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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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    2022 Nicks Secret GEN Malbec
    Langhorne Creek, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $26.99
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Without a doubt this estate is one of the leading exponents of Malbec in Australia. Having been growing it since the late 1800’s they first produced Malbec as a table wine in 1961. The fruit for this wine was sourced from three estate vineyard blocks and two specialist growers with maturation taking place in a mix of new (10%) and seasoned French oak puncheons for a period of 12 months.

    Rich, blue fruit driven and fleshy textured yet elegant, this is a textbook Malbec with accolades galore.

    Pitch black in colour with a deep dark purple black tinged hue. Pronounced ripe blueberry, plum and dark cherry aromas intermingle with hints of liquorice, dried herbs, earth, subtle vanillin cedar and spice. Rich and fleshy textured yet elegant, blueberry, dark plum and red liquorice fruits are layered across the mid weighted palate. Charming the back half are dried herb, dusty earth and spicy cedar characters. Slightly dryish fine grained tannins provide an excellent framework. Driven by blue fruit it finishes fresh, refined and long. Drink over the next 5-6 years.

    Winner of 3 trophies and numerous gold medals.
    · Trophy - Red Varietal - National Wine Show of Australia 2024
    · Trophy - Champion Wine of Show - Langhorne Creek Wine Show 2024
    · Trophy - Best Malbec - Langhorne Creek Wine Show 2024
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews....
    The fruit comes from three estate blocks and two specialist growers; open fermented with 20% whole berries; on skins eight to 12 days; matured for 12 months in French puncheons (10% new). Deeply coloured, the bouquet and palate hunt as one, with intense aromas of black fruits and clove spice joined by plums on the unexpectedly elegant palate. **** is the king of Malbec. Drink by 2040.
    96 Points
    James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion

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    2022 Nicks Secret AC Blewitt Springs Syrah
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $54.99
    $32. 99
    Bottle
    $395.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    From a renown McLaren Vale winery, this is one of their flagship cuvees which is only released in top years. Sitting at an altitude of 200 metres the Blewitt Springs sub region normally ripens 1-2 weeks later than most other areas in McLaren Vale producing refined wines that have a silken feel and gorgeous layers of rich blue to black fruit.

    Sleek and glossy textured this is a gorgeous marriage of opulence and finesse.

    Midnight black heart with a dark purple black tinged hue. Wafting out of the glass are seductive aromas of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum which are complimented by spicy vanillin cedar, traces of dark chocolate, earth and peppered fennel notes. A rich, silky flow of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits caress the full bodied yet wonderfully refined and polished palate. Vanillin cedar, subtle earthy dark chocolate and peppered fennel accents line the back half. Outstanding in it’s power and depth, it possesses velvety tannins and a long glossy textured finish that marries opulence with finesse.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    From three sandy sites, two planted in the '70s and one the late '90s; 14% whole bunch in the final blend; matured in French barrels (12% new) and a 2600L foudre. This is the most aromatic and lifted of the triad of single-site syrah in this range, which is unsurprising given the sandy soils. It doesn’t lack for depth and intensity though, the fruits simply more red, blurring a little into black, the structure tautly tensioned, the finale pleasingly brisk. Sour plum and cherry, tart blackberry, clove and pepper, struck rock, iron and black tea. It’s a lovely expression, just starting to suggest some tertiary perfume, which promises to build appealingly. It’s very good. Drink by 2035.
    96 Points
    Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    An impressive nose of blackberries, dried kelp, violets and licorice. The structure is a taut coil, like a spring contracting and expanding across gritty, detailed tannins melded to saline acidity. Iodine reduction, nicely handled. Full-weighted but detailed and classy. Drinkable now, but best from 2027. Screw cap.
    95 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    2023 Nicks Secret Barossa Valley YP Grenache Cinsault Mataro
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $24.99
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)
    ABV: 13.1%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Produced by a husband and wife team, this Grenache blend is designed to deliver a juicy, unpretentious and joyous wine that still retains plenty of interest. It delivers all that in spades. Sourced from several vineyards located throughout the Barossa, it’s a blend of 46% Grenache, 39% Cinsault and 15% Mataro with a portion of whole bunch fermentation. Maturation taking place in seasoned oak for a period of 8 months.

    A juicy and joyous blend that makes for fabulous everyday drinking.

    Red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light vibrant red hue. Showing good aromatic lift are attractive red raspberry and red liquorice aromas which are trailed by some fresh herb, red cherry and peppered earth notes. Carrying a fresh, bouncy feel across the light to mid weighted palate are juicy red raspberry and red liquorice fruits. Infusions of fresh herbs, earth and peppered clove lend further interest. Polished tannins with a long red fruited finish that’s energetic and quite succulent.
    Drink over the next 1-2 years.
    Alc. 13.1%

    Other Reviews....
    *** do a great job with their *** , a blend of grenache, cinsault and mataro, this year 46/39/15%. As the name suggests, it's built for 'drinkin, not thinkin', with a vibrant hue, bouncy, lifted aromatic profile and an airy flow of red fruits, spice, amaro and floral tones on the palate. I'd label this 'chill-safe' if the weather dictates such terms; it's great, light drinking. Drink by 2029.
    94 Points
    Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    A blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Mataro from the Barossa providing a cute spin on the traditional blend. Lifted notes of florals with a slightly earthy rose petal character dominant. The medium bodied palate has such beautiful mouthfeel with a smooth seamlessly integrated oak and tannin combination. The sweet fruit is balanced with a slightly minerally savouriness to complete a terrific little wine. Drink 2024-2032.
    93 Points
    Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

    *** are the masters of reliable drinking and here we go again with the latest * release. Translating to 'unpretentious wine', that sums up what **** do ever so perfectly. Such a versatile blend, this medium-bodied delight delivers in spades.
    A blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Mataro (46/39/15), I felt the Cinsault really talks bringing energy, buckets of cranberries and red apple crunch. Loaded with bright cherries, raspberries, chorizo, pan juices, cured meat, cinnamon and earthy spices, it is such an inviting and sessional red wine. Clever blending and fabulous drinking, you are winning with this in your glass.
    Drink to five years.
    93 Points
    QWineReviews.com

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    2022 Nicks Secret FE Frankland River Shiraz
    Frankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $27.99
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)
    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 comes this certified organic Shiraz at a never before seen price. Co-fermented with the addition of 2.5% Touriga Nacional and 1.5% Viognier to lend further complexity, 5% whole bunch fermentation was employed with maturation taking place in 500 litre French oak puncheons of varying ages for a period of 14 months.

    Rhone styled Shiraz that delivers crazy value.

    Pitch black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Streaming from the glass are aromas of liquorice and ripe black cherry which intermingle with dark plum, subtlety smoked vanillin cedar, scorched earth and peppered meat notes. The refined, mid weighted palate carries a plush feel, rich black cherry and liquorice fruits delivered with terrific intensity. Spicy vanillin cedar, scorched earth and peppered meat characters the undercard. Slightly chewy tannins with a long, fleshy, pepper laced conclusion.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Super savoury and highly appealing from the first pour. Certainly there are dark plums in the mix but also lots of woodsy spices, ferrous earth, wood smoke and some Aussie bush fragrance. Fuller bodied, yet the palate is neatly shaped with grainy, drying tannins and lithe acidity. Drink by 2032.
    92 Points
    Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    This stylish mid-weight 2022 Shiraz delivers a powerful yet elegant Syrah expression with layers of licorice, old earth and spice well integrated with fine French oak. Genuine tannins and generous flavours are well balanced with chewy textures which make for an impressive package with all the pieces in place to be enjoyable over the medium term. Drink 2025-2030.
    92 Points
    Angus Hughson – WinePilot.com

    A well-balanced, peppery and delicious shiraz offering aromas of cherries, strawberries, cured meat and warm spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. A refined texture with a dense core of delicious berries and chocolate. Textural finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
    92 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    2019 Nicks Secret LHB Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon
    Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    This Nicks Secret Cabernet Sauvignon is from one of Coonawarra’s most renown estates which was established in 1974. Normally sold for $25 and now with the added bonus of over 5 years bottle age it delivers exceptional everyday drinking at just $14.99. Made from vines planted between 1974 and 2000, it’s produced in a fruit forward style being aged in predominately 2-5 year old French and American oak.

    Rich, expressive Coonawarra Cabernet at a bargain basement price.

    Midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Sailing from the glass with plenty of intensity are blackcurrant and mulberry aromas which intermingle with vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and bay leaf notes. Unravelling across the medium bodied palate with ample generosity to their feel are rich blackcurrant and mulberry fruits. Also chiming in are spicy vanillin cedar, tobacco, earthy black olive and bay leaf accents. Sturdy tannins imparting a gentle firmness onto the long, well fruited conclusion.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

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    2021 Nicks Secret BFD Reserve Barossa Shiraz
    Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    This bold Barossa Shiraz was one of Robert Parker’s darling wines in the early 2000’s meriting scores of up to 99 points. Following hot the heels of the outstanding 2020 vintage, the superb 2021 release lacks nothing in terms of power or intensity on its predecessor yet shows a shade more refinement and has managed to garner even more substantial scores from the critics.
    Produced from a selection of only the best barrels utilising the estate’s oldest blocks of Shiraz, this formidable wine is only released in the great vintages and whilst not widely distributed on Australian shores it can be found selling for $150.00 per bottle on the winery's website. Maturation takes place in a mix of new French and American hogsheads for a period of 30 months.

    Seductive black and blue fruits wrapped up in a refined opulence are delivered with impressive intensity and power.

    Dense inky black heart with an equally deep dark red black hue. Dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate aromas waft out of the glass complimented by some high quality vanillin oak, hints of mocha, blueberry and subtle earth notes. Boasting blockbuster depth and power yet showing a refined opulence and youthful freshness, the full bodied palate is awash with rich, concentrated dark plum, liquorice, blackberry and blueberry fruits. Spicy vanillin oak, mocha, earthy fennel and pepper characters linger across the back half. Velvety tannins have an underlying sturdiness with ample freshness lending a balanced feel to the long seductive finish.
    Having only recently been it bottled it could use a few more months to settle but has all the ingredients to make a great Barossa Shiraz.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years plus.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews…..
    I have to say that there have been some wonderful wines from this vintage, and this masterpiece is right up there with the best of them. It’s a limited production release and given the quality of the vintage it makes sense it has been created in this season. The low crops have created a wine of tremendous concentration and intensity, but at the same time the balance is superb. Spicy blackberry and plum with a ladling of dark syrup chocolate and subtle coffee grinds. Loving it now. Drink 2025-2045.
    98 points
    Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

    The team’s Reserve is a barrel selection from the harvest of their oldest blocks of Barossa Shiraz, and only made in the best vintages. 2021 is categorically one of those ‘best vintages’. The oak used to mature the wine will be a mix of new French and American hogsheads and the time spent in them will be up to two and a half years. Under cork. Not surprisingly, there is a serious oak influence in this wine, but it is integrating superbly. An opaque maroon, this is a big, bold and delicious red, Richly flavoured, with mocha, soy, coffee beans, dark chocolate, cassis, beef stock, licorice and axle grease. Fine acidity here, running the length, silky but rather abundant tannins and great length. This is a twenty year proposition. Drink 2025-2045.
    96 points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    A powerful rendition; the intense bouquet shows cassis, dark chocolate, olive, toasted spice, cedar, and potpourri aromas, leading to a concentrated palate that's dense and weighty. Substantial and brooding, it's wonderfully structured with layers of fine tannins, finishing immensely long and captivating. At its best: now to 2039.
    97 points

    Sam Kim

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    2022 O’Leary Walker Polish Hill River Armagh Shiraz
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    After building an enviable reputation working for some of Australia’s most prestigious wineries David O’Leary and Nick Walker established their own venture in 2000. Based in the Clare Valley they specialise in Riesling and Shiraz that consistently excel in the value for money stakes.
    For the superb 2022 vintage fruit was sourced from two Clare Valley sub regions, the cooler Polish Hill River and also the warmer Armagh, north of Clare. Each batch is fermented separately in two and four tonne fermenters over a 12 day period and hand-plunged. Maturation took place in French oak, 25% new, for a period of 18 months.

    Bold, super seductive Clare Valley Shiraz at its finest.

    Dense pitch black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Potent liquorice, ripe blackberry and black cherry aromas waft through the nostrils complimented by smoky vanillin cedar, black olive, fennel and peppered earth notes. Whilst just as rich, bold and concentrated as recent releases, the 2022 vintage is also plusher and more open for business. Swamping every corner of the mouth are succulent blackberry, liquorice and ripe black cherry fruits which overlay a vanillin cedar, scorched earth, black olive and peppered fennel back drop. Demonstrating outstanding power and volume along with an opulent texture it possesses a very polished yet sturdy framework of tannins. Concludes with a long exuberant blackpepper laced finish. An outstanding follow up to the highly lauded 2021 vintage.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    What a glorious expression of Clare Valley Shiraz. It’s a wine that speaks of the land and the soil, of Aussie bush notes and earth, of bramble, blackcurrant, black cherry, peppercorns, liquorice, sage and warm clove oak. And that’s just the wealth of aromas that explode in the glass after pouring. Boasts plenty of class all round, naturally fine featured, well integrated. The 14.5% alcohol might suggest a high degree of richness and weight, but it’s deceptive. The Shiraz remains well within medium bodied territory in red plums, black cherry, bush notes and earth boasting an overall fineness. Tannin management, I would suggest, is the key here, bringing structure and suppleness. The result is a perfect balance. This can only be a plus as it ages . . . and it most certainly will age well. And look at that price! Outstanding value here. Drink 2024-2032.
    96 points
    Jeni Port – WinePilot.com

    The fruit here is sourced from two of the most exciting sub-regions in the Clare Valley, Armagh and the Polish Hill River. Fermentation of each is kept separate and the wine then sees time on skins. Pressed to tank and then racked to French oak barrels, 25% of which were new. The colour is an appealing cherry red/purple. The nose is intense with notes of chocolate, cloves, black olives, bergamot, coffee beans, blackberries and cold tea. The wine offers good focus, serious concentration and fine balance, finishing with silky tannins. Great length here and this is a wine destined to give pleasure for at least the next ten to fifteen years. Absolutely cracking value. A case in the cellar now will make you look like a genius in a decade. Drink 2024-2034.
    95 points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    One of the best value Shiraz releases I have seen this year. I only reviewed the 2021 vintage in April and here we have the 2022 hot on its heels. A brilliant expression of Clare Valley Shiraz, I enjoyed it a touch more than its predecessor. Incredible value for $35, run to this. From the Clare Valley sub-regions of Polish Hill River and Armagh, this spends 18 months in French oak.
    A riot of blackberries, dark chocolate and black olives reach out for an embrace. Coffee grounds, mocha, licorice and chocolate-dipped raspberries build interest and an engaging momentum as fine spices frame the package beautifully. What stands out to me, however, is the dense and generous presentation yet there is an even tempo and fluidity. The 2022 label has been updated to represent a new shade of olive green that reflects the olive notes in this wine and a hallmark of O'Leary Walker Clare Valley Shiraz. Damn it's tasty stuff. Don't walk, run.
    95 points
    Steve Leszczynski – Qwine Reviews

    A well-balanced and distinctly varietal and regional red of plush texture, dark cherry and mocha notes, green olive, clove oak, salt bush and gum leaf notes rippling through the bouquet and palate. A lick of graphite minerality a pleasing detail, so too the fine, al dente tannins that shape the wine and finish things fresh and bright. Fine wine. Drink by 2038.
    95 points
    Mike Bennie - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

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    2024 Oakridge Yarra Valley Chardonnay
    Yarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $29.99
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Generous in its flavour yet possessing a refined, glossy feel.

    Oakridge’s Yarra Valley Chardonnay is consistently one of the best value’s coming out of the valley. Fruit is sourced from the cool slopes of the upper Yarra Valley notably Gladysdale (Willowlake) and Wandin East (Barkala) with some also coming from Coldstream.
    Fermented in barrel and matured on lees for 9 months. Brilliant pale straw colour with hints of green around the edges and a watery hue. Drifting through the nostrils are scents of white peach, nectarine and dried honey followed by biscuity nougat and subtle gun flint notes. Generous in its flavour yet possessing a refined, glossy feel, white peach, nectarine and dried honey are featured over a biscuity oak, nougat and gun flint infused back drop. Nicely shaped it finishes long and fresh with a hint of emerging creaminess.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 13%

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    Old Pulteney 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $89.99
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    "yesss! Spot on Pulteney character with the malt bristling the taste buds..." 91 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible.

    Suitably marketed as 'The Maritime Malt’, Pulteney’s sweet and fruity style comes with a lick of salt and sea air. It's one of a small number of coastal distilleries turning out a very distinctive style, further distinguished by its extreme northern location. Owned by a relatively small company without the promotional muscle of the major players, many whisky enthusiasts only 'discovered' Pulteney after Jim Murray named the now discontinued 21 year old World Whisky of the Year, (replaced by the superb 18YO). Choose any age statement and Pulteney promises a solid northerner, frequently matured in x Bourbon where you get the best feel for the distillate, but also suited to sherry when handled with care. Apart from the notable saline character, we often find hints of beeswax and light smoke that give it a Clynelish-like feel.

    Established in 1826, for a long time the distillery was only accessible by sea. Barley was brought in by boat, the whisky shipped out and many of the distillery workers were also employed as fishermen. The herring fishing industry is no longer part of daily life in Wick, but the heritage of the region is referenced in the packaging of Old Pulteney, the labels incorporating the depiction of a traditional Wick herring drifter.

    The twelve year old presents a pale gold colour in the glass and a minor sulphur note is evident beneath the light, salty, peppery malt that leaves one with an overall impression similar to fino or manzanilla sherry; it sweetens slightly with aeration releasing hints of fruit. The medium dry, biscuity palate has a pleasantly spicy burst - over all, dry and saline. The finish is crisp and fresh with delicate bready notes followed by a late coastal tang. In the spectrum of single malts, this belongs at the aperitif end, and is all the more refreshing for its individuality. 40% Alc./Vol. [2007 batch tasted].

    Other reviews... Remarkably consistent.... The salt continues to ensure lustre, though this bottling has a little extra - and welcome - barley gristiness. 91 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

    ...The only survivor from Old Pulteney’s core range shake-up of 2018, this has been matured in first and second-fill bourbon casks. The nose is delicate, with almonds, honey, and floral notes. Malt and toffee on the palate, with spicy oak and a hint of brine. The medium-length finish is nutty, with wood spices. 87 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2018)

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    2024 Paladino Pinot Grigio
    Veneto, ITALY
    $13. 99
    Bottle
    $167.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A fantastic entry level Pinot Grigio that delivers both intensity and texture.

    This fantastic entry level Pinot Grigio that delivers on both intensity and texture was produced by the Rocca family who have been producing wines since the late 1800’s. This wine hails from the Veneto region in northeastern Italy, renowned for its picturesque vineyards and a climate that is ideal for producing crisp white wines.
    Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Lifted pear and red apple aromas are complimented by hints of dried honey, lime and wet stone. Featuring more than admirable concentration for its price and a gorgeous slippery textural feel, the palate is layered with delicious pear, red apple and lime fruits. Wet stone back drop with brisk acidity leaning into a refreshing finish that carries a supple feel.
    Drink over the next year.
    Alc. 12.5%

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    Pampero Anejo Especial Rum (700ml)
    VENEZUELA
    Reduced from $69.99
    $54. 99
    Bottle
    $659.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    In Venezuela, locals don’t ask for Pampero Especial by name but simply a “Caballito Frenao", literally asking for a “rearing horse” – a homage to the label's iconic Llanero (Venezuelan Cowboy), a symbol of freedom. Described as one of the company's most versatile rums, this light molasses-based spirit is aged in x-Bourbon barrels, with the heat of Venezuela’s unique micro-climate breathing flavour into the rum at a faster rate than anywhere else in the world. This process delivers a smooth, balanced expression with notes of wood, vanilla and sweet fruits.

    Gold Medal - San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2022

    4.5 Stars - diffordsguide.com

    Other reviews... Despite the relatively young age of the rum it doesn’t burn much at all when sipped. It’s really quite an easy going rum.  There is a little burn and the finish lingers in the mouth giving a little spice. It’s quite a dry rum – again similar to a Bajan (think Seales 10 year old).  It has quite a long finish and leaves notes of toffee and slight sugary caramel. These notes aren’t very distinct though it isn’t by any stretch of the imagination a particularly sweet or fruity rum.  There is a little bit of banana and vanilla initially but isn’t in spades like some rums. As a mixing rum its perfectly acceptable. - thefatrumpirate.com

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    Pampero Blanco (White) Rum (700ml)
    VENEZUELA
    Reduced from $63.99
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    ABV: 37.5%

    Few people will be aware that as well as being home to the famous rum based medicinal bitters, Angostura, Venezuela makes a number of well-respected barrel-aged golden and dark rums. Local producers say the combination of tropical humidity and cool winds that bathe Venezuela's sugar-cane fields helps to age the rum faster than in other countries. As José Mandry, president of the Venezuelan Alcohols Chamber that groups most of the country's rum makers says, 'Venezuela is a blessed land situated at the north of South America where the winds don't tear us up but gently rock us, and gently rock our rums.' The change in temperature from day to night stimulates interaction between the alcohol distilled from cane juice and the barrels, enhancing the taste.

    Produced at the Licorero del Centro distillery in Caracas, Pampero Blanco is crafted using three stills (Column, Kettle Batch and Copper Pot) giving the Rum Master a mixture of light, heavy and semi-heavy spirits to work with. Blended and aged for around two years in x-Scotch whisky casks then charcoal filtered to remove the colour before bottling, the result is a rum where the flavours are delicate yet confident enough to mix with others, be it in a rum & coke or as a “supporting actor” in a cocktail, such as the classic Mojito.

    Gold Medal - San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021

    4.5 Stars - diffordsguide.com

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    2024 Paralian Springs Hill Vineyard Shiraz
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $42. 99
    Bottle
    $515.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2031-2033)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Rich, youthfully bright and juicy with a slightly inky feel to the long, concentrated finish.

    Incredible colour density featuring an impenetrable inky black heart along with an equally deep dark purple black hue. Freshly crushed blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and blueberry scents are delivered with ample intensity. Notes of vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth ensue. Rich, youthfully bright and juicy, the concentrated palate is laden with blackberry, liquorice and fresh ripe blueberry fruits. Fennel, vanillin cedar and delicate peppered earth elements engage the back half. Fresh, energetic and succulent, it has a sturdy yet polished tannin structure which provides some underlying muscle. Finishes long and vividly fruited yet slightly inky in its feel.
    Cellar 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    From '75 and '98 plantings on the Springs Hill vineyard. The '24 Paralian suite, for me, is the finest to date. All killer, as they say … The quiet power in this is something to behold – a wine of gravitas and grace. It comes in a little darker of fruit this year, though not heavy with it. Dried olive, black cherry, violet, blueberry, ground coffee, a certain sultry floral and spicy feel, with an undercurrent of nori and iodine. This is a marvellous expression, with finely tooled tannins and exceptional length. Simply brilliant. Drink by 2038.
    97 Points
    Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

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    2024 Parish Vineyards Sorell Riesling
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Yalumba’s Robert Hill Smith and Louisa Rose of Pewsey Vale & Heggies fame are intrinsically linked with Eden Valley Riesling. They had also long admired the potential of Tasmanian Riesling, so when the opportunity came up to work with a unique site of mature Riesling vines they jumped at it.
    The Parish of Sorell is located 13km east of Tasmania’s Coal River. It’s cool maritime climate and mineral-rich soils, creates optimal conditions for producing intensely flavoured Riesling with slaty acidity.

    A scintillating Tassie Riesling - intensely flavoured, pure and pristine.

    Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged surrounding edges. Intense lime and Granny Smith apple aromas leap out of the glass followed by some lemon, wet steel and chalky mineral notes. Scrumptious lime, lemon and green apple fruits are underpinned by sizzling acidity which has a distinct flinty theme to it. Dry steely back drop with some chalky elements also evident. The long snappy finish threaded with a distinct minerality. A perfect match with a plate of fresh Tassie oysters.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12%

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 93
    • Reduced
    2022 Nicks Secret UST Cabernet Sauvignon
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $19.99
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Matured in a combination of new and seasoned French oak for a period of 15 months this renowned McLaren Vale producer has produced a more refined version of their UST Cabernet Sauvignon than recent past releases.

    Richly fruited yet beautifully refined and detailed.

    Midnight black core with a deep vibrant dark red black tinged hue. Nosing draws out elevated scents of ripe red to black currants which are complimented by some dried herb, cedary tobacco, dusty earth and spicy black olive notes. Richly fruited yet beautifully refined and detailed, the mid weighted palate sings a chorus of red to black currant fruits which overlay a vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco, earthy dried herb, black olive and spice back drop. A framework of nicely integrated fine grained tannins contribute a sturdy feel. Concludes long, nicely fleshed and elegant. Delivers serious value at this Nicks Secret deal price.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews....
    The vineyards which provided the fruit for this terrific McLaren Vale Cabernet include the Klavenick vineyard and, perhaps more interestingly, the Picnic Ground vineyard. The Picnic Ground vineyard was once owned by Thomas Hardy and was named after the picnics the family held there. The individual parcels for this wine were all fermented and matured, in older French oak, for fifteen months. Dark purple, the nose exhibits notes of plums, mocha, bay leaves, warm earth, dry herbs, mulberries and cigar boxes – lots of complexity here. This is a burly, firm style. A warm climate Cab with excellent length and firm, earthy tannins. This will be better in two years and then has a long life ahead of it, at least a good ten to twelve years, if necessary. If you are looking for a top-notch red for a gourmet barbecue, this will be perfect. Drink 2024-2036.
    93 points
    Ken Gargett - WinePilot.com

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 95
    • Reduced
    2022 Nicks Secret UC Shiraz
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $19.99
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Nicks Secret UC Shiraz returns and the 2022 vintage is quite possibly the best yet. McLaren Vale Shiraz at this price is rarity in itself and when combined with a highly reputable producer and the sheer quality of the wine on offer here, it all adds up to an exceptional buying opportunity that you simply can’t afford to miss.

    At this heavily discounted price the value on offer here is off the planet.

    Matured in a mix of new and seasoned French oak for a period of 15 months. Magnificent colour displaying a super saturated inky black heart with an equally deep black dark red hue. Ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum scents infused with blackpepper jump out of the glass followed by vanillin cedar and smoked meat notes. Rich and youthfully opulent the seductive palate is awash with concentrated black cherry, liquorice and blackberry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, peppered earth and smoked meat elements ensue. Sturdy, tightly grained tannins with more than ample power to the long blackpepper infused finish.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews....
    An absolutely cracking McLaren Vale Shiraz from a top vintage. What more could you want? Small batch ferment, eight days on skins, and then maturation for 18 months in French oak. The colour is a vibrant and yet near opaque magenta. Ripe flavours just oozing through here. Chocolate, mocha and coffee bean notes. This is rich and full with big, bold flavours. Expect this to provide great pleasure over the next decade and more. If this rich style is your thing, you’ll love this.
    95 points
    Ken Gargett - WinePilot.com

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 95
    • 96
    2018 Pewsey Vale Museum Reserve The Contours Riesling
    Eden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $36. 99
    Bottle
    $443.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A beautifully aged Riesling that combines vivid fruit with emerging tertiary characters.

    The Contours Riesling is crafted from old vines grown on the coolest slope within the Pewsey Vale Contours vineyard. Bottle aged for six years before release delivers a Riesling that’s rich and complex.
    Brilliant very pale straw core with a distinct shimmer of green around the edges and a watery hue. Intense aromas of lime and green apple are intertwined with oily toast and wet steel notes. Hints of lemon butter and bees wax are also evident. Vivid lime, lemon and green apple fruits infused with oily toast like characters are layered across the palate with terrific concentration, drive and textural volume. Lying underneath are traces of bees wax, lemon butter and a steely minerality. Crisp acidity is delivered with pinpoint accuracy. The long, dry finish carrying a gentle waxy feel.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews……
    Another museum release riesling from the excellent Contours block of the Pewsey Vale vineyard, way up around 500m in the High Eden. A gentle mid-straw in the glass with aromas beginning to take on the complexity that we love from aged riesling. Bickford's lime cordial, citrus blossom and Christmas lily are joined by buttered brioche, washed rind cheese, pressed wildflowers, almond paste, petrichor and stone. Porcelain acidity provides clarity and cadence, and it is clear that this wine is in a great place, possibly heading to a greater one. Drink by 2040.
    95 Points
    Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    Ah, the wonders of Eden Valley Riesling as it just starts to enter its secondary phase. This one is beginning to show some toasty character, which you might expect with a wine that is seven years old. But it is hardly going to flip in the short term and it retains a youthful, vibrant edge highlighted by that strong mineral and lemony character that you might expect with a little bit of Eden Valley bath salts and dry talciness. Already a high degree of richness, but it’s held tight with control. Outstanding. Drink 2025-2035.
    96 points
    Ray Jordan - WinePilot.com

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 94
    2024 Pierro L.T.C.
    Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $32. 99
    Bottle
    $395.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Bristling with freshness and wonderfully concentrated with ample textural volume counterpointed by crisp, mineral infused acidity.

    In 1979 Mike Peterkin produced Australia’s first Semillon Sauvignon Blanc. Working at Cullen’s at the time, the wine went on to win a trophy at the Perth Royal Show. He never claimed any originality for the idea, he simply borrowed it from the French. In 1980 he was so convinced of the blend’s potential in Margaret River he devoted a third of the Pierro plantings to the varieties.
    The 2024 L.T.C. is made up of 55% Sauvignon Blanc, 21% Semillon, 13.5% Chenin Blanc and 10.5% Chardonnay. Twenty five percent of the blend was fermented and matured in new and one & two year-old French oak barrels for a period of 2-3 months with the balance fermented and matured in stainless steel.
    Brilliant very pale straw colour with distinctive green tinted edges and a watery hue. Passionfruit and herbaceous gooseberry aromas leap out of the glass with notions of green apple, lime, delicate pencil shavings and spice notes also present. Bristling with freshness, wonderfully concentrated passionfruit, green apple and lime fruits are layered across the scrumptious palate. Ample textural volume is counterpointed by crisp, mineral infused acidity with subtle gooseberry, quince and spice elements the undercard. Long, vivacious finish.
    Drink over the next 1-2 years.
    Alc. 13%

    Other Reviews….
    This vintage is 55% Sauvignon Blanc, 21% Semillon, 13.5% Chenin Blanc and 10.5% Chardonnay. So a little touch of two Cs here. Not Les Trois Cuvées, rather Les Quatres Cuvées.
    Lime and grapefruit, a little cut grass, green tea, fennel and spice. It’s bright and has some lime and grapefruit tang, though it also has some macadamia nut richness to it and kiwi fruit juiciness. Texture is a little powdery, and it finishes with good length and sort of gin and tonic bite. A very good and interesting wine. As an aside, it looked better after being open for a day. It’s 93 or 94 points, though I’m leaning toward the latter. Drink 2025-2031+.
    94 Points
    Gary Walsh – The Wine Front

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 93
    • 95
    2024 Pikes Traditionale Riesling
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $23. 99
    Bottle
    $287.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 11.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Pikes have long produced one of Clare Valley’s benchmark Rieslings, 2024 marking the 40th release, one which was a smooth, uninterrupted growing season that shows more forthcoming and bolder fruit whilst sacrificing nothing in terms of structure and length. Fruit is sourced predominately from the Estate’s Polish Hill River vineyard with the balance coming from growers located in the Watervale, Sevenhill, Leasingham and Mintaro districts. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel on lees for 3 months.

    Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Leaping from the glass are intense lime and citrus scents which are complimented by orange rind, chalky talc and mineral notes. Zesty and racy in its feel, concentrated lime, lemon and green apple fruits fill the mouth with crisp mineral infused acidity the spine. Also evident are some subtle chalky talc and wet steel elements. Showing good tension it finishes dry, long and scrumptious.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 11.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Consistently one of the finest Rieslings from Clare, especially when you consider value for money. This vintage turned out really well for Riesling in Clare. Most of the fruit comes from Pike’s Polish Hill River vineyards with the balance from other vineyards throughout the region. There is a degree of tension yet there is power and intensity with a fine minerality and subtle citrus tang. Lovely wine for current drinking and for the cellar. Drink 2024-2034.
    95 points
    Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

    If there is a more reliable wine, which can provide better value than this one, anywhere in Australia, please let me know. Sourced half from estate vineyards and half from growers throughout the Clare Valley, this is the 40th consecutive release of this wine, a fine achievement. Free run juice only and then three months post fermentation on lees. A pale yellow hue, the nose exhibits typical lemon/lime aromas, with florals, grapefruit pith, river stones and oystershells. A classic Clare Riesling, everything is in place. It offers a gentle balance, with fresh acidity and impressive length. A wine which will easily see ten to fifteen years in a good cellar (I’d be prepared to put money that every single previous release, from the time they started using screwcaps more than twenty years ago, would still be drinking well – these things will rival the Californian redwoods for longevity). Drink 2024-2039.
    94 points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    The 2024 Traditionale Dry Riesling is dry and succulent, with ripe lime and Granny Smith apple, lemon pith and white pepper. This is magnificently delicious, with talc-like phenolics that shape the mid-palate and long finish. It is an excellent value for money, at $28 AUD / $17 USD. 11.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2034.
    93 points
    Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

    • 97
    • Hot Item
    • 96
    • 97
    2024 Pikes The Merle Riesling
    Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $52. 99
    Bottle
    $635.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)
    ABV: 11.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Named in tribute to Pike’s family matriarch, ‘The Merle’ is a selection of the best parcels of Riesling from their Polish Hill River Estate.

    Brilliant water like colour with a faint greenish tinge around the outskirts. Bursting out of the glass are intense lime, citrus and orange rind aromas which are trailed by some green apple, talc and steely mineral notes. Tense and focused, the riveting palate features concentrated flavours of lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple. Chiselled acidity lends a taut sculptured feel with subtle orange rind, chalky talc, wet steel and flinty mineral elements extending across the back half. Outstanding power with a long, bracing finish that’s delivered with laser like precision.
    Drink over the next 8-10 years.
    Alc. 11.5%

    Other Reviews…..
    While the Traditionale is regularly one of the very best in its price bracket (and often well above it), The Merle never fails to sit among the very best releases of Clare Riesling, year after year, no matter what price bracket you quote. For me, this is one of our iconic Rieslings. The colour for this latest release is a near transparent lemon. The wine is elegant and refined, fresh and focused and offers drive, impeccable balance and endless length. A line of sea breeze acidity runs the length, the intensity never drops for a moment, and that freshness is still evident throughout. Fabulous stuff, this latest release is a worthy addition to the lineage. Enjoy over the next twenty years. Drink 2024-2044.
    97 points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    I'd be happy to lie on my back and have someone drip feed this Pikes The Merle Riesling into my mouth for the rest of my days. What an impeccable wine this is. Pure, focused, detailed and delicate all at the same time, class oozes from every pore.
    It's a supreme exercise in precision and highlights the gift that the Clare Valley subregion of Polish Hill River is to the production of this fabulous variety.
    Only made in exceptional years, specific parcels were selected and it was made exactly the same as the Traditionale Riesling.
    Limes, lime leaf and green apple feature large but carry themselves with fabulous humility. Lemongrass and grapefruit add detail with a river stone minerality that threads its way through the frame. Pretty white field flowers offer a fresh and vibrant aroma that calls you back time and gain.
    The 2024 Clare Valley Rieslings are absolutely humming and be sure to pop The Merle down as one of the wines that you need to track down. Drink to ten years+
    97 points
    QWineReviews.com

    The 2024 The Merle Riesling is powerful and tightly controlled, with a long spool of flavor—lemongrass, white pepper, cheesecloth, bay leaf and scratched lime—that draws out over the finish. I like this wine in its youth, and I like it as an older wine as well. It's very smart and eloquently of place. 11.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2044
    96 points
    Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • Biodynamic
    • Organic
    2022 Plantamura Primitivo Gioia del Colle
    Puglia, ITALY
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Rich and mouth filling with chewy tannins and a long juicy yet sturdy finish.

    Gioia del Colle is a town located midway between Matera and Bari, high in the hills of central Puglia renowned for it’s Primitivo and cheese. Plantamura is a family run concern with 10 hectares of organically farmed vineyards.
    Midnight black heart with a dark red hue. Pronounced ripe morello cherry and liquorice aromas mix with some black cherry, vanillin spice and earth notes. Rich mouth filling morello cherry, liquorice and black plum fruits are supported by chewy tannins with notions of vanillin spice and scorched earth the undercard. Concludes long and juicy yet sturdy in its feel.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Plantation Grande Reserve Rum (700ml)
    BARBADOS
    Reduced from $74.99
    $64. 99
    Bottle
    $779.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Other reviews... part of the Signature blends which include the Barbados 5, the XO, Grand Anejo and Xaymaca — these are what one might infer are entry level rums for the curious (to call them ‘premium’ would be a stretch). They are neither bartenders’ mixing staples like the Three Star, OFTD or Original Dark, nor expensive limited editions like the upscale Extreme, Single Cask or Vintage series, and exist in a kind of everyman’s universe where “reasonableness” is the watchword. It goes down easy without reaching and that may be the key observation. Overall, it’s a relatively simple rum compared to others I’ve had (including some from Plantation themselves), yet a rum one can, with care and lowered expectations, have neat without too many issues. To be honest, I thought the rum was better than it had a right to be considering the sweetening Plantation is known for...  For someone now getting into rum, it’s serviceable and they could use it as a stepping stone to get more into the field, though for getting into the Barbados style it’s useless, so forget that aspect. Those with more experience can use it as a bellwether for what to look for in Plantation’s successively more upscale (and expensive) offerings; and for those who’re really into rums, well, there’s not much to say to them, since they already know all there is to know. - thelonecaner.com

    ... From just before Plantation became Planteray, for reasons that remain a little unclear to us—though seemingly a bit on the ‘woke’ side. We’ve nothing against wokism, of course, but we do rather like balance in all things and tend to think anything excessive becomes trivial. ‘Does ‘habitation’ still work by the way? Right then, shall we have a taste?... This must be from W.I.R.D., owned by the same fine folks. Colour: white wine. Nose: cooked sugar verging on ‘petit boulé’, sugarcane syrup and a generous splash of orgeat, with a few fluttering florals hovering about—white clover in particular, adding a faint pastoral lift. Mouth: pleasant at first, but the sweetness does rather take over. Think Malibu laced with molasses honey and sweet woodruff cordial. Finish: medium in length, gentle and sugary, with no real parting bite. Comments: clearly meant to be served over a good handful of ice, ideally dragged down to 8°C or so. In that context, it might even do the trick. At room temperature, however, it's a different story altogether. 70 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Plantation Isle of Fiji Rum (700ml)
    FIJI
    Reduced from $99.99
    $74. 99
    Bottle
    $899.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    From the pristine lagoons to the lush jungles, Plantation Isle of Fiji is an ode to the beauty of the Fiji Islands. Molasses-based and made using both pot and column stills at the Fiji Distillery, including local Fijian sugar cane, the liquid was first aged in the tropical climate in bourbon casks for three years, then sailed to the southwest of France for twelve months finishing in French oak. This double ageing method paired with Fijian know-how creates a rum with warm notes of exotic fruits and raisins. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... Color : Gold. Nose : Intense, it starts on molasses, pear and varnish. It then becomes fruitier and spicier on apple, banana and gooseberry, also nutmeg and vanilla with a hint of smoke. Palate : Rich and round, it follows the nose with vanilla fudge, honey, ginger and fruity notes of prune and coconut. Finish : Very long on dried banana, bourbon and allspice. Empty glass : Molasses, oak and allspice.

    • Hot Item
    • 92
    • Nick's Import
    • Packaging may vary
    • Reduced
    Plantation 5 Year Old Barbados Rum (700ml)
    BARBADOS
    Reduced from $94.99
    $74. 99
    Bottle
    $899.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    "Fruit from start to finish: If you want the perfect rum for a pina colada, this is your guy. A huge bargain." - drinkhacker.com

    Plantation Rum is actually part of the French company Cognac Ferrand, and it offers dozens of rums that are sourced from plantations all over the Caribbean and beyond. Their 5-year-old Barbados expression is one of the most popular rums on our shelves, partly because it delivers a quality product at a reasonable price. Using both pot and column distilled rums, the blend is aged for five years in x-Bourbon casks followed by a finishing period in Ferrand cognac barrels.

    Other reviews... Scents include brown sugar, molasses, vanilla bean, ripe tropical fruit, marzipan, refined sugar and honey. Taste features intriguing, bittersweet tastes of black pepper, molasses, dark chocolate and palm oil. Finish is long, bittersweet and woody. 92 points - wineenthusiast.com

    ...Self-explanatory provenance here, in a rum that is light in color but long on character. A restrained nose offers hints of brown sugar, banana, and fresh apple, but keeps it in check. On the palate, huge coconut notes emerge, plus more banana and some pineapple notes. Fruit from start to finish: If you want the perfect rum for a pina colada, this is your guy. A huge bargain. - drinkhacker.com

    4 Stars - Highest recommendation - Paul Pacult, www.spiritsjournal.com

    ...We've tried a 5 'Grande Réserve' that had been really too sweet, but that was ten years ago. Colour: light gold. Nose: a lot of burnt hay, or garden bonfire, that's not unpleasant at all. Whiffs of fresh-pressed cane juice too, even if this is not 'cane juice rum'. In short, a most pleasant caney nose, with notes of pistachio syrup in the background. Fine!  Mouth: things are getting tougher. Read 'sugary'. It may not be as offensive as it used to, but you still have the impression of having swallowed five sugar cubes at once or drunk a litre of Coca Zero/Light or equivalent. Finish: short and sugary. Sugarcane syrup and pineapple liqueur. Comments: do you think you could rather add stevia to your rums? What's good is that you could make a Ti punch or a Daiquiri without having to add any sugarcane syrup. This with hugs to all mixologists in the world. 65 points - whiskyfun.com

    • 90
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Plantation Stiggins Fancy Pineapple Rum (700ml)
    TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
    Reduced from $88.99
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    A pineapple-infused libation built on Plantation's Original Dark and 3-star white rums. Aromas of fresh-sliced pineapple take centre stage maintaining excellent clarity and lift even after ample air contact. Medium-bodied, with upfront ripe pineapple, the finish adds gentle acidity achieving an impressive sweet/dry balance. Hints of dried banana and golden syrup evoke rum in the aftertaste, but the keynote throughout is pineapple, pineapple and pineapple - in the best possible way. Use it as a base for tropical cocktails. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... not an artificially flavored alcoholic beverage; it's infused with real pineapple rinds. It's a nuanced, delightful sipper, with Trinidad's Plantation Original Dark and Plantation Three Star White as its base spirits, and Queen Victoria pineapples infused therein...Their infusion method, however, is rather modern. The rinds (where essential oils reside) of Queen Victoria pineapples—widely considered the best—are infused with the white and dark rum (separately) for three weeks. The white rum concoction then gets distilled in pot stills, and is married with the dark rum infusion in barrels for three months. The result is entirely tropical, with pronounced pineapple flavor accenting the spiciness of the rum. However, it's not fruity in the way that overly sugary fruit-based cocktails are. It's far more dynamic and of the utmost quality. - David Graver, Cool Hunting

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • 92
    • 93
    2022 Poggerino Chianti Classico
    Tuscany, ITALY
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A medium bodied Chianti Classico that combines fabulous richness with a robust structure.

    Located in the commune of Radda, Piero Lanza and his sister, Benedetta, took over the estate from their father in the mid 1980’s and have extensively renovated the vineyards. The wines are typically full and rich yet retain beautiful elegance and perfumed fruit. They taste like Chianti should and they are always good, even in lesser years. The attention to detail in the vineyard verges on fanatical, with biodynamic farming, careful clonal selection, close planted vines, nitrogenous cover crops, extensive canopy management and hand picking to ensure the best possible combination of concentration, acidity and ripe tannins. Wild yeast fermentation, modern winemaking techniques and French oak for maturation complete the process. The resulting wine reflects these labours and is a beautifully balanced and perfumed style of Chianti.

    A 100% Sangiovese aged in French barrique and tonneaux for 12 months. Inky black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Ripe red to black currant and liquorice aromas mix with earth, dried herb and spicy tobacco notes. Possessing fabulous richness and a robust structure the medium bodied palate is flooded with ripe red to black currant and liquorice fruits. Dusty earth, spicy cedar, subtle tobacco elements and traces of leather sit below. Muscular tannins finishing long, ripe and chewy.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Cherry, raspberry, blood orange and floral aromas and flavors come together in this vibrant red. Offers earth, Mediterranean herb and oak spice hints, while assertive tannins leave a firm grip. Best from 2026 through 2033.
    93 Points
    Wine Spectator

    Once again, Poggerino’s Piero Lanza puts out one of the most successful annata of the vintage thus far. His 11 hectares in Radda sit mainly on Galestro soil with an underpinning of clay rather than sand, giving seriously structured wines. Dense fruit and spice greet the nose, with glossy dark red cherry, mint and cinnamon following through on the palate. Impressive substance is backed up by chewy, layered tannins, gracious rather than austere, dissolving slowly into the crunchy currants that draw out the finish. Vibrant and impressive. Drink 2024-2031.
    92 Points
    Decanter

    • 97
    • Hot Item
    • 95
    • 95
    • Not gift boxed
    • Reduced
    2016 Pol Roger Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $175.00
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Pol Roger’s 2016 vintage Champagne is made from the traditional house vintage blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay sourced from 20 Grands and Premiers crus vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs regions.

    Possessing great length and a graceful, airy like feel, this is a wonderfully complex and finessed Champagne.
    A fine, satiny mousse slowly subsides to reveal a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold tinged edges with a generous and very fine bead flowing through to the surface. On the nose leading the way in classic Pol Roger style are aromatics of yeast lees and brioche followed by some citrus, cashew, subtle dried honey and faint oily toast like notes. Rich and creamy textured yet wonderfully  light and airy across the palate. A sophisticated flavour profile of baked bread, yeast lees, delicate cashew, citrusy honeyed like characters, ginger, chalk and oily toast elements extend through to a very long and pillowy finish that’s beautifully sculptured by mouth watering acidity.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    A very elegant and silky vintage Champagne with a seamless harmony of candied citrus fruit, sushi ginger and dried cherry character with racy acidity and delicate minerality at the long, straight and refined finish. You don’t even think about how much or little dosage this has. Drink or hold.
    95 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    Based on 60% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay, the 2016 Champagne Vintage Brut is released only after 6-7 years on the lees (sur latte). It pours a straw hue and displays a more expressive profile on opening, with notes of tangerine and fresh flowers, its red fruit coming through with fresh red raspberry and peppery spice. It’s medium-bodied and rounded through the palate, with excellent structure, powerful concentration, and a long finish. This has a refined yet powerful feel and will be a wine with significant longevity and slow maturation over the next 15-20 years. True to the house style, it has a sturdy backbone and is emblematic of a fantastic vintage champagne from Pol Roger. The mousse is pinpoint and rounded on the finish. Drink 2024-2040.
    95 points
    Audrey Frick - JebDunnuck.com

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 96
    2022 Pressing Matters Pinot Noir
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $64. 99
    Bottle
    $779.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 12.8%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Semi translucent ruby red colour with a bright crimson red hue. Perfumed scents of violets, red to dark cherries and strawberries escape from the glass followed by hints of anise, forest floor, fresh herbs and spicy cedar notes. Rich, intensely flavoured and possessing an expansive peacocks tail and power wave, the highly moreish palate is supplely decorated with red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours. Infusions of fresh herbs, rhubarb, forest floor and spicy cedar like characters lie underneath. Possessing ample freshness and polished tannins it finishes exceptionally long and uber delicious.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12.8%

    Other Reviews…..
    Coal River Valley pinot noir made by Samantha Connew. A very pretty bright ruby in the glass with aromas of amaro and blossom-flecked red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry fruits underscored with hints of spice, Peking duck, leaf litter, dried citrus rind, struck flint and earth. It smells gorgeous, and the palate follows up with smallgoods and undergrowth and mountain herb tones, finishing long with detail, sapid acidity and powdery tannins – it's a wonderful release. If you're ever down Tassie way, make sure you check out the new Pressing Matters cellar door too. It's a beauty. Drink by 2038.
    96 points
    Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2024 Puech-Haut Argali Rose
    Pays d'Oc, FRANCE
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Glass Stopper

    Puech-Haut’s lighter coloured style of rosé is akin to what the French call "Vin Gris", usually enjoyed with Summer Mediterranean dishes like grilled fish, tian (a cold vegetable flan) and salads, but also as an aperitif with finger foods. Made as a "Rose de presse" (juice straight off the press), the grapes are pressed rather than macerated (as is the case in a "Rose de Saignee").
    Chateau Puech Haut employ Grenache and Cinsault for this wine, which is fermented in thermo regulated stainless steel over twenty days to increase flavour intensity.

    Gorgeously textured and wonderfully intense with a long super moreish finish.

    Very pale salmon pink tinged colour. Delighting the olfactory senses are fragrant aromas of peach, raspberry, strawberry and pomegranate which mix with whiffs of musk and wet stone. Gorgeously textured with a supple feel, and wonderfully intense, the palate is layered with peach, raspberry, strawberry and musk flavours. Stony back drop with flashes of pomegranate also making an appearance. Fresh acidity with a long slippery finish that makes a second glass impossible to resist. Blissful Summer drinking.
    Drink over the next 1-2 years
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews…..
    Silvery pink wine. Super-juicy, like a crush of blood orange, raspberries and early-season strawberries. Sharp and round at the same time. Tremendous energy. Lemongrass and basil-leaf sherbet, verbena-leaf freshness. Smooth as a pebble. 
    17/20
    JancisRobinson.com

    • 92
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    • 96
    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Redbreast 12 Year Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey (700ml)
    County Cork, IRELAND
    Reduced from $139.99
    $109. 99
    Bottle
    $1319.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    This is the world's best whiskey! Drinkstrade.com.au have reported that Redbreast 12 Year Old has won the World Whiskey Trophy at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2019. The competition awarded Redbreast 12 an impressive 98 points, narrowly beating other competitors from Australia, South Africa, Denmark, India, Taiwan and Switzerland, among many others.

    The judges said: “It starts with a gorgeous nose, a fantastic composition of aromas all complementing each other. Think of roasted coffee, toffee apples, malt and warm Christmas spices. The palate is bold but very elegant with a nice balance and all in order to a great finale with dried fruits, candied oranges and sweet spices.”

    For decades, serious whiskey drinkers drank Irish "blended" whiskey, mixing it with cola or adding a dash to coffee. But, John Hansell, editor and publisher of Malt Advocate magazine, says that's changing. "The line between Irish whiskey and Scotch whisky has become blurred," says Hansell, since Irish whiskey companies like Bushmills and Jameson have expanded their range to include deluxe whiskies from aged blends to pure pot stills and their own brand of single malts. "The top Irish whiskeys are just as good as many single-malt scotches. It's too bad more people aren't aware of how complex some of these whiskeys have become."

    Here's a case in point. From Irish Distillers Ltd, Redbreast is a 'Single' unblended, pure pot still Irish whiskey made with malted and unmalted barley which has been triple distilled. Our tasting found powerful, sensuous aromatics, at first reminiscent of creaming soda then vanilla wafer and sweet cereals enter giving this a Bourbon slant. The entry is soft and light. Mid palate turns deliciously creamy with semi-sweet, toasty cereals and brandy cream sauce flavours superbly counterpointed by spicy, drying oak. Finishes crisp and dry with terrific length as the vanilla wafer biscuit again emerges followed by a late creme-caramel fade. An Irish with soul and distinctive style, this also offers a mouthfeel that’s uncommon. Its lightness of body combined with depth of flavour make for a terrific aperitif. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews...Very elegant, complex, and stylish. Honeyed and silky in texture, with toffee, toasted marshmallow, nougat, maple syrup, banana bread, and a hint of toasted coconut. Bright fruit and golden raisin blend in nicely with the layers of sweetness. Impeccable balance and very approachable. Classic Irish whiskey! (Value Pick) 96 points
    - maltadvocate.com, (Vol. 19, #4) Reviewed by: John Hansell

    ... Probably the softest Redbreast delivery of all time... a Cadbury's chocolate and fruit and nut finale with grain being surprisingly reticent; lots of toffee and vanilla late on. One of the most docile and pacific Redbreasts I've encountered in the last 30-odd years. Lovely, though.
    93 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021

    • 92
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    • Reduced
    Remarkable Cream Raspberry White Chocolate Cream Liqueur (700ml)
    NEW ZEALAND
    Reduced from $34.99
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    ABV: 14%

    Fresh Whanganui raspberries combine with notes of white chocolate in a skilfully blended indulgence that uses less sugar than better-known international cream liqueur brands. The formula relies on the best locally sourced berries, evidenced in its subtle pink hue and distinctive, natural red berry character that retains a thread of acidity. Thick cream and white-chocolate are accented at the finish. Utterly delicious chilled in a short glass or sipped at room temperature, alternatively, pour it over ice cream or sponge cake. 14% Alc./Vol.

    *Gluten free. Once opened this product should be refrigerated to achieve a six month shelf-life. Otherwise, after opening, it will last about one month stored on the bar shelf. 

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    Remarkable Cream Rum Espresso Cream Liqueur (700ml)
    NEW ZEALAND
    Reduced from $34.99
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    ABV: 14%

    There's a very good reason for the success of many liqueur brands beyond marketing strategies and savvy—they taste great! In this example, the inclusion of gold rum adds another layer while picking up the finish. Combined with a rich coffee-milk note, all whipped together with the milkiness of the cream, it makes for a gorgeous liqueur experience that doesn't overdo the sugar. It won't just be the ladies coming back for seconds. Treat yourself! 14% Alc./Vol.

    *Gluten free. Once opened this product should be refrigerated to achieve a six month shelf-life. Otherwise, after opening, it will last about one month stored on the bar shelf.

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    Remnant Whisky Co. The Golden Fleece Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 45%

    "This has got to be one of the best value-for-money Tasmanian whiskies to be released in a long time" - Luke McCarthy, ozwhiskyreview.com.au

    When an industry legend says a whisky is a "ball tearer" and "there are $250 whiskies around that are not as good”, it gets your attention. Then you find out it’s Tasmanian, selling for $100 and it’s impossible to believe. Tim Duckett is talking about the new Remnant: Ex-Nant (old stocks), unofficially a ten year old and, yes, it’s pretty damn good - even from the 50ml sample we received. Besides a creamy sweetness that pervades the nose and palate suggesting high quality Bourbon maturation with a generous dose of Apera or PX, it caresses the tongue with the kind of texture and softness you associate with much, much older whiskies. A hint of fruit conjures nectarine and cinnamon apple; the mid palate length is excellent, dovetailing into a slightly drier range as the malt pulls up and lingering vanillas and dried fruits are left in the fade. Long in the finish and at times, almost cognac-like, the Golden Fleece is sure to put a firecracker up many a Scots effort selling for $100 or more. Will the next batch come close? Will there even be a next batch? Don’t wait to find out. Almost too good to be true, this is bargain territory for drinkers. 14 casks bottled. 45% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... The Remnant Whisky Company continue their rye, tongue in cheek reflection on the Nant whisky saga with the just-released ‘The Golden Fleece’. Love the name, love the price ($99/500ml), especially considering the component whiskies used for this batch are, as far as Remnant could tell, at least 10 years old. Whether you’re a Tassie whisky tragic or just keen on getting a taste of something complex and affordable (a rare combination from down there), this is great value drinking. This has got to be one of the best value-for-money Tasmanian whiskies to be released in a long time. - Luke McCarthy, OzWhiskyReview.com.au

    Notes from the bottlers... Aromas of creme caramel, almond biscotti, and Meyer lemon with hints of tropical fruits and Turkish delight. On the palate pistachio nougat and toffee apple lead into a finish of sweet vanilla, gingerbread and raspberries dusted in icing sugar.

    The story of Remnant is not the typical independent bottling tale. Initially it revolved around the acquisition of 300+ barrels of Tasmanian single malt whisky salvaged from the now infamous Nant barrel investment scheme. Founded by Belgrove's Peter Bignell and his good mate Phil Collidge, backed by a consortium, they purchased the remaining barrels and transferred them to Peter’s own bond stores in the central highlands of Tasmania where the whisky has quietly continued to mature. Those barrels now hold some of the oldest whisky produced in Tasmania. For Peter and Phil, Remnant Whisky is all about releasing great whisky that may not have ever seen the light of day, and returning value to the everyday Australian who invested their money and their heart into a broken scheme. The story of where this whisky started out is not a pleasant one, but through Remnant they have been able to restore faith in the Tasmanian industry. Remnant Whisky Co has risen out of the ashes and made it through adversity to become a beloved bottler. All of Remnant's production process is done by hand, from tasting each cask to the vatting and marriage of barrels, right through to the hand labelling and waxing of each bottle. On the whisky labels, Remnant likes to feature Australian animals that often are spotted in the Central Highlands of Tasmania near its bond stores, including Tasmanian Devils, Tawny Frogmouths, Platypus and farm stock like cattle and the humble Merino sheep which features on Remnant's latest release, The Golden Fleece.

    • 96
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    • 97
    2025 RieslingFreak No. 4 Eden Valley Riesling
    Eden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 11.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Concentrated and powerful yet tightly wound with a long zingy finish.

    Since it’s establishment in 2009, winemaker John Hughes has in a very short period of time established RieslingFreak as one of the country's preeminent producers of the variety. Wine critic Mike Bennie describing it as ‘the definitive Riesling project in Australia.’ The 2025 vintage was one of meagre yields due to frost and lack of rainfall, however, the quality was remarkable delivering wines with terrific intensity of flavour and electric acidity.
    Brilliant water like colour with green tinged edges. Intense lime and citrus scents burst out of the glass followed by some green apple, orange rind, talc and chalky mineral notes. Concentrated and powerful yet tightly wound, the zippy palate is flooded with lime, citrus and orange rind fruits which are sculptured by crisp, steely acidity. Subtle green apple, chalky talc and flinty mineral elements linger through the long, tense and zingy finish.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 11.5%

    Other Reviews......
    Tightly wound and pure aromas of lemon pith, grapefruit rind, slate, passion fruit, fresh herbs and white flowers. The palate is sharp and focused, with bright acidity and a firm line of minerality carrying notes of mandarin and chalk. The finish is both electric and precise. Excellent. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 93
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    • 94
    • 92
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    2024 Nicks Secret Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir
    Adelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $19.99
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Stelvin

    This delicious, vibrant Pinot Noir is produced from four different clones planted in vineyards located at Gumeracha, Forreston and Lobethal in the Adelaide Hills. 2024 was a cool but sunny vintage that produced low yields but high quality fruit. Brimming with savoury red fruits it sees no oak in order to preserve freshness and purity.

    A light, supplely textured Pinot brimming with red fruits that makes for great everyday drinking.

    Red to dark red in colour with black toned edges and a translucent red hue. Very fragrant out of the glass with violet, red to dark cherry and strawberry scents sailing through the nostrils. Some fresh herb, delicate forest floor and spicy rhubarb notes are also present. Delicious strawberry and cherry fruits drive the light, supplely textured palate with rhubarb, subtle anise, forest floor and spicy dried herb elements sitting underneath. Polished tannins with fresh acidity lending vibrancy to the juicy mid length finish.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 13%

    Other Reviews....
    A fine Pinot Noir from the Adelaide Hills, the colour here is a bright crimson. The nose exhibits delightful notes of red fruits, chinotto, a hint of tomato bush and a lovely cherry cola character. This is sleek in every way with bright acidity and fine balance. An elegant, stylish Pinot with a lingering finish, this will provide pleasure for five to six years but is really drinking nicely at the moment. Drink 2024-2030.
    92 points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    The 2024 The **** Pinot Noir leads with an abundance of red berries and sumptuous spice: pink peppercorns, raspberry pip, anise and red apple. In the mouth, the wine is chalky, flavorsome and delicious. There's impressive concentration and density of flavor, but it's never at the expense of balance or elegance. This is so good! It's the best *** yet for ****. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2034.
    94 points
    Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

    • 94
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    • 95
    • 93
    2024 Rising Pinot Noir
    Yarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Moreish, supplely textured Pinot.

    Produced with a  17% whole bunch component and matured in French oak hogsheads (17% new) for 6 months, this is a great value Yarra Valley Pinot Noir. Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Sailing through the nostrils with a perfumed like intensity are violet, red cherry and winter strawberry aromas followed by hints of fresh herbs, anise and forest floor. Delicious cherry and strawberry fruits decorate the palate and carry with them a supple textural feel. Some delicate anise, spicy dried herb and forest floor elements lie underneath. Excellent power and concentration with polished tannins and a long moreish finish.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 13%

    Other Reviews......
    17% whole bunches and matured in French oak hogsheads (17% new). A light, bright ruby red. Attractive and pure fruited with aromas of vibrant red fruits, pressed flowers and a touch of spice. Equally good on the medium-bodied, energetic and very well-delineated palate. Silky and persistent tannins round out a lovely wine to drink now and over the next five to six years. Drink by 2029.
    95 points
    Philip Rich - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

    The first thing I noticed upon opening the bottle was a ripe, confectionery-like aroma that filled the room. After a bit of breathing, red cherry, strawberry, plum and black tea came forth to round out the delightful nose, with some stemminess obvious once you inspected the wine a bit closer. It had a juicy, salivating quality to it that made it very easy to drink up the bright, silky liquid, and it was even a touch better on the second night. Like the Chardonnay, it’s just as nice as a sipper or with food.
    93 points
    Brendan Black - WinePilot.com

    • 95
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    2024 Rob Hall Pinot Noir
    Yarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Growing up in Healesville, a young Rob Hall did some summer work in the vineyards during the early to mid nineties before taking up full time work at Yarra Ridge then Punt Road. From 2002 to 2011 he was the winemaker at Mount Mary, it wasn’t until 2014 that he took the leap and began his own operation.
    2024 was excellent year in the Yarra Valley, after a wet spring, summer came good with slow ripening days, resulting in lovely aromatics and wonderful intensity. This Pinot Noir was sourced from five vineyards – Harriet’s, Full Moon, Boat O’Craigo, Nenagh Park and Yarrawalla with only 10% of the Harriet’s component being whole bunch. Maturation was predominantly in seasoned hogheads and puncheons (300 & 500L).

    Rich, powerful and expansive Yarra Valley Pinot that over delivers.

    Semi translucent dark red core with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Exhibiting a perfumed like intensity, the nose is engulfed with dark cherry, violet, strawberry and subtle rhubarb scents. Anise, brambly dried herb, forest floor and spice notes also chime in to lend further interest. Expansive, concentrated and supplely textured, rich dark cherry and strawberry fruits unfold across the palate with terrific power. Extending through the back half are complexing notions of subtle rhubarb, traces of anise, brambly cedar, dried herbs, delicate forest floor and spice. Velvet smooth tannins impart a silken feel which carries right through to a long, incredibly moreish finish. This is Rob Hall in top form.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    • 93
    • Hot Item
    2023 Rocca Soave
    Veneto, ITALY
    $12. 99
    Bottle
    $155.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2024-2025)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Vini Rocca has been crafting fine Italian wines since 1880, when Francesco Rocca founded “Vinicola Rocca”. Four Generations later and Vini Rocca has grown to become one of Italy’s largest and most respected wineries.
    Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Delightful spicy pear and ripe apple aromas are intermeshed with subtle lime and wet stone notes. Delicious red apple and pear fruits overlay a lime and stony mineral back drop. Excellent intensity for the price with a slippery well rounded textural feel. Brisk acidity finishing dry, long and very moreish. Fantastic value.
    Drink over the next year.
    Alc. 12%

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    Ron Zacapa Centenario Sistema Solera 23 Rum (1000ml)
    Mixco, GUATEMALA
    $129. 99
    Bottle
    $1559.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    With more 5 Star user reviews around the web than almost any product we can think of, the consensus is clear: Zacapa is a silky, sultry indulgence that will satisfy anyone who enjoys sweeter rum styles.

    First launched in 1976 and famously aged 'above the clouds', two and a half kilometres above sea level among the Guatemalan mountains and volcanoes, Zacapa's Solera 23 remains the flagship of the 'La Nacional' company, which continues to produce an extensive line of products accounting for 98% of the domestic spirits market in Guatemala. The brand is now part of the Diageo group.

    Unlike most rums, Zacapa is distilled from 'Virgin honey' (a.k.a. sugar cane juice), not the denser molasses. It also employs a natural yeast culture originally sourced from pineapples. However, it's Zacapa's complicated maturation that really sets it apart. New distillate is combined with around 10% older rums, then the first ageing takes place in rejuvenated x Bourbon casks for two years, after which it's blended for a second time with more old material. The process is repeated a third time, after which it's racked into sherry butts for around two years. The final stage sees a 'finishing' in Pedro Ximenez sherry butts before being blended once more and rested in a large American oak vat for six months before bottling. The age of rums in the final mix ranges from 6 to 23 years old. Given all the effort that goes into production, it's no wonder this really is an exemplary example of the spirit. Its cornucopia of flavours and moderate sweetness makes it ideal straight up as an after dinner sipper, otherwise, we recommend keeping it simple: Add a couple of ice cubes and a twist of orange peel, or include a dash of aromatic bitters to create our favourite - the Zacapa 'Old Fashioned'.

    Other reviews... Copper color. Sweet, peppery spice and dried tropical fruit aromas. A round, supple entry leads to a glycerous, slightly sweet medium-full body of brown sugar, dried cherries, guava, pineapple, cinnamon, and caramelized roasted nuts. Finishes with a sweet, light molasses and ashy mineral fade. A nice, supple, and surprising sweet aged rum. Should mix brilliantly, or enjoy as an after-dinner sipper. 40% Alc./Vol.
    International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
    95 points (Exceptional)
    - tastings.com

    Winner of a Platinum medal and ranked in First Place by the prestigious Beverage Testing Institute in Chicago.

    5 stars - diffordsguide.com

    Notes from the producers... NOSE: Soft, sweet start with aromas of caramel, vanilla, cacao and butterscotch. Continued by sherried notes of caramelized roasted brazil nuts and toasted hazelnut, rounded out by toffee, banana and dried pineapple. TASTE: Complex, generous and full-bodied. Starting with a depth of dried fruit and apricot, building to savory oak, nutmeg, leather and tobacco with notes of coffee and vanilla, balanced with a spicy touch of cinnamon and ginger. FINISH: Intricate with honeyed butterscotch, spiced oak and dried fruit.

    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Ron Zacapa Centenario Sistema Solera 23 Rum (700ml)
    Mixco, GUATEMALA
    Reduced from $129.99
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    What started in the early part of the 20th century as an effort by a handful of enthusiastic entrepreneurs has evolved into a prosperous corporation with international recognition. Today the 'La Nacional' company has an extensive line of products which account for 98% of the domestic spirits market in Guatemala. In addition to its comprehensive line of 'Botran' rums, La Nacional also produces 'Ron Zacapa Centenario'. This exceptional bottling contains a blend of rums from 6 to 23 years old and is an exemplary example of the spirit and a must for any serious rum drinker's collection.

    Other reviews... Copper color. Sweet, peppery spice and dried tropical fruit aromas. A round, supple entry leads to a glycerous, slightly sweet medium-full body of brown sugar, dried cherries, guava, pineapple, cinnamon, and caramelized roasted nuts. Finishes with a sweet, light molasses and ashy mineral fade. A nice, supple, and surprising sweet aged rum. Should mix brilliantly, or enjoy as an after-dinner sipper. 40% Alc./Vol.
    International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
    95 points (Exceptional)
    - www.tastings.com

    "Ron Zacapa 23 Sistema Solera Rum is enduringly one of the most pleasurable dark rums to sip neat. At first the sweet notes of roasted coffee, butterscotch, vanilla and dark chocolate appear, then some fresh citrus and apricot refresh the palate with green herbal accents, nutmeg and ginger. The long finish includes flavors of caramel, pipe tobacco, cedar and roasted nuts."
    92 points - distiller.com
    • 93
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    • 91
    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Royal Brackla Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $150.00
    $134. 99
    Bottle
    $1619.88 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Upping the value in the Sherry-matured stakes. "Excellent" - whiskyfun.com

    As part of its program to make single malts available from all five of its distilleries, Bacardi subsidiary, John Dewar & Sons has been releasing a bunch of Brackla age statements since 2015. With a house style that's pedestrian and fruity, this edition offers something unexpected in the form of an Oloroso sherry cask finish. Even more importantly, it's bottled at 46% without chill filtration (the regular stuff weighs in at 40%). Here's just one of many positive customer comments about this whisky online: "... it blows away anything I've tasted from Macallan and at higher cost...probably shouldn't say all this as it might go up in price..."

    Give Brackla twenty minutes to breathe and you'll definitely find similarities to Macallan Sherry Oak 12, or even Glengoyne 18YO, but it delivers more concentration and mouthfeel due to a higher abv and zero-filtration. The flavour focus falls firmly on fruity-nutty Oloroso, so less American oak intrudes to dumb-down the experience. Allspice and cocoa are capped off by tantalising suggestions of dry Guyanese rum, while the overall balance is near perfect. A hidden gem from an obscure distillery beckons...

    Double Gold - Single Malt Scotch - to 12 Yrs - 2022, San Francisco World Spirits Competition

    Gold - Distillers' Single Malts 12 years and under - 2022, International Spirits Challenge

    Other reviews... Nutty on the nose, with peanut brittle, then buttered pecan and vanilla-almond ice creams. There are nice fruity notes as well, like baked red apples and Bosc pears, plus cinnamon, fresh challah, orange peel, and dried leaves. Creamy and smooth on the palate, with melted milk chocolate, tiramisu, crème brûlée, and light pepper spice. Espresso and cream highlight a lengthy and excellent finish. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    ...Apparently and unless I'm wrong once more, this is the new-new label, even more retro than before. This baby was finished in oloroso wood while the presentation tube would make it clear that it should display 'spice, cherries and demerara'. I believe the mistake they did with the previous rendition (round blue label) was to bottle it at 40% vol. Colour: amber. Nose: and voilà, butterscotch, praline, roasted chestnuts, chocolate (creamy Lindt's), nougat and cappuccino. No one can be against this, even if this smart treatment may have erased a part of the Distillery character. I do find gooseberries in the background, having said that. Mouth: I could copy-and-paste what I have jotted down about the nose. Milk chocolate, roasted nuts, marmalade, toffee… St. Oloroso, pray for us. Finish: rather long, very good. Coffee drops and, there, since I'm in a good mood, Demerara sugar. Seriously, Demerara sugar. Comments: amen. Excellent. 86 points - whiskyfun.com

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    • Reduced
    Royal Sedang 1888 Small Batch Gin (500ml)
    FRANCE
    Reduced from $69.99
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    ABV: 42.2%

    A meeting of Vietnamese and French cultures, perfect for Summery, Asian-inspired cocktails. One lot only reduced below cost price.

    Considered the first ever 100% Asian botanical Gin, Royal Sedang is made using a long maceration of chosen botanicals in order to achieve full extraction of flavour components. The production process is a slow and careful one that can take six to eight weeks. Botanicals include lime, lemongrass, ginger, litchi, jasmine tea, coriander followed by a slow reduction with pure spring water. Aromatically, it's described as "...a meeting of Vietnamese and French cultures, reminiscent of entering into a fresh food market in Vietnam or enjoying a fruit breakfast at a hotel bar".

    Tasting note: Clear. Asian styled aromatics leading with coriander, ginger root and lemongrass over background juniper. Second pass highlights mandarine. Soft entry with juniper and citrus, leaning towards lemon and mandarin through the tangy, spiced-up finish. Hints of coriander and pepper in a brisk aftertaste. Fresh and exotic. Garnish with a stick of lemongrass. 42.2% Alc./Vol. Tasted from a 30ml sample.

    • 96
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    • Reduced
    Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $215.00
    $184. 99
    Bottle
    $2219.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A Superb Blanc de Blancs Champagne.

    A pioneer in the champagne trade, the Ruinart House has stood out due to its unique know-how and history. The son of Nicolas Ruinart, brother of Dom Ruinart, himself named Nicolas, opened the companies first account book on 1st september 1729 with the following declaration, “in the name of God and the Saint Virgin shall this book be commenced.” This entry was to be the official act establishing France’s First Champagne House.

    Made in the pure Ruinart tradition exclusively from the Chardonnay grape, Ruinart Blanc de Blancs reflects perfect harmony. Its striking luminosity is further enhanced by the clear glass bottle, a replica from an 18th Century model.

    Good white creamy mousse with pale gold base wine colour and a very fine bead displaying excellent persistence. The nose delivers a superb complex sniff with a distinct yeasty top note followed by aromas of baked bread, brioche, cashew and toast. The palate is quite rich for a Blanc de Blancs displaying very refined flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and cashew with a light toast overlay. Creamy texture with excellent length. Clean crisp dry finish with long aftertaste of baked bread, yeast less and cashew.
    Alc 12.5%

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 93
    • Reduced
    Ruinart Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $135.00
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    From Champagne's oldest house, with a history dating back to 1729 that began with the efforts of a monk, Dom Ruinart, a close friend to Dom Pérignon.
    Presents well with a fine satiny mousse that sits well over a pale straw, pale gold edged base that’s finely threaded by a persistent bead. Aromas of pear and citrus have a baked bread overlay with some subtle oily toast and yeast lees notes also apparent. The house style has been freshened up with the palate livelier than past releases. Its brimming with pear, citrus and yeast lees flavours which overlay a background of light toast, subtle almond and baked bread. Stimulating acidity leads into a long vividly sculptured finish.
    Drink now.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews…..
    Although this has some red-berry aromas from pinot noir, the pear, white-peach and white-floral aromas are central, and they surely come from the chardonnay grape. Excellent balance of fresh fruit, animating acidity and creaminess, the mousse keeping it moving steadily across the palate through the very clean finish. A cuvée of 45% chardonnay, 45% pinot noir and 10% pinot meunier. Drink or hold.
    93 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 93
    • Hot Item
    • 94
    • Reduced
    Ruinart Champagne Rose
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $215.00
    $184. 99
    Bottle
    $2219.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A very buoyant lacy mousse sits proudly atop a salmon pink coloured base. Very profuse fine bead. Nosing dispels delicate peach, raspberry and strawberry aromas which are overlaid by yeast lees and light toast. Dry and fresh with a tautness to the mouthfeel the palate has flavours of strawberries and raspberries over yeast lees, traces of toast and mineral. Dry, very crisp finish with an aftertaste of winter strawberries, raspberries, yeast lees and mineral.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews.....
    A gorgeous rosé in a rich, vinous style, this shows a satiny mousse and well-honed acidity, which buoy a detailed range of macerated raspberry fruit, dried apricot, grated ginger, graphite and chopped roasted almond flavors. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink now through 2025.
    94 points
    Wine Spectator

    • 93
    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    2022 Running with Bulls Tempranillo
    Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    Reduced from $21.99
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Matured for 10 months in new and mature Hungarian and mature French oak hogsheads.
    Dense midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced aromas of black cherry and liquorice flow out of the glass followed by some scorched earth, vanillin oak and spice notes. Rich and opulently fruited the medium to full bodied palate is generously endowed with black cherry and liquorice flavours which sail over a back drop of scorched earth, dark chocolate, vanillin oak and spice. Ripe chewy tannin structure with traces of leather lingering through the long spicy finish.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • 98
    • Nick's Import
    Santa Teresa 1796 Ron Antiguo de Solera Rum (700ml)
    VENEZUELA
    $119. 99
    Bottle
    $1439.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    A new Venezuelan Beauty that's easily in the leading pack as one of the top rum values on our shelves.


    Created to commemorate the distillery's 200th anniversary, this rum is matured in a French Limousin oak solera system for 8-12 years (a method borrowed from the Spanish sherry producers) and is the first premium anejo rum in the world to be aged using such a technique. With some portions reportedly in barrel for more than fifteen years, Santa Teresa delivers all the substance and style of Diplomatico's Reserva Exclusiva, only the profile is less sweet, the result is more elegant - even 'Cognac-esque'.

    Tasting notes: Deep copper. Sensuous bouquet offers a superb amalgam of vanilla, hazelnut chocolate, creme caramel and cream sponge cake. Fine tuned with perfect sweet-dry balance including flavours of bounty bar, mocha, caramel fudge finishing with a lingering white pepper, dried banana, buckwheat pancake and cocoa aftertaste. First class. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... The first couple of whiffs pick up toasty notes of caramel, almond butter, cotton candy and very old oak; with aeration, more profound aromas develop including saddle leather, vanilla, Sherry and dark caramel. Palate entry is perfectly balanced and sweet; by midpalate the flavor profile is honeyed, slightly cocoa-like, buttery to the feel and utterly decadent. Finishes long, layered, creamy and dark chocolate bittersweet. 98 points - wineenthusiast.com

    Deep amber color with an olive cast. Elegant aromas and flavors of toasted nuts, coffee gelato, dried tropical fruits and pepper with a satiny, medium-to-full body and lots of toffee, vanilla bean, and sweet tobacco notes of the long finish. A delicious, smooth, and artfully balanced aged rum for sipping, cigars, or world-class cocktails.
    International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
    94 points (Exceptional)
    - tastings.com

    • Hot Item
    • Reduced
    Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire & Sauternes Single Cask 12 Year Old Islay Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $220.00
    $189. 99
    Bottle
    $2279.88 Dozen
    ABV: 54.4%

    Hailing from an undisclosed Islay distillery, this edition of the smoke (and ampersand) laden single malt spent 12 years maturing, including a finish in a single sauternes dessert wine cask, which has imparted some fascinating sweet fruit notes to the roasty, peaty malt at its core. One cask yielded 413 bottles. 54.4% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

Show 48 More

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.