349 products

Fortifieds

    • 96
    Garvey Juncal Manzanilla Sherry
    Sanlucar de Barrameda, SPAIN
    $9. 99
    Bottle
    $119.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Brilliant very pale straw colour water like hue. Lifted nose with distinct flor yeast and dry fresh nutty end notes. The palate delivers the classic, very dry, salty Manzanilla flavour profile over a strong flor yeast back palate. Clean acid finish. Very long salty flor and nut aftertaste.
    Drink Now (2008)
    Alc/Vol: 15%

    Retasted, November 2007:
    Bright pale water like colour with water like hue. Lifted nose – flor yeast, dry nutty top note. Salty palate followed by lees and nut. Bone dry. An excellent example. Long aftertaste of flor yeast and nut. Clean finish.
    Cellar 1-2 years (2008-2009)
    Alc/Vol: 15%

    This is a wonderfully light, fresh and bone dry aperitif wine that has just RE-arrived in Australia.

    First Tasted 17th May, 2006:
    Garvey have produced a seriously good Manzanilla. Pale water like colour with lively water like hue. The nose shows impressive intensity and power with typical dry flor yeast top notes. The palate is full flavoured with excellent length and depth. Salty flor yeast flavours are mouthfilling and enhanced with a refreshing cut of acidity. Very long flor yeast aftertaste.
    Drink (2006)
    Alc/Vol: 15%

    Was $14.99 Now: $9.99     - Final Stocks

    • Reduced
    Gonzalez Byass Elegante Fino Sherry - Broken Foil
    Jerez, SPAIN
    Reduced from $19.99
    $18. 99
    Bottle
    $227.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    From the producers of Tio Pepe, Elegante Fino Sherry is produced from the second pressing of Palomino grapes, grown in the chalky Albariza soils of Jerez. Following fermentation to roughly 11% alcohol the wine is fortified to 15.5% alcohol where it then enters the Elegante Fino solera. The humidity and cool temperature in the cellars then allow a layer of flor yeast to form on the surface of the wine, creating the wine's distinctive aroma and character. The wine remains in barrel for a minimum of 3 years as part of the traditional Solera system. Elegante fino is pale golden in colour, crisp and dry on the palate, and features floral pear aromas with a subtle refreshing finish.
    Alc. 15%

    Gonzalez Byass El Rocio Manzanilla Sherry
    Jerez,
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Auntie Jean has long been dismissed as a little old lady who liked her tipple of sherry before dinner - well let us tell you about the O.L.S.C. (Old Lady Sherry Conspiracy). These matrons of society have long known that sherry is one of the world's great drinks and that Manzanilla is one of the finest, driest drinking experiences one can imagine and the perfect aperitif. So whilst you're knocking down a stubby and getting bloated, Auntie Jean is getting mildly sloshed on Manzanilla (15.5% Alcohol Volume) and has left plenty of room for a couple of full glasses of the top red you're about to open for dinner.Bright pale straw colour. Superb nose - intensely aromatic, filled with strong aromas of yeast, biscuits and cashews. The palate is exceptionally concentrated with powerful flor flavours encased by cashews and biscuit. Great persistence, with just a hint of saltiness emerging. Perfect balance and long flor cashew biscuit aftertaste.

    • 93
    Gonzalez Byass Elegante Amontillado Sherry
    Jerez,
    $16. 99
    Bottle
    $203.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Closure: Cork

    Bright, deep gold colour with green gold hue. Lifted nose, with distinct rancio top note with hazelnut, walnut, spice and hint of caramel. There is a dusty hazelnut rancio palate flavour, followed by spice and warm spirit back palate. Excellent balance. Aftertaste of rancio, hazelnut and walnut.
    Drink (2005)
    Alc/Vol: 19%
    RATING: 93/100
    VALUE: XXXXX/5



     Click here to learn more about Spanish Sherry.

    Graham’s Extra Dry White Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    ABV: 19%
    Closure: Cork

    Crafted from traditional white grape varieties, particularly Malvasia Fina, the Graham's Extra Dry White boasts an enticingly crisp and fruity flavor. With a pale-yellow hue, it offers a dry and fruity profile with floral notes on the nose, culminating in a long and crisp finish. Ideal as an aperitif or a key ingredient in cocktails such as the renowned Port & Tonic, this versatile wine is best served slightly chilled. Once opened, savor its delightful qualities within 8 weeks of opening.

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    • Reduced
    2016 Graham’s Vintage Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    Reduced from $220.00
    $210. 00
    Bottle
    $2520.00 Dozen
    ABV: 20%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2016 Graham’s Vintage Port is inky black in colour. The bouquet is voluminous and intense, the aromas almost shrouding your head! Blackberry, black olive, clove and a touch of smoke, just a hint of pencil box in the background. The palate is brilliant, quite brilliant. Supple tannin, a satin-like texture, perfect balance and unerring purity, this is a fabulous Graham’s that effortlessly fans out and caresses the senses on the finish. This Graham’s has huge potential and is going to give a lot of pleasure for many years. Drink 2026 - 2080.
    96 Points
    Neal Martin - Antonio Galloni’s Vinous (May 2018)

    Extremely complex aromas that show the classic Graham character of black-fruit marmalade and burnt oranges. Follows through to a full body with great grip at the finish. Lightly sweet. Chewy and powerful. Such a focus at the end.
    99 Points
    JamesSuckling.com (November 2018)

    The 2016 Vintage Port is a blend of 37% Touriga Nacional, 42% Touriga Franca and various others. It comes in with 115 grams of residual sugar. A bit bigger than Dow's this year, this is more intense as well. The better wine of these two benchmarks seems to be this Graham's. Tight on the finish, aromatic and very flavorful, this actually opens rather well and shows off its lovely fruit. The Dow's will be approachable a bit earlier, perhaps, and this may reward aging even more. As always, Graham's is wonderfully delicious. That's one hallmark of the house. I'm not sure this is a truly great Graham's, but at the moment, it is enticing, with plenty of potential for improvement. Drink 2025 - 2070.
    95 Points
    Mark Squires - Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (July 2018)

    This offers a distilled plum and boysenberry essence, with a racy feel, as spearmint and graphite notes drive through. As the finish kicks in, this turns toward the dark side, with ganache, charcoal and tar elements. Has the showy ripeness of the vintage but is backed by a decidedly dry feel on the finish, imparting a sense of precision despite the heft. Best from 2030 through 2055.
    98 Points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator (December 2018)

    Super-ripe with an expressive plum and dark chocolate aroma. Rich opulence backed by dark chocolate intensity and spicy tannic grip – big and bold on the finish. Voluptuous with fabulous richness, big and bold on the finish. This is one for the long haul but it’s already very impressive. Drink 2030 - 2055.
    98 Points
    Richard Mayson - Decanter.com (May 2018)

    This finely structured wine is powered by fine tannins and rich fruits. A touch of acidity comes through the rich berry flavors and the concentration of the dark tannins. This wine will certainly age, don't drink before 2028.
    97 Points
    Roger Voss - WineEnthusiast Magazine (December 2018)

    All the Symington wines had exceptionally deep colours. This one has a particularly deep blackish-purple, still with a blueish hue. On the already-expressive nose I found prunes, something floral and a note of balsam, plus lots of freshness. Relatively open on the palate too. Rather elegant and the hugely sweet fruit almost covers a massive charge of silky tannins. This is almost like a sweet, tannic table wine. Pure and polished. Sweeter than most. One of those wines that some people might easily persuade themselves could be drunk relatively young, Satin textured. Drink 2040 – 2065.
    17.5+ / 20 Points
    JancisRobinson.com (May 2018)


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    2017 Graham’s Vintage Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $225. 00
    Bottle
    $2700.00 Dozen
    ABV: 20%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews….
    The 2017 Graham’s Vintage Port was picked from August 28 at Malvedos, though production is one-third less than the previous year. Here the Touriga Franca was particularly early ripening. It has an expressive nose, a mélange of red and black fruit, fig jam, dates and touches of clove, aromatics that are very seductive if perhaps just missing the intellectual capacity of the Dow’s. The palate is medium-bodied with very supple tannins, a gorgeous Graham’s with hints of espresso and cloves that tincture the multi-layered fruit that veers towards black rather than red towards the finish that fans out without a care in the world. This is perhaps one of the more flamboyant Vintage Ports that is likely to drink earlier than the Dow’s, yet that takes nothing away from what is a beautifully crafted Graham’s. Drink 2030 - 2070.
    95 Points
    Neal Martin - Antonio Galloni’s Vinous (May 2019)

    Wow! Amazing aromas of crushed blackberry and blueberry, stems and rose petal. Entrancing. Full-bodied, very tight and powerful with ultra-fine tannins. Intense richness of crushed berries, chocolate, hazelnut and coffee. 5,250 cases. Try after 2026.
    97 Points
    JamesSuckling.com (May 2019)

    The 2017 Vintage Port is a blend of 35% Touriga Nacional, 47% Touriga Franca and various others, including a blend from old vines. It comes in with 113 grams of residual sugar. It was bottled about a month before this tasting, but the just-bottled sample was not really ready. This is a pre-bottling sample instead.
    One of the more aromatic ports here, this is laced with cistus and eucalyptus. Lush in texture and concentrated, it was actually showing well at the time of this tasting—notwithstanding some power and pop. The more it aired out, though, the more power it showed. Even so, this remains a rather refined and suave Graham's. I'd call it subtly sexy. It does put on weight with some aeration, though, and there is that muscle underneath, so don't dive in too soon. Drink 2027 - 2070.
    97 Points
    Mark Squires - Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (July 2019)

    Lush and inviting, with waves of cassis, melted red licorice, plum preserves and boysenberry reduction coursing through, carried by a velvety structure that lets this flow wonderfully. Flashes of apple wood and tar score the finish, which ends with authoritative cut. This is serious. Best from 2035 through 2055.
    97 Points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator (December 2019)

    Based on Touriga Franca from south-facing slopes at Quinta dos Malvedos, with Touriga Nacional from quintas Vila Velha and Vale de Mealhadas (both predominantly north-facing), topped out with fruit from old vines at Quinta da Tua and 10% Sousão. It's a very deep blue-black colour with an expressive, super-ripe nose of plum, mint and bergamot which springs from the glass. The palate is rich, velvety and voluptuous in typical Graham’s style. The initial richness makes the tannins, which show up on the ripe, broad, mouthwatering finish. Wonderful purity and definition. A real wow of a wine! 3.9 Baumé. Drink 2035 - 2060.
    98 Points
    Richard Mayson - Decanter.com (June 2019)

    The wine is packed with glorious black fruits that have immense backing tannins. It has a succulent edge of juicy acidity that sears the tannins and promises a great future. Drink from 2031.
    97 Points
    Roger Voss - WineEnthusiast Magazine (December 2019)

    Black core with narrow crimson rim. Glorious fruit intensity of tangy wild berries. Sweet elderberry and hedgerow and a touch of oaky/biscuit spice in the empty glass, dark chocolate. Immense concentration of pure fruit, deep layers of velvet, and yet the fruit is fresh. Fills the mouth with luxury. No dried-fruit flavours this year. Deep and endless fruit, the tannins are rich rather than powerful, deep and rounded, so smooth. Mouth-wateringly tangy finish. Drink 2030 – 2070.
    18.5 / 20 Points
    Julia Harding MW - JancisRobinson.com (May 2019)

    • 93
    2010 Graham's Quinta dos Malvedos Vintage Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $115. 00
    Bottle
    $1380.00 Dozen
    ABV: 20%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Fine and ripe, this is a sweet—while also complex—wine from Graham's flagship estate. Its tannins lead easily to ripe flavors of black plum and berry juice, resulting in a wine that is firm, full bodied, fruity and generous.
    93 Points
    Roger Voss - WineEnthusiast Magazine

    Deep shaded crimson. More reticent on the nose than the Dow's Quinta do Bomfim 2010 but there is clearly a lot there. Very sweet start with tannin and liquorice on the palate. This is much less evolved than the Dow's 2010 single quinta port. This will probably reach greater heights but I would ideally age it a bit longer. Sweet start but dry finish, though overall its remarkably refreshing and well made. Drink 2023 – 2033.
    17+ / 20 Points
    JancisRobinson.com (November 2021)

    • 97
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    • 94
    1972 Graham's Single Harvest Tawny Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $550. 00
    Bottle
    $6600.00 Dozen
    ABV: 20%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    This is a bright and rich Port with caramel and dried-fruit aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, sweet and so balanced. Light tannins. So fresh and vivid. Lovely Port with intensity and great length. Drink now.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    The 1972 Single Harvest Tawny Port was bottled in 2015 and comes in with 125 grams per liter of residual sugar. It's a beauty. It starts slow and builds to a nice crescendo, with the acidity emerging to cut the fruit. This elegant wine has a sweet finish to go with its vibrancy and energy. It's a pretty picture overall with caramel, molasses and hints of chocolate on the end, some typical Tawny flavors. Note: This comes with a bar-top cork. Assuming a good cork, it will last indefinitely. Drink 2015 - 2050.
    93 points
    Mark Squires - Wine Advocate (Oct 2015)

    An elegant aged tawny, with plenty of creamy, luscious flavors of butterscotch, crème brûlée, glazed apricot and sandalwood. Offers a silky mouthfeel, with a long, well-spiced finish backed by firm acidity. Drink now.
    94 points
    Kim Marcus - Wine Spectator

    Peter Symington selected a few barrels of 1972 ports for ageing in seasoned oak casks shortly after the harvest. Having accompanied the maturation of this port in the Gaia lodge, he eventually passed the responsibility on to his son when he retired in 2009. Charles Symington, now head winemaker and taster, selected nine casks for bottling.
    Darker than the 1982. Really round, rich and massive. Super-charger. This is a power house! Kerpow! Maybe one of the best 1972s made anywhere in the wine world. Very difficult to spit this, it’s so clean and fresh.
    19/20 points
    Jancis Robinson MW

    1994 Graham's Vintage Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews…
    In a port tasting, tasting Graham's is almost like tasting a big, rich, succulent Merlot after a group of blockbuster, tannic Cabernets. Sweeter and more obvious than many ports, the opaque purple-colored 1994 is fruity, powerful, and rich, with an addictive hedonistic quality. It will be ready to drink in 8-10 years and keep for up to 30. As always, this is a showy, flamboyant port that has the advantage of being slightly sweeter than other 1994s. A great Graham's. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2035.
    96 points
    Robert Parker – The Wine Advocate

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    Hand Crafted By Geoff Hardy Muscat (500ml)
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    ABV: 19%
    Closure: Cork

    This Muscat has been aged in barrels for up to 40 years. Beautiful sienna brown colour with an olive green hue. Aromas of dried raisins combine with honey and dried apricots with some rancio like characters, brandy spirit and spice in the background. Luscious flavours of honey, raisins, dried fruits and orange marmalade flow across the palate with a thick viscous feel followed by nutty rancio characters, brandy spirit and spice. There’s a touch of heat on the finish. Long aftertaste of honey raisins, Christmas cake, nutty rancio characters and spicy brandy spirit.
    Alc 19%

    • 88
    Hanwood Estate Medium Dry Apera
    Multi District Blend, AUSTRALIA
    $17. 99
    Bottle
    $215.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Closure: Cork

    Bright onion gold colour with pale gold hue. The nose displays strong rancio character, followed by a nutty end note and delicate spirit lift. The palate is medium-dry, with the rancio characteristics dominant, followed by a touch of orange rind over a nutty back palate. Clean spirit finish, with long rancio aftertaste.
    Drink (2004)
    Alc/Vol 18.5%RATING 88/100VALUE XXX/5

    • 88
    Hanwood Estate Medium Sweet Apera
    Multi District Blend, AUSTRALIA
    $17. 99
    Bottle
    $215.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Closure: Cork

    Deep onion brown colour with onion brown gold hue. Aroma of rancio, nut and orange rind. The palate has good weight and mouth feel, with flavours of toffee and rancio emerging. Clean spirit finish, with long aftertaste of rancio and toffee.
    Drink (2004)
    Alc./Vol.18.5%RATING: 88/100VALUE: XXX/5

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    Henriques & Henriques Sercial 10 Year Old Madeira (500ml)
    Madeira, PORTUGAL
    $64. 99
    Bottle
    $779.88 Dozen
    ABV: 20%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Offers full, rich, complex aromas and flavors reminiscent of sea air and forest undergrowth, caramel and walnuts. Powerful and long, this has substance and a sharpness at the end that's a little astringent. Drink now.
    89 Points
    Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

    Sercial is the driest style of Madeira and this 10-year-old has vibrant acidity. A rich tawny colour with aromas of fruit cake, nuts, dried orange peel and citrus freshness. An initial figgy richness on the palate gives way to notes of fresh citrus, toasted almonds, walnuts and savoury umami notes. Finishes crisp and dry with a delicious salty tang. This type of Madeira won't improve with bottle age, but an open bottle can keep for several months.
    92 Points
    Julie Sheppard - Decanter.com

    100% Sercial grown on mixed volcanic soils and hand-harvested mid to late September. Fermented with some whole-clusters with skin maceration in lagares with native yeasts. Matured in canteiro; aged in balseiro (large cask) and pipas (pipes) for a minimum of 10 years. Winemaker: Humberto Jardím. Vegan. TA 5.8 g/l, pH 3.52, RS 55.1 g/l.
    Pale tawny. Edgy, sour marmalade with real refreshment and raciness. Clean as a whistle, and so fresh!
    17/20 Points
    jancisrobinson.com

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    Henriques & Henriques Verdelho 10 Year Old Madeira (500ml)
    Madeira, PORTUGAL
    $64. 99
    Bottle
    $779.88 Dozen
    ABV: 20%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A medium-dry style made from the Verdelho grape, this wine is fruity while always shot through with Madeira's trademark acidity. Nuts, spice, old wood and an intense juiciness make this a good aperitif. Drink now.
    91 Points
    Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast

    Serious stuff. Despite a slightly singed nose, it exhibits complex flavors of honey, smoke, pear and wet pine needles. Rich, with an underlying tang and vibrance that follows through to the long walnut and salt-tang finish. A wine for meditation. Drink now.
    91 Points
    Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

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    Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana Manzanilla
    Sanlucar de Barrameda, SPAIN
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The golden-colored NV Manzanilla Pasada Pastrana is a Manzanilla produced from Palomino grapes from the Pastrana vineyard within the pago Miraflores, aged under flor, but finishing its upbringing in a semi-oxidative way as the flor weakens, starts to die off, and bottled with a total average of 12 year of age. It has a distinct nose redolent of peanuts, smoke, bitter almonds, quince and olives, combining biological and oxidative notes. The palate shows a medium- to full-bodied wine, very powerful and strongly-flavored, ending with a smoky finish. A fine nose and a powerful palate. A unique wine. 24,000 bottles are produced yearly.
    92 points
    Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate #208 (Aug 2013)

    Rich and racy, this combines floral chamomile and honeysuckle notes with bracing fleur de sel and lemon pith flavors, all backed by hints of singed almond and wet straw. Shows lovely range and drive. Drink now.
    91 points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    Imperial Measures Guthrie Hand Crafted Sweet Vermouth (375ml)
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    This single vintage, single vineyard sweet vermouth made using Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from the Adelaide Hills is a collaborative effort between Imperial Measures Distilling, Guthrie Wines and Sommelier 'Extraordinaire', Duncan Vent. On its own, 'SV' is a rich, ripe and delicious aperitif that will also add value to any cocktail. Serve chilled, with soda or neat, or combine it with Ounce Gin ‘Signature’ and Ruby Bitters for a brilliant Negroni. 18% Alc./Vol.
    2016 Inniskillin Reserve Vidal Icewine (375ml)
    Niagara Peninsula, CANADA
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen

    Notes sourced from Inniskillin
    Early Spring temperatures brought a rapid start to the 2016 growing season. Mid to late Spring saw temperatures cool off, bringing in a great deal of rain. This hampered berry development slightly but the warm summer days followed by cool summer nights more than made up for it. This temperature fluctuation allows sugar to develop during the day, with acidity that develops at night, resulting in whites with excellent fruit flavours and bright acidity. Red wine varietals benefitted from an early growing season as well, which allowed them to ripen on the vine for much longer than a typical harvest. The cooler fall weather helped the grapes retain moisture which resulted in a more subtle fruit profile with supple, smooth tannins.

    This unique Canadian product was harvested at the height of Canada’s crisp winter. Naturally frozen on the vine and then picked when the temperature drops to a frigid -10°C. Only a few drops of concentrated nectar can be squeezed from each bunch. The juice is then slowly fermented to achieve a rich, specialty wine know as Icewine.

    Tasting Notes:  A mix of honey, beeswax, and dried apricot on the nose with a tantalizing essence of honey and dried apricot on the palate as well. A well rounded mouthfeel with acidity that balances out this naturally sweet dessert wine. Residual Sugar 256 g/l.

    9% alcohol

    La Canellese Bianco Vermouth (750ml)
    ITALY
    $54. 99
    Bottle
    $659.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    This refreshing white vermouth is described by La Canallese as "a velvet celebration of sweetness, full of fresh notes of gentian and aromatic herbs, enriched by charming sandalwood hints". 28 botanicals are used however the delicate bitter notes of Roman and Alpine wormwood, marjoram, sandalwood, gentian and laurel stand out.

    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.
    • 87
    Luque Fino Sherry
    Sanlucar de Barrameda,
    $10. 99
    Bottle
    $131.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Deep straw colour. Brilliant flor and nut nose, with yeast notes emerging. Dry flor palate with nutty cashew character. Flor and yeast aftertaste. Clean dry finish.

    RATING: 87/100

    VALUE: XXXX/5

    • 90
    Lustau En Rama Fino Jerez de la Frontera (500ml)
    Jerez, AUSTRALIA
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The spring 2017 bottling of the NV 3 en Rama Fino de Jerez aged for an average of five years under flor and was bottled unfiltered in April 2017. It's a textbook example of the biological wines aged in Jerez, with aromas of esparto grass, chalk, olives and brine. Super dry with pungent flavors reminiscent of the aromas found on the nose and powerful and round on the palate, it has a bitter finish with a chalky sensation and some salty notes. What I like about this collection is that the three wines show the personality and characteristics of their origin.
    90 Points
    Luis Gutiérrez - The Wine Advocate (December 2017)

    • 91
    Lustau En Rama Fino El Puerto de Santa María (500ml)
    San Lucar de Barrameda, Jerez, SPAIN
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    With a clear character of El Puerto de Santa María reminiscent of low tide, the Spring 2017 bottling (marked on the front label) of the NV 3 en Rama Fino del Puerto also has notes of almonds, yeasts and a saline, iodine touch. The palate is balanced and dry, sharp after five years under flor.
    91 Points
    Luis Gutiérrez - The Wine Advocate (December 2017)

    • 88
    Lustau En Rama Manzanilla Sanlúcar de Barrameda (500ml)
    Sanlucar de Barrameda, SPAIN
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The NV 3 en Rama Manzanilla de Sanlúcar is a little cloudy with a bright golden color. It has a nose of green apples and almonds that denotes certain youth and a medium Manzanilla without sweetness in the palate. It is overall dry and sharp, with a slight bitter flavor.
    88 Points
    Luis Gutiérrez - The Wine Advocate (December 2014)

    Lustau Murillo Pedro Ximenez (500ml)
    Jerez, SPAIN
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17%
    Closure: Cork

    Bottled for the first time in 1996 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Lustau, this Pedro Ximenez Murillo is drawn from its namesake solera in Calle Murillo. The solera was started around 60 years ago, and each year around 300 cases are drawn off from a selection of the best butts in system.

    No tasting notes available.

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    Lustau Rojo Vermut Vermouth (750ml)
    Jerez, SPAIN
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    ABV: 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 Passione Nera Black Sambuca Liqueur (700ml)
    Padova, ITALY
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 38%
    Closure: Cork

    This Sambuca pours an inky black and is aromatised with liquorice. The production entails several levels of successive infusions to blend the different ingredients. The predominant taste is star anise with light, spicy hints of cardamom and coriander, and a typical liquorice aftertaste. It's sought after by bartenders over other sambucas for its thicker, more viscous, velvety texture. 38% Alc./Vol.

    No tasting notes available.

    Maidenii 7 Year Old Classic Vermouth (500ml)
    Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $94. 99
    Bottle
    $1139.88 Dozen
    ABV: 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.

    • 93
    Maidenii Classic Vermouth (375ml)
    Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    Closure: Cork
    Maidenii 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.

    • 96
    Maidenii Dry Vermouth (375ml)
    Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    ABV: 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.
    • 89
    Maidenii Sweet Vermouth (375ml)
    Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    Closure: Cork

    Maidenii 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.

    Mancino Chinato Vermouth (500ml)
    ITALY
    $52. 99
    Bottle
    $635.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    A bartender by trade, in 2011, Giancarlo Mancino started working with a small family operated distillery in Piedmont. His aim was to create a range of high quality vermouths. Using a range of botanicals ground in a traditional mill, the ingredients were then steeped in sugar beet spirit to extract the aromas and flavours, before being blended with a local wine base.

    Another product that stemmed from these efforts is "Chinato". It is Giancarlo’s hybrid of his three Mancino Vermouths (Secco, Bianco and Rosso) centered on Erede di Chiappone Armando Barbera d’Asti D.O.C.G, with added pure quinine bark. Considered by some as a new tier for the category, it's built on a rich, deep, red, bitter wine base, making for a notable digestive/aperitif. Serve it as an after dinner pairing with fine cheese or dessert, otherwise, perfect chilled, straight up as a digestive, warmed like mulled wine or used as an addition to any Hot Toddy.
    • 89
    McWilliams Hanwood Classic Muscat
    Multi District Blend, AUSTRALIA
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Closure: Cork

    Deep onion brown/sienna brown colour, with hints of olive green on the edge. Subdued nose of honey, raisins and toffee. The palate has good weight with creamy texture. Flavours of honey, toffee and raisin. Clean finish, with honey raisin aftertaste.
    Drink (2004)
    Alc/Vol 18.5%RATING 89/100VALUE XXXX/5

    • 88
    McWilliams Hanwood Classic Tawny
    Multi District Blend, AUSTRALIA
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Closure: Cork

    Bright sienna, onion brown colour with onion brown hue. The nose displays a delicate rancio top note, followed by a hint of walnut and old leather. Creamy palate texture, with flavours of raisins and hazelnut. Clean spirit. Aftertaste of raisins and rancio with spicy finish.Drink (2004)
    Alc/Vol: 18.5%
    RATING: 88/100
    VALUE: XXXX/5

    Molinari Sambuca Extra Liqueur (700ml)
    Civitavecchia, ITALY
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%
    Closure: Screw Cap

     Molinari Sambuca extra is a star anise flavoured liqueur. Essential oils are extracted from star anise through steam distillation and then infused with wheat alcohol and sugar.

    Enjoy Molinari Sambuca straight, on ice, or with one of the following mixers:

    White Cloud:   30ml of Sambuca in a tall glass, fill with ice and soda.

    Con la Mosca:   Float three coffee beans into 30ml of Sambuca in a thin liqueur glass. Flame for a few seconds before drinking.

    2018 Niepoort Late Bottled Vintage Port (375ml)
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    ABV: 19.6%
    Closure: Cork

    Notes from producer....
    Our LBV is aged for 4 to 6 years in large wooden vats. The winemaking and ageing methods were chosen to match the selection of wines which make up the LBV: full-bodied red Ports stemming from a single vintage. LBV or Late Bottled Vintage is a category of Port wines which became popular in the 60s, filling the gap between Ruby and Vintage Ports. The extended ageing period of the LBV allows it to show a rounder and mature character –this wine can therefore be enjoyed young, soon after bottling.
    The 2018 harvest will be remembered for its record low yields in the vineyard and atypical weather. The winter was cold and dry, while Spring and early Summer were very wet and relatively cold, which led to a delay in the vegetative cycle as well as problems with mildew in this region. In addition to these challenges, there was a dramatic hailstorm at the end of May and a heat wave in the last few days of July.
    August was hot, with hot and dry weather conditions for the whole duration of the harvest, which started at Vale de Mendiz on 6 September.
    Violet glints appear in this wine’s intense ruby red hue. The nose reveals aromas of fruits of the forest, spices and figs. On the palate, you will find Niepoort’s quintessential structure and elegance. It sets off on sweet notes but finishes dry, with a surprisingly assertive acidity. This Late Bottled Vintage is one of the few wines in its category that is bottled with a real cork instead of a bar top closure. At Niepoort, this means that this Port can already be enjoyed in its youth or left to mature in the bottle for many years.

    2017 Niepoort Late Bottled Vintage Port (375ml)
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    ABV: 19.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Notes from producer....
    Our LBV is aged for 4 to 6 years in large wooden vats. The winemaking and ageing methods were chosen to match the selection of wines which make up the LBV: full-bodied red Ports stemming from a single vintage. LBV or Late Bottled Vintage is a category of Port wines which became popular in the 60s, filling the gap between Ruby and Vintage Ports. The extended ageing period of the LBV allows it to show a rounder and mature character –this wine can therefore be enjoyed young, soon after bottling.
    2017 will be remembered for its intense heat and record low levels of rainfall. In spite of the dry weather, flowering and bud burst developed under good conditions, and in August and September the high day temperatures and cool nights allowed for even and gradual ripening. The decision to start harvesting early, at optimum ripeness, allowed us to harvest grapes in ideal condition, with fantastic natural acidity. At the Vale de Mendiz winery, harvest began on 24 August under perfect weather conditions, with musts displaying intense colour and a powerful character. The last grapes were harvested on 26 September.
    Dark ruby in colour with a red rim, this LBV brings dark chocolate aromas to the foreground, along with fruits of the forest and a spicy character. It offers medium weight on the palate with firm structure and acidity providing superb freshness and ending in a spicy, warming finish. The wine is drinking beautifully now, with great freshness and primary fruit in evidence, but it will also benefit from further cellaring for a couple of decades.

    Niepoort White Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    ABV: 19.5%
    Closure: Cork

    White Port is made from white grapes: Malvasia, Viosinho and Gouveio. The juice is fermented as a white wine until the fermentation is stopped by the addition of pure grape brandy. After spending one year in large wood vats the wine is transferred to Casks (550 liter oak barrels). It is then aged in wood until at least 3 years before bottling. Deep gold, with nuts and hints of fruit fresh aroma and half sweet taste. Serve chilled as an aperitif or with desserts or even by itself.

    1997 Niepoort Quinta do Passadouro (375ml)
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen

    No tasting notes available

    Niepoort Dry White Port
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    ABV: 19.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A rare style of wine, Niepoort produce this Dry White Port using a traditional method of long skin maceration and wood ageing. The final blend includes different wines aged in oak casks with an average of 3.5 years. Golden brown in colour, aromas show nuts and almonds and the palate has a fresh concentrated finish. Perfect when served chilled as an aperitif or as a long drink with tonic water, ice and a twist of lemon.


    No tasting notes available.

    1997 Niepoort Quinta do Passadouro
    Douro Valley, PORTUGAL
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen

    No tasting notes available

    Noilly Prat Ambre Vermouth (750ml)
    Marsiellan, FRANCE
    $36. 99
    Bottle
    $443.88 Dozen
    ABV: 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

    2005 Noon V.P. Vintage Port (500ml)
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Cork

    Noon's V.P. is a single vintage wine, aged in barrels for 18 months and ideal for further bottle aging. The fruit comes from estate-grown bush-vine Grenache, planted in 1934, with low yields of around 1.5 tons per acre. Winemaker Drew Noon notes that while the wine ages beautifully and becomes rich and smooth after 10 years, it is also enjoyable when young. Made from 100% old vine Grenache, it lacks the firmer tannins often found in young fortified wines made from Shiraz, Cabernet, or traditional Portuguese port grapes.
    Alc. 18%

    2004 Noon V.P. Vintage Port (500ml)
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork
    Noon's V.P. is a single vintage wine, bottled after 18 months maturation in barrel and suited to further bottle ageing. Fruit is sourced from estate grown bush-vine Grenache planted in1934 with average yields around 1.5 tons/acre.

    Drew Noon comments, "Many of our V.P. customers like to cellar this wine and at 10 years old it is rich and smooth. However we do not discourage our more enthusiastic (typically younger) consumers from drinking their V.P. early as it is also delicious as a young wine. Being made from 100% old vine Grenache this wine does not have the firmer tannins often found in young fortifieds produced from Shiraz, Cabernet or some of the traditional Portuguese port grape varieties.".

    Notes from the winemaker...Last tasted: April 2007 as part of a V.P. vertical line up in preparation for this website. This wine is still in its primary stage. It has a complex and attractive nose showing a lot of rich, dark fruits. The palate is focused and pure, showing sweet fruits balanced by a near perfect marriage of acid, tannin and brandy spirit. Very good length of flavour. Simply, a good young V.P. with plenty of potential for bottle ageing. Optimum drinking time: 2010 to 2020
    2001 Noon V.P. Vintage Port (500ml)
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    ABV: 19.7%
    Closure: Cork
    Noon's V.P. is a single vintage wine, bottled after 18 months maturation in barrel and suited to further bottle ageing. Fruit is sourced from estate grown bush-vine Grenache planted in1934 with average yields around 1.5 tons/acre.

    Drew Noon comments, "Many of our V.P. customers like to cellar this wine and at 10 years old it is rich and smooth. However we do not discourage our more enthusiastic (typically younger) consumers from drinking their V.P. early as it is also delicious as a young wine. Being made from 100% old vine Grenache this wine does not have the firmer tannins often found in young fortifieds produced from Shiraz, Cabernet or some of the traditional Portuguese port grape varieties.".

    Notes from the winemaker...Last tasted: April 2007 as part of a V.P. vertical line up. Excellent cork. This wine displays a medium red colour with some orange hues showing its development. The nose shows some bottle aged characters, with cinnamon, cherry jam and caramel notes. There is a lovely ripe sweetness of fruit on the palate that is well balanced by the brandy spirit which gives a dry spirity finish. This wine has excellent length and shows a warm year opulence and ripeness about it, in similar fashion to the 1997 V.P. Optimum drinking time: Already quite mature. Drink now to 2012.
    2002 Noon V.P. Vintage Port (500ml)
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork
    Noon's V.P. is a single vintage wine, bottled after 18 months maturation in barrel and suited to further bottle ageing. Fruit is sourced from estate grown bush-vine Grenache planted in 1934 with average yields around 1.5 tons/acre.

    Drew Noon comments, "Many of our V.P. customers like to cellar this wine and at 10 years old it is rich and smooth. However we do not discourage our more enthusiastic (typically younger) consumers from drinking their V.P. early as it is also delicious as a young wine. Being made from 100% old vine Grenache this wine does not have the firmer tannins often found in young fortifieds produced from Shiraz, Cabernet or some of the traditional Portuguese port grape varieties.".

    Notes from the winemaker: Last tasted: April 2007 as part of a V.P. vertical line up. Impressive colour – very deep (much deeper than the 2001) and still holding a purple hue. A terrific nose rises from the glass of blackberries and red currants along with some floral notes (violets) and licorice. Smells complex and inviting. It is a powerful and youthful wine packed with sweet fruit and is reminiscent of a younger version of the 1998. An outstanding V.P. Optimum drinking time: 2010 to 2022 (try it with almond biscotti).
    • 90
    North Star Pedro Ximenez Montilla Fortified Wine (700ml)
    SPAIN
    $84. 99
    Bottle
    $1019.88 Dozen
    ABV: 20%
    One of 150 bottles of a highly unusual fortified wine released by indie whisky bottlers, North Star. It's essentially a Pedro Ximenez Sherry, only finished in Scotland with the final maturation taking place in x-Islay Single Malt Whisky casks.

    Tasting note: Pours a viscous sienna brown with gold ochre edges. Issues aromas of dates, sultanas, raisin toast and chico lollies followed by unusual suggestions of oyster sauce. Medium bodied with good viscosity and classic PX flavours edging towards chocolate brownie, walnut slice and raisins. More liqueur muscat-like to finish showing moderate length. Pair it with a cheeseboard. 20% Alc./Vol.
    • 91
    • Discontinued
    Olave Rojo Vermouth (750ml)
    SPAIN
    $21. 99
    Bottle
    $263.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%

    A classic red vermouth from Spain prepared following traditional methods by blending wines with up to 80 different herbs and botanicals that have been macerated for more than 2 months. A further 3 months in oak casks adds another layer of flavour.

    Tasting note: Translucent sienna brown with ochre edges. Lifted and fresh bouquet offers a medley of pink grapefruit, cola, clove, cardamom, liquorice root and quinine. Medium bodied, svelte textured with mildly bitter flavours of dried herb, cola and dried apricot. Finishes gently acidic, fresh and grapefruit-like with the bitter herbal qualities echoed in the aftertaste. 16% Alc./Vol.

    • 89
    Osborne El Amigo Amontillado (Medium Dry)
    Jerez,
    $18. 99
    Bottle
    $227.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Brilliant, onion brown colour with green edges. Aroma of caramel, hints of toffee and flor yeast followed by a rancio end note. The palate flavours are subtle, with caramel and nut flavours emerging. Creamy texture, followed by an aftertaste of caramel. Drink.

    RATING: 86/100

    VALUE: XXX/5

    Retasted: June 2002
    Golden tawny caramel colour with green edge. The nose is restrained relative to Sherries from Lustau, but yields aroma of flor yeast, followed by hazelnut and walnut end notes. On the palate, there is a hint of residual sweetness. Moderate length and concentration, followed by a flor nut aftertaste. A more commercial style.
    Drink (2002)
    Alc/Vol: 15.0%

    RATING: 89/100

    VALUE: XXX/5

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