bitter as the gentian asserts itself with hints of clove and a medley of flavours reverberating into the lengthy fade. Beautifully composed. A superb drink in its own right, it will take your Martinis to the next level. 19% Alc./Vol. -
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Maidenii Classic Vermouth (750ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenABV: 16%Closure: CorkMaidenii Vermouth is a collaboration between French wine maker Gilles Lapalus and Australian bartender Shaun Byrne. In the creation of Maidenii they have sourced leaves, flowers, fruits, herbs, seeds, spices and roots from the gardens of both the old world and the new. The vital components, wormwood and wine, are plucked fresh from Victoria. Other key ingredients include strawberry gum, river mint, sea parsley and wattle seed.Shaun has been tinkering behind the bar of Melbourne martini haven Gin Palace for over 5 years. This has helped him nurture his interest in capturing and enhancing natural flavours, arising in house-made concoctions and a sophisticated understanding of palates.
Born of a French wine family, Gilles has wine flowing through his veins. He crossed the globe to take over the position of Winemaker at the dynamic Sutton Grange Winery.
The two were bought together by their love of Vermouth; Gilles bringing with him the traditional alchemy of pastoral Europe to complement Shaun’s knowledge of the vibrant food and drink culture of Australia’s young cities.
Tasting note: Deep copper / mahogany colour. A powerful aroma reveals scents of clove, bay leaf and cherry with hints of anise adding freshness. A slightly tart, bitter entry leads into a medium bodied, almost off-dry profile of stewed fruits and sweet spices counterpointed by pleasantly bitter, herbal, earthy, root like flavours and cleansing acidity. Excellent balance. Spicy blackberry finish. Concludes clean, fresh and mildly tart with bay leaf and clove persisting. A moreish aperitif. 16% Alc./Vol.
- McWilliams Hanwood Estate 10 Year Old Grand TawnyNew South Wales, AUSTRALIA$31. 99Bottle$383.88 DozenClosure: Screw Cap
Notes sourced from McWilliam's Wines...
Hanwood Port is a smooth, rich and mellow tawny port. The average age of this blend is 10 years as opposed to 5 years for most other ports. These extra years maturing in small oak casks, combined with six generations of port-making skills perfected by the McWilliam family since 1877, are what make Hanwood such a fine old port. Deep red colour with brown hues. The nose displays complex intense aged rancio characters. The palate is filled with rich fruit and aged integrated spirit. Good length with a mellow soft tannin finish. 18.5% alcohol volume.
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Morris Rutherglen Classic Muscat (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$25. 99Bottle$311.88 DozenABV: 17.5%Closure: StelvinBrown Muscat grapes from non-irrigated vines are fermented and the resulting juice fortified with high strength neutral spirit. Maturation takes place in large oak casks ranging in size from 1500 to 4500 litres.
Sienna Brown, onion skin colour with an olive green hue. Honeyed raisin and marmalade top notes meld into some well integrated spirit with toffee and subtle rancio end notes. Texturally viscous with a creamy like feel the palate is filled with sweet concentrated flavours of raisins, honey and marmalade over fine spirit, marzipan and some distinct rancio characters. Finishes with a long texturally viscous aftertaste of raisins, honey, marmalade, marzipan and rancio characters.
Alc 17.5%Other Reviews....
More touches of red-brown than the Liqueur Tokay, precisely as it should be; fragrant raisin varietal fruit luring you into the second glass; perfect balance. 500 ml.
93 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion
Much younger than the AUD $90 Old Premium but still showing great depth of flavour and lusciousness, this has a medium-deep red/tawny hue with yellow tints, and a hauntingly perfumed bouquet of rose petals, flowers and spicy muscat fruit. Very sweet, deep, lush flavour and freshness. Great quality – and affordable! (screwcap)
95 points
Huon Hooke -
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Morris Rutherglen Classic Topaque (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$25. 99Bottle$311.88 DozenABV: 17.5%Closure: StelvinA light, finer cousin of Muscat, Topaque (Tokay) is produced from Muscadelle grapes.
Semi translucent onion brown colour with an olive green hue. Spicy dried raisin, toffee and honey aromatics fill the nostrils followed by hints of tea and marmalade. Mouth coating flavours of honey and dried raisins marry beautifully to the spirit with toffee, marmalade and notions of tea bags also present. Very luscious mouthfeel finishing perhaps a shade drier than the Muscat. Long aftertaste of dried raisins, honey, toffee infusions, marmalade and subtle tea.
Alc 17.5%Other Reviews....
Golden brown; highly perfumed classic aromas of cold tea, rose petals and Christmas cake; excellent spirit and balance. 500 ml.
93 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion -
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Morris Rutherglen Classic Tawny (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$25. 99Bottle$311.88 DozenABV: 17.5%Closure: StelvinProduced from Shiraz, Grenache and Mataro grapes this is an excellent example of entry level Tawny. Dark red onion brown colour with an onion brown hue. The nose shows medium intensity with scents of Christmas cake and honeyed walnuts over marzipan and light well integrated brandy spirit notes. Initial raisin and honey flavours meld into some marzipan and nutty brandy spirit. Dry nutty finish with the nuttiness following through to the aftertaste of walnuts, honey raisins and marzipan.
Alc 17.5% -
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Morris of Rutherglen Old Premium Rare Tawny (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$115. 00Bottle$1380.00 DozenABV: 20%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
Ruby-tawny hue; a strong whiff of volatility and spiritous, but the palate compensates admirably. Aged balsamic vinegar, brittle toffee, coffee and chocolate licorice and aniseed balls. Lemony acidity cuts through the richness,the palate tight and bright. 500ml.
94 Points
Jane Faulkner - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate -
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Morris of Rutherglen Old Premium Rare Liqueur Topaque (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 17.5%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 1859, Morris Wines of Rutherglen is the continuing story of 5 generations of family winemakers. Over these 158 years, the Morris family have earned their esteemed position as one of the most prominent winemaking families in Australia. Today, David Morris continues their winemaking history combining tradition with contemporary techniques, ensuring that the Morris name remains one of the Australia’s most iconic and respected wine family dynasties.
Despite the waning interest in fortifieds over the last decade these amazing wines are unique to Australia and internationally renowned treasures that should not be lost to future generations. A warming glass of Muscat or Tokay is indispensable during the winter months.
Totally opaque sienna brown black colour with a deep walnut brown olive green hue. Such is its viscosity that it clings to the side of the glass like paint. Knockout aromatics of toffee, honey and raisins are laced with perfectly integrated spirit. Nuances of marmalade, Christmas cake and spice are also apparent in this very complex sniff. Prodigiously rich with a syrupy like texture, so thick that you could almost eat it with a spoon, the palate is completely saturated with a concentrate of raisin, honey, toffee and maple syrup flavours over traces of marmalade, well integrated spirit and spice. Exceptionally long conclusion of honey, raisins, toffee, marmalade, finely integrated spirit, maple syrup and spice. Pure decadence in a bottle. Alc 17.3%Other reviews.... The colour is an astounding density. A myriad of dried fruit panettone, lapsang, five-spice, hoisin and roasted walnut doused in espresso and bitter chocolate, reel from a core of thoroughbred intensity. An immense wine that dichotomously, despite its sheer weight, almost evaporates from the tip of the tongue and surfaces of the cheeks, while lingering endlessly.
99 points - Ned Goodwin - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion
Almost incomprehensible concentration here. This has a deeply aged, toasty and dark nutty edge on the nose. Roasted honey, dark chocolate, coffee and roasted malt, too. The palate has implausibly concentrated flavors that follow the same threads shown on the nose, all swooningly sweet and rich. Yet, somehow it extrudes and balances to the point of lightness, leaving a trail of long, dark and toasted flavors of almonds. Extremely impressive and complex. Drink now. Screw cap.
98 points - JamesSuckling.com -
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Morris of Rutherglen Old Premium Rare Liqueur Muscat (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 17%Closure: StelvinThis magnificent fortified pours with a thick oil like viscosity. The colour is much deeper than the classic Muscat displaying a totally opaque black sienna brown core with a deep olive green walnut brown hue. The nose is a sniffers paradise, almost hypnotising the olfactory senses with intoxicating aromas of raisins and honey infused with marzipan followed by finely integrated spirit, hints of Christmas cake and marmalade with spicy rancio end notes. Thick oil like texture, the palate painted with incredibly rich and concentrated flavours of honeyed raisins, marmalade, refined spirit, Christmas cake, toffee, rancio characters, marzipan and spice. Good balanced freshness on the finish and beautifully integrated spirit. Exceptionally long conclusion of honeyed raisins, marmalade, Christmas cake, marzipan and rancio characters that stay in the mouth long after swallowing. A vinous steal by any measure.
Alc 17%Other reviews….
Like 100 Christmases in the one glass. Ancient material blended across decades and decades, delivering immense depth, layering and complexity. Smells of dark toasted wood, dark chocolate, currants, raisins, plum paste and alluring, fragrant spices. The palate has a smooth, pillowy texture, rich and spicy raisins and ebb and flow of dried-plum flavors, emanating warmth in treasured layers. Drink now. Screw cap.
100 points
JamesSuckling.com
This has a tsunami of luscious spices, raisins dipped in chocolate, and dried fruit flavours, yet has enhancing freshness, length and a bright finish, rancio in high relief. This Rutherglen muscat has to be given 100 points.
100 points
James Halliday, The Weekend Australian, March 2019 - Mr Pickwick's Particular PortBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenClosure: Cork
Notes sourced from Southern Cross Wines.
Mr Pickwick's Port is widely regarded as Australia's definitive tawny port. Its average age of over 21 years makes it unique amongst fortified wines consistently available on a commercial basis. Mr Pickwick's Port has the softness and mellow spirit that can only come from great age, premium base material and the very best in fortifying spirit - in this case, old brandy.The colour is pale amber brown, suggesting great age and complexity, while on the nose there are complex fruit and rancio qualities. The concentrated, mature nose has a freshness and lift belying an average of more than 25 years. On the palate the wine is intense and concentrated and quite luscious, with a great richness, texture and mouthfilling flavour. Its excellent and mature spirit add to the depth and intrigue presented by such old, rare port. 19.0% alcohol volume.
- Niepoort Ruby PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 19.5%Closure: Cork
Ruby Port is a delicious style of young and fruity fortified. Aged for an average of three years, Niepoort sources grapes for this wine from old vineyards in Cima Corgo region of Douro Valley. Ruby keeps well for several years, although the wine will not improve with age. Decanting is not necessary since the wine contains no sediment. Serve after a meal, by itself or with soft cheese.
No tasting notes available.
- Noilly Prat Ambre Vermouth (750ml)Marsiellan, FRANCE$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenABV: 16%
Vermouth enthusiasts will be glad to find what has been described as Noilly Prat's 'distillery edition' now in Australia. First offered in 1986, Ambre's distribution has remained modest, mainly limited to European markets. It's produced in a similar fashion to the Original Dry, however it includes additional botanicals (totaling 49 compared to 25) such as cinnamon from Sri Lanka, cardamom from India and coriander and rose buds from Morocco as well as lavender and vanilla for a richer, slightly sweeter experience. It works over ice, in a spritz with a slice of grapefruit or mixed with apple cider as a long drink. It can also be used as a substitute for other styles of vermouth in cocktails - for example, as a lighter stand-in for sweet vermouths. 16% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Rich, dessert-like wine balanced by bitter rooty/barky notes, citrus oils and acidity. A bianco vermouth with attitude and colour. 5 stars - diffordsguide.com
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Noilly Prat Dry Vermouth (750ml)Marsiellan, FRANCE$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenABV: 18%Closure: CorkOther reviews... Extremely pale yellow. Wonderfully alive in the nose, as subtle, woodsy scents of juniper, thyme and laurel make an impression. It's clean, dry and refreshing at palate entry; midpalate shows traces of citrus, pine and berries. Aftertaste is harmonious and medium-long. The finest dry vermouth money can buy. 93 points - wineenthusiast.com
In 1800 Joseph Noilly decided to break with tradition. He began producing the first ever Dry Vermouth to compete with the sweet Italian ‘Turin’ styles. He achieved this by making three fundamental changes to the method of vermouth production. The first change involved the addition of local flowers and fruits to his original recipe of 20 herbs. The second saw to the use of dry wines made from the Picpoul and Clairette grapes from the Languedoc. After macerating and blending, the third point of difference was to adopt a ‘new’ method of ageing which was known locally as "vin cuit" (‘cooked wine’.) This essentially involved transferring the wine into small oak barrels to be left outdoors. This exposure to climatic extremes lasts 12 months and actually speeds the wines aging process by up to four times. The barrels are finally emptied into huge blending vats, fortified and then left a further twelve months to marry before bottling. 18% Alc./Vol.
- Oscar.697 Bianco Vermouth (750ml)ITALY$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 16%Produced in Canelli, in the province of Asti in the Piedmont region in Italy’s north-west, this fairly new Vermouth brand is the brainchild of three drinks experts: Stefano di Dio, Oscar Quagliarini (the brand’s namesake who created the recipe for the vermouth) and Oreste Sconfienza, a vermuttista who’s been making Italian vermouth since the late 1950s. Sleek contemporary packaging belies a traditional production method that follows the guidelines for Vermouth set out by the Italian authorities. Trebbiano di Romagna, a white variety from central Italy (selected for its neutrality) makes up 75% of the mix with the remaining 25% being a maceration of botanicals in high ABV neutral spirit. The Bianco offers strong notes of bergamot, yarrow muscat and elderflower. The sugar level is kept relatively low (14%) to ensure the final product is drier and slightly more bitter than most other examples. Recommended in a spritz or with white spirits such as gin, tequila and pisco. Other reviews... 5 stars - diffordsguide.com
- Oscar.697 Rosso Vermouth (750ml)ITALY$41. 99Bottle$503.88 DozenABV: 16%Produced in Canelli, in the province of Asti in the Piedmont region in Italy’s north-west, this fairly new Vermouth brand is the brainchild of three drinks experts: Stefano di Dio, Oscar Quagliarini (the brand’s namesake who created the recipe for the vermouth) and Oreste Sconfienza, a vermuttista who’s been making Italian vermouth since the late 1950s. Sleek contemporary packaging belies a traditional production method that follows the guidelines for Vermouth set out by the Italian authorities. Oscar.697 Rosso is described as having strong notes of absinthe, rhubarb and liquorice while cinchona, a botanical normally associated with rosso vermouths is absent. All the ingredients are natural with no colouring added. Try it in an Americanos or Manhattans. Other reviews... 4.5 stars - diffordsguide.com
- Penfolds Club Tawny PortBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenClosure: Cork
Notes sourced from Southcorp Wines.
Australia's most popular fortified wine is a tawny noted for it's mellowness and consistency. Made from a blend of vintages and oak matured at Penfolds' Kalimna cellars, in the Barossa Valley this is a rich and luscious premium tawny port.
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Penfolds Grandfather Rare TawnyBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 20%Closure: CorkA superb aged Tawny that if tasted alone would be regarded as the ultimate expression of a fortified wine, however, on the day it was tasted alongside the extraordinary Seppelt DP 90 Rare Tawny – which is an absolute must. Very deep orange onion brown colour with deep olive green rim. The nose is distinctive with strong rancio notes followed by walnuts and very fine aged brandy. The palate is mouthfilling with complex layers of walnuts, new leather and spice over a strong rancio background. Exceptional length. Perfect balance – wonderful harmony of flavours followed by an exceptionally long rancio almond and walnut aftertaste.
Other Reviews…
The nose on this NV Grandfather Rare Tawny (tasted in December 2024) leads with mejool date and blood orange rind, licorice, nutmeg and clove, dark chocolate, raisins and roasted walnuts. It is magnificent. On the palate, this is rich and oxidative, with endless layers of opulent fruit, nuts and spice, with warming spirit through the finish. Winemaker James Godfrey is hailed in Australia for his longstanding and unwavering skill with fortified wine production, and the sleek masterclass that is this wine is testament to that. The acidity is strict on the palate, and this serves to balance the wine through the seemingly endless finish. The drink date seems a little useless, as the wine will drink interminably if stored correctly. 19% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.
95 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate - Penfolds Club Old Reserve Tawny PortBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenClosure: Cork
Notes sourced from Southcorp Wines.
A special blend of the finest and oldest Club Port reserve stocks have been matured in small oak casks to produce a unique Australian Tawny.
- Penfolds Great Grandfather Rare Tawny PortBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$340. 00Bottle$4080.00 DozenClosure: CorkNotes sourced from Southcorp.
In 1844 Christopher Rawson Penfold planted vines on the slopes of Magill toproduce fortified wines. Now the historic bluestone cellars are home to atradition of fortified winemaking dating back over 150 years.In 1994, to commemorate 150 years of winemaking by Penfolds, a specialblend of the finest and oldest components of Grandfather Tawny wascreated. Befitting its great age and quality, the blend was named "Great Grandfather."This multi vintage blend produced from Mourvedre, Shiraz (Syrah) & Grenache grapes, represents a selection of the very finest and oldest barrels in the Penfolds cellars. Placed into a solero system, each year a strictly limited amount is released as Great Grandfather Grand Old Liqueur Tawny.
Tasting Notes: Extremely dark mahogany brown with an intense olive green tinge. The nose is extremely intense and complex with raisinedfruit, toffee and malt aromas long since integrated with nutty aged rancio, vanillin oak and subtle spirit. The palate clearly demonstrates its great age and qualitywith incredible intensity of flavour, viscosity and length matched to elegance and finesse. The wine has a perfect harmony of rich developed fruit flavours, aged rancio complexity and a slightly drying spirit finish. A truly outstanding liqueur tawny that deserves to be recognised as the equal of any fortified wine ever made in Australia.
Drink now.(2003)
Alc/Vol: 19.0% Tasting notes by James Godfrey, Southcorp fortified winemaker. Tasted 18th December 2002.size>Other Reviews…
Even more perfumed and compelling than the Grandfather is the profound Great Grandfather Tawny Liqueur. From a much older Solera, it undeniably ratchets up the level of quality. This brilliant fortified is remarkably light on its feet given its massive richness. Thank good winemaking, great natural extract, and zesty acidity for keeping this wine fresh in spite of its huge residual sweetness and power.
96 points
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate #167 (Oct 2006) - Primitivo Quiles Moscatel NV (375ml)Alicante, SPAIN$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenABV: 15%Closure: Cork
Primitivo Quiles is the oldest bodega in the Alicante region, with the family producing wine since 1780. Alicante is the driest Spanish wine region, with 300mm or so rainfall per year. Despite the warm weather and low rainfall the wines retain good freshness and finesse due to the elevation and cool nights from the continental climate. Moscatel Romano (known elsewhere as Muscat of Alexandria, Lexia and Zibbibo) played an important part in the history of Alicante, as the coastline served as a prominent trade route where these durable (fortified) wines would more comfortably survive the journey.
This wine is produced in the "Mistella" method where pressed juice is fortified with neutral brandy spirit leaving 200g/l of residual sugar, making it ideal as an aperitif on ice, or served with cheese and fruit. The aroma is fragrant and floral with orange, straw, billy tea, and raisin, with a good balance of acidity and sweetness.
15% Alc/Vol - Punt e Mes Bitter Red Vermouth (1000ml)Torino, ITALY$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenABV: 16%Closure: Screw Cap
Following the successful release of Carpano Antica Formula vermouth, we had several customers searching for another of Carpano's creations, Punt e Mes.
Like Antica Formula, Punt e Mes is a vermouth of outstanding quality, but features a dramatically different flavour profile. Whilst the two share a similar, sweet luxurious palate entry, Carpano's back palate is sweet, soft and luscious, while the back palate of Punt e Mes offers very bitter flavours similar to Campari.
Best consumed in cocktails that require some bitterness and spice to balance sweetness, or with ice and soda before dinner.
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2019 Quinta do Noval Nacional Vintage PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$2999. 00Bottle$35988.00 DozenABV: 19.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
The 2019 Vintage Port Nacional is a field blend, mostly Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinto Cão, Sousão and Tinta Roriz, aged for 18 months in old wood. It was bottled May 4, 2021, with 100 grams of residual sugar and 19.4% alcohol. This opened rather differently than the regular Noval Port this report, showing more open and expressive fruit, more cherries and even more power as they both aired out. The aromatics are excellent here too, but more fruit driven. When I came back to both some two days later, this brilliant and graceful Nacional made the wonderful regular Noval seem clumsy. It's the difference in styles, really, and reasonable minds might differ in preference, but this Nacional has more precision and more finesse. It is brighter and laser-like focused with an expression of fruit that seems so pure that you can almost think they used a spoon to fill the bottle after just crushing the grapes. The regular Noval, by contrast, seems rounder, more full-bodied and richer, albeit less defined.
They both have a fair share of power. On first taste, the regular Noval seemed less powerful. Two days later, it seemed more powerful, but the Nacional fruit was always more interesting and far more intense in its character. Three days later, there was certainly still plenty of firmness on the Nacional finish. If the structure is excellent, the fruit is sensational. Three days after opening, the fruit had not budged an inch, showing nothing but exuberance and youth. The juicy finish of this very fresh Porto seals the deal. True, it was in bottle only about two months or so when tasted, but its quality is not in question. If you want a collectible and can afford it, this is the easy pick. If neither of those is true, the regular Noval offers way more bang for the buck. Both have significant aging potential. As promising as the regular Noval is, however, this seems to have a lot more upside as well as a lot more "wow" factor.
I have given this wine a drinking window that begins in about 10 years, but of course, that is a minimum for this as well as the regular Noval. These days, Ports are more refined, so you can theoretically start sooner, most of the time. In truth, it will need 20 years before it is firing on all cylinders. Purists will suggest longer. Drink 2029 - 2075.
99 points
Mark Squires - Wine Advocate (Jul 23, 2021)Last but certainly not least, the 2019 Quinta do Noval Naçional Vintage Port comes from Noval’s un-grafted vines and undergoes essentially the same maturation as the regular Noval. It is more backward on the nose compared to the Noval, demands time to open, before eventually revealing black cherries, tar, tobacco and clove. A touch of smoke and eucalyptus make an appearance with time. The palate is absolutely sublime with a perfectly judged line of acidity; a Naçional that is full of tension and energy, finely chiselled tannins and an enthralling crescendo towards the spicy and peppery finish. This is quite profound. Drink 2033-2070.
98 points
Neal Martin - VinousA chewy and beautiful young Nacional with grapey character and lots of depth and layers of tannins. Crushed black berries and black cherries. Tannic finish. Needs 10 to 15 years to soften.
98 points
James SucklingPure perfection in Port, the 2019 Vintage Port Nacional is riveting stuff in every sense, and I certainly can't imagine it being any better. Coming from a single parcel of older vines and a field blend (it's primarily Touriga Nacional) brought up in older wood, it's one of those ports that brings incredible intensity, richness, and power while somehow staying perfectly balanced, pure, and light on its feet, with its fruit, alcohol, and structure just flawlessly integrated. It's also incredibly complex, even at this young stage, offering red, blue, and black fruits as well as sandalwood, Asian spice, dried flowers, iron, black olive, and graphite on the nose. While the base Noval closed down quite quickly, this showed consistently over the three days I had the bottles open, never showing any sign of fatigue or oxidation, and given its incredible balance, it was the wine I chose to pour a small glass of each evening as well. While the 2020 is all about power and richness, this is an utterly complex, compelling, insanely good Port that I wish I could pour for every reader. While it offers ample pleasure today (count me in the group that enjoys young Port), I would hide any bottles I might have for at least 7-8 years, and it should have 50, 60, 70 years of longevity? This beauty will unquestionably outlive most of us today. Drink 2030 - 2090.
100 points
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2019 Quinta do Noval Vintage PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenCellar: 15 - 25 Years (2039-2049)ABV: 19.5%Closure: CorkPitch black in colour with a very deep dark red black hue. Potent morello cherry, black cherry and liquorice allsorts aromas are complimented by distinct marzipan, brandy spirit and iron notes. Incredibly concentrated and powerful, every corner of the palate is completely drenched with liquorice, morello cherry and blackberry fruits which are framed by muscular yet integrated tannins. Notions of marzipan, liquorice allsorts and spice lie underneath. Luscious yet grippy in its feel it concludes with amazing richness and great persistence. Still very youthful and firmly structured this requires some long term ageing.
Cellar 15-25 years.
Alc. 19.5%Other Reviews....
The 2019 Vintage Port is a field blend aged for 18 months in old wood vats. It was bottled May 4, 2021, and has 100 grams of residual sugar. It was in bottle only a bit more than two months when tasted, but it seems quite brilliant, even so. Very concentrated, it adds controlled power and coats the palate. Tasted with some other 2019s, this certainly stood out for both concentration and power. It touches all the bases in terms of expressive fruit and structure, finishing dry and seriously. It seemed balanced enough to drink young, but that would be a mistake. For one thing, it steadily tightened as it aired out. It also increasingly showed gorgeous eucalyptus-laced aromatics. Two days later, it was notably more astringent. Four days later, it was very firm on the finish and better overall. In fact, that was a far better showing than on day one. This is plainly built for the long haul. I would expect nothing less from a fine Noval Vintage Port. It became more focused and precise as well. This needs the rest of this decade, at least, in the cellar to show better. Then it will develop well for decades and hold indefinitely. Frankly, it won't show everything it has in even 10 years, where I have the "start drinking" window, so if you have a lot more patience, that would be useful. It will be more interesting around 2035-2040. This is a powerful beauty, well justifying Noval's tendency to declare most every year. Drink 2029-2075.
97 points
Mark Squires - Wine Advocate (Jul 23, 2021)Noval has released 2,780 cases, equivalent to 15% of production, of the 2019 Quinta do Noval Vintage Port. A blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Cão, Sousão, Tinta Roriz, foot-trodden in lagares with 18 months in oak barrel. This is well defined on the nose, with dusky black fruit laced with graphite and clove. A serious rendition when compared directly with the more “playful” 2019 Passadouro; hints of liquorice, eucalyptus and boot polish emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with vivid red and black fruit, liquorice and black pepper, crisp acidity with a structured finish. This is a fresh, tensile Noval that will age with style. Drink 2032-2055.
96 points
Neal Martin - VinousAromas of dried cherries, blackberries and cassis with dark licorice, chocolate and graphite undertones. Full-bodied, with a ripe and mellow sweetness, and ultra-fine, silky tannins that flow through the palate for minutes. Lots of grip. Such an elegant texture, with great finesse. Long and seamless. Better from 2030.
97 points
James SucklingComing from a cooler vintage, the 2019 Vintage Port is nevertheless powerful, full-bodied, and concentrated, with lots of structure and density giving it a tight, backward, yet incredibly impressive feel. It's actually more concentrated than the 2018, with a touch more baby fat as well, yet has a similar level of complexity. Red and black plums, cassis, iron, chalky minerality, chocolate, black olive, and licorice are just some of its nuances, and unlike the 2018, which showed even better with air, this closed up rather quickly and was more enjoyable on Day One than Day Three. Nevertheless, this is magical stuff that just needs a solid decade of bottle age. As with the 2018, it spent 18 months in old wood tanks and was bottled with around 100 grams of residual sugar. Drink after 2033.
97+ points
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Regal Rogue Bold Red Australian Vermouth (500ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 16.5%'Bold Red' is one of the world’s first dry red vermouths. Marrying a deep, rich naturally spiced organic Shiraz with organic un-wooded Chardonnay and native Pepper berry, Wattle seed and Native Thyme as well as cinnamon, clove, star anise, nutmeg, ginger, bitter orange, dried fig and cherry. The style is semi-dry at 80gms sugar per litre (64% less than category standard). Pair it with orange, blood orange, ginger, figs, cherries or star anise, cinnamon or bitter chocolate. 2015 Batch tasted... Made from a blend of Shiraz and Semillon. Translucent autumn leaf red with water like edges. Fruity bouquet includes pink grapefruit and ripe plum plus hints of sage and orange zest. Off dry, with light to medium bodied, pink grapefruit, sage and plum flavours; Concludes gently bitter, dry and delicately spicy with hints of cinnamon in the aftertaste. Recommended with ginger beer. 16.5% Alc./Vol. 87 points -
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Regal Rogue Lively White Australian Vermouth (500ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIAReduced from $39.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenABV: 16.5%Marrying an organic un-wooded Chardonnay with native Lemon myrtle, Desert limes, Finger limes and Native Thyme with elderflower, lemongrass, grapefruit and chamomile, this semi-dry vermouth at 80gms sugar per litre (43% less than category standard) lives up to its name. Pair it with grapefruit, pineapple, lemon, lime, rosemary or basil. Earlier batch tasted [Semillon based]... Brilliant bright / gold. Moscato-like with moderate aromas enlivened by hints of grapefruit, thyme and sage. Follows through with medium dry, breezy flavours of ripe grapefruit and dried citrus peel and a refreshing, delicately bitter herb and grapefruit aftertaste. 16.5% Alc./Vol. 91 points -
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Regal Rogue Wild Rose Australian Vermouth (500ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIAReduced from $39.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenABV: 16.5%One of a handful of Rose vermouths on the market, 'Wild Rosé' employs organic Cabernet Rosé with native Illawarra plums, Rosella, Strawberry gum, fruit spice, Rhubarb and Kina. The style is semi-dry at 70gms sugar per litre. Pairs with strawberry, raspberry, passionfruit, stone fruit and mango. 2015 batch tasted... Made from Shiraz grapes. Straw gold with a pale salmon pink blush. Mildly herbaceous with subtle aromas of raspberry tart, ripe plum and grapefruit to the fore. Medium dry entry features grapefruit and semi-ripe strawberry flavours; finish offers a brief burst of plummy sweetness. Ends lean, brisk and dry with light plum and grapefruit in the aftertaste. 16.5% Alc/Vol. 89 points -
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Regal Rogue Daring Dry Australian Vermouth (500ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIAReduced from $39.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenABV: 18%Led by savoury and light salty notes creating a umami finish, 'Daring Dry' marries organic Sauvignon Blanc with native Anise Myrtle, Quandong and Native Thyme and follows with white pepper, gentian, olive leaf and juniper giving this an earthy, salty and very herbaceous character. At 25gms sugar per litre, this is classified as an 'Extra Dry' style. Try pairing it with caper berries, olives, pickles, cucumber, thyme, oregano or sage. 2015 batch tasted... Produced from Sauvignon Blanc. Brilliant pale straw gold. Impressive aromatic lift; drops a notch in the second pass offering scents of lemon cordial, thyme, sweet oregano and grapefruit-like notes. Clean and dry with delicate flavours of sage, lime juice / semi-ripe grapes; Finish adds grapefruit and turmeric-like notes with the gently bitter herbal qualities carrying the fade. 18% Alc./Vol. - Romate Pedro Ximenez SherryJerez, SPAIN$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 15%Closure: Stelvin
Crafted by Jose Luis ('Pepe') Infante at the 230-year-old Romate Bodega, in Jerez. Pedro Ximenez grapes from Montilla-Moriles are hand-picked in late August and sun-dried on vineyard mats for about eight days, increasing their sweetness from 15 Bé at harvest to 24 Bé after drying. At the winery, the bunches are destemmed, pressed, and then fortified. This bottling uses the second pressings, unlike Cardenal Cisneros, which uses only free-run juice. The fortified wine is aged in a solera for three years before being blended with 15% oloroso.
Alc. 15% - Routin Blanc Vermouth (750ml)FRANCE$41. 99Bottle$503.88 DozenABV: 16%
Philibert Routin created this Blanc Vermouth more than a century ago incorporating plants, flowers and spices macerated in local Chambéry wine for several weeks. It continues to be produced in Chambéry using white Sauvignon and local Jacquère wines and an artful blend of eighteen botanicals (wormwood, Bourbon vanilla beans, thyme, cinnamon, elderflower and more). With a floral/herbal bouquet characterised by aromatic thyme, as well as light spice, its sweet, fruity taste make it delicious served straight, on ice, with a lemon wedge or a slice of pink grapefruit. Alternatively, try it as a long drink, diluted with sparkling water or slightly bitter tonic - an apéritif favourite.
Other reviews... Herbaceous aromas lead into a light bodied palate marked by mild pear sweetness, finishing light and crisp with hints of fresh-snipped herbs and cinnamon. Versatile; sip or mix. Best Buy. 16% Alc./Vol. 94 points - wineenthusiast.com TOP 100 SPIRITS 2019.
Storage advice: Unopened bottles of Vermouth should be kept upright, like spirits. Once opened, keep chilled. Like any fortified wine, Vermouth is sensitive to oxygen, which impairs its aromatic bouquet and its flavour. Refrigeration slows the process of oxidisation.
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Romate N.P.U. Amontillado SherryJerez, SPAIN$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 18%Closure: CorkCrafted by Jose Luis ('Pepe') Infante at the 230-year-old Romate Bodega, in Jerez. The N.P.U. Amontillado is barrel aged for 20 years in a dedicated solera system.
Other Reviews....
This bodega is still in the hands of local owners – a real rarity. Orange peel fills the nose, augmented by spice, coffee and toffee on the silky, velvety palate. Aged for more than 30 years, this long, complex wine would go well with pâtés, terrines and other rich canapés.
93 Points
Decanter.comPure and nutty, with aromas of dried apricot and sea air. In the mouth you get lots of almond and butter, while the A-rate finish is buttery but also quite complex. A classic, refined wine that dances across your tongue like a ballerina.
92 Points
Michael Schachner - Wine Enthusiast MagazineTasted blind. Really sweet scent showing caramel, toffee, honey and toast. Pungent and robust on the palate. On the dry and oxidative side and extremely tight. Lovely intensity.
17 / 20 Points
Ferran Centelles - JancisRobinson.com (January 2018) -
- 90
Sardino Red Vermouth (750ml)SPAIN$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenABV: 15%Sardino calls itself a maritime vermouth and includes twenty four wild plants and herbs. Produced on the west coast of Spain where fishing traditions continue, the flavours are faintly saline alongside notes of dried fruits, zesty peels, sage, thyme and in particular, lingering cinnamon. Being neither too sweet, dry or bitter makes this a broad-appeal option. Serve over ice with a slice of citrus, or pair with olives and seafood dishes. 15% Alc./Vol.
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- 100
- 99
- 98
1925 Seppeltsfield 100 Year Old Para Vintage Tawny (100ml)Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$1799. 00Bottle$21588.00 DozenABV: 23%Closure: CorkDrawn from a single vintage and matured in oak for 100 years before release, Seppeltsfield’s 1925 Para Vintage Tawny is part of an unbroken lineage unmatched in the world of fortified wine. Bottled direct from barrel at its centenary, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a century of barrel age in its purest form.
Other Reviews....
In 1925, New York overtook London to become the largest city in the world, Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler's influence was rising, F. Scott Fitzgerald released The Great Gatsby, the Jazz Age was in full swing, and this was tucked away in barrel. That never ceases to blow my mind. It's a singularity of aroma and flavour. Dried fruits in an aqueous solution, candied nuts, mahogany, molasses, marzipan, fancy cigar lounge, espresso liqueur, candied figs and prunes, wood spice and citrus rind. It's in constant movement; light filters in and out, highlighting certain characters, casting shadow on others, in an ever-moving state of change. It's kinetic and endlessly complex and there ain't nothing else like it in the world. It really is a national treasure. Drink 2025-2055.
100 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Wine CompanionOnly one puncheon of this wine was made in 1925, as with subsequent vintages, with the intention of releasing the wine after 100 years. It has gone almost motor-oil black with an intensely complex nose, showing layers of baking spices, dried fruit, chocolate, citrus peel and oil. The palate is so complex and thick, with surprisingly high and fresh acidity that comes from concentration in the barrel, giving toasted nuts, baking spices, espresso, cocoa and burnt butter. This is a truly rare and iconic wine with a great deal of complexity and poise. Exceptional. Drink or hold.
99 points
James SucklingThe 1925 Centennial Collection Para Port Vintage Tawny leads with dark chocolate and salted dates, sweet dark oak, resin, licorice and campfire. This is evocative and brings to mind embers that float across the field of vision of the wine. In the mouth, it is oily, smoky, rich and thick, with leather, autumn leaves, mahogany and even petrichor, a character I have not noted before. This is as intense and as black as I have ever seen it, and it moves even to black olive tapenade, roasted meat crust and clove, aniseed and arnica. It has length that feels never-ending, propelled either by sugar or age or the very shadows of time itself. I tasted from bottle number 062 (this bottle was later shared among wine lovers and friends and, in fact, was also shared in Burgundy with friends earlier in the year). 23.1% alcohol, sealed in 100-milliliter bottles of perfume glass.
98 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateDeep colour. Intense lifted ground coffee, praline, panforte aromas with smoky, liquorice, aniseed, cloves notes. Generously concentrated, dense and richly flavoured with fresh espresso, dark chocolate, orange rind, sandalwood cloves notes, fine supple textures, superb mid-palate volume/ viscosity and a persistent pure aniseed cut. Finishes smoky and long with apricot, panforte notes. A wonderful expression of Australian wine history and ambition. A living curio to share.
100 points
Andrew Caillard MWIt’s the physicality of the wine you notice first. It’s as dark as sump oil at its core, easing out to a rich olive green at its rims. And then you attempt to swirl it. There are continents that move more rapidly than these old tawnies flow from the glass. They grip the surface of a glass like a potter’s glaze and no wine on Earth has more of its production sucked off an index finger than one of these. Get your nose near the glass and you topple through time. Walnuts soaked in brandy, star anise and cloves, cassia bark and panforte, coffee grounds and dried mandarin peel. The lingering scent of waxy oilskin. It doesn’t so much hit the palate as detonate upon it, pushing complex flavour to untouched corners and staying around longer than an adult child saving for a house deposit. One of the wine world’s greatest experiences.
Points - All of them!
Nick Ryan