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    2023 Torbreck Woodcutter's Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Stelvin

    The Woodcutter’s Shiraz is sourced from Torbreck’s younger vineyards located in the prime Barossa sub regions of Marananga, Greenock, Seppeltsfield, Gomersal, Moppa, Lyndoch and Ebenezer.
    Fruit is hand harvested and fermented in a mixture of cement, wooden and stainless steel vats for 6-7 days. It is then basket pressed to well-seasoned hogsheads and French oak foudres where it’s matured for 12 months.

    A sumptuous and youthfully energetic offering from Torbreck that’s bursting with rich, succulent fruit.

    Magnificent depth of colour featuring an impenetrable inky black heart and a deep dark red black tinged hue. Wafting through the nostrils are aromas of dark plum, liquorice, freshly crushed blackberries and ripe blueberry followed by some delicately smoked vanillin cedar and peppered fennel notes. Rich, bold and sumptuous, the weighty palate is awash with succulent dark plum, liquorice, blackberry and blueberry fruits. Opulently textured yet youthfully fresh, notions of spicy vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth also chime in. Velvety tannins with a long flamboyant finish bursting with vibrant juicy fruit.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews….
    A refined yet savory nose of blackcurrants, wild blackberries, mocha and iodine. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving notes of mulberry bush, olive tapenade and ferric earth. Very chewy and structured with an underlying freshness. Delicious. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
    94 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    2020 Torbreck The Forebear Shiraz Magnum (1500ml)
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $1850. 00
    Bottle
    $22200.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 40 Years (2025-2065)
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    By any measure a mind blowing example of Barossa Shiraz.

    The second release of this new flagship addition to the Torbreck portfolio, the Forebear is a single vineyard Shiraz that dates back to the 1850’s and pays homage to generations of Barossa vignerons. Maturation takes place in new French oak barriques for a period of 24 months.
    Super dense inky black core with an equally deep dark red black hue. Wafting from the glass with extraordinary force are potent aromas of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry which are complimented by some vanillin cedar, earthy fennel, subtle dark chocolate, leather and spice notes. Exceptionally powerful and intense yet showing more refinement and freshness than the Laird, ultra rich dark plum, blackberry, liquorice, blueberry and dark chocolate flavours coat the palate with a tidal wave like energy. Extending across the back half are spicy vanillin cedar, earthy fennel, delicate mocha and pepper elements. Opulently textured and dense yet highly finessed and seamless it possesses beautifully polished, tightly structured tannins. Concludes with stratospheric length. Hold onto your hats when you drink this!
    Drink over the next 10-40 years.
    Alc. 15.5%

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 The Forebear is sourced from the oldest plantings in the Hillside Vineyard in Lyndoch—12 rows planted in the early 1850s. For this tasting, the wine has been open now for three hours, and yet it needs more in the way of oxygen than what it currently has. The wine remains aromatically closed, with notions of black fruit, exotic spice, charry oak and forest floor. This has peat, old leather, jarrah and black cherries in profusion. The palate is shaped by intense graphite tannins, which feel closely knit and exclusively the property of old vines; they are silty and settle in the mouth—if you need a visual—like watching a pint of Guinness settle in the glass. A monumental wine, it needs space and quiet to be able to absorb the layers of complexity and undulating waves of flavor through the finish. 15.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork and wax. Drink 2025-2040.
    98 Points
    Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    Complex aromas of blackberry compote, roasted coffee beans, iodine, graphite, olive tapenade, dark chocolate, blood plums and baking spices. The palate has a deep, luscious mouthfeel with firmly framed tannins that lead into a viscous and textural finish. So much concentration and old-vine character that is built for the ages. Exceptional. Made from vines planted in 1850s on one acre in Lyndoch. Drink or hold.
    98 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    2022 Torbreck The Factor Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $135. 00
    Bottle
    $1620.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Rich, thick, massively sized and luxurious Barossa Shiraz at its best.

    Predominately sourced from the Gomersal and Marananga sub regions of the Barossa with contributions from Krondorf and Greenock as well. Maturation took place in a combination of new (40%), second fill and seasoned French oak barriques for a period of 24 months.

    About as dense in colour as a wine can get, featuring an impenetrable inky black heart and an equally deep dark red black hue. The nose is pure hedonism, delivering potent aromas of black plum, liquorice, ripe blackberry and dark chocolate followed by some toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice notes. Thick, massively sized and voluptuous, the palate is a decadent concentrate of rich dark to black plum, liquorice, blackberry and black cherry fruit. Boasting out of this world power it has a firm yet velvety tannin structure that sits in the shadows of the lavish layers of fruit. Toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spicy fennel sit underneath. The exceptionally long and exuberant finish carrying a chewy feel.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 15.5%

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 The Factor is a celebration of old-vine vineyards in Barossa. Aromatically, this philosophy is clear as day in the wine. Barossa is stylistically adaptable and flexible, and at its best, it's able to convey a sense of meatiness, charred bacon fat, alongside kicked red earth and brick dust, an array of exotic spices and purple fruit, all the while conveying balance and focus. These are the best examples of its capability. All of these things are evident in this wine, and it shows concentration and length in spades. It's a big, powerful wine but balanced too. Excellent. 15.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork and wax. Drink 2025-2037.
    96 points
    Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

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    2021 Torbreck Run Rig
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2024-2039)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Produced from a blend of 98% Shiraz and 2% Viognier, Torbreck’s Run Rig is modelled on the Northern Rhone appellation of Cote Rotie’s wines. Fruit was sourced from the Lyndoch, Rowland Flat, Moppa, Ebenezer, Light Pass and Greenock districts of Barossa Valley with maturation taking place in a combination of new (50%) and older French barriques for a period of 30 months.
    Ultra dense in colour featuring an impenetrable inky black heart along with an equally deep black dark red hue. Exotic and enormously potent the nose is almost overwhelmed by intoxicating aromas of ripe black cherry, liquorice, dark plum and fennel. Hints of smoky vanillin cedar, faint apricot and peppered earth notes lend further intrigue. Rich, voluptuous and totally bewitching, a tidal wave of seductive black cherry, liquorice and dark plum fruits saturate every corner of the palate. Boasting a surreal level of power and concentration it’s framed by a firm yet seamlessly integrated tannin structure. Fennel, earthy dark chocolate, subtlety toasted vanillin oak, traces of dried apricot and blackpepper characters endue across the back half. Concludes spectacularly long, deep and opulent.
    Drink over the next 10-15 years.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews…..
    This is the wine that people seem to lose their minds over, and just between you and me, I do understand that. It's one of a handful of super sensational Shiraz Viognier from this great country, and the ability of this cuvée to speak so eloquently of both the Barossa and its harmonious varietals is impressive to say the least. So is, while we're discussing it, the density and volume of the wine. On the nose, the 2021 RunRig is savory and meaty, with charry oak at the fore, backed by black cherry, graphite, dried rose petals, red and purple fruit, flowers and black tea. There is both detail and density. On the palate, the wine is both silky and huge. It's momentous, long and complex. It's like the volume has been turned up in every possible way, and what I know of sound mixing is on show here; it's a loud mix, but all the elements are perfectly in balance. And ultimately, that's what's up. Like Nick Cave, it's got it all, and it does it with conviction and intellect. It's a great wine, from a great season. Bigger than perhaps ever before. 15% alcohol, sealed under natural cork. Drink 2024-2051.
    98+ points
    Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    2021 RunRig will make you turn your head while you gawp in disbelief. This wine has something I have never seen in Runrig before – an immovable mountain of terroir, monolithically anchored in its core. Standing at the foot of this gargantuan flavour, I could not see the summit. There is so much ravishing Shiraz skin draped decorously around this totemic terroir it appears wholly demonic and fear-inducing. But the fruit notes are as refined and finely tuned as ever, providing the taster with a baffling counterpoint between the Dark Side and a Venetian dandy, resplendent in its filigree and finery. I cannot remember seeing two such opposing characters in one wine before, and every time I went back to the glass, there was more to admire, and these elements fuse and shape-shift into a glorious amalgam of sophistication and power. Of course, it deserves a perfect score. This wine is unique and uniquely stunning. I wish I could attend every opening of 2021 RunRig – oh, to be a fly on the wall, listening to the gasps of delight when people are lucky enough to taste this wine. (2030 – 2045)
    20+/20
    Matthew Jukes

    Pour moi, since Ian Hongel took over the reigns at Torbreck, the house 'thumbprint' seems less percussive, the trademark Torbreck plushness remains, but subregion and site seem to have a little more light on it. The RunRig in a strong vintage is always much anticipated. Shiraz with 2% viognier, from across Torbreck's best sites, aged for 30 months in French oak (50% new). It's a dark-eyed, powerful release, with clove-studded blackberry and black plum fruits and deep, dark spices, cardamom, star anise, licorice, espresso, cedar, 'Old Jamaican' chocolate and earth. Thick-shouldered and meaty with layers of silty, fine tannin and a crème de cassis-like flow to the fruit as it powers off. Drink by 2043.
    97 points
    Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

    Lifted and aromatic with deeply brooding aromas of blood plums, blackberries, cured meat, citrus rind, potpourri, violets and iodine. The palate is full-bodied with firmly integrated tannins and finely focused acidity, giving notes of mocha, mulberries, olive tapenade and black pepper. Wonderfully balanced, with a seamless texture and a never-ending finish. Excellent. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    2022 Torbreck Harris Vineyard Grenache
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    This single site Grenache comes from the Harris Vineyard located in Marananga on the western ridge of the Barossa Valley. Grown as bush vines in iron stone rich brown loam and clay soils it sees 18 months maturation in 2400 litre Frenck oak foudre.
    Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Potent dark raspberry, liquorice and dark to black cherry aromas intoxicate the olfactory senses with some plum, vanillin earth and spice notes also chiming in. Rich, succulent and voluptuous, a concentrate of dark raspberry, liquorice and dark to black cherry fruit engulfs the sumptuous palate. Vanillin spice, earth and subtle pepper elements ensue. Showing magnificent power and featuring silky smooth tannins it finishes exceptionally long, plump and seductive.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 15%

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    2023 Torzi Matthews Schist Rock Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $21. 99
    Bottle
    $263.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Torzi Matthews is partnership between Domenic Torzi and Tracy Matthews. Their Schist Rock Shiraz is sourced from the Eden Valley sub region of Mt McKenzie with the vines 27 years old. Maturation takes place in predominately older French oak barrels (only 10% are new) and 10% whole bunch fruit is included in the ferment.

    Rich and plump with a silky flow of dark fruit.

    Totally opaque black dark red heart with a dark red hue. Intense ripe black cherry, liquorice and dark plum aromas are complimented by dried herb, vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth notes. Rich and plush, a silky flow of dark plum, liquorice and spicy dark cherry fruits are layered across the medium to full bodied palate. Notions of fennel, vanillin cedar and peppered dried herbs ensue. Deep and powerful it has velvet smooth tannins and a long, sumptuous finish.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

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    2021 Turkey Flat Butchers Block Red Blend
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)
    ABV: 14.4%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A blend of 56% Grenache, 38% Shiraz and 6% Mataro matured in French oak hogsheads and puncheons. Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Delightful red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and red cherry aromas are intermixed with earthy graphite, dried herb and pepper like notes. Juicy dark raspberry, cherry and liquorice fruits are delivered with a combination of concentration, energy and structure over a back drop of scorched earth, vanillin spice and peppered dried herbs. Sturdy yet well integrated tannins impart a gently chewy feel onto the long succulent pepper infused finish.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.4%

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    2021 Turkey Flat Vineyards Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2024-2039)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    First produced in 1990, Turkey Flat’s Shiraz has gone on to forge a formidable standing amongst wine critics and collectors alike. From the outstanding 2021 vintage fruit was sourced from Turkey Flat’s Bethany and Stonewell vineyards with vines dating back as far as 1847. Maturation took place in French oak (30% new) for a period of 18 months.

    Rich, polished and possessing a refined opulence that’s backed by substantial underlying structure, this is one of the finest Turkey Flat Shiraz’ for quite some time.

    Spectacular density of colour featuring an impenetrable inky black heart along with a near equally deep vibrant dark red black hue. Delighting the olfactory senses are aromas of plum, liquorice, violets and blueberry which are delivered with a refined intensity. Vanillin cedar, dried herb and peppered earth notes are also evident. Rich and polished yet boasting substantial underlying structure, the medium to full bodied palate is flooded with moreish blackberry, dark plum, liquorice and ripe blueberry fruits. Subtle scorched earth, vanillin cedar, dried herb and peppered fennel characters are echoed across the back half. Velvety yet sturdy tannins provide the framework. Sleek yet focused in its feel, it possesses ample torque and a long driving finish that’s gorgeously layered with a mix of blue and black fruit. A superb Barossa Shiraz that embraces both power and refinement.
    Drink it over the next 10-15 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews.....
    An excellent release from Turkey Flat from the excellent '21 vintage. It's a purely fruited and elegant wine, showing blackberry, blueberry, satsuma plum, bay leaf, cured meats and nicely integrated oak elements. Excellent fruit depth and harmony on the palate, with ripe, silty tannins and a seam of lacy acidity providing freshness and drive. Long finish, too. Very nice indeed. Drink by 2040.
    95 points
    Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

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    • Nick's Import
    Ursus Roter Sloe Berry Flavoured Vodka (700ml)
    NETHERLANDS
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    ABV: 21%

    Sloes (prunus spinosa) are the blue black fruit of the wild black thorn and cluster like tiny plums in hedgerows and thickets deep in the European countryside. When the berries have been softened by the late autumn sunshine, the best fruit is picked and then steeped in alcohol to make delicious flavoured spirits.

    URSUS is the Latin word for ‘bear’. The brand name emphasizes the Nordic heritage of the original formula. In the early 20th century, URSUS Vodka was produced by a traditional Icelandic family of bootleggers. At that time, alcohol distillation was prohibited in Iceland. Nevertheless, they succeeded in perfecting their recipe. In the early 1990s, the URSUS Vodka Company in the Netherlands obtained the original URSUS Vodka recipe from its Icelandic owners and introduced the drink to a broader market. The subtle sweetness of sloe berries results in a delicate, very mixable vodka drink. Enjoy URSUS Roter straight, on the rocks or mixed in your favourite soft drinks or juices. - Notes partially sourced from Ursus Vodka.

    Tasting notes: Deep crimson and brown brick color. Fruity, spicy, slightly smoky dark berry pie and light molasses aromas. A soft, buoyant entry leads to a round, fruity medium-to full-bodied palate with tart, ripe dark berry, mineral oil, and wet stone flavors. Finishes with a nice melange of berries and mineral notes with no burn. Pure, deliciously ripe and tart dark fruit riding on top of a smooth, minerally vodka. Superb and fun.21%Alc/Vol
    International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
    RATED: 94 points (Exceptional)
    - www.tastings.com

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    Valdespino El Candado Pedro Ximenez Sherry
    Jerez, SPAIN
    $47. 99
    Bottle
    $575.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Cork

    One that proclaims to be the crème de la crème of PX’s and with six centuries of sherry production under their belts, Valdespino can lay claim to being one of the oldest sherry houses in the region. In a process called Soleo, after harvesting, the grapes are sun dried for two weeks to concentrate the sugar and turn the grapes into raisins. After partial fermentation of the must the wine is fortified and then enters the soleras where it’s aged for between 10-12 years in American oak casks.

    A Magnificent Black Sherry

    Deep sienna brown colour with deep olive green hue. Wonderful nose filled with the aroma of toffee, molasses, spice and brandied ripe raisins. The palate is a viscous treasure with its rich luscious texture and oil like consistency. Totally mouthfilling flavours of spice, honey, toffee and crushed dried raisins fill the mouth. Incredible length – perfect harmony with clean finish and exceptionally long aftertaste of treacle, caramel, honey and raisins. Perfect with chocolate cake and a must with the Christmas pudding.
    Drink Now
    Alc/Vol: 18.0%

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    Valdespino Pedro Ximenez Yellow Label Sherry
    Jerez, SPAIN
    $32. 99
    Bottle
    $395.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17%
    Closure: Cork

    With six centuries of sherry production under their belts, Valdespino lay claim to being one of the oldest sherry bodegas in the region.
    Pedro Ximenez is often referred to as “Black Sherry” due to its dense, dark colour. This is a superb example of the style made entirely from the Pedro Ximenez grape and is a wonderful pairing for chocolate dishes of any sort (or that ‘special’ mid year Christmas celebration being the perfect wine with Christmas pudding). The wine has the viscosity of oil. Very dark sienna brown colour with olive green hue. Superb nose of mollasses, treacle, crushed dried honeyed raisins. Rich and luscious, totally mouthfilling with a silky, oily texture which disolves into honeyed toffee. Layers of treacle and caramel add further depth and complexity to the wine. Sweet, yet clean finish with exceptionally long aftertaste.

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    2023 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon
    Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Established in 1967, the Vasse Felix is one of Margaret River’s founding estates. Known as the ‘son of’ Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon the Filius Cabernet Sauvignon is made in a more fruit forward style designed for earlier drinking. The 2023 vintage is a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot matured in a combination of 1-7 year old French oak barriques for a period of 10-12 months.

    An impressive sub $25 Cabernet from one of Margaret River’s premier estates.

    Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Captivating aromatics of red to black currant and mulberry enchant the olfactory senses followed by some cedary tobacco, dried herb and spicy black olive notes. Rich blackcurrant and ripe mulberry fruits are layered across the mid weighted palate with an impressive degree of intensity. Cedary tobacco, earth and spicy bay leaf elements extend across the back half. Showing ample freshness, it has structured yet integrated tannins, concluding with classic Margaret River refinement and length.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    Consistently one of the best cabernets from WA. It’s designed to express its best qualities as a young wine, with its brightness and energy immediately apparent. It’s a blend of cabernet with a small amount of malbec, an important variety at Vasse Felix. Smooth and seamlessly structured with a sublimely elegant expressive palate. It’s medium-bodied with a fine boned structure. Subtle use of oak and fine tannins adds support. The best yet.
    94 Points
    RayJordanWine.com.au

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    2023 Vasse Felix Chardonnay
    Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $36. 99
    Bottle
    $443.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Rich yet brimming with freshness and carrying a sublime refined feel, this is quintessential Margaret River Chardonnay.

    Sourced from two vineyards in the Margaret River sub regions of Wilyabrup and Wallcliffe with fermentation and maturation taking place in French oak barriques (28% new) for a period of 9 months.
    Brilliant pale straw colour with a faint glimmer of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Drifting through the nostrils are attractive scents of white peach, nectarine and dried honey with subtle cashew, citrus and spicy nougat also evident. Rich white peach, nectarine, dried honey and cashew flavours carry a sublime refined feel across the mid weighted palate. Brimming with freshness it has notions of biscuity nougat, citrus and spice extending across the back half. Finishes long and finessed with a gentle creamy textural feel.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 13%

    Other Reviews….
    A Chardonnay to get the mouth watering. The scent of sea spray and rockpool is inviting, so sunny and fresh, with peach, nectarine, concentrated citrus, nougat and gently nutty oak. Luscious, generous and well-trimmed in bright acidity, the palate features some nicely worked winemaking overlay – including nine months in French oak barriques, 28% new – and complexity cast across summer stone fruits, lemon sorbet, lime peel, hazelnut and floral citrus blossom. A warm, buttery texture is well countered on the finish with neat line of lip- smacking quince tartness. The quintessential Margaret River Chardonnay. Drink 2025-2033.
    95 Points
    Jeni Port - WinePilot.com

    One of the best chardonnays yet under this label. But you expect that with mature vineyards, a great vintage and continually refined winemaking. Opens with a slightly savoury cashew aromatic, which is intense and immediately engaging. The palate is deep and multi-layered. Explosive and powerful, it extends with real purpose to a long though still linear and defined finish. One of the best.
    96 Points
    RayJordanWine.com.au

    If this chardy were in a rock band, it would be more than a backup singer to the lead vocals of Heytesbury – it would also belt out a few solos. It has its own voice. A little fleshier with white stone fruit but, of course, it comes with grapefruit and ginger flowers, fennel fronds, some neat phenolics and oak spice, the acidity pure and fine. It has delicious leesy/smoky/flavours. It’s a lovely drink and there's no need to wait to drink it. Drink by 2033.
    95 points
    Jane Faulkner - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

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    2021 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Merlot
    Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Established in 1967, the 2021 vintage celebrates 50 years of Margaret River Cabernet at Vasse Felix. Known as the ‘son of’ Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon, the Filius Cabernet Merlot combines Margaret River Cabernets classic structure and power with the succulence of Merlot to form a generous fruit driven blend that makes it an ideal earlier drinking style.

    A delightful blend of Cabernet and Merlot that highlights all of Margaret River’s great qualities at an entry level price.

    A blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot & 1% Malbec matured in 1-6 year old French oak barriques for a period of 10 months. Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Lifted red to black currant and mulberry aromas are married to notions of vanillin cedar, tobacco, earthy black olive and bay leaf. Beautifully refined and elegant the mid weighted palate is layered with savoury red to black currant and mulberry fruits which meld into a spicy vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and bay leaf infused back drop. Fine, seamlessly integrated tannin structure with a long highly finessed conclusion.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • Hot Item
    • Limit One per customer
    2013 Velier Beenleigh Tropical Ageing 10 Year Old Cask Strength Australian Rum (700ml)
    Queensland, AUSTRALIA
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 59%

    Alongside its official bottlings, Beenleigh has begun a collaboration with Europe's La Maison du Whisky and the acclaimed independent bottler, Velier. After two very interesting previous releases (the 2006 15 year old and the 2015 five year old), Beenleigh is following up with a 2013 Single Vintage. Made from molasses produced and processed in Queensland and fermented for 3 - 4 days, the rum was (unusually) 'reverse distilled': First in a single column and then re-distilled in a pot still, similar to those found in Guyana at Demerara Distillers Ltd. It was subsequently aged for a decade in ex-bourbon casks at the distillery in Eagleby, in Queensland's tropical climate, with an angel's share of >25%. This new reference is quite unique in putting Australian rum on the world map. Expect something powerful and spicy. Bottled in 2023, no sugar has been added. 59% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the bottlers... Nose : Fresh and expressive. Russian leather, prune kernel, grapefruit, rosewater, and sumac. Palate : Vanilla, dried apricot, kaffir lime, orange zest, cardamom, and lavender. Finish : Long and assertive. Guava, camphor, pine resin, black cherry, dark chocolate, and almond.

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    2015 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Paola Paronetto Artist Edition Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $399.00
    $325. 00
    Bottle
    $3900.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    For this new vintage of La Grande Dame, Italian ceramist and color master, Paola Paronetto collaborated with Veuve Clicquot to interpret the excellence of La Grande Dame's 2015 vintage. Paronetto, akin to Madame Clicquot, is an intuitive innovator who shares a passion for color. Her artistic approach results in a chromatic symphony reflecting the harmony of the 2015 vintage. The packaging, featuring six unique gift boxes, showcases a shower of hues from Paronetto's personal color palette.

    The La Grande Dame 2015 is the 24th Vintage of La Grande Dame, a showcase of the House’s excellence. It perfectly expresses the Maison’s love for Pinot Noir, which since the 2008 vintage, has represented over 90% of the blend.
    12.5% Alc./Vol.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2015 La Grande Dame is bright and nicely focused. There’s good energy driving a core of Pinot Noir fruit. Pear, white flowers, mint, white pepper and lime are nicely delineated. The 2015 is not the most complex Grande Dame I have ever tasted, but it offers plenty of immediacy with no vegetal notes or hard contours that have proven so challenging elsewhere. This is an expertly made Champagne by any measure. Dosage is 6 grams per liter. Disgorged: October, 2021. Drink 2023-2030.
    95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is sleek and vivid with aromas of green apples, lemon peel, lime blossom, salted almonds and pastries on the nose. Medium-bodied and refreshing with lively acidity throughout and tiny bubbles. 90% pinot noir and 10% chardonnay. Drink or hold.
    93 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

    This graceful Champagne offers hints of smoke and toasted brioche that transition to patisserie apple and blackberry fruit, candied ginger and mandarin orange peel notes. Seamlessly knit and mouthwatering, with a minerally underpinning and a finely detailed, dotted bead. Lush and creamy on the vibrant, lasting finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink now through 2035.
    95 Points
    Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator

    2015 shows off the sunny fruits of the year with more grip and intensity than the 2008 and 2012. Fleshy orange, red pear, dried pineapple and chewy grapefruit peel build on a firmly structured frame, although there is a suppleness of nougat and acacia honey lurking in the middle that promises to emerge with a little patience. The bustling energy of the vintage is sitting proud for now, bitter almond and fruit skin building to an energising close despite the moderate acidity. An edition that will perform especially well at the table. 90% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay from 8 Grand Cru villages. Dosage 6 g/L. Drink 2023 - 2033.
    94 Points
    Tom Hewson - Decanter

    This fine Champagne is rich and beautifully structured. It is full with fine maturity, boasting layers of ripeness against the generous texture. Drink this impressive wine now.
    95 Points
    Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast Magazine

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 94
    2023 Vickery Watervale Riesling
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $18. 99
    Bottle
    $227.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Stelvin

    John Vickery was a legend of the Australian wine industry and is widely acknowledged as the old master of Riesling. His illustrious career spaned over 50 years at the likes of Leo Buring and Richmond Grove during which time he amassed more than 50 Trophies and over 400 gold medals. He was also responsible for the re-introduction of screw caps with his 1998 Richmond Grove Watervale Riesling.

    A mouth watering explosion of lime and citrus fruit.

    A sub regional blend sourced from Vickery’s dedicated growers. Brilliant water like to very pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges. Soaring from the glass are intense lime, citrus and orange rind aromas which are trailed by some distinct talc, green apple and chalky mineral notes. The palate is a mouth watering explosion of lime and citrus fruit which combines textural volume with serious power. Some green apple, orange rind, chalky talc and mineral characters also chime in. Superb concentration together with crisp acidity form a dry, expansive and searingly scrumptious finish.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews.....
    Tasted from a special magnum commemorating the 10th anniversary of this sub-regional release. The fruit is from several vineyard sources, with some of the material dating back to plantings from 1975. Quintessential Clare Valley riffs on Rose’s lime juice, quince paste, tonic, preserved lemon rind, wild fennel and gardenias. Dry and medium-bodied by virtue of the sheer extract and density of the mouthfeel. Yet despite the dryness, there is nothing hard. Tactile and impressively juicy across a tenacious finish. Impressive. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
    94 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 98
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2016 Cobos Volturno Marchiori Estate
    Mendoza, ARGENTINA
    $350. 00
    Bottle
    $4200.00 Dozen
    Cellar: 10 - 12 Years (2029-2031)
    ABV: 14.6%
    Closure: Cork

    A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Malbec. Magnificent dense inky black colour with a very deep dark red black hue. A potent combination of blackcurrant, liquorice and black cherry aromatics are complimented by hints of ripe blueberries, dark chocolate, vanillin oak, dried herbs and spice. A tidal wave of fruit hits the palate with tremendous force sending shockwaves right through to the sensationally long finish. Densely textured, lavish flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry and liquorice saturate the mouth over a back drop of vanillin oak, subtle dark chocolate and spicy dried herbs. Ripe chewy tannins form the backbone but are largely absorbed by the wealth of opulence that this wine is. Concludes with an exceptionally long aftertaste. A very lavish expression of Mendoza Cabernet.
    Drink over the next 10-12 years.
    Alc. 14.6%

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    2019 Vinea Marson Sangiovese
    Heathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Vinea Marson’s Sangiovese has Italy stamped all over it. The 2019 was picked marginally later than a regular vintage (approximately early April) allowing the grapes to reach optimal ripeness. Post fermentation/maceration the wine was racked off into a mix of 20% new barrique and tonneau for a maturation period of 12 months.

    A beautifully aged Sangiovese that’s drinking superbly.

    Dark red core with black toned edges and a red to brick red hue. Elevated aromas of dark cherry and blackcurrant mix with earth, dried herb and spicy tobacco notes. Rich red to black currant and red to dark cherry fruits have an even and smooth flow across the palate complimented by savoury nuances of earth, dried herbs, tobacco and spice. Excellent concentration and length with agile yet integrated acidity. Polished yet still slightly rustic tannins concluding long and spicy.
    Drink over the next 1-2 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews…..
    Boasts a distinctive Italian-Australian personality, one that is ripe and sweet-fruited but also savoury and very much down to earth (literally!). Black cherry, roasted plums, thyme, sage, vanillin oak and earth bring an aromatic mix of dark fruits, herbs and gently spiced oak to this attractive, medium-bodied sangiovese. It's bright, too, with the grape's natural acidity and savoury tannins coming into play to lift and beautifully define the 5-year-old wine. Drink by 2036.
    95 points
    Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 94
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    • 92
    2019 Vinea Marson Grazia
    Alpine Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2023-2026)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Bright straw colour with a greenish tinge around the edges and a watery hue. Aromas of nectarine and grapefruit mix with green apple, ginger and gun flint like notes. Texturally full and round the palate features rich nectarine, pear and quince fruits over ginger, faint dried nut and spice. Lively acidity imparts a brisk feel to the long savoury finish.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Blend of pinot bianco, malvasia d'Istria, friulano and picolit, each processed separately. Named in honour of Mario Marson's mother, Grazia, the white blend pays homage to the family's winemaking heritage in Italy's Friuli region. The golden colour and the honeysuckle, vanilla, quince, ginger nut and citrus aromas suggest richness, but one taste dispels any thought of heaviness. It's nimble across the tastebuds, aided by a gentle creaminess and concentration of fruit. Drink by 2029.
    92 points
    Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 90
    • Hot Item
    • 94
    • Reduced
    W.L. Weller Special Reserve Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)
    Kentucky, UNITED STATES
    Reduced from $119.99
    $84. 99
    Bottle
    $1019.88 Dozen
    ABV: 45%

    "Almost too soft and easy to drink. A thousand kisses in a glass."
    94 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021

    Weller is a “wheated” bourbon, meaning that it doesn’t have the spicy rye notes found in a more traditional “ryed” bourbon. Originally created by the Stitzel-Weller Distilling Company, the brand is named after William Larue Weller, a distiller who is credited by some as being the first to use wheat as the secondary grain in bourbon as opposed to the more common rye. The style here is softly spoken on the nose, so give it ample time to open up. Threads of vanilla wafer biscuit, honeycombe and caramel nib weave a silky tapestry across the tongue with a seductively sweet, oily, tea biscuit-like finish where oak adds delicate spice. The overall effect feels elegant, understated. In short, a textural Bourbon that whispers and hints, which for some will make it all the more engaging. If you like wheated styles, put this next on your list. 45% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Once a 7 year old product, W.L. Weller Special Reserve no longer carries an age statement, but the wheated bourbon still brings caramel-forward joy and hints of watermelon and fresh-baked bread. Enjoy the short bursts of crème brulee, praline, honey, Jolly Rancher watermelon candy, and a hint of nutmeg, because it’s not there long. You can see the potential. 82 points - maltadvocate.com, reviewed by: Fred Minnick (Spring 2016)

    ...The bourbon maintains its abundant sweetness on the palate, delivering a tasty yet classic mix of honey, caramel, vanilla, and light fruit. A very slight amount of oak rounds things out. Spice fails to make an appearance, likely a result of the wheated mashbill and relatively low proof, but in doing so, allows the sweet flavors to really come forth. The resulting experience is a nice one, leaving little to complain about aside from its characteristically gentle delivery. - breakingbourbon.com

    • 95
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    • Australian Exclusive
    2015 Warenghem Distillery Armorik Single Cask Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt French Whisky (700ml)
    Brittany, FRANCE
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 58.7%

    French whiskies are so rarely encountered here that when they do arrive they come with a sense of mystery. Yet, if there are regional challengers to the malts that emerge from Scotland's Western Highlands, then Northern France would have to be one. Whiskies from Brittany can be hugely flavoursome, capturing a sense of place with the freshness of the seashore and a touch of rusticity that's occasionally augmented by varying degrees of peat. Kornog and Warenghem are standouts, the latter offering whiskies under their Armorik label. When the Australian importers visited Brittany earlier in the year, their barrel selection came with a further French twist: Full-term maturation in a cask that previously held Pineau des Charentes - a speciality aperitif of Cognac, generally categorised as a fortified wine (aka 'mistelle' or 'vin de liqueur' in France, however, being a blend of grape must and eau-de-vie it could be argued that the genre is more akin to a liqueur). There is one cask only, all for Australia and the whisky it yielded continues a theme of beautifully rounded, utterly mouthfilling and wonderfully textural malts from Warenghem, this time with a light honey, fruit compote and sponge cake character in the mix. On the palate, poached fruits work to heighten the succulence of the barley before trailing off with lively spices, vanilla and honey. Hints of brine and pepper add vitality to the finish as does a slightly tart quince or citric note. It's wound up in a beautifully integrated delivery that's dangerously easy to drink uncut. With water the profile loses some of its finer points, but fluffs into a deliciously creamy dram. Distilled in October 2015 and bottled in February 2023, the visual presentation might lack sophistication, however the final result has exceeded the importer's expectations. 150 bottles are on offer. 58.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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    Warrabilla Grand Tawny (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Andrew Sutherland-Smith has fashioned this tawny from a base of 2002 Cabernet with some 1991 Fairfield sweet red and a bit of young shiraz from the Parola’s vineyard to add freshness. The average age of the blend is 15 years.

    Dark onion brown colour with an onion brown and green olive hue. Top notes of marzipan and Christmas cake laced with some honeyed raisin characters are followed by walnuts and fine old brandy spirit. Rich luscious textural feel with flavours of marzipan and honeyed raisins intermixed with almond. Warm mellow spirit background. Long dry nutty rancio finish and aftertaste.
    Alc 18.5%

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2012 Watt Whisky Dalrymple 11 Year Old Cask Strength Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Lowlands, SCOTLAND
    $139. 99
    Bottle
    $1679.88 Dozen
    ABV: 57.1%

    As Serge Valentin comments in his review below, the principal component here comes from the Grant's-owned Aisla Bay distillery on the Clyde Coast. Five different styles are produced here, but the most common is a light and rather sweet spirit. "Dalrymple" means it's teaspooned, however you could still consider it a single malt as it's likely there's only a trace amount from another distillery. 294 bottles were decanted from a Hogshead at 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... Dalrymple is a trade name for Ailsa Bay, and while our experience with this distillate is limited, a superb Dalrymple from Tri Carragh once left a strong impression. The official Ailsa Bay releases, however, have often been as cold as a North Sea flounder – if I may. Colour: pale gold. Nose: delightful, with an intriguing mix of tequila and gentian—no jest here. Ripe pear and apple follow, creating a harmonious bouquet. A touch of medicinal quality emerges, accompanied by green walnuts and a hint of mustard. With water: develops towards a fine fino sherry. Mouth (neat): very good indeed! Green apple, fir smoke, plasticine, Sichuan pepper, mustard, mezcal, and radish—spicy with a slight bite. With water: the fruitiness becomes more pronounced, but a peppery edge also takes hold. An unusual mix of sultanas and white pepper surprises the palate. Finish: long, with smoke overlaying those peppered sultanas, making for a slightly more challenging conclusion. Comments: the peat runs subtly throughout, never dominating but always present. A complex and captivating dram, perfect for a blind guessing game among friends. 87 points - whiskyfun.com

    ...At the risk of sounding obtuse, it seems like William Grant & Sons know what they’re doing. (There’s a reason they are the biggest family-owned whisky company in Scotland.) They’ve hit a bulls-eye with Ailsa Bay it seems... Taste: An initial hit of nuts and spices, not my preferred style per se. I find it improves hugely with some water. Thick mouthfeel with a nice chunk of vanilla foam blocks, but also fresh orchard fruits, crème brûlée and even tinned pineapple. Finish: Medium length. Gentle notes of white pepper linger, but are balanced out by notes of peach, peanuts and honey. - wordsofwhisky.com

    Notes from the bottlers... Toffee apples, marzipan, honeycomb, peanuts, peaches and crème brûlée.

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2018 Watt Whisky Nc'Nean 6 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $159. 99
    Bottle
    $1919.88 Dozen
    ABV: 57.1%

    A baby malt from a very new distillery founded in 2017. Nc’nean is located within the Drimnin Estate on a remote west Highland peninsula with spectacular views over Mull and Tobermory. The name is an abbreviation of 'Neachneohain', which translates as 'Queen of Spirits' from Gaelic. This deeply coloured expression from Watt Whisky was STR matured (that refers to casks that have been shaved, toasted and re-charred). The outturn was 282 bottles at 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... Mouth: quite strong, with caramel notes and generous amounts of oak spice. Pepper, cinnamon, oranges, more plums. A bit of a rough edge, with salty notes and a brief moment of alcohol heat. Candied ginger syrup, drops of clove oil and toasted oak, with a slightly tannic edge. Finish: medium and sweet, balancing citrus and oak spice. Very modern and spicy whisky, with a wood influence that I find too obvious, too contrived. STR casks are always a bit tricky and I think other distilleries are mastering them better. - whiskynotes.be

    ...Nose: The STR cask is in the driver’s seat.... Taste: Big whisky. Or intense more like. Lots of pepper, cloves and oak spices in general. There’s a touch of fudge, but also a slight vinous edge. Then oranges, apricots and more charred oak, followed by chillies and a soft aniseed-y note... It relies a lot on the STR cask, and I'm not sure that is a good thing. - wordsofwhisky.com

    Notes from the bottlers... Lots of toffee, peanut brittle, plums, cinnamon balls and charred oak.

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    2024 West Cape Howe Old School Chardonnay
    Mount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $17. 99
    Bottle
    $215.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A rich, full flavoured style Chardonnay with a creamy textural feel.

    The Old School Chardonnay is sourced from specific vineyard blocks in Mount Barker with barrel fermentation and maturation taking place in French oak of which 20% is new for a period of 10 months. Extended lees contact with fortnightly stirring and full malolactic fermentation enhance the wines texture to produce a full flavoured style Chardonnay.
    Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Elevated aromas of peach, apricot and honeycomb fill the nostrils followed by hints of crème brulee, butterscotch and spice. Rich and mouth filling, the weighty palate is swamped with luscious ripe peach and apricot fruits. Notions of crème brulee, honeycomb and spicy nougat form the underbelly. A full, creamy textural feel counterpointed by a lick of fresh acidity through the long intensely flavoured finish.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14%

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    • 96
    2020 Whistling Eagle Vineyard Eagles Blood Shiraz
    Heathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $54. 99
    Bottle
    $659.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A seductive Heathcote Shiraz that boasts ample power and a plush textural feel.

    Renown as one of Heathcote’s leading growers and viticulturalists, Ian Rathjen also produces small parcels of wine under his own label, Whistling Eagle. Matured in French oak (30% new) for a period of 18 months, the Eagles Blood Shiraz is his ultimate expression of the Cambrian terroir displaying spectacular colour, depth and power.
    Pitch black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Heady aromatics of ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum waft out of the glass complimented by some vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth notes. A rich, silky flow of opulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits decorate the full bodied palate. Vanillin oak, subtle earthy mocha and peppered fennel characters also chime in. Boasting ample power and a plush textural feel, it has velvet smooth tannins and a long seductive finish.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews…..
    One sniff and you are standing on the mineral-rich soils of Heathcote, surrounded by the warm, inviting scents of the local bush. This is an evocative wine, of the place, of the dirt, capturing both the natural generosity of Heathcote shiraz and its environment beautifully, artfully. Earth, bush mint, undergrowth, acacia, briar, cassis, black cherry, anise and red licorice join forces with well-mannered oak to seduce. Seduction complete. Drink by 2038.
    96 Points
    Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 96
    • 95
    2024 William Downie Gippsland Pinot Noir
    Gippsland, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Light yet rich and supple with an expansive flavour profile and long savoury finish.

    William Downie is a pioneer of minimal-intervention, site-driven Pinot Noir in Australia. Based at Guendulain Farm in Yarragon, where he and wife Rachel Needoba planted a high-density 2-hectare vineyard in 2007, he also leases top sites like Bull Swamp and Camp Hill. Downie is known for his meticulous vineyard work and dedication to expressing place through Pinot Noir.
    The Gippsland Pinot Noir is blend of fruit from the Matthews Vineyard in Berrys Creek and Guendulain Farm in Yarragon. Matthews, planted in 1998 to MV6 on red volcanic soils, is a cool, damp, dry-grown site producing dense canopies. Guendulain, established in 2008 with high-density plantings (10,000 vines/ha) of MV6 and Pommard clones, contributes structure and depth.

    Dark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Perfumed aromas of violet, red cherry, strawberry and clove entrance the olfactory senses with some earth, wild herb and spicy cedar notes also evident. Light in body but simultaneously rich and supple, the palate features expansive red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits over a subtle rhubarb, forest floor, spicy cedar and dried herb back drop. Outstanding power wave with polished tannins and a beautifully balanced freshness. The long, graceful conclusion, highly savoury.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Gee, I do love Gippsland pinot noir. This is beautifully modulated with a deeper, richer fruit profile, although it's far from fruity. In youth it simply shows more primary elements. A whorl of dark cherries, pips and black plums with pomegranate molasses, sweet spices and lots of autumnal fragrance – the earth and damp leaves. Lovely tannins, fresh acidity and, while it will last some distance, lovely now. Drink by 2036.
    95 Points
    Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 95
    • 95
    2024 William Downie Mornington Peninsula Pinot Noir
    Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Light and energetic with delicious red fruits and a long, elegant finish.

    William Downie is a pioneer of minimal-intervention, site-driven Pinot Noir in Australia. Based at Guendulain Farm in Yarragon, where he and wife Rachel Needoba planted a high-density 2-hectare vineyard in 2007, he also leases top sites like Bull Swamp and Camp Hill. Downie is known for his meticulous vineyard work and dedication to expressing place through Pinot Noir.
    Fruit for the Mornington Pinot Noir is sourced from two sites planted in 1998: Mrs Nicks Vineyard in Balnarring, with MV6 on south-facing sandy loam, and Rivendel in Merricks North, home to D5V12 and Pommard clones on grey loam.

    Slightly cloudy red to dark red colour with a vibrant red hue. Fragrant violet, sour to red cherry and strawberry scents delicately infused with clove flourish through the nostrils trailed by some fresh herb, earth and spice notes. Delicious red cherry, bright red raspberry and winter strawberry fruits are underscored by lively acidity. Infusions of fresh herbs, light earth and spicy clove are also apparent. Light on its feet and energetic in its feel, it possesses excellent power and polished tannins. Finishes long, fresh and elegant.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews....
    One thing appealing with the pinots from Bill Downie is that they are immediately drinkable and deliciously so. Another difficult vintage on the Peninsula but this has a balance of aromas, flavours and texture. Dark red cherries, blood orange and zest with sumac and brown spices plus fresh herbs and a pinch of Italian bitter herbs, too. It’s a savoury wine. Tannins and acidity work in tandem to add definition across the mid-weighted palate. Drink by 2035.
    95 Points
    Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

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    • Reduced
    2023 William Fevre Petit Chablis
    Chablis, FRANCE
    Reduced from $47.99
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Classically refreshing Chablis with a gently rounded feel and a lengthy stony mineral laced finish.

    Founded by William Fevre in 1957 the domaine has grown to now become one of the biggest land owners in Chablis with 78 hectares of prestigious vineyards, of which 15.9 hectares are classified as Premiers Crus and 15.2 as Grand Crus. The Petit Chablis was matured in stainless steel vats for a period of 8-10 months to preserve freshness.
    Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of lime, pear and green apple infused with sea spray are trailed by some fresh herb and stony mineral notes. The palate is layered with refreshing pear and lime fruits which meld into a back drop of green apple, oyster shell and slatey mineral characters. Gently rounded in it’s feel it has brisk acidity and a lengthy stony mineral laced finish.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 12%

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    2023 Wilson Watervale Riesling - Last Stocks
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $19.99
    $18. 49
    Bottle
    $221.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From the blue ribbon calcareous soils of Watervale where shards of limestone dot the red soil, the Wilson Watervale Riesling is picked at the earliest level of maturity to give a light, fresh and fruit forward style.
    Brilliant water like core with a subtle tinge of green around the outskirts. Jumping from the glass are intense lime juice, citrus and orange rind scents which are followed by some distinct talc, green apple and chalky mineral notes. Scrumptious lemon and lime fruits are underscored by racy acidity which imparts a zesty feel. Lingering through the back half are subtle orange rind, talc and chalky mineral elements. Boasting outstanding power it finishes dry, long and zingy.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12%

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    2023 Wilson DJW Polish Hill River Riesling
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Stelvin

    The DJW vineyard was planted by John and son Daniel Wilson in 1997. At the time, the aim was to produce additional fruit for the successful Wilson Polish Hill River Riesling but the vineyard had other ideas. From the first vintage it was immediately obvious that the DJW vineyard was quite different from the Polish Hill River vineyard. The grapes and bunches were larger and the vineyard produced a spectrum of flavours that had their own unique qualities. As a consequence a new Riesling was born and was named after the single vineyard from where it originates, the DJW.
    Brilliant water like core with highlights of green around the outskirts. Intense lime juice, lemon and orange rind aromas bound out of the glass with terrific intensity complimented by some talc, green apple and slatey mineral notes. Engulfing the mouth watering palate are concentrated lime juice and citrus flavours which are wrapped up in a chalky texture that carries plenty of volume. Engaging chalky talc, orange rind, wet steel and flinty mineral elements lie underneath. Zingy acidity with a long forceful and highly energised finish.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12%

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    • 93
    • 92
    2022 Wirra Wirra Church Block Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Rich red to black fruits seamlessly integrated within a refined medium bodied structure.

    The 2022 vintage marks 50 years of Wirra Wirra Church Block, the first vintage being produced back in 1972. A blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Shiraz and 7% Merlot matured for 12 months in a combination of new and seasoned French and American oak barrels.
    Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Blossoming from the glass are attractive scents of red to black currant, mulberry and red liquorice which are trailed by some vanillin cedar, earth and spice notes. Rich red to black currant, red liquorice and mulberry fruits meld into a vanillin cedar, earth, dried herb and spice back drop. Boasting excellent intensity and a seamlessly integrated fine grained tannin structure it finishes long and refined. One of the best Church Block’s for quite some time.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews…..
    A vintage that marks an incoming winemaker and a culling of lesser quality fruit. Cabernet and shiraz, the Aussie archetype. Consummate, medium-bodied and savory, with better tannin management than what I recall of past vintages. Bay leaves, currants and iodine, with licorice tannins serving as gentle directives to good, supple length. An everyday claret for the sophisticate, with a strong maritime feel. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
    93 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    Cabernet Sauvignon (51%) Shiraz (42%) Merlot (7%).
    This release of Wirra Wirra Church Block is on song and in form. It has plenty of flesh and fruit but it’s also firm and dry. It tastes of boysenberry, redcurrant, saltbush and dried herbs, with a gently ferrous-like element running throughout. It’s lovely to drink; solid but supple. Drink 2024-2029+
    92 points
    Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front

    • 91
    • Hot Item
    • Australian Exclusive
    Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (1000ml) - Whiskey Hunt Australia Selection
    Kentucky, UNITED STATES
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 45.2%

    Whiskey Hunt Australia's debut with Woodford Reserve comes courtesy of the distillery's owners, Brown Forman. Guided by Woodford's Brand Ambassador, Andy Tsai, in December 2023 the group were invited to choose from three Woodford select profiles. Unlike most WHA releases which have been single cask picks, the Woodford Personal Selection Program asks customers to preference a bourbon that matches their palate, typically based on three distinct distillery 'profiles'. Jack Daniels (also owned by Brown Forman) have a similar approach. No.2 was judged the winner, showcasing aromas of oak shavings, cherry-dark-chocolate and dried peach, complemented by medium bodied flavours of burnt caramel, subtle smoke, orange spice cake and drying oak. True to the Woodford house style, the whiskey was distilled from a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malted barley with 180 one-litre bottles imported to Australia. 45.2% Alc./Vol.

    • 93
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    Woods 100 Old Navy Rum (1000ml)
    GUYANA
    $129. 99
    Bottle
    $1559.88 Dozen
    ABV: 57%

    Authentic, high-proof Caribbean rum in a super value one litre bottle.

    Guyana is justly famous for its rich, heavy Demerara rums, named for a local river and produced from both pot and column stills. These can be aged for long periods (25-year-old varieties are on the market), but are more frequently used for blending with lighter rums. First served to English sailors in Jamaica in 1655, Woods was created for use by His Majesty's armed forces, remaining a mainstay of British naval life for over 300 years. Now produced at Guyana's Daimond Distillery using black strap molasses and the last wooden stills in the world, the blend contains both pot and (mostly) column distilled rums aged between 1.5 and 3 years. Probably the darkest rum on the market today, this brown sherry to treacle coloured spirit needs time to build on the nose and palate, and despite the mega alcohol is deceptively light on entry, but fans out with fantastic depth, suggesting molasses cake, treacle and liquorice strap before finishing with notes of coffee cake, chico lollies and dark chocolate. Arguably more dry than sweet, without the pronounced 'bitter sweetness' you might expect at this potent strength, it winds up dripping with treacle, molasses cake and chewy oak. The nose is a little shy, and don't go looking for complexity, but it will add a prototypical Demerara quality to Tiki cocktails. Old school sailors will keep it neat or add sweet mixers to taste. 57% alc./vol.

    Other reviews... 4.5 Stars - diffordsguide.com

    Gold Medal - Dark Rum up to 7yo - 2015 The Rum Masters

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum (700ml)
    Kingston, JAMAICA
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 63%

    Ask a native where you could sample J.Wray & Nephew over-proof rum, and they will tell you knock on the door of any household. Such is the legendary status of this spirit that it accounts for 90% of rum sales in Jamaica. Other brands produced under the J.Wray & Nephew name are Captain Morgan, Coruba and the highly renowned Appleton Estate range. Use this product in classic rum punches with tropical juices. Alternate with flavoured rums and liqueurs for something new. Also great in the traditional Mai Tai and Daiquiri.

    Other reviews... Pungent, fruity, estery... Although very potent, when used correctly Wray & Nephew's complex bouquet and unique flavour characteristics make it an excellent base for cocktails and punches. 5 Stars - disffordsguide.com

    Recipe: Jamaican Rum Punch

    1 cup J.Wray and Nephew Over-proof rum
    1/2 cup Myer's dark rum
    2 1/2 cups pineapple juice
    2 1/2 cups orange juice
    1/4 cup lime juice
    3 tbsp grenadine syrup
    Ice cubes

    • 97
    • Hot Item
    • 97
    • 98
    • 98
    • 98
    2021 Wynns Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon
    Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    One of Coonawarra’s benchmark Cabernets from an outstanding vintage.

    Renown as one of Coonawarra’s benchmark Cabernets, Wynns John Riddoch is made from parcels of the estates best fruit and is only produced in exceptional vintages.
    Outstanding colour featuring an impenetrable inky black heart along with a very deep dark red black hue. Soaring out of the glass are captivating aromas of blackcurrant, liquorice and mulberry which are complimented by vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle earth, violet and traces of bay leaf. Rich and concentrated yet refined and structured, the medium to full bodied palate is redolent in fleshy red to black currant, liquorice and mulberry fruits. Lending further complexity are spicy vanillin cedar, earth, delicate tobacco and bay leaf accents. Fine grained, sturdily built tannin framework yet quite polished in it’s feel. Marrying finesse with power it finishes very long and eloquent with a deep core of fruit.
    Drink over the next 10-15 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews….
    16 months French oak hogsheads and barriques (31% new, the balance one to six years old) and 22 months in bottle prior to release. A cacophony of blackberries, Bing cherries and elderberries. Blackcurrant leaf, acaí and prune skin. Black coffee, vanilla pod, ash and charcoal. Acidity wisps about the palate like magic, a mesh of thread-like tannins pull and draw the focus. A hint of dark chocolate bitters; the wine finishes perky with echoing tunes of granite. It's just so centered and chic. Pure cabernet poise. Drink by 2038.
    98 Points
    Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    The 2021 John Riddoch Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon is a brilliant wine. It is achingly intense yet is defined by its levity, which is not a common attribute in Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine expounds the virtues of the red gravel in which the fruit was grown, via its iodine and crushed shells, cassis and blood, sweet marrow and tobacco. It tastes so clearly of the place, which is a wonderful thing. The back palate swells with flavor, framed by the earth and the attuned oak. This is a tribute to the earth, an ode to it. Plentiful tannins bob along on the current of fruit. This will cellar interminably. It's up there in both quality and feel with the 2010, or so I think. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2024-2051.
    98 Points
    Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    One of the best vintages in Coonawarra for many years. Little wonder this release of the John Riddoch is one of the best since the initial release from the 1982 vintage. Aromas of violets and red berry with a slightly cherry glaze character adding further intrigue. The palate is medium weight and refined but with tremendous power and persistence. A combination of hogsheads and barriques has been used to deliver the perfect level of oak. One of the best of these I can recall. Drink 2024-2054.
    98 Points
    Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

    This 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Wynns John Riddoch is stylish and built for the long haul. It takes a couple of days to show its true colors. It radiates with blackcurrant, gravel and dried mint aromas, with a dusting of earth all wrapped up in a gentle blanket of French oak. Composed and super refined, the wine is underpinned by a line of seductive yet firm tannins with killer length and balance to finish. It is already very approachable but with serious staying power. Drink 2030-2045.
    97 Points
    Angus Hughson - Vinous

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    2023 Red Claw Pinot Noir
    Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Yabby Lake’s second label, Red Claw, regularly delivers great value across the range. The 2023 season brough 'La Nina' weather conditions for the third year in a row.  It was a cool and late ripening vintage with low yields producing superb quality fruit.  Produced with the inclusion of 10% whole bunch fruit the wine was matured in French oak puncheons for 10 months.

    Deliciously juicy, this Mornington Peninsula Pinot Noir combines rich fruit and power with a supple feel.

    Dark red core with black shaded edges and a vibrant red hue. Blossoming out of the glass with a perfumed like intensity are alluring scents of violet, dark cherry, strawberry and subtle anise which are complimented by some fresh herb, delicate forest floor and spicy cedar notes. Deliciously juicy dark cherry and strawberry fruits flow across the palate with a supple feel. Traces of anise, forest floor and spicy cedar lie underneath. The long moreish finish a combination of freshness, velvety tannins and power.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 13%

    • 97
    • Hot Item
    2022 Yalumba Paradox Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $46. 99
    Bottle
    $563.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    One of Yalumba’s distinguished site wines, the Paradox is sourced from the Northern Barossa and is made with an emphasis on velvet like texture and the use of less new oak than many of its counterparts. Maturation taking place in French oak puncheons, with only 8% new oak employed, for a period of 17 months.

    Rich, expansive and enveloping, this marries Barossa opulence with a gorgeously refined finish.

    Magnificent colour featuring a super saturated inky black core and a deep black dark red hue. Seducing the olfactory senses are captivating blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas which interact with delicately smoked vanillin cedar, fennel, dark chocolate and peppered earth notes. Rich, silky and concentrated across the full bodied yet perfectly proportioned palate is a sumptuous flow of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Undertones of spicy vanillin cedar, subtle scorched earth, dark chocolate and peppered fennel lend further interest. Boasting fantastic power and depth yet not heavy handed in it’s feel, it has velvet smooth tannins and a long, opulent yet gorgeously refined finish.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • 97
    • Hot Item
    • 96
    2022 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz first produced in 1962, Yalumba’s Signature pays homage each vintage to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the culture and traditions of Yalumba. The 2022 vintage’s signatory is Yalumba’s Executive Director of Sales for Australia & New Zealand, Paul Midolo. This year’s release marks the 51st vintage of Yalumba The Signature.
    From vines with an average age of 49 years the 2021 Signature is a blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz with maturation taking place in a combination of French barriques and Hungarian hogsheads (21% of which was new oak) for a period of 18 months.

    Deep and powerful yet finessed, this is Yalumba Signature at it’s finest.

    Inky black heart with a deep dark purple black tinged hue. Unfurling from the glass in what is a wonderful show of both refinement and intensity is a mix of red to black currant, liquorice and mulberry scents trailed by some vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and faint bay leaf notes. Rich red plum, red to black currant, liquorice and mulberry fruits flow eloquently across the medium to full bodied palate. Piquing further interest and complexity are spicy vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco, earthy dark chocolate and bay leaf accents. Deep and powerful yet finessed it has a sturdy fine grained tannin structure that bodes well for longer term cellaring. Finishes very long, sophisticated and elegant.
    Drink over the next 10-15 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Yalumba's famous Signature cabernet sauvignon and shiraz blend has a strong pedigree when it comes to cellaring and the 2022 release will certainly carry on long into the future. The fruit density and purity here are impressive. Blackberry, doris plum and black cherry tones, their flow elegant and graceful across the palate with hints of spice, cedar, tobacco, pencil shavings, roasting meats, dried herbs and olive tapenade. Fine-grained tannins are in abundance and there is an extended finish that rolls on and on. It's a super release. Drink by 2054.
    96 Points
    Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 95
    2023 Yalumba Vine Vale Grenache
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    This old vine Grenache was crafted from two blocks on Yalumba’s Tri-Centenary Vineyard, planted in 1949 and 1929 located in the tiny Barossa Valley sub region of Vine Vale. The two blocks were wild fermented separately - the first 40% whole bunch, the second 33% whole bunch fruit. Maturation took place in older French oak puncheons for a period of 6 months.
    Dark red core with black shaded edges and a bright red hue. Alluring red to dark raspberry, cherry and red liquorice aromas infused with hints of dried clove and graphite sail through the nostrils followed by some peppered earth end notes. Juicy red to dark raspberry, cherry and liquorice fruits overlay a dried herb and peppered earth back drop. Polished tannins finishing long, fresh and succulent.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews…..
    Of all the wines in the Yalumba Grenache collection, for me, this is the value pick. A cracking wine which is seriously good buying. The fruit comes from old bush vines which were planted in 1929 and 1949 in the Tri-Centenary Vineyard in Vine Vale. The two blocks were harvested for the wine, with the first seeing 40% whole bunch fermentation and the second 33%. A garnet/crimson colour, the nose is utterly gorgeous. This is Grenache on steroids. Strawberries and cream, florals, bergamot, spices and cherries. Take everything that is good about Grenache and it is jam-packed into this wine. It also offers that typical Grenache tannin mix of silky and sandy. Showing good balance and length, this is a superb example of a top-notch Barossa Grenache. Drink now and for the next eight years. Drink 2024-2032.
    95 points
    Ken Gargett - WinePilot.com

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • Biodynamic
    • Organic
    2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs Field Blend
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A juicy, youthfully vibrant Rhone blend that finishes fresh and succulent.

    A blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Carignan, 10% Counoise, 2% Cinsault and 1% Mourvedre. Vibrant dark red core with black toned edges and a bright purple red tinged hue. Alluring red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and plum scents intermingle with whiffs of fresh herbs, vanillin confectionary and delicate peppered earth notes. Light to medium weight, juicy and possessing a youthful vibrancy, red raspberry, red liquorice and red plum fruits overlay dried herb, subtle scorched earth and pepper elements. Smooth, seamlessly integrated tannins finishing fresh and succulent.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 95
    • Organic
    • Biodynamic
    2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs Grenache
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Yangarra Estate’s Circle Collection is a new range of entry-level wines that focus on Southern Rhone varietals. Made from younger vines they are uber delicious fruit driven wines that deliver fantastic value.

    An explosive, super juicy Grenache that makes for highly addictive drinking.

    Deep dark purple red core with black shaded edges and a bright purple hue. The wonderfully fragrant nose is singing with red to dark raspberry, violet, red liquorice and blueberry scents. Subtle fresh herb and peppered earth notes are also evident. Super juicy and intensely flavoured, rich red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and cherry fruits explode across the exuberant palate with delicate infusions of dried herbs, scorched earth and pepper the undercard. Magnificent power and silky tannins with fresh acidity lending an energetic feel to the long super succulent finish. Highly addictive drinking over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews....
    This is the younger vine bottling, coming mainly off vines planted in '08. Up to three weeks on skins; maturation in steel and old puncheons and foudre. This is a nice foil to the Old Vine bottling, showing what relatively youthful vines can do on this great site. There’s an open red-berried and cherry fruitfulness, with red florals supported by savoury spice and a foundation of purposeful natural tannin. This doesn’t have the mineral depth of the Old Vine, but the fruit vibrancy and exuberance yield their own rewards. Drink by 2030.
    95 Points
    Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 95
    2023 Yering Station Chardonnay
    Yarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $36. 99
    Bottle
    $443.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)
    ABV: 13.2%
    Closure: Stelvin

    The site of Victoria’s first vineyard, the Rathbone Family have built Yering Station into one of Yarra Valley’s leading estates. This brilliantly composed Chardonnay sees maturation in a mix of new (22%) to 6 year old French oak puncheons for a period of 8 months.

    A beautifully refined and sophisticated Yarra Valley Chardonnay.

    Brilliant pale straw colour with subtle green highlights around the outskirts and a watery hue. Ascending through the olfactory senses are delightful aromas of white peach, nectarine and dried honey which are complimented by hints of biscuity oak, citrusy nougat and spice. Mid weighted and nicely fleshed, the palate features white peach and nectarine fruits over a dried honey, biscuity nougat, cashew and spice back drop. Showing ample freshness and a gently creamed feel it finishes long and refined.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 13.2%

    Other Reviews…..
    Barrel fermented and matured in puncheons (22% new). No mlf. Bright green gold. A touch richer and more complex than the very good Village Chardonnay. An attractive nose of stone fruits, orange blossoms and grilled nuts leads onto the palate, which has good depth and persistence. There's a little orange pith on the long, refreshing finish. Drink by 2029.
    95 points
    Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    Matured in 500L puncheons for 8 months of which 22% was new oak. Golden peach and nectarine flesh, sunflower and kernel. Lemon aspen and pineapple nectar. Summer frangipani blooms. Like a giving tree this wine bestows without being buxom and relying on oak for its breadth. It’s pure fruit heaven. Picked with free flowing acidity and supported by vanilla cake and grated nutmeg oak nuances. It’s still light on its feet but will satisfy the chardonnay drinker who chooses wine based on taste and substance. Serve alongside a homemade salmon quiche.
    95 points
    Shanteh Wale – WinePilot.com

    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire 18 Year Old Peated Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $169.99
    $139. 99
    Bottle
    $1679.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    A noteworthy price for a peater with this kind of age statement. It's another batch from what some have nicknamed "the ampersand clan" (aka Atom Brands). As a senior member of the Seaweed & Aeons family, this heavily peated Highlander spent 18 years maturing with a portion of the whisky believed to have come out of sherry casks. If Ardmore is your style, this should tick all the right boxes. 40% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... A secret single malt from the Highlands, though it does feel a touch peculiar presenting this sort of thing at 40% vol. Ex-Seagram/Pernod Ricard stock, perhaps? Ardmore, maybe? Colour: light gold. Nose: well yes, it’s charming, fresh yet peaty, with notes of bacon, lemon zest, engine oil and tar, and above all a good deal of toasted sesame oil. Mouth: it holds its own at 40%, smoky, bordering on sooty, yet indeed there’s not the faintest whiff of the sea, not even the shyest of periwinkles. Thoroughbred peated Highlands, in short. Finish: surprisingly long, with smoked tea and lemon... Comments: no, this is both lovely and delicious, it’s just that I can’t quite locate the ‘seaweed’ element, but no complaints otherwise. 87 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire & Sherry Casks 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $119.99
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Other reviews... An undisclosed single malt from Islay, 25% of which was finished 1st fill oloroso sherry octaves. The name is very 'Atom', while, conversely, I believe 1992 is on the phone asking for its bottling strength back. Colour: gold. Nose: but what's this? An OB Laphroaig 10yo from circa 2002? This very particular aroma of iodine, hessian, seawater and cough medicines. Extremely easy and rather nicely attuned to a very specific aroma of 'peat smoke' in the most classical sense. I find it disconcertingly charming. Mouth: it is probably the bottling strength, but this really does feel like drinking a decent batch of OB Laphroaig 10. There's a few citrus fruits, soft peat smoke and rather a lot of wet rocks and medical embrocations. I have to say, it's quite a lot of fun. Finish: medium, perhaps a tad short, but still nicely medicinal, on iodine, light TCP notes and good old peat smoke. Comments: There's a lot about this that, on paper, I probably shouldn't enjoy because it goes against the modern geek code - whatever that is. But this is actually a rather clever and very good, easy quaffing wee Islay dram. Someone at Beam should go check the Laph 10yo vatting tank for syphons though… either that or Atom have developed cloning technology. If that's the case, do they take requests? Shotgun Bowmore Bouquet! 85 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $109.99
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire is an essentially an independent label developed by the clever marketing team at Atom Brands (the owners of Master of Malt and That Boutique-y Whisky Co in the UK). Whiskies are sourced from an undisclosed Islay distillery with 25% taken from first-fill Oloroso sherry casks. All are bottled non chill filtered. This is the entry level version. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Nose: seaweed and iodine indeed, with a bonfire on a beach and earthy peat. Charcoal and black pepper. All this is mellowed by generous toffee and red apple sweetness, salted peanuts and some medicinal herbs. Actually this is more complex than I expected. Mouth: sweet peat. Now the sherry is more prominent. Peaches with burnt edges, hints of caramel sweets and vanilla pastry. Plum jam. Ashes and light chocolate. Overall rather modest peat. Never grabbing you by the throat, but a rather rich style nonetheless. Hints of aniseed later on. Finish: medium length, on chocolate, honeyed cinnamon pastry and hints of dried seaweed. Warming smoke in the end. While bottled at a low ABV, it offers the classic Islay markers in a nice way. Really affordable and offering a lot of ampersands for the money. Available from Master of Malt for instance. There is also a cask strength version if you prefer something a little stronger, or an 18 year old version. Some of them also add some Speyside whisky to the mix. - whiskynotes.be

    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire & Sherry Casks & Cask Strength 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $179.99
    $159. 99
    Bottle
    $1919.88 Dozen
    ABV: 54.9%

    Peat and sherry are a great combo, and if you've tasted similar expressions from the Elements of Islay range, you'll already know that the team behind Atom Brands tend to do it very well. This is understood to be the cask strength version of the Seaweed & Aeons 10 year old Sherry Cask edition, featuring the same smoky Islay single malt, though instead of just 25% of it being finished in sherry casks, the entirety of the whisky was. Around 1200 units are offered per batch, this one landing at 54.9% Alc./Vol. and bottled without chill filtration.

    Other reviews... [Batch 2 tasted] This one is full sherry finished. Colour: orangey amber. Nose: a notable gear shift, this is much creamier and displays a more velvety smokiness. Resinous hardwoods, smoked teas, verbena, eucalyptus, tea tree oil and smoked meats. The sherry sits behind the peat and doesn't feel too jarring, it's rather more about wood spice and peat smoke together I would say. With water: softer spice tones, coal dust, bonfire embers and this impression of medicinal herbs. Mouth: a similarly easy arrival, all on soft wood spices, smoked teas, sweet peat smoke, natural tars, wood resins, putty and aniseed. More impressions of herbal cough syrups and things like hessian and wormwood. I like it a lot but it strays very close to being a little too wood-dominant for me. With water: not too sure with water, I think it loses a little definition and the alignment between peat and wood goes slightly awry. There's still plenty of sooty and peaty 'oomph' about it though. Finish: rather long, all menthol tobaccos, bitter herbal extracts, spices, liquorice and tar. Comments: this one veers about quite a lot. Lots of emphatic, peaty pleasures to be had, but for me the wood is a tad too much here. However if you enjoy this rather creamy, spicy modern wood-forward style then you'll probably have a blast. Quite clever wee concoctions these Seaweed things, I would say. 86 points - whiskyfun.com

    Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Oatcakes, vegetal peat, hot Ribena, assorted BBQ meats, molasses, clove-studded orange, and just a hint of chocolate mousse. Palate: Cinder toffee, cinnamon, peat still shining through, a slow build of red grape and jammy raisin, with some citrus lift. A subtle touch of singed hay later on. Finish Meaty malt returns, with warm oak in support. The red grape tannins continue and last on the finish. Overall: A top expression that shows what can happen when peat and sherry meet without clashing against each other.

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It's not uncommon for long-time customers to comment, "I've never had a bad wine from Nicks" . Part of the reason is that we taste and rate all the wines before you do. In fact, we offer an independent review for most of the wines on this website. Think of the "What's Hot" page as a shortlist - not only of the most highly rated wines from every category and price point - but also many of the best value spirits and liqueurs in Australia. Our selections include the most exciting wine growing regions around Australia as well as imports from around the world. Not sure what to buy? Give us a call on 1800 069 295. Let us know what you've enjoyed in the past and one of our knowledgeable staff will guide you in your choice. Unlike many retailers, we let you mix it up. Order online in straight dozens or make every bottle different to enjoy a new flavour each day. When you order more than $200 worth, get it delivered free to most areas of Australia.