298 products

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The best of the best at every price point from Australia's most highly curated online wine and spirits list.

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    2024 Jim Barry Assyrtiko
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Jim Barry’s love affair with the Assyrtiko began in 2006 whilst on holiday on the Greek Island of Santorini, the birthplace of the variety. Its crisp acidity reminded him of Clare Valley Riesling yet it had a unique flavour profile that he had not experienced before. Intrigued, he began the process of importing cuttings and by 2012 had planted Australia’s first Assyrtiko vineyard.
    Brilliant water like core with a subtle greenish tinge to the edges. Aromas of pear, lime and red apple skin sail out of the glass with some fresh herb and delicate slatey mineral notes also chiming in. Pear, lime and green apple fruits are amply concentrated across what is a mouth watering palate. Crisp, invigorating acidity counterpoints the wines textural volume. Infusions of Mediterranean herbs and a tonic like minerality linger through the long scrumptious finish.
    Drink over the next 1-2 years.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews....
    An appealing white wine of gentle savouriness, brightness of fruit alongside that, floral lift and saline minerality. Yes thanks. It feels quite racy in texture but there's oatmeal and ginger biscuit qualities under tart lime and green apple fruitiness. The perfume is loaded with citrus blossom florals, sea spray, lime and ginger. A racy finish lends ultimate freshness. A very good vibe here. Drink by 2028.
    93 points
    Mike Bennie - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

    I am shocked to discover that I have not yet reviewed a single vintage of this wine for "The Wine Advocate," despite having consumed my fair share of it and judged it at many wine shows over the years. Here, the 2024 Assyrtiko is crunchy and fleshy, with white linen, cheesecloth, brine, green apple, nashi pear, lemon barley and vanilla wafer. The wine is complex and impressively layered, with texture and flavor in profusion. This wine comes highly—and perhaps unsurprisingly to drinkers in Australia—recommended as a great dining wine. One day, as we see more vine age develop in this vineyard, we might see a premium Assyrtiko produced, in line with some of the great, old-vine beauties of Greece. One can hope. 12% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2024--2032.
    93 points
    Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

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    2022 John Duval Entity Shiraz
    Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    With nearly 30 years spent making Penfolds Grange and developing the RWT label at Penfolds, John Duval qualifies as one of Australia's living wine legends. In 2003 he launched John Duval Wines and wasted no time sourcing some of South Australia's finest fruit. “After 35 years in the business, I know who the best growers are,” comments Duval. Today, John is joined by his son Tim who assists with both winemaking and marketing.
    2022 was a standout season in Barossa vintage with mild harvest conditions allowing for even flavour accumulation and vibrant aromatics and acidity. Fruit was sourced from old vineyards in the Krondorf, Tanunda, Marananga, Ebenezer, Moppa and Eden Valley districts, the final blend being made from 85% Barossa Valley and 15% Eden Valley fruit. Maturation took place in French oak (28% new) for a period of 15 months.
    Impenetrable inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Intense blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas engulf the nostrils complimented by vanillin oak, dark chocolate, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich and seductive yet terrifically refined, the medium to full bodied palate has a gorgeous layer of blackberry, dark plum and liquorice fruit flowing across it. Plush in its feel it has seamlessly integrated, velvety tannins and possesses an understated power. Spicy vanillin oak, earthy mocha and pepper elements ensue. The long, silky finish the epitome of finesse and class.
    Drink over the next 8-10 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Velvety opulence speaks from the moment this hits your tongue until the last drop disappears. It’s a luxurious take on the grandeur of fit, medium-bodied Shiraz, putting plush red berry characteristics on a pedestal, encasing them gently in oak and fine-gain tannin, then allowing them to saunter gracefully down the long catwalk before sashaying out the exit curtain. Bravo! Further ageing will only enhance its beauty. Drink 2024-2038.
    96 points
    Decanter.com

    Shiraz sourced from vineyards in Krondorf, Tanunda, Marananga, Moppa and Eden Valley (BV 85%, EV 15%), matured in French oak, 28% new, for 15 months. A vibrantly coloured multi-subregional blend that shows plum, black cherry and blackberry fruits cut with hints of baking spice, cedar, vanillin, mace, licorice and earth. A thickly shouldered wine, plush with ripe fruit and creamy oaken nuance finishing long and elemental with fine, chalky tannins and a sense of mineral definition. Drink by 2038.
    95 points
    Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Colleccion Extra Anejo 100% Agave Tequila (700ml) - 38%
    Jalisco, MEXICO
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 38%

    First released in 1995 to celebrate the company's 200th birthday, José Cuervo Reserva de la Familia pioneered the category of extended age Tequila. Matured for a minimum of two years in a combination of American and French oak barrels, some of the reserve components are up to thirty years old. The tequila itself which has been described as "rich and brandy-like" doesn't change much from year to year. And just as consistency has become its hallmark, so too has been its high praise. What does change annually is the packaging, with a different Mexican artist making each release a collector’s item. 

    In 2023 the box has been designed by artists Rolando Flores and Gabriel Cázares of the Mexico-based Tercerunquinto Collective. The custom art titled “Structuring a Landscape”, features a geometric abstraction of the landscape of Jalisco.

    [2017 edition tasted from a 20ml sample] Pale copper gold. The bouquet combines blanco-like vibrancy with the kind of depth you'd expect from XO cognac - brine, charred capsicum, smoldering eucalyptus, beeswax, vanilla and menthol... with air contact, it also presents a drier, woody aspect including cigar box, cedar and white pepper. Likewise the silky delivery matches sappy agave and butter menthol lozenge-like flavours against drying astringency. It's delicate and somewhat fleeting through the finish, trailing off with black tea, potpourri, white pepper, hints of grilled pineapple, vanilla and trace beeswax. The overall effect strikes a fine balance between young and old. [40% Alc./Vol. tasted]

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    Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia Platino Tequila (700ml)
    Jalisco, MEXICO
    Reduced from $169.99
    $119. 99
    Bottle
    $1439.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%
    Closure: Cork

    "Enduringly subtle, the tequila feels meticulously crafted and deftly balanced, light on its feet but bursting with fresh flavors. Sip it, mix with it, whatever. Just buy it." - drinkhacker.com

    Launched in 2007 but relatively new to Australia, the Platino expression from Cuervo's hugely successful "Reserva De La Familia" range of premium Tequilas comes with a strong recommendation from the World Tequila Awards - amongst others. Made using 10-12 year old estate grown agaves, the tequila benefits from a proprietary method which is said to capture the steam during the cooking process, which is then turned back to water to dilute the tequila to a standardised strength. On the nose it's an almost floral blanco with an appealing grilled capsicum, tobacco and white pepper lift that follows through to vibrant flavours suggesting dried pear, light vanilla, white pepper, earthy smokiness and sappy agave. The finish is salty, drying, minerally and pleasantly warm making for a complex standalone sipper that's closer to a Reposado, at least in terms of mouthfeel. Each hand-dipped wax-sealed bottle arrives housed in a presentation box, adding to the premium vibe. Certified organic. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Though it’s a blanco, this tequila is rested in stainless steel for 60 days before bottling, a common practice for higher-end white spirits. It doesn’t take long to see what the fuss is all about: This is instantly an expressive and engaging tequila that quickly becomes hard to put down. A gentle nose expresses notes of white pepper, lime juice, and a touch of coconut husk. Tropical and a little sweet, it’s mild and enveloping from the start. The palate keeps perfectly on message: Light sweetness paired with citrus quickly evokes a note of limeade, then moves into a light sprinkle of baking spice, green herbs, lemongrass, and another grind of white pepper. This is definitely not your father’s Cuervo, and it’s miles away from a brash, alcohol-driven experience. Enduringly subtle, the tequila feels meticulously crafted and deftly balanced, light on its feet but bursting with fresh flavors. Sip it, mix with it, whatever. Just buy it. Bottled Dec 15 2020. - drinkhacker.com 

    ...vegetable notes, fried zucini and unripe pear. Finishes dry with slightly peppered notes and enduring agave flavours. 4.5 stars - diffordsguide.com

    Gold Medal - World Tequila Awards 2021

    "A benchmark blanco Tequila that tastes and smells exactly how your minds eye envisions one." 88 points - tastings.com (2023)

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    2012 Nicks Secret McLaren Vale AR Shiraz Museum Release
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $39.99
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From a highly regarded estate that has regularly featured in our newsletter over the years comes this Museum Release Shiraz that offers excellent value with all of the bottle ageing done for you. Matured in a mixture of French and American oak with only the best barrels selected for the final blend this offers superb drinking over the next year or two.

    A seductively rich and velvety McLaren Vale Shiraz that’s sitting in its prime drinking window.

    Dense inky black core with a deep very dark red black tinged hue. The nose gives up pronounced liquorice, black cherry and blackberry aromas which are complimented by vanillin oak, scorched earth, hints of leather and blackpepper. Rich, plush and seductive the palate is layered with liquorice, dark plum and blackberry fruits which overlay a toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and blackpepper back drop. Possessing excellent power and velvety tannins it has an opulent yet refined feel. Cruises through to a long, silky smooth finish that sees pepper and subtle tertiary elements lending further complexity.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

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    2021 Journeys End Coonawarra Station Cabernet Sauvignon
    Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Coonawarra’s famous strip of Terra Rossa soil has long been considered to be ideal for the production of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and the Journeys End Coonawarra Station has consistently proven to be one of the best values the region has to offer. The 2021 vintage was exceptional with a long mild vintage allowing for steady increases in maturity levels of the fruit which meant winemakers could pick at optimum levels of ripeness and flavour. The resultant wines feature great depth of colour, fruit concentration and tannin structures.

    A perfectly proportioned Coonawarra Cabernet that combines the variety's trademark structure with a wealth of rich, generous fruit.

    Dense pitch black heart with a deep black dark red hue. The nose is drawn in by captivating and powerful scents of ripe blackcurrant, mulberry and cedary tobacco characters which are followed by hints of black olive, dusty earth and bay leaf. Rich, concentrated black currant, ripe mulberry and liquorice flavours reign supreme over a back drop of dusty vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle black olive characters and infusions of bay leaf. A classic Cabernet Sauvignon structure of sturdy yet nicely integrated tannins frames the deep well of glorious ripe fruit. Long, robust yet generously endowed conclusion.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

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    2019 Three Brothers Reunited Shiraz
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $9. 99
    Bottle
    $119.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    It’s a rare achievement in this industry for a wine to maintain its price point for more than 15 years  without sacrificing quality, even more so when it's priced under $10. But the Three Brothers Reunited Shiraz has done just that. Most new labels (particularly in the sub $20 category) start with a bang and over deliver in the first couple of vintages in an attempt to win new customer's loyalty. However, in follow up releases they often stretch expectations of quality in order to meet increased demand. Gradually the brand fades away as customers are disillusioned with what's become a lesser wine. Three Brothers, on the other hand, has made quality and consistency its number one priority, only gradually increasing production while growing a very loyal customer base that's made this our top selling red for over 20 years. Further testimony to this label's commitment to quality was demonstrated by the fact that no wine was produced from the difficult 2011 vintage - the challenging conditions simply didn't offer fruit to meet the label's required standards.

    Succulent, silky textured and deeply flavoured this is the ultimate quaffing Shiraz that delivers unbeatable value.

    Very deep midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Nosing draws out lifted aromas of dark plum, liquorice and dark cherries followed by some toasty cedar and peppered earth notes. Rich, velvety and juicy, dark plum, liquorice and dark cherry fruits unfold across the medium to full bodied palate with scorched earth, subtle dried herb and spicy pepper characters lying underneath. Excellent concentration and fruit weight for the price. Velvet smooth tannins impart a plush feel to the long refined and highly moreish finish.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

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    Isle of Jura 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Isle of Jura, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $169.99
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 44%

    Other reviews... There is an outlandish outbreak of massive flavour on delivery, both the malt and fruit almost shrill in their proclamations of intent. This is high juiciness in excelsis, the sugars crisp and full of grist and Dmaerara. And on the finish a slight chocolate note hovers, but then a degree of sulphur drifts in... as threatened by the nose.... This has so many beautiful moments. But... 85.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2014

    Jura has introduced a new house style of ‘sweetness and smoke,’ and this spent 18 years in bourbon barrels, with a finish in red wine casks. Malt, peach blossom, raspberries, vanilla, and dark chocolate on the nose. The palate offers red berries, more chocolate, cloves, and peat. Dry red wine notes in the finish, with fruity spices and black pepper. 44% Alc./Vol. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Fall 2018)

    Imagine I haven’t tried the 18 since… Oh my, 2007! But Jura was weak back then, really. Some nasty bottlings, not all of them, but there. Now this newer expression was finished in some Bordeaux red, most sadly (not STR), but you never know, this little juice may have escaped the mighty cabernety army. Which, by the way, I just love – In my wine glass. Colour: golden amber. Nose: some earth, peonies, blood oranges marmalade, heather honey, candied cherries, leather and ginger, more earth, wallflowers, pecan pie… I have to say this is a fine, rather rich and yet pretty elegant nose. But don’t we all know that silly wine finishings usually rather fail… on the palate? Mouth: nah, they know what they’re doing. This is not my preferred style at all, and we’re rather finding more café latte plus these dusty and honeyed sides (both at the same time), but otherwise except a drying cardboard and coffee combo in the back, this would rather kind of work, relatively. Well no, I’m having trouble liking it a lot, honestly. Finish: medium, dry and a little burnt and bitter. Burnt molasses, heavy cinnamon, some sour cardboard in the aftertaste. Comments: love the distillery, the people, the master blender, the settings and some of their whiskies, but frankly, I find this one rather too difficult. Tough love. 75 points - whiskyfun.com

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    • Organic
    • Biodynamic
    2024 Kalleske Moppa Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    The fruit for this Shiraz is sourced from Kalleske’s certified organic Moppa vineyard with grapes coming from ten different blocks, the oldest of which was planted in 1961. Troy Kalleske reports that the 2024 growing season was near-perfect delivering average yields and superb quality fruit.
    Small dollops of Petit Verdot and Viognier were included in the blend to provide added complexity and give the wine a contemporary edge. Maturation took place in a combination of approximately 20% new French, American and Hungarian oak hogsheads for 12 months.

    Rich, dense and luxuriously silky in its flow, this is Barossa Shiraz at its seductive best.

    Super saturated inky black heart with an equally deep black dark purple hue. Dark plum, liquorice and fresh ripe blackberry scents show terrific aromatic intensity out of the glass with some vanillin cedar, earthy mocha and spicy blueberry notes also chiming in. Rich and sumptuous, layered across the full bodied palate is a luxurious flow of opulent dark plum, blackberry and liquorice fruits. Vanillin oak, earthy dark chocolate and spicy fennel elements extend across the back half. Dense and plush yet fresh it boasts terrific power and concentration. Velvety tannins with a long lavish finish that’s pure seduction.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • Hot Item
    • Batch may vary
    • Nick's Import
    • ABV may vary
    Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (1000ml)
    TAIWAN
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 53.2%

    Cask strength one litre format at the same price as the standard issue 700ml import.

    Kavalan continue to confound critics and purists, proving that lengthy maturation is no longer the rule when it comes to great whisky. Master Blender, Ian Chang concedes that he will almost certainly never release anything older than ten years. If he waited that long, most of the liquid would have evaporated anyway, making it both physically and financially unviable. So long as Kavalan remain obsessive about quality wood - which they do - age doesn't seem to matter.

    Jim Murray rightly observes, "Kavalan has that very rare talent for brilliance without apparent effort". Perhaps no other whisky in their portfolio more routinely exemplifies this than the Vinho Barrique. While there are many distilleries that turn out gargantuan malts, there are few on the planet offering young casks that combine raw power with so much complexity and nuance. Right now you can get it in a one litre format at the same price as the standard issue 700ml import. It's a 'no-brainer' buying opportunity promising a massive bang for your buck in every sense. Please note: ABV may vary slightly from the product pictured.

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    Kilchoman Sanaig 2024 Edition Cask Strength Limited Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 57.8%

    Sanaig and Machir Bay are Kilchoman’s two core products, but only the latter has had the honour of an occasional cask strength release. Prospective samples of Sanaig were floated during a 2021 Feis Isle virtual tasting. No release date was ever suggested and the label had to wait until November 2024 to finally get its own natural-strength iteration. Looking at the colour, you might think they've mistakenly filled the bottle with Loch Gorm. That's down to a high proportion of x-Oloroso sherry casks (the remaining 30% are x-Bourbon). Essentially, this release uses the same recipe as the regular Sanaig, however, we can assume casks have been cherry-picked, then bottled uncut as opposed to the regular release strength of 46% ABV. Impressive from the get go, through that’s fairly standard praise for Kilchoman, the bouquet kicks off with menthol rub, iodine, damp earth and wood smoke with bitter peel and dark chocolate in tow. Creamy on entry, then catapults into a full-throttle mid palate attack, keynotes being cocoa, Oloroso sherry and sweet peat. Bracing spices and alcohol give this a drying, bittersweet finale, trailing off with pepper, elastoplast and nutty chocolate. Feels like there's more sherry influence than your standard Sanaig. Either way, it's an absolute blast for Islay fans. No outturn is stated, but the Australian allocations are likely in the hundreds rather than the thousands. 57.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews...  From this Islay-based distillery comes an annual expression matured in both sherry and bourbon casks. Smoke on the nose, Grape-Nuts, tasty peat smoke, and barbecue. The palate has heat but is flavorful and not at all spiky, showing pleasant flavors of raspberry compote and an earthy note of pipe tobacco. The finish is long, with red berries, smoke, and peat embers. Smoky, with lively fruit notes that rise above the peat. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    ...the entry is bold and spicy, with an explosive mix of black pepper, chilli, nutmeg and aniseed, anticipating a palate of dark pastry, chocolate, red fruit (sour cherries, plums, blackberries), sweet liquorice, blood orange juice, pink grapefruit and carob. Fleshy and iodised smoke that envelops the flavours like Linus’ blanket. The addition of water accentuates the marine aspect, bringing sulphurous notes to the surface. The long finish is coastal and full, with a tingle of spices that accompany red fruits and citrus, liquorice, chocolate, coffee and a vegetal, sulphurous vein. This is closer to a Loch Gorm on steroids than the original, which could be seen as either a distortion of the classic Sanaig or a liberation of its nature. A matter of opinion, mine appreciates the fullness of a slightly rambunctious but sincere dram. - Lamberto Lamarina, whiskyart.blog

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    • Australian Exclusive
    2014 Kilchoman Single Cask #14/1007 Australian Exclusive Sauternes Cask Finish Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 56.3%

    The Australian importer's single cask selection was aged in fresh Bourbon wood for just over six and a half years, then spent a further eighteen months finishing in an x-Sauternes Hogshead (sweet white wine from Bordeaux). While Kilchoman have previously released bottlings that were fully matured in Sauternes casks, this nevertheless ranks as an extended secondary maturation, compared to 5-6 months that many might consider the 'norm'. Consequently, if you're used to the style of core releases like Machir Bay or Sanaig, this offers a different Kilchoman experience. On the nose, the usually effusive maritime character is offset by notes of bush honey, dried apricots and jaffas with just a little iodine/menthol lift contributing freshness. Flavour wise, it's quite an attack - mouthfilling, textural and oily with a malty mid-palate followed by a tang of tangerine peel and a spike of heat. The Sauternes cask almost gets the better of the peat, leaving you with residual notes of sweet tobacco, chimney soot, menthol rub and dark chocolate. An after dinner treat. 56.3% Alc./Vol. 50ppm. Non chill filtered.

    Notes from the importers... Nose: Driven by notes of vanilla and rich apricot with an elegant underlying peat smoke. Palate: Opening rich honey-sweetness makes way for an intense influence of almond followed by a classic Kilchoman peat smoke combined with toasted oak. Finish: Dried fruit, lemon zest and rich spice balanced with a long-lasting malty sweetness.

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    • Reduced
    Kirin Fuji Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    Reduced from $179.99
    $119. 99
    Bottle
    $1439.88 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    The Kirin Whisky brand belongs to the Kirin Group, better known for their world famous beers. Produced at the massive Fuji Gotemba plant at the foot of Mount Fuji, the distillery's location maintains a climate similar to Scotland with an average temperature of just thirteen degrees celsius. In recent years, their output has garnered some serious accolades including Japanese Whisky of the Year, World's Best Grain Whisky and numerous Gold Medals. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, Fuji Gotemba is finally expanding into export markets and launching new products. For this release, they've employed ex-Bourbon, French oak red wine barriques and beer casks, blending single malts up to sixteen years of age. The combination adds Jota Tanaka's signature stamp of layered complexity. With over 30 years of experience in both the US and Japan, he's only the second Master Blender in the distillery's history and succinctly describes this release as "Delicate, but with lots of layers of flavours. All in harmony." Expect notes of oatmeal biscuits, fresh peach and white table grapes with a splash of wildflower honey to finish in a classically elegant Japanese profile. 46% Alc./Vol.

    Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2023.

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    Kirin Fuji Single Grain Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    Reduced from $169.99
    $109. 99
    Bottle
    $1319.88 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    "Fuji proves once again that Japan knows its way not just around distilling but also blending. Exceptional stuff." - drinkhacker.com

    While most other Japanese distilleries have followed the methods of Scotland, Mt. Fuji Distillery is influenced by major whisk(e)y producers all around the world, which explains this tri-part blend distilled using three different methods, each giving their own unique flavour profile. Although the exact mash-bill isn't stated, the backbone of the spirit is reported to be a 'Canadian style' grain, made with a batch distillation in something similar to a kettle still. That's supported by a Bourbon-style distillate using a doubler, and a third Scotch-style light grain put through a continuous multi-column still. The triptych of profiles comes through in the flavours. Fuji smells a little more malt-like than typical single grain with creamy soda and vanilla enhanced by delicate fruity notes like stewed pears and caramelised apples. It's also fuller, richer and with more texture than you'd anticipate. There are the expected lashings of vanilla wafer, however they hover over a backdrop of poached orchard fruits and warming wood spices, followed by more creamy soda, hints of dried banana and a lovely flourish of American oak giving a Bourbonesque or light rye character to the finish. This release was initially for bars only, but from early 2021 it became available to regular tipplers in Japan and then abroad. A good thing. It's a single grain with terrific mouthfeel, and one that deserves a wide audience. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... The elegant nose on this blend of grain whiskies produced by Mount Fuji Distillery has aromas of ground hazelnut, black tea, chestnut flour, mild baking spices, ripe orchard fruits, citrus zest, and elderflower. The palate is packed with orchard fruit, orange, pepper, and chicory, with bitter bark, pepper, and wood spices showing more grain whisky character, and ends with nutty notes and a short finish of cinnamon and oak. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    ...So many grain whiskeys have a tired quality of doughy breakfast cereal that dominates the palate, but Fuji feels incredibly lively and focused on its apple and pear elements, notes of brown sugar and butterscotch — touched lightly with florals — dominating completely. Much more overtly enjoyable than your typical grain whiskey bottling — even most very well-aged ones — Fuji proves once again that Japan knows its way not just around distilling but also blending. Exceptional stuff. - drinkhacker.com

    Notes from the producers... NOSE Aromas of poached pear, rustic fruit tart, Cognac and marron glacé. PALATE Seamless mouthfeel with multi layered flavours of poached pear, orange marmalade, raspberry jam, baking spices, and bitter chocolate. FINISH Mellow with gentle sweetness and pleasant spiciness, smooth with medium length finish and a hint of exotic incense.

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    2020 Kooyonga Creek Chardonnay
    North East Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Rich, lusciously fruited and creamy textured.

    This richly flavoured Chardonnay spent ten months on lees with no added preservatives, and eight months maturation in new French oak. The wine was allowed to undergo Malolactic fermentation which has enhanced the wines texture giving it a creamy feel.
    Brilliant yellow straw colour with a glimmer of green around the edges and a watery hue. Aromas of ripe peach, honeycomb and toasty oak unfurl from the glass followed by some crème brulee, butterscotch and spice notes. Rich and luscious, the creamy textured palate features ripe peach, apricot, honeycomb and crème brulee flavours over a back drop of butterscotch, bacon fat and spice. Nicely balanced acidity concluding long and opulent.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

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    La Gritona Reposado Tequila (700ml)
    Jalisco, MEXICO
    Reduced from $114.99
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Premium Tequila scoop buy. Get ready for Spring / Summer Margaritas.

    ‘La Gritona’ is Spanish for ‘The Screamer’ - an appropriate name seeing that one of the people behind this outstanding tequila is LA-based punk guitarist Andy Coronado. The other significant player is the renowned tequilero Melly Cárdenas, who fashions La Gritona at her small distillery in Valle de Guadalupe in the highlands of Jalisco. One of Mexico’s few female master distillers, the fiercely independent Cárdenas—who has 20 years of quality tequila production under her belt—shares Coronado’s love of the exceptional and unconventional, and leads a team staffed by only local women.

    In a market dominated by major companies like Herradura, Patrón and Fortaleza, the duo set out to create a rocking, pared-down Reposado that would stand out by staying true to the region’s heritage. For a Reposado, La Gritona is light on colour and sweetness—Coronado and Cárdenas want none of the flavours that mask many commercial Reposados like vanilla, chocolate and dulce de leche. Instead this is packed with delicious, honest and savoury, roasted agave flavor, reminiscent of the old-style ‘rested’ tequila, before the mass market took hold: “It’s tequila like our grandparents drank,” says Cárdenas.

    Working with 9- to 10-year-old, mature Blue Weber agave grown in the iron-rich red soil of the Jalisco highlands, every step of production after harvest takes place under Cárdenas’ own roof and with an attention to detail that the big boys, or those outsourcing distillation, cannot hope to replicate. The agave is steam-cooked in a single, thick-walled earthen oven for 24 hours and then allowed to rest for another 24 hours before crushing. The collected liquid is naturally fermented (no additives are used to push things along) in open steel vats at a rate dictated by the ambient air temperature and the wild yeasts, usually lasting between six to nine days. The double distillation takes place in small steel stills. Those bespoke bottles by the way are made from recycled Mexican glass, hand-blown just an hour’s drive from the distillery. Coronado uses any recycled clear glass he can find (mostly old Coke bottles) then chips in a few Dos Equis bottles for the green tint!

    The distilled blanco is then rested in reused American whiskey barrels for eight months before bottling. These low-impact second- or third-fill barrels are given only the lightest char which allows for the refreshing, sappy notes of the agave to shine through, resulting in a tequila that sips and mixes perfectly in equal measure - it’s crisp, clean and elegant and kills it in a Tommy’s Margarita. Tasted uncut, the bouquet offers stunningly pure and keenly fresh scents of brine, dill pickles, capsicum, black pepper and pine sap; Five minutes stirs up sweeter scents of grilled pineapple, vanilla and coconut butter. The silky, medium bodied delivery is gently sweet and wonderfully elegant; Capsicum, green pine and white pepper feature while sappy agave flavours finish the profile with admirable balance. Seamless from start to finish, this stands out from Reposado pack. Highest recommendation. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Look for a pale straw hue and fruity/funky aromas. The palate offers distinct tropical fruit notes, opening with lychee and a faint floral hint, plus a faint waft of ripe-banana funk midpalate. The finish is long and drying, showing grapefruit peel and pink peppercorn. Sip or mix into Palomas. 95 points — wineenthusiast.com

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    2022 Langmeil Valley Floor Shiraz
    Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $29.99
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Dripping with rich, plush fruit, this is a modern take on classic old school Barossa Shiraz.

    Fruit for the Valley Floor Shiraz was sourced from the Barossa (85.4%) and Eden (14.6%) Valleys with vines aged between 10 to 142 years old and yields of 1.5 to 3.5 tonnes per acre. Maturation took place in a combination of 11% new American oak, 5% new French oak and 84% seasoned American and French oak hogsheads for a period of 24 months.
    Impenetrable inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Wafting through the olfactory senses are heady ripe blackberry, dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate aromas trailed by some vanillin oak and spicy mocha notes. Rich, concentrated and plush the palate is generously endowed with succulent dark plum, liquorice, blackberry and dark chocolate fruits. Opulently textured it has notions of spicy vanillin oak and earthy mocha flowing across the back half. Velvety tannins with a lick of freshness lending balance to the long sumptuous finish.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • 92
    • Hot Item
    • 92
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    Laphroaig 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Gift Pack with Glass
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Cheaper than the standalone bottle, with a bonus glass!

    From the remote island of Islay in the Western Isles of Scotland. Laphroaig, pronounced 'La-froyg', is a Gaelic word meaning 'the beautiful hollow by the broad bay'. The full history of Laphroaig seems to be lost in the mists of time. It's clear that the Irish had been distilling on Islay for many years and that the locals picked up the skills when they left, but because it was illegal the small stills on the farms were rarely discussed - just a nod and a wink in the right direction! What is known, is that the family called the Johnstons started farming there around 1800, and that soon after messers Charles and Willie Doig were asked to do some 'work on a distillery' at Laphroaig. By 1815 Laphroaig's reputation had spread and the tax man was getting suspicious so they 'officially' established 'Johnston & Johnston' - the legend of Laphroaig had begun.

    Laphroaig is a malt to either love or hate. Full of the smoke and iodine, seaweed character Islay has become famous for, it has spurred some commentators to describe it as 'mouthwash', 'hospital gauze' or at best, 'medicinal'. Suffice to say, this is not a whisky for the faint hearted. Take Laphroaig neat like a stalwart, or with a splash of soft water. Roll it around on your tongue, release the pungent earthy aroma of blue peat smoke, the sweet nuttiness of the barley, the delicate, heathery perfume of Islay's stream and either swallow or spit. The final judgment on Laphroaig must always be left to the individual. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Re-tasted 2019... Tamer than previous incarnations, earthier too with a farmyard edge. Less iodine / elastoplast than before, more peppermint, baked citrus, kipper and lanolin, creaming up towards the finish, trailling off with hints of Fisherman’s Friend.

    Other reviews... 95 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

    ...An essay in voluptuousness. The oils speak volumes here, gathering the two-toned phenols and gathering them in all corners of the palate and ensuring they stick there... The finish is not so much enormous as controlled and long, with a sublime bit of mocha moving in for the last blissful moments. Glorious still, after all these years. 40% alc./vol. 94 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2019

    ...This expression offers an uncompromising note of brine-laden peat and iodine, with charcoal and sweeter fruit notes also present. The palate is equally out there, with old-fashioned fabric Band-Aids, bladderwrack seaweed, black pepper, smouldering peat, vanilla, caramel, and sweet oak. The finish is as big as everything else, with barbecue, iodine, and asphalt. Still a classic! 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Fall 2018)

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    2024 Lawson's Dry Hills Gewurztraminer
    Marlborough, NEW ZEALAND
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    This luscious, intensely flavoured Gewurztraminer was sourced predominately from Lawson’s Home Block vineyard which was planted in 1981. The 2024 vintage was low yielding, and the dry season meant the grapes ripened perfectly, packed with flavour.

    Luscious and exotic, this is a superb example of Gewurztraminer.

    Brilliant water like core with distinct highlights of green skirting the edges. Incredibly potent nose with exotic scents of lychee, rosewater, musk and Turkish delight captivating the olfactory senses. Some pear and subtle ginger spice notes also chime in. Engulfing the mouth are luscious lychee, Turkish delight and rosewater flavours with notions of musk and ginger spice the undercard. Excellent concentration and power with a long off dry finish that’s balanced by fresh acidity.
    Drink over the next 1-2 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • 97
    • Hot Item
    • 96
    • 96
    • 96
    • 96
    2021 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon
    Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Rich and concentrated yet showing sublime finesse this is a wonderful Cabernet that draws comparisons to the great wines of Bordeaux.

    A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec matured for 22 months in French oak. Midnight black dark red core with a dark red hue. A bounty of red currant, violet, mulberry and vanillin cedar aromas engulf the nostrils with a Bordeaux like nobility. Subtle tobacco, earth, bay leaf and spice notes lend further interest. Rich and concentrated yet showing sublime finesse, the mid weighted palate is layered with fleshy red to black currant and mulberry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, delicate earth, tobacco and infusions of bay leaf extend across the back half. Beautifully proportioned and refined it marriages power and depth with seamlessly integrated, fine grained tannins. Concludes very long and wonderfully savoury. Outstanding.
    Drink over the next 10-15 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews….
    One of the distinctive features of this wine, and in a way a DNA link to all Art Series cabernet, is its savouriness. It’s the rolled tobacco, nori, iodine and whiff of new leather plus the cedary oak, but these are not separate, they form a whole impression. There’s also the core of excellent fruit, the structure, the supple tannins and the bright acidity. And the joy of drinking it. Drink by 2036.
    96 Points
    Jane Faulkner - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    A fascinating wine which offers all the amazing qualities that Margaret River Cabernet possesses, but it walks the fine line with nuances of Bordeaux, more than most. It works wonderfully well. The wine incorporates 2% Malbec. All up, the wine spends 22 months in French oak. Crimson/blood red hue, it offers entrancing complexity. There are notes of tobacco leaves, black fruits, chocolate, smoked meats, licorice, a touch of ever-so-slightly charry cloves and quality oak, which is superbly handled here. A silky texture, this is a wine of balance and length with the finest tannins. Intensity runs the full length. Eerily reminiscent of an Aussie version of Bordeaux (or possibly a Bordeaux version of Marg River?). Whichever, it is a cracking wine. Drink for twelve to fifteen years. Drink 2024-2039.
    96 Points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    Immediately captivating: the nose is vibrant and energetic, while simultaneously the epitome of elegance and poise with restrained fruit power. This is a silk evening gown of a wine: form-fitting, precisely tailored, mellifluous and effortlessly chic. Abundant in aromatics and lifted perfume, fine red fruits include wild strawberry tip, bramble and just-ripe blackcurrant, alongside hints of piquancy: Szechwan pepper, clove and a fine dusting of deep, lightly toasted cocoa powder. There’s a charismatic iodine weave, the savoury and slightly saline minerality proving a foil to both the fruit flesh and the floral hues. Displaying extremely fine-grained tannins, it's firm, focused and delicate, with a graphite line, fresh acidity and plenty that will reveal itself in good time. Tasted pre-release. Drink 2024-2046.
    96 Points
    Decanter

    The 2021 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon is lighter in color and tannic intensity than the 2020 tasted beside it. No surprise for the vintages that birthed these wines. The latter was sunny, hot and dry, while the 2021 season was decidedly cooler, with more cloud cover and rain. This wine bears the fruits of the diligent labor in the vineyards and is one of the shining lights in the region this year. There are notes of raspberry and nori, moss and petrichor, blood and forest floor. This is a lighter style of Cabernet—and a lovely one at that. Drink 2025-2041.
    96 Points
    Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

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    • 97
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    • 97
    2022 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay
    Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2025-2035)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Rich and enveloping yet remarkably fresh this is one of Australia’s most iconic Chardonnay’s.

    Barrel fermented in new French oak barriques with regular lees stirring and matured in the same barrels for a period of 11 months. Brilliant pale straw colour with a greenish tint to the edges and a watery hue. Engulfing the olfactory senses are intense aromas of white peach, pear and nectarine which meld into a dried honey, subtle citrusy crème brulee, delicate cashew and gun flint infused back drop. Rich and layered yet remarkably fresh, enveloping the palate are mouth filling white peach, pear, nectarine and dried honey flavours. Lending further complexity are delicate biscuity oak, almond, citrus, crème brulee and flint elements. Beautifully shaped and refined, it boasts superb power and volume finishing long, texturally full and energetic.
    Drink over the next 8-10 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    If you were sitting quietly in a corner, contemplating the vicissitudes of life, and a glass of this exceptional chardonnay came your way, well, all would be very well indeed. And you’d perk up. It’s a wine that tends to be scintillating in youth, driven by all manner of citrus flavours – lemon, pink grapefruit with a dash of lime but also a mille-feuille of leesy lusciousness, oak spices and a moreish savouriness. It seems powerful and explosive with its acidity, drive and energy yet manages to remain classy and complex. Drink by 2032.
    97 Points
    Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    The 2022 season was warm and low-yielding, particularly for Chardonnay, and many of the wines produced in the region this season can be typified by their nuttiness and a distinct chamomile tea/white flower character. Here, the 2022 Art Series Chardonnay is showing both of those characters, neatly wedged into the authoritative profile of Leeuwin Art Series Chardonnay. Today, for perhaps the first time ever in seeing these wines on release, I note that the oak is a key player in the drinking experience—as ever, seamlessly matched to the fruit and an important part of the wine's style and evident here today. There are toasted nuts, yellow fruits, exotic spices and an open fan of acidity/phenolics through the finish. This 2022 will prove to be a powerful and statuesque player in the wider footprint of Art Series Chardonnays. It's one to collect, but for drinking in the short/immediate term, decanting is recommended. Sealed under screw cap.  Drink 2030-2047.
    97 Points
    Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    This iconic Australian Chardonnay never allows standards to drop and this is yet another stellar effort from the great Chardonnay production line. A shimmering pale lemon, we have notes of spices, lemon curd, ginger, pink grapefruit, lemongrass, florals, peaches, nectarines, jasmine and stone fruits. There is a whiff of smoky oak as well and integration is proceeding well. There is complete balance here, with focus and energy. The wine is still very young and it will certainly be better if you can wait for two or three years before opening. Then enjoy it for a further ten to fifteen years. Juicy, with a supple texture and a long and lingering finish, along which the intensity is maintained for the full journey. A cracker. Drink 2025-2040.
    97 points
    Ken Gargett - WinePilot.com

    • Hot Item
    Longrow 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2022 bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $999. 00
    Bottle
    $11988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies. There is some minor scuffing to the boxes.

    Like the Local Barleys, the annual Longrow limited editions have garnered a cult following. Ever since 1973, a run of twice-distilled peated malt has been produced at Springbank (Springbank itself is two and a half times distilled). Named after an earlier distillery in Campbeltown, Longrow's creation was prompted by a whisky shortage. According to Serge Valentin, it shares parallels with Tobermory’s Ledaig and Clynelish’s Brora. All were created because Islay whisky was in short supply after severe droughts in the late 1960s, and because of the temporary closure of Caol Ila. Expect a peaty punch. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • 93
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    • Reduced
    2024 Madeleine Mediterranee Rose
    Mediterranee, FRANCE
    Reduced from $19.99
    $17. 99
    Bottle
    $215.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Crafted from a blend of 30% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, 30% Syrah and 10% Rolle this is a delicious Rose at a highly attractive price produced by Burgundian domaine Famille Paquet.

    A moreish Provence styled Rose that over delivers.

    Pale salmon pink tinged colour. Streaming from the glass are delightful scents of peach, raspberry and strawberry followed by some musk and wet stone notes. Intensely flavoured and gorgeously rounded in it’s feel, the palate sports a delicious flow of fleshy peach, raspberry and strawberry fruits. Notions of musk, pomegranate and wet stone unravel across the back half. Fresh acidity with a long slippery textured finish.
    Drink over the next 1-2 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 95
    2021 Majella Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon
    Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A success story of long term agricultural diversification, the Majella property was originally owned by Frank Lynn, and bought in 1960 by his nephew, George, for a prime lamb enterprise. Viticulture was not on the agenda until 1968, when George, encouraged by his friend, Eric Brand (of Brand's Laira fame) decided it would complement the sheep. Eric purchased the fruit for Hardy's, but the deal later fell through and for a couple of vintages tonnes of premium grapes were left to rot. The risk ultimately paid off. Majella have since had a long term contract supplying Wynns and today, plantings have continued to expand (150 acres now under vine), with Cabernet the flagship varietal. First produced in 1994, Majella Cabernet Sauvignon has quickly established a reputation as one of Coonawarra’s best.
    The 2021 Coonawarra vintage was excellent in both terms of quality and yields. Maturation took place in a mix of new and second use French oak hogsheads for a period of 18 months.

    Layered with a rich chorus of red to black currant fruit this is a beautifully refined and polished Coonawarra Cabernet.

    Magnificent depth of colour featuring a super saturated inky black heart and a very deep black dark red hue. Intense ripe blackcurrant aromas flood the nostrils with some liquorice, mulberry, vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco and bay leaf accents also chiming in. Beautifully refined yet concentrated the mid weighted palate is layered with a rich chorus of red to black currant, mulberry and red liquorice fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, subtle earthy tobacco and infusions of bay leaf ensue. Showing a delighted red fruited freshness, it possesses a fine grained tannin structure and an elegant, polished feel. Concludes long and highly finessed.
    Drink over next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Black raspberry, red cherry and pomegranate. Burdock root, crushed cumin and pulled paperbark stripped from the tree. Nutmeg and cinnamon. Fresh bay leaf, oregano and pepperberry. The silkiest of palates with ripe red fruit flowing down the centre, wrapped in cabernet berries that weave in and out. A mocha coffee and carob sweetness with a touch of anise and tobacco pouch. Such a grateful palate – it's a dream of a vintage, this one. Drink by 2032.
    95 points
    Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    2023 Masso Antico Primitivo
    Salento, ITALY
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Rich and plump with ripe, slightly chewy tannins and a lush, generously endowed finish.

    Matured in French oak barrels for approximately 6 months, this Primitivo is crafted from bush vines and made in ancient tradition of Apulian winemaking, known as Alberello Pugliese which concentrates the flavours in the grapes. Yet again this wine has been rated a massive 99 points by Italian wine critic Luca Maroni.
    Very deep black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Black plum, liquorice and ripe morello cherry scents are complimented by some dried herb, scorched earth and cinnamon notes. Rich juicy black plum, liquorice and morello cherry fruits flood the palate with notions of dried herbs, earth and cinnamon spice the undercard. Plump textural feel with ripe, slightly chewy tannins and a lush, generously endowed finish.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    2023 Maude Chardonnay
    Central Otago, NEW ZEALAND
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Sourced from 30 year old vines, this generous Chardonnay is fermented with indigenous yeasts, matured in seasoned French oak and undergoes 100% malolactic fermentation.
    Brilliant pale straw to straw colour with a subtle glimmer of green around the edges and a watery hue. Aromas of white peach, dried honey and cashew fill the nostrils followed by some biscuity nougat and subtle butterscotch notes. Rich, creamy textured white peach, dried honey, crème brulee and cashew flavours flood the mouth, whilst biscuity nougat and gentle spice elements unfold across the back half. Medium to full in body it finishes long, refined and beautifully rounded.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    Complex, youthful, varietal and enticing bouquet. Aromas of grapefruit and sweet peach, lemon and vanilla, raw cashew nut butter and layers of lees complexities. Near full-bodied on the palate with fruit, oak and lees flavours reflecting the bouquet. The key with this wine is the acid line accentuating the citrus with grapefruit peel, then complexities from lees and development. The minerality is also a feature with a clay, stone and baking spice qualities. Lengthy, dry on the finish and delicious with best drinking from 2024 through 2030+.
    94 points
    CamDouglas.com

    • 93
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    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Maxime Trijol XO Cognac (700ml)
    Cognac, FRANCE
    Reduced from $119.99
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    A super buy in XO Cognac with the presentation to match.

    Since the Trijol family originally settled as growers and distillers in St Martial Sur Né, in the heart of the Cognac region they have built on their expertise as growers and distillers, becoming full time distillers in 1962. An independent family firm, Maxime Trijol has twenty 2,500 litre charentais pot stills and is now one of the largest distillers of cognac supplying many of the larger houses. In recent times the company has concentrated on releasing more of its own cognacs which have been building a great reputation for quality.

    Re-tasted June 2015 [New packaging] Perfect clarity, polished copper coin colour. Rich and robust with scents of roasted nuts, cocoa, cigar box and dates. This is super soft and elegant with dried fruit and sweet spice flavours unfolding with excellent length. Sits so lightly in the mouth yet without any compromise on depth and power – in a word, ‘graceful’. 40% Alc./Vol.

    First tasted 2011: Deep copper / brass colour displaying good cling to the sides of the glass. First nosings offer restrained but attractive cocoa and dried fig notes. Ten minutes in the glass opens scents of orange peel, subtle vanilla, roast nuts and cedary oak. Entry is concentrated, soft and plush building with medium dry flavours of spicy dried fruits, raisin and fig. Good balancing acidity. Excellent length. Very long dried apricot / cedar aftertaste with a late dried fig burst. Great value.

    • 93
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    • Organic
    2023 Mesta Tempranillo
    Castilla La Mancha, SPAIN
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A great value Spanish Tempranillo full of juicy dark to black fruit.

    This great entry level Tempranillo is produced by Fontana Bodegas & Viñedos, a leading producer of high-altitude vineyards in Castile, Central Spain.
    Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. A mix of dark to black cherry and liquorice aromas are delivered with plenty of aromatic lift followed by some dried herb, vanillin spice and scorched earth notes. Juicy morello and black cherry fruits combine with some liquorice to flood the mid weighted palate. Scorched earth and spicy dried herb elements lie beneath. Slightly chewy mouth feel with ripe, sturdily built tannins. Long well fleshed conclusion.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    • 91
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    • 94
    Mobius The Company You Keep Citrus and Black Cardamom Gin (700ml)
    New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    ABV: 44%

    The alter ego to Mobius Distlling's Signature Gin employs a different recipe. This citrus-forward style comes with a creamier nose feel offering notes of orange spice cake and moderate juniper, the cardamom ever-lingering in the background. There's noticeably more citrus on the palate too (think orange rind or mandarine) contributing a tongue coating oiliness as hints of cardamom emerge through the zesty, warming finish. A nice marriage of flavours with a richer mouthfeel, you'll appreciate its nuances most when enjoyed neat or over ice. 44% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... The name of the gin itself begins this sense of anticipation; cardamom is often utilised in gin, but rarely in this form. The decadent, complex variation brings the classic menthol, cleansing notes of green cardamom with a distinctly smoky flavour. On the nose, black cardamom presents more subdued, warm, dry spices that are present but not yet fully realised. Funky esters grip onto the aroma, at first concealing but then blowing off to reveal lovely baked alpine characters. Hints of mint begin to cleanse the sinuses and offer a cooling sensation. The palate then bursts forward with intricate citrus that seems to dance. Oily juniper on the palate helps to keep the spirit hydrated and carries flavours together, building momentum. The black cardamom then culminates on the finish, all the subtle spices becoming fully realised in this punchy, enigmatic and rich smokiness, creating an eerie, almost arcane finish with just a touch of black lime. 94 points - Jess Clayfield, winecompanion.com.au

    • GOLD MEDAL - San Francisco World Spirits Competition

    • Silver Medal at the 2022 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards

    • 91
    • Hot Item
    • 92
    Mobius The Company You Keep Signature Gin (700ml)
    New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

    Getting the botanical balance right in a 'classic' gin can be tricky. Too many ingredients and it can lose direction and lack style. Too few and the gin can taste one dimensional. Mobius Distlling have succeeded in creating a signature expression defined by juniper (like a London Dry should be) with a hint of citrus in reserve. The aroma is soft and pure, infused with notes of crushed pine buds exuding a peel-like freshness, later joined by hints of cardamom and white pepper. The taste is silky, creamy, smooth and lemony with bright juniper and warming peppers finished by a gentle peel tang. Relaxed and refreshing on its own, this middle-weighter makes a lovely G&T, but go easy with the mixing as it can be quickly overwhelmed. The distiller's recommend a light tonic, garnished with a lime wedge. 43% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Designed as a versatile 'signature' gin, it hits the marks of the classic form without heavily leaning into particular profiles. It drinks very prettily and is well balanced, belying a carefully crafted spirit with a clear intention to be flexible in its uses. The nose offers a subtle, sweet character with wisps of orange blossom, dry green spice and an almost dusky, ginger note. The palate follows through and elongates the sweeter tone all the way through, which helps to develop its lovely texture. The citrus notes that permeates the gin remain lively and sunny, while soft, juniper oils bring everything together. All in all, a polished and elegant gin that retains its joyful energy. 92 points - Jess Clayfield, winecompanion.com.au

    • Silver medal 2023 London Spirits Competition

    • Hot Item
    • 93
    • 93
    • Reduced
    2016 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $140.00
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The 77th vintage from Moët & Chandon reflects a season of contrasts, with a cool, wet start followed by a warm, dry summer and an unusually late harvest. Cellar Master Benoît Gouez blended 48% Chardonnay, 34% Pinot Noir, and 18% Meunier, aged for six years in Moët’s chalk cellars before release. The result is an Extra Brut Champagne (5g/L dosage) that is radiant and harmonious, offering orchard fruit, citrus, florals, and a mineral edge. Supple in texture yet finely structured, it marries freshness with depth, capturing the grace and poise of a truly distinctive vintage.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Lovely salinity to this Champagne, which has notes of Asian pears, aniseed, preserved lemons, chalk and biscuits. It’s mineral and seamless, with transparency and brightness. Fine bubbles. 48% chardonnay, 34% pinot noir and 18% meunier. 5g/L dosage. Disgorged March 2023. Drink now or hold.
    93 Points
    Claire Nesbitt - JamesSuckling.com

    Grand Vintage 2016 sums up the year's strong suits very neatly – beautiful ripeness without heaviness, compact build and fine ageworthiness. It's a characteristically clean-cut, snappy vintage from Moët, with aromas of fresh baguette, satsuma, sweet red apple and strawberry, all framed with the toasty sourdough aromas typical of the house. There's some concentration and vinosity lurking here, even with the house's delicate style and pinpoint, meringue-soft mousse. This seems destined to be one of the top Moët vintages of late. Drink 2024-2034.
    93 Points
    Tom Hewson - Decanter

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 93
    Morris Rutherglen Classic Muscat (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $25. 99
    Bottle
    $311.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Brown Muscat grapes from non-irrigated vines are fermented and the resulting juice fortified with high strength neutral spirit. Maturation takes place in large oak casks ranging in size from 1500 to 4500 litres.

    Sienna Brown, onion skin colour with an olive green hue. Honeyed raisin and marmalade top notes meld into some well integrated spirit with toffee and subtle rancio end notes. Texturally viscous with a creamy like feel the palate is filled with sweet concentrated flavours of raisins, honey and marmalade over fine spirit, marzipan and some distinct rancio characters. Finishes with a long texturally viscous aftertaste of raisins, honey, marmalade, marzipan and rancio characters.
    Alc 17.5%

    Other Reviews....
    More touches of red-brown than the Liqueur Tokay, precisely as it should be; fragrant raisin varietal fruit luring you into the second glass; perfect balance. 500 ml.
    93 points
    James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion

    Much younger than the AUD $90 Old Premium but still showing great depth of flavour and lusciousness, this has a medium-deep red/tawny hue with yellow tints, and a hauntingly perfumed bouquet of rose petals, flowers and spicy muscat fruit. Very sweet, deep, lush flavour and freshness. Great quality – and affordable! (screwcap)
    95 points
    Huon Hooke

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    Morris Rutherglen Classic Tawny (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $25. 99
    Bottle
    $311.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Produced from Shiraz, Grenache and Mataro grapes this is an excellent example of entry level Tawny. Dark red onion brown colour with an onion brown hue. The nose shows medium intensity with scents of Christmas cake and honeyed walnuts over marzipan and light well integrated brandy spirit notes. Initial raisin and honey flavours meld into some marzipan and nutty brandy spirit. Dry nutty finish with the nuttiness following through to the aftertaste of walnuts, honey raisins and marzipan.
    Alc 17.5%

    • 99
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    • 99
    • 98
    Morris of Rutherglen Old Premium Rare Liqueur Topaque (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $110. 00
    Bottle
    $1320.00 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Established in 1859, Morris Wines of Rutherglen is the continuing story of 5 generations of family winemakers. Over these 158 years, the Morris family have earned their esteemed position as one of the most prominent winemaking families in Australia. Today, David Morris continues their winemaking history combining tradition with contemporary techniques, ensuring that the Morris name remains one of the Australia’s most iconic and respected wine family dynasties.
    Despite the waning interest in fortifieds over the last decade these amazing wines are unique to Australia and internationally renowned treasures that should not be lost to future generations. A warming glass of Muscat or Tokay is indispensable during the winter months.
    Totally opaque sienna brown black colour with a deep walnut brown olive green hue. Such is its viscosity that it clings to the side of the glass like paint. Knockout aromatics of toffee, honey and raisins are laced with perfectly integrated spirit. Nuances of marmalade, Christmas cake and spice are also apparent in this very complex sniff. Prodigiously rich with a syrupy like texture, so thick that you could almost eat it with a spoon, the palate is completely saturated with a concentrate of raisin, honey, toffee and maple syrup flavours over traces of marmalade, well integrated spirit and spice. Exceptionally long conclusion of honey, raisins, toffee, marmalade, finely integrated spirit, maple syrup and spice. Pure decadence in a bottle. Alc 17.3%

    Other reviews.... The colour is an astounding density. A myriad of dried fruit panettone, lapsang, five-spice, hoisin and roasted walnut doused in espresso and bitter chocolate, reel from a core of thoroughbred intensity. An immense wine that dichotomously, despite its sheer weight, almost evaporates from the tip of the tongue and surfaces of the cheeks, while lingering endlessly.
    99 points - Ned Goodwin - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

    Almost incomprehensible concentration here. This has a deeply aged, toasty and dark nutty edge on the nose. Roasted honey, dark chocolate, coffee and roasted malt, too. The palate has implausibly concentrated flavors that follow the same threads shown on the nose, all swooningly sweet and rich. Yet, somehow it extrudes and balances to the point of lightness, leaving a trail of long, dark and toasted flavors of almonds. Extremely impressive and complex. Drink now. Screw cap.
    98 points - JamesSuckling.com

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    • 95
    • 94
    2023 Moss Wood Amy’s
    Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $32. 99
    Bottle
    $395.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A Bordeaux style blend bristling with juicy red and blue fruit.

    Moss Wood’s entry level Cabernets, Amy’s, is a Bordeaux-styled blend that’s produced in an earlier drinking style loaded with generous fruit that shows plenty of flesh. Sourced from the Glenmore vineyard just north of Yallingup. It’s a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 6% Malbec and 5% Merlot. Maturation takes place in 228 litre older French oak barrels for a period of 18 months.
    Midnight black heart with a vibrant dark red hue. Delightful red to black currant and violet scents mix with some mulberry, red liquorice, lightly dusted vanillin cedar, tobacco and bay leaf notes. Mid weighted, the palate is layered with rich juicy red to black currant, red liquorice and blueberry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, delicate earth and infusions of bay leaf form the back drop. Excellent concentration with seamlessly integrated, fine grained tannins. The long, fresh finish bristling with a mix of succulent red and blue fruit.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    This is a blend if cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, malbec and merlot. In a good year like this one, it offers some of the best value classy red wine going around. This is as good as any in this line. Plush red fruit of tremendous intensity. A firm core of tannin and oak holds it firm as the succulent fruit washes through. Such energy and vibrancy.
    95 Points
    RayJordanWine.com.au

    Very much Cabernet Sauvignon dominant (83%), the wine also enjoys contributions from Merlot (5%), Malbec (6%) and Petit Verdot (6%). After fermentation and blending, the wine was returned to the 228-litre French oak barrels, none of them new, for maturation for a year and a half. A purple/maroon colour here, we have a nose exhibiting some of those classic Cab notes with black fruits, truffles, black cherries, cedar, cigar boxes and tobacco leaves, beef stock and graphite. There is deftly handled oak, silky tannins, excellent balance and length. This is a superb Cabernet blend and should drink beautifully for at least the next ten to twelve years. The team talk about it being approachable young and it certainly is, but I also think it has a long future – it simply has such fine balance and so much going on that it can’t miss. This is a stellar Amy’s. Drink 2024-2036.
    94 Points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    Perfumed, deeply brooding and floral aromas of crushed blackberries, raspberries, dark cherries and potpourri with blueberry compote, baking spices, bitter chocolate and violets. The medium-bodied palate has a silky texture, finely tuned tannins and real depth of fruit with mineral notes and a vibrant finish. A blend of 75% cabernet sauvignon with equal parts merlot, petit verdot and malbec. Delicious. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
    95 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 95
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    • 94
    2023 Mr Riggs Outpost Coonawarra Cabernet
    Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Ben Riggs sourced the fruit for this excellent Cabernet Sauvignon from one of Coonawarra’s top growers - Michael Wetherall’s, Wetherall Estate. From two premium vineyards on the estate that are a combination of terra rossa and sandy loam soils, the sites are located at the northern end of the region and are traditionally some of the earlier ripening blocks that deliver lower yields but excellent concentration. Picked on different days and from different blocks to allow for optimum ripening and multiple blending options, parcels of fruit for this Cabernet were separately fermented in 5 tonne open fermenters. On skin fermentation was completed before pressings were sent to barrel to complete fermentation in a 30% new French and 5% American oak combination.

    A beautifully balanced Coonawarra Cabernet that’s deeply concentrated and amply fleshed yet wonderfully refined.

    Dense midnight black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Sailing out of the glass with plenty of intensity are enticing blackcurrant, mulberry and choc mint aromas which intermingle with vanillin cedar, tobacco and spicy dried herb notes. Rich blackcurrant, liquorice and mulberry fruits caress the mid weighted palate with ample flesh and concentration. Lending further interest are notions of spicy vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and infusions of bay leaf. Beautifully balanced and structured it has fine grained tannins and a finish that’s long and deep yet refined.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews....
    A classic regional statement here, again sourcing the variety from outside Riggs’s home base – and unsurprisingly Coonawarra, showcasing its best-known features. Starts with a fragrant crush of black berries, bay leaf and mint providing their herbal aromatics, before easing into the palate with a certain grace and elegance, juicy, superfine tannin feels with just a delicate grab to finish, oak supportive and balanced – impressive given a decent amount is new French. Winner winner lamb shank dinner.
    94 Points
    Tony Love – WinePilot.com

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    • 95
    2021 Mr Riggs J.F.R. Shiraz
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $46. 99
    Bottle
    $563.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Formerly known simply as Mr Riggs Shiraz, beginning with the 2018 vintage this wine was re-branded J.F.R. as a tribute to winemaker Ben Riggs father. Fruit is sourced from three of McLaren Vale’s iconic Shiraz vineyards; Piebald Gully, Gateway and Martins Vineyard. Maturation took place in a mixture of 80% French oak and 20% American oak with 35% being new oak.

    Rich, expansive and incredibly powerful, this is seductive McLaren Vale Shiraz at its finest.

    Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Wafting from the glass are intense ripe blackberry and liquorice aromas which are complimented by dark plum, vanillin cedar, hints of dark chocolate, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich and lavish, the opulently textured palate is layered with a thick coating of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, earthy mocha characters, fennel and dark chocolate elements are sprawled across the back half. Expansive and incredibly powerful it possesses silky smooth yet underlying assertive tannins. Finishes splendidly long, plush and seductive. Mr Riggs at his best.
    Drink over the next 8-10 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews.....
    This is a blend from three McLaren Vale vineyards from three distinct subregions. Each of the vineyard wines was kept separate until bottling. The cooler Piebald Gully fruit seems to contribute to the elegance and vibrancy with its bright fruit characters. It’s full-bodied but refined and elegant, displaying spicy red fruit aromas and a rich, juicy, dark fruit palate. It’s largely been in French oak, but 20% American oak has added a sweetness to the middle palate. Impressive wine and great value in the cellar. Drink 2025-2043.
    95 points
    Ray Jordan - WinePilot.com

    • 95
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    • Australian Exclusive
    2008 Murray McDavid Benchmark Single Cask Glenallachie 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Australian Exclusive
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $220. 00
    Bottle
    $2640.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50%

    Present day Glenallachies are either heavily oaked or wine-driven - or both - placing them alongside some of the biggest malts on the market. Here we have an importer's selection that leans away from the extremes of Billy Walker’s official bottlings, straddling a line between older Glendronachs or Glengoynes, making for something more sophisticated in the genre. At first taste, leather and bitter peel lead into biscuity malt followed by juicy oloroso; time in the glass develops hints of honeyed cereals, curaçao, cinnamon buns, cafe cremes, walnuts and dark chocolate. It takes water well, but on its own this is perfectly approachable and worthy of the attention of fans of complex, drier-styled malts. Kudos to the Australian importer for bringing something different to the table! Eleven years in a 600L sherry butt / twenty one months in a 1st fill Oloroso cask. Limited to 287 bottles. 50% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • 95
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    • 93
    • Reduced
    2024 Muto Beechworth Chardonnay
    Beechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $29.99
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)
    ABV: 13.3%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Winemaker Waldo Smit sourced fruit for this Chardonnay from 20-year-old vines grown in the Beechworth township of Baarmutha by the Iwanuch family. Hand-picked fruit was gently pressed to 500 litre French oak barrels (15% being new) for fermentation, followed by 10 months maturation. Regular lees stirring took place and full malolactic conversion was encouraged to build textural qualities.

    A sub $30 Beechworth Chardonnay that delivers the goods.

    A brilliant pale straw core is surrounded by green tinted edges with a watery hue. Drifting through the olfactory senses are white peach, nectarine and subtle dried honey scents complimented by some biscuity nougat, hints of ginger and delicate flint notes. Rich and full in the mouth but far from heavy handed, the expansive palate is layered with fleshy white peach and nectarine fruits. Notions of dried honey, biscuit, nougat, spicy ginger and flint lend further interest. Offering Beechworth’s trademark depth and drive it has a shapely textural feel that’s nicely counterpointed by fresh acidity. Finishes long and gently spiced.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 13.3%

    Other Reviews....
    Muto goes to Beechworth. Didn’t see this coming, but can’t say that I’m complaining.
    This is a characterful chardonnay with good flavour, enough texture and complexity, and plenty of both punch and interest through the finish. This is excellent buying. Grapefruit, stonefruit, a flash of smoky/meaty oak and a lemon fresh note through the finish, combined with rust/mineral notes. Ripper buying/drinking here. 92-93, opted for the higher. Drink 2025 - 2030.
    93 Points
    Campbell Mattinson - The Wine Front

    • 95
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    • 94
    • 94
    • Reduced
    2025 Nicks Secret PLSV Clare Valley Riesling
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $24.99
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 10.3%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From the Watervale sub region, Skilly Valley, which runs north to south on the valley floor, vines grow in sandy loam soils over broken quartz. Protected from the extremes of the summer sun by the valley sides, the grapes from these vines produce Riesling with a natural crisp acid backbone.

    Lean and tense yet intensely flavoured with an electric feel and long piercing finish.

    Brilliant water like core with a faint greenish tinge around the edges. Lime and lemon scents leap from the glass trailed by some orange rind, talc and chalky mineral notes. Lean and tense yet intensely flavoured, zesty lime and lemon fruits shimmer across the palate with an electric feel. Orange rind, chalky talc and steely mineral elements thread their way through the zingy back half. Super crisp acidity with a long piercing, steely mineral laced finish.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 10.3%

    Other Reviews….
    The Skilly Valley is a sub-region of Watervale. And the minerally character in the wine comes from the sandy loam soils over broken quartz. It’s quite a delicate wine, heavily scented with light florals and appley citrus notes with just a hint of musk stick. The palate is fine, and although delicate, has a tremendous driving intensity with that typical Riesling tension. It finishes long and picks up very subtle stone fruit nuances as it flows through. Drink 2025-2035.
    94 Points
    Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

    A sub-region of Watervale. You’d not expect 2025 to be a good vintage, given it was so dry, yet here we are. The proof is in the pudding (or glass as it may be).
    My word this is a juicy wine. Green mango, lime and lemongrass, a spicy almost peppery top note. It has crunch and grip, lime and sherbet, definitely a sort of Thai salad sort of thing happening, and quite stony texture on a gently grippy finish of very good length. It’s maybe a little bit rugged, though I kind of like that. Flavour is not a problem for this wine, despite its very modest alcohol. Very nice. Drink 2025-2034.
    94 Points
    Gary Walsh – The Wine Front

    Exquisitely dry, gently textural, whispered with slate and full of class. This is Clare Valley riesling at its dry, persistent, mouthwatwering best. Lime, floral notes, slate and a whisper of strawberry and/or blackcurrant bud. It’s a beautiful, dry, crisp riesling, light, lingering and ultimately satisfying.
    94 Points
    CampbellMattinson.com

    • 93
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    • 93
    • Reduced
    2023 Nicks Secret PTG GSM
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $22.99
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From a top line McLaren Vale producer renowned for their rich, full flavoured reds, comes this delicious blend of 34% Grenache, 33% Shiraz and 33% Mourvedre which was matured in seasoned French oak hogsheads for 10 months.

    Rich, fleshy textured and succulent, this is terrific everyday drinking.

    Midnight black core with a dark red hue. Aromas of dark raspberry, plum and liquorice mix with vanillin spice, earth and peppered fresh herb notes. Rich and juicy, the mid weighted palate features raspberry, plum and liquorice fruits over a vanillin spice, earth and dried herb back drop. Fleshy textured it has polished, fine grained tannins and a long, fresh, succulent finish.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    A delicious example of the famous Rhône blend done McLaren Vale style. Three parcels from different vineyards across McLaren Vale have been blended after fermentation in small open fermenters, before ten months maturation in older French oak hogsheads. The name refers to the two gentlemen, *** and *, who founded ***. An inky dark maroon hue, the nose gives us notes of black fruits, mocha, coffee beans, cloves and leather with a sweet core of chocolate. This is bold, rich and ripe, with silky tannins and a lingering finish. An excellent McLaren Vale red which will bring joy over the next four to eight years. Drink 2024-2032.
    93 Points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    It's delightfully fruited and inviting, showing dark plum, sweet cherry, olive, nutmeg and rich floral aromas. The palate delivers excellent weight and plush texture, wonderfully framed by layer of polished tanning, finishing wonderfully long and structured.
    94 Points
    Sam Kim – Wine Orbit

    • 94
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    • 93
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    2022 Nicks Secret HHH Barossa Valley Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $22.99
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Made from 90% Shiraz and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the Barossa Valley sub districts of Bethany, Greenock, Nuriootpa & Krondorf with an average vine age of 30 years. Matured in French oak, 10% new.

    Rich, opulently fruited and velvety textured, this delivers exceptional everyday drinking.

    Dense inky black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Elevated dark plum, blackberry and liquorice aromas fill the nostrils followed by some vanillin cedar, dark chocolate and spicy earth notes. Rich and plump, the amply weighted palate is swamped with opulent dark plum, blackberry and chocolate bullet flavours. Vanillin oak and spicy earth elements extend through the back half. Silky smooth tannins with a long plush finish.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews……
    Ridiculous value! Can I leave the review at that? I had to do a double take when I saw the RRP - wow!  An articulate and expressive wine, this **** take on the classic Australian claret blend is a showstopper. It's a wine you just want to hang out with, such is its approachability and plentiful fruit. The consistency across the range of **** Wines I have seen of late speaks highly of its producer - bravo. And this super blend possesses that Scott Boland line and length reliability and magic.
    Dark plums, black currants and a touch of mint from the small addition of Cabernet lie in the shadow of dark berries, plums and chocolate nibs. It's not a showy wine, yet it walks with charisma and a calming presence. A smattering of dried herbs and fine tannins adds a moreish factor on close coupled with that persistent finish. Great stuff and well played. Run to this.
    Drink to five years+
    93 points
    QWineReviews.com

    The old Barossa reds were not the blockbuster monsters which are so popular today but rather, sought out a path of drinkability, while never sacrificing flavour. This is a welcome return to the past. There is 15% Cabernet Sauvignon included in the blend, which underwent a two week ferment with wild yeasts. Maturation was in a range of formats with 10% being new French oak. The fruit came from a range of Barossa sub-regions – Bethany, Greenock, Nuriootpa and Krondorf. 1,000 cases. Mauve/magenta in colour, the nose offers notes of blackberries, herbs, plums, mulberries, chocolate, coffee beans and mocha. A lingering finish with sleek tannins ties things together. Good focus here, and fine balance. This is indeed a more elegant style, but it lacks absolutely nothing in flavour. Apparently, Alex must have recently won Gold Lotto. Otherwise, why on earth would he be giving this away at such an amazingly cheap price.
    93 points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    • 93
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    • 92
    • 93
    • Reduced
    2024 Nicks Secret BBN Rose
    Geelong, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $24.99
    $13. 99
    Bottle
    $167.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    This Rose is from one of Geelong’s most revered estates made from a blend of estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Riesling & Merlot grown on established vineyards, planted in 1981, 1990 & 1996. Organically farmed it’s juicy, fleshy and intensely flavoured.

    Get ready for spring and step into this delicious, bargain priced Rose.

    Pale blood orange tinged colour. Spicy cherry, raspberry and blood orange aromas mix with some dried clove like notes. Tangy blood orange, raspberry, watermelon and pomegranate fruits meld into a spicy dried clove back drop. Slippery textured it has brisk, slatey acidity and a long dry, spicy finish that’s quite moreish.
    Drink over the next year.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Made using estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Riesling and Merlot.
    Dust and leaf notes ripple through blackcurrant bud, citrus, jubey raspberry and sweet spice. It’s a dry rosé with lots of spice and leaf notes but with a good core of juicy fruit too. Colour-wise it sits just on the pale or orange side of crimson; it’s a fair indicator of the dry-but-flavoursome-style of the wine. There’s a meaty/bunchy/Campari-esque side to this; it’s not dominant but it’s there. This would be great with food. Drink 2024-2028.
    93 Points
    Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front

    The nose is vibrant and fresh, giving fruit-driven notes of nectarines, peaches and watermelon rind. The palate is light-bodied with focused acidity, showing fresh herbs, red apple skin and chalk. Stylish and friendly. Made from a blend of 40% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot, 20% riesling and 20% shiraz. Drink now. Screw cap.
    92 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 95
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    • 95
    • Reduced
    2021 Nicks Secret TW Barossa Valley Grenache
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $59.99
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From the same estate as the 2021 Nicks Secret TW Blewitt Springs Shiraz, this label is the proprietors personal project which is mostly centred around single site expressions from Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Normally selling for around $60, this Grenache is sourced from Barossa’s famed Greenock sub district. Maturation took place in 500 litre French oak puncheons for a period of 10 months.

    Deep, powerful and intensely flavoured this is a wonderfully expressive Barossa Grenache.

    Deep dark purple core with black shaded edges and a purple red hue. Peppery dark raspberry, liquorice and black cherry scents fill the nostrils with some earthy graphite and spicy vanillin cedar notes also evident. Juicy and lush in it’s texture, rich dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruits explode across the mouth filling palate. Scorched earth, spicy vanilla and pepper elements sit in the background. Boasting outstanding power, it has velvet smooth tannins and a long sumptuous finish that’s bursting with so much succulence it nearly overwhelms the senses.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    This wine has slightly more textural richness than the Blewitt Springs, but it still retains that wonderfully elegant and refined integration that comes with some clever winemaking. In fact, the wine was not crushed, it was whole bunch pressed to a point and then cold soaked before natural fermentation with 14 days on skins and only light pressings. In this case, it got slightly more oak too with 9 months in all French oak puncheons but it retains its brilliance, brightness and energy with plenty of red fruits, spices, slightly confectionery complexity and such a fine, seamless, velvety smooth palate that extends through to a tremendously long finish. Appealing wine. Drink 2025-2035.
    95 Points
    Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 96
    • Reduced
    2021 Nicks Secret TW Blewitt Springs Shiraz
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $59.99
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From one of the big names in South Australia, renown for producing wines out of the Barossa and McLaren Vale, this label is the proprietors personal project which is mostly centred around single site expressions. Normally selling for around $60, this Shiraz is sourced from 32 year old vines located in the famed Blewitt Springs sub district. Maturation took place in French oak hogsheads for a period of 12 months.

    An exemplary Blewitt Springs Shiraz at a bargain basement price.

    Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Flooding the nostrils are blackberry, liquorice and ripe black cherry aromas complimented by some vanillin cedar, fennel, scorched earth and blackpepper notes. Rich and opulent yet muscular in it’s stance, the full bodied palate is saturated with succulent blackberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits which are shaped by sculptured tannins. Extending across the back half are vanillin cedar, earthy fennel and blackpepper elements. Concentrated and powerful it has a long, generously endowed yet robust conclusion.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    This was such a good vintage in McLaren vale and Blewitt Springs, and it shows itself superbly in this excellent wine. There's lots of power here, but it's perfectly controlled and harnessed to release into its sustained finish. The aromas are spicy, dried herb and dark plummy blackberry. The palate has a firm richness and concentration with even hints of dark chocolate and lightly dusted coffee grinds. But it is that punchy, intense fruit that triumphs and emerges in the finish. It's a wine of tremendous brightness and energy.
    96 Points
    Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

    Impressive and rich, yet stylish and graceful, the wine shows dark fruit intensity, smoked game, star anise, liquorice, and cedar characters on the nose. The palate displays excellent concentration and plump mouthfeel, combined with layers of grainy tannins, making it sturdy and structured with a sustained, satisfying finish. At its best: now to 2040.
    96 Points
    Sam Kim – Wine Orbit

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 93
    • Reduced
    2021 Nicks Secret TTN Cabernet Sauvignon
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $39.99
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From a renown McLaren Vale winery, this brilliant value Cabernet was sourced from vines aged between 25 and 50 years old. Each parcel of fruit was harvested and handled separately. After fermenting on skins for 10 days, the fruit was transferred to a combination of new (15%), second- and third-use French oak barrels where it was matured for 15 months.

    Deeply fruited and concentrated yet refined, this Cabernet delivers terrific bang for your buck.

    Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Sailing through the olfactory senses are ripe blackcurrant aromas infused with a mix of black olive and tobacco notes. Spicy vanillin cedar, earth, mulberry and bay leaf notes also chime in. Rich, fleshy blackcurrant and ripe mulberry fruits are intermeshed with cedary tobacco, infusions of bay leaf, subtle earthy black olive and spice elements. Seamlessly integrated fine grained tannins provide ample structure. Excellent concentration and depth with a long deeply fruited yet refined finish.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    Gorgeously composed and expressed, the wine shows blackcurrant, dark cherry, dried herb and roasted nut aromas on the nose. The palate is equally satisfying with succulent fruit intensity combined with fine texture and chalky tannins, making it wonderfully harmonious and structured. At its best: now to 2033.
    95 Points
    Sam Kim – Wine Orbit

    As the name implies, the intensity of this Cabernet is titanic: green bell pepper, mint, bay leaf, green peppercorn, cedar, black olive tapenade, tobacco, pencil lead, blackberry, blackcurrant, and black cherry. The list goes on. Concentration, power, succulence, and drive—this is a Cabernet that ticks all the boxes for old-world Cabernet lovers. Drink 2024-2032.
    93 Points
    Lisa Cardelli – WinePilot.com

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 94
    • Reduced
    2025 Nicks Secret Clare Valley JT Riesling
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $19.99
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 11%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From the world renowned Watervale district, this scrumptious Riesling is a blend of three vineyard sites, one planted in the 1930’s and the other two dating back 20 to 30 years. 2025 was one of the driest, warmest, and earliest vintages that the Clare Valley has ever seen resulting in low yields but exceptional fruit quality.

    Classic lip-smacking Watervale Riesling at a bargain basement price.

    Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Leaping out of the glass are intense lime, lemon and orange rind aromas which are trailed by some chalky talc and flinty mineral notes. Zesty and crunchy fresh, concentrated lime, lemon and orange rind fruits engulf the mouth watering palate. Chalky talc, subtle green apple and flinty mineral elements underscore the back half. Superb drive with crisp acidity leading into a long lip-smacking finish.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 11%

    Other Reviews….
    Some of the vines used for this very youthful but delightfully fresh Riesling from the Watervale sub-region date back to the 1930s. Pale lemon in colour, this is beautifully perfumed, with notes of lemon curd, spices, florals and grapefruit. A fine line of minerals and river stones in the background as support. There is fine balance and bright acidity, which runs the full journey. Enjoy over the next ten to fifteen years. Stunning value. Drink 2025-2040.
    94 points
    Ken Gargett - WinePilot.com

    It's elegant and beautifully scented on the nose, with aromas of green apple, white-fleshed nectarine, fig and lime peel. The palate is concentrated and focused with fine flow, backed by beautifully pitched acidity, making it wonderfully structured and harmonious with a sustained, refined finish.
    94 Points
    Sam Kim – Wine Orbit

    • 93
    • Hot Item
    • 92
    • Reduced
    2022 Nicks Secret ROCKG Shiraz
    Frankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $22.99
    $11. 99
    Bottle
    $143.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From one of Western Australia’s most well known wineries and arguably the state’s premier producer of Shiraz and Riesling, this Shiraz is their entry level offering made with small additions of Touriga Nacional and Malbec to provide additional complexity and aromatic lift. At it’s normal price of $22.99 it offers great value – at it’s secret price of just $11.99 it’s a complete steal!

    Juicy, pepper laced and well fleshed with chewy tannins, this is a highly savoury Shiraz that’s a complete steal!

    Midnight black dark red core with a dark red black tinged hue. Black cherry, dark plum and liquorice aromas mix with scorched earth and peppered dried herb notes. Rich spicy dark plum, liquorice and black cherry fruits abound carrying with them a nicely fleshed feel across the mid weighted palate. Juicy mouth feel with chewy tannins and an underbelly of scorched earth, dried meats and peppered herbs. Highly savoury, it has a long pepper laced conclusion.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    This is a good wine, and it’s good value. It’s a spicy, medium-weight style of shiraz, with a touch of positive reduction helping it along, with bell pepper and black pepper characters wedded to cherry-plum fruit. There’s also the merest whisper of musky vanilla, though oak is a low-impact player here. The tannin has a grainy, grunty aspect to it but then, it’s not overdone, and not dominant. There are no question marks here, everything is positive, though a slight warmth to the alcohol is the only thing you’d point to, if you were forced. It’s no real matter and besides, even at full price the value here is decidedly in the buyer’s favour. Drink 2025-2030.
    92 Points
    Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front

    Dark purple hues with a ruby outer rim lead toa bouquet of ripeness and richness, aromas of dark berries and roasted plums, a dark raspberry almost jammy quality then smoky earth, a touch of boot polish wood smoke. Fleshy, fruity, varietal and dry on the palate. All the fruit scents turn into flavour on the palate set in a silky frame with fine polished tannins and medium+ acid line. A lovely example, balanced and well made with best drinking from day of purchase through 2030+.
    92 Points
    CamDouglasMS.com

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Australia's most curated online wine & spirits list, regularly updated...

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.