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![2023 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot Noir]()
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2023 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $110.00$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13.6%Closure: Stelvin2025 marks 62 years since the first vines were planted at Wantirna Estate, established in 1963 on an east-facing slope in Melbourne's southeastern outskirts. Once a mix of orchards, bush, and grasslands, the vineyard thrives today under the care of Maryann, Reg's daughter, though Reg remains actively involved. The wines, named after his four grandchildren, feature labels illustrated by Michael Leunig, reflecting each grandchild's personality, a heartfelt touch to this family-run estate.
The vineyard's three distinct Pinot Noir blocks, covering just ten acres, are hand-harvested separately, often with up to two weeks between harvest dates. The mature block, with vines from the early 1970s, contributes savory tones and fine tannins. The Front block adds spice, while the Fruit Tree block offers generous fruitiness. Blended together, these components create the complex Pinot Noir style Wantirna Estate is renowned for.
Other Reviews....
A deep and brightly coloured crimson purple. Both to look at and smell, this is a concentrated and complex Wantirna pinot that's going to need some time. Aromas of black cherry, damson plum and dried red rose petals lead onto the palate, which is densely packed, structured and very long. Have it with food now, for sure, but those who still have some five to ten years from now will be very well rewarded. Drink 2026-2035.
96+ points
Philip Rich - James Halliday's Wine CompanionI visited Wantirna Estate around this time last year, and didn’t taste any wine, rather we had tea and biscuits on the porch. Lovely. It’s a vineyard as a garden, if you take my meaning, The place has a sense of intimacy and it’s a world away from many larger producers. 130 dozen produced using very light weight bottles at that. Yay!
Raspberry, red cherry, mint, cedar, pencils and spice, something of a potpourri perfume too. It’s medium-bodied, all red fruits, a little spicy and autumnal, fresh raspberry crunch to acidity, with a firmness to tannin that offers grainy grip, finishing a little sappy with lively acidity, savoury flavours, and excellent length. Oak still shows a little too much as at now, but this is a strong release, and I like the ‘mineral’ character it offers too. Drink 2027-2034+.
95 points
Gary Walsh - The Wine FrontThe 2023 Lily Pinot Noir leads with cherry and cranberry, moss and tobacco, with layers of damp earth and exotic spice. This is beautiful. In the mouth, the wine is silky, with fine, pliable tannins that shape the course of the fruit across the tongue. The acidity is woven gently throughout and offers a delicacy and laciness that I find highly attractive. This is such a gorgeous wine. 13.6% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2038.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate![2015 Warenghem Distillery Armorik Single Cask Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt French Whisky (700ml)]()
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2015 Warenghem Distillery Armorik Single Cask Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt French Whisky (700ml)Brittany, FRANCE$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 58.7%French whiskies are so rarely encountered here that when they do arrive they come with a sense of mystery. Yet, if there are regional challengers to the malts that emerge from Scotland's Western Highlands, then Northern France would have to be one. Whiskies from Brittany can be hugely flavoursome, capturing a sense of place with the freshness of the seashore and a touch of rusticity that's occasionally augmented by varying degrees of peat. Kornog and Warenghem are standouts, the latter offering whiskies under their Armorik label. When the Australian importers visited Brittany earlier in the year, their barrel selection came with a further French twist: Full-term maturation in a cask that previously held Pineau des Charentes - a speciality aperitif of Cognac, generally categorised as a fortified wine (aka 'mistelle' or 'vin de liqueur' in France, however, being a blend of grape must and eau-de-vie it could be argued that the genre is more akin to a liqueur). There is one cask only, all for Australia and the whisky it yielded continues a theme of beautifully rounded, utterly mouthfilling and wonderfully textural malts from Warenghem, this time with a light honey, fruit compote and sponge cake character in the mix. On the palate, poached fruits work to heighten the succulence of the barley before trailing off with lively spices, vanilla and honey. Hints of brine and pepper add vitality to the finish as does a slightly tart quince or citric note. It's wound up in a beautifully integrated delivery that's dangerously easy to drink uncut. With water the profile loses some of its finer points, but fluffs into a deliciously creamy dram. Distilled in October 2015 and bottled in February 2023, the visual presentation might lack sophistication, however the final result has exceeded the importer's expectations. 150 bottles are on offer. 58.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
![2024 West Cape Howe Old School Chardonnay]()
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2024 West Cape Howe Old School ChardonnayMount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA rich, full flavoured style Chardonnay with a creamy textural feel.
The Old School Chardonnay is sourced from specific vineyard blocks in Mount Barker with barrel fermentation and maturation taking place in French oak of which 20% is new for a period of 10 months. Extended lees contact with fortnightly stirring and full malolactic fermentation enhance the wines texture to produce a full flavoured style Chardonnay.
Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Elevated aromas of peach, apricot and honeycomb fill the nostrils followed by hints of crème brulee, butterscotch and spice. Rich and mouth filling, the weighty palate is swamped with luscious ripe peach and apricot fruits. Notions of crème brulee, honeycomb and spicy nougat form the underbelly. A full, creamy textural feel counterpointed by a lick of fresh acidity through the long intensely flavoured finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14%![2020 Whistling Eagle Vineyard Eagles Blood Shiraz]()
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2020 Whistling Eagle Vineyard Eagles Blood ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA seductive Heathcote Shiraz that boasts ample power and a plush textural feel.
Renown as one of Heathcote’s leading growers and viticulturalists, Ian Rathjen also produces small parcels of wine under his own label, Whistling Eagle. Matured in French oak (30% new) for a period of 18 months, the Eagles Blood Shiraz is his ultimate expression of the Cambrian terroir displaying spectacular colour, depth and power.
Pitch black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Heady aromatics of ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum waft out of the glass complimented by some vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth notes. A rich, silky flow of opulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits decorate the full bodied palate. Vanillin oak, subtle earthy mocha and peppered fennel characters also chime in. Boasting ample power and a plush textural feel, it has velvet smooth tannins and a long seductive finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
One sniff and you are standing on the mineral-rich soils of Heathcote, surrounded by the warm, inviting scents of the local bush. This is an evocative wine, of the place, of the dirt, capturing both the natural generosity of Heathcote shiraz and its environment beautifully, artfully. Earth, bush mint, undergrowth, acacia, briar, cassis, black cherry, anise and red licorice join forces with well-mannered oak to seduce. Seduction complete. Drink by 2038.
96 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell's 70th Anniversary 101 Proof 8 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)]()
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Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell's 70th Anniversary 101 Proof 8 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 50.5%"Outstanding... Perfection at 8 years... If there were a single bourbon to best represent Wild Turkey’s signature flavor it would be this bottle." - rarebird101.com
Wild Turkey's latest collector-worthy bourbon celebrates Master Distiller, Jimmy Russell's 70th anniversary at the distillery. The whiskey is an 8 year old with an additional blend of 8 to 9 year old bourbons, hand-selected from a few of Jimmy’s favourite Rickhouses. The bolder, higher-proof expression is one he's always preferred. When many began favouring lighter spirits, Jimmy refused to dilute his bourbon or change the distilling process, embracing a style that he learned from his predecessor, Bill Hughes. That staunch approach helped propel the popularity of many of the distillery’s classics, including Jimmy’s favourite, Wild Turkey 101, proving that a bold Kentucky bourbon would always have a place behind the bar.
Wild Turkey was known as Anderson County Distilling Co. when Jimmy started work. It would soon change its name to J.T.S. Brown & Sons. From his earliest days spent sweeping the floors as an 18 year old rookie, Jimmy moved from job to job as seen fit by his mentor, the pre-prohibition distiller Bill Hughes. Through changes in ownership and shifts in the market, Jimmy rose through the ranks to finally become Master Distiller in 1967. Four years later a company from New York named Austin, Nichols & Co. (a subsidiary of Liggett Myers Tobacco. Co.) purchased the J.T.S. Brown & Sons Distillery to produce their flagship Wild Turkey Bourbon exclusively. The new management kept Jimmy in charge and the rest, as they say, is history. Seventy years working at the same business is an extraordinary accomplishment in anyone's book. It would take a dedicated biography to cover it. "In my eyes, I've never worked a day in my life. The day I do, I'll retire," jokes Jimmy. "Until then, I'm going to continue making the bourbon I love."
Other reviews... This year, master distiller Jimmy Russell celebrated his 70th year at Wild Turkey, a remarkable milestone by any stretch of the imagination (and even more so considering that he still shows up to work most days of the week). In honor of this watershed year, Jimmy’s son Eddie and grandson Bruce created a celebratory bourbon. The nose is chock-full of fresh cherries, cappuccino, vanilla cream, butterscotch, and leather. Baking spice bubbles over on the palate, backed up by toasted coconut and salted caramel, and a lick of bright citrus. Vanilla buttercream, Mounds bar, and black currant end this celebration on a high note. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com
Outstanding. Jimmy Russell’s 70th Anniversary Release is perfection at eight years. It’s everything it should be and nothing it shouldn’t. If there were a single bourbon to best represent Wild Turkey’s signature flavor it would be this bottle. - rarebird101.com
Notes from the producers... Best served neat or over ice, the bourbon offers rich aromas of oak, honey, cinnamon, and tobacco and a palate marked by sweet cream, butterscotch and black tea notes that transition to bitter chocolate, dark cherry and burnt sugar.
![2023 William Fevre Petit Chablis]()
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2023 William Fevre Petit ChablisChablis, FRANCEReduced from $47.99$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 12%Closure: Diam CorkClassically refreshing Chablis with a gently rounded feel and a lengthy stony mineral laced finish.
Founded by William Fevre in 1957 the domaine has grown to now become one of the biggest land owners in Chablis with 78 hectares of prestigious vineyards, of which 15.9 hectares are classified as Premiers Crus and 15.2 as Grand Crus. The Petit Chablis was matured in stainless steel vats for a period of 8-10 months to preserve freshness.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of lime, pear and green apple infused with sea spray are trailed by some fresh herb and stony mineral notes. The palate is layered with refreshing pear and lime fruits which meld into a back drop of green apple, oyster shell and slatey mineral characters. Gently rounded in it’s feel it has brisk acidity and a lengthy stony mineral laced finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12%![2024 Wilson Polish Hill River Riesling]()
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2024 Wilson Polish Hill River RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinWonderfully concentrated and tense with zingy mineral laced acidity.
Wilson’s Polish Hill River Riesling is sourced from their oldest vineyards planted over 40 years ago. Its miniscule yields typically produce a wine rich in citrus fruits within a steely structure, tight with lots of minerality. Beneath the iron stained clay lies a bed of decomposing slate and scattered quartz. It’s also not unusual to find remnant pottery and agricultural implements from the Polish Settlers who once lived and farmed the area now planted to this small vineyard.
Brilliant water like colour with a faint greenish tinge around the edges. Lime and citrus aromas leap out of the glass trailed by some green apple, hints of orange rind, wet steel and chalky mineral notes. Delivered with fabulous intensity and tension are racy lemon, lime and green apple flavours. Zingy mineral laced acidity with delicate orange rind and wet steel elements also shining through. Dry and chalky it finishes very long and zesty.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%![2022 Wirra Wirra Church Block Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot]()
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2022 Wirra Wirra Church Block Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz MerlotMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich red to black fruits seamlessly integrated within a refined medium bodied structure.
The 2022 vintage marks 50 years of Wirra Wirra Church Block, the first vintage being produced back in 1972. A blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Shiraz and 7% Merlot matured for 12 months in a combination of new and seasoned French and American oak barrels.
Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Blossoming from the glass are attractive scents of red to black currant, mulberry and red liquorice which are trailed by some vanillin cedar, earth and spice notes. Rich red to black currant, red liquorice and mulberry fruits meld into a vanillin cedar, earth, dried herb and spice back drop. Boasting excellent intensity and a seamlessly integrated fine grained tannin structure it finishes long and refined. One of the best Church Block’s for quite some time.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
A vintage that marks an incoming winemaker and a culling of lesser quality fruit. Cabernet and shiraz, the Aussie archetype. Consummate, medium-bodied and savory, with better tannin management than what I recall of past vintages. Bay leaves, currants and iodine, with licorice tannins serving as gentle directives to good, supple length. An everyday claret for the sophisticate, with a strong maritime feel. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
93 points
JamesSuckling.comCabernet Sauvignon (51%) Shiraz (42%) Merlot (7%).
This release of Wirra Wirra Church Block is on song and in form. It has plenty of flesh and fruit but it’s also firm and dry. It tastes of boysenberry, redcurrant, saltbush and dried herbs, with a gently ferrous-like element running throughout. It’s lovely to drink; solid but supple. Drink 2024-2029+
92 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front![Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (1000ml) - Whiskey Hunt Australia Selection]()
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Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (1000ml) - Whiskey Hunt Australia SelectionKentucky, UNITED STATES$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 45.2%Whiskey Hunt Australia's debut with Woodford Reserve comes courtesy of the distillery's owners, Brown Forman. Guided by Woodford's Brand Ambassador, Andy Tsai, in December 2023 the group were invited to choose from three Woodford select profiles. Unlike most WHA releases which have been single cask picks, the Woodford Personal Selection Program asks customers to preference a bourbon that matches their palate, typically based on three distinct distillery 'profiles'. Jack Daniels (also owned by Brown Forman) have a similar approach. No.2 was judged the winner, showcasing aromas of oak shavings, cherry-dark-chocolate and dried peach, complemented by medium bodied flavours of burnt caramel, subtle smoke, orange spice cake and drying oak. True to the Woodford house style, the whiskey was distilled from a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malted barley with 180 one-litre bottles imported to Australia. 45.2% Alc./Vol.
![Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum (700ml)]()
- Nick's Import
Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum (700ml)Kingston, JAMAICA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 63%"made by one company that remembers its roots and continues to distil a real rum." - thelonecaner.com
Ask a native where you could sample J.Wray & Nephew over-proof rum, and they will tell you knock on the door of any household. Such is the legendary status of this spirit that it accounts for 90% of rum sales in Jamaica. Other brands produced under the J.Wray & Nephew name are Captain Morgan, Coruba and the renowned Appleton Estate range. Use this product in classic rum punches with tropical juices. Alternate with flavoured rums and liqueurs for something new. Also great in the traditional Mai Tai and Daiquiri.
Other reviews... This is the flagship rum from Wray and the rum ... familiar instantly on the nose, with a mixture of citrus and petrol notes, very aromatic with florals and the raw alcoholic notes one expects from an overproof rum. The body is a bit tougher and astringent, slightly charcoal-dusted but otherwise intense with fruit, both citrus and tropical, with overtones of overripe banana, bubble gum, and a touch of eucalyptus on the finish. Surprisingly approachable despite the heavy alcohol level. - drinkhacker.com
...I’m not a huge white rum lover but this is as good as I have had. It will give a massive kick to tiki style cocktails, where it is very often used. W&N Overproof is very popular and highly regarded amongst bartenders and mixologists. Rightly so as well. The danger in this drink maybe that at 63% its very drinkable. At the price it is also very good value. W&N Overproof needs to be evaluated on what it is. It is a very good white overproof mixer. It’s availability and price makes it a no-brainer to have on hand. 4/5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
...I have gained a sort of sneaking appreciation for overproofs, including this one, because while it lacks the subtlety of a more refined 40% variation (subtlety? don’t make me laugh…the thing is like a charging brontosaurus on steroids at rutting time), it makes an intense, strong, powerfully tasting mix with whatever you decide to chase it. Try adding cola to a 40% low-ender and then to the White Overproof and try and tell me this one doesn’t have more character, more taste, more…well, cojones. It absolutely is not afraid to charge the gates and get the hell off the reservation. When you drink J. Wray’s clear hooch, reader, there’s no ifs, ands or buts — you know Elvis has left the building; and didn’t just exit, he took off with rocket-powered, turbo-charged steel-toed boots. And a jet pack.... made by one company that remembers its roots and continues to distil a real rum. - thelonecaner.com
5 Stars - diffordsguide.com
Recipe: Jamaican Rum Punch
1 cup J.Wray and Nephew Over-proof rum
1/2 cup Myer's dark rum
2 1/2 cups pineapple juice
2 1/2 cups orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
3 tbsp grenadine syrup
Ice cubes![2021 Wynns Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon]()
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2021 Wynns Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinOne of Coonawarra’s benchmark Cabernets from an outstanding vintage.
Renown as one of Coonawarra’s benchmark Cabernets, Wynns John Riddoch is made from parcels of the estates best fruit and is only produced in exceptional vintages.
Outstanding colour featuring an impenetrable inky black heart along with a very deep dark red black hue. Soaring out of the glass are captivating aromas of blackcurrant, liquorice and mulberry which are complimented by vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle earth, violet and traces of bay leaf. Rich and concentrated yet refined and structured, the medium to full bodied palate is redolent in fleshy red to black currant, liquorice and mulberry fruits. Lending further complexity are spicy vanillin cedar, earth, delicate tobacco and bay leaf accents. Fine grained, sturdily built tannin framework yet quite polished in it’s feel. Marrying finesse with power it finishes very long and eloquent with a deep core of fruit.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
16 months French oak hogsheads and barriques (31% new, the balance one to six years old) and 22 months in bottle prior to release. A cacophony of blackberries, Bing cherries and elderberries. Blackcurrant leaf, acaí and prune skin. Black coffee, vanilla pod, ash and charcoal. Acidity wisps about the palate like magic, a mesh of thread-like tannins pull and draw the focus. A hint of dark chocolate bitters; the wine finishes perky with echoing tunes of granite. It's just so centered and chic. Pure cabernet poise. Drink by 2038.
98 Points
Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe 2021 John Riddoch Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon is a brilliant wine. It is achingly intense yet is defined by its levity, which is not a common attribute in Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine expounds the virtues of the red gravel in which the fruit was grown, via its iodine and crushed shells, cassis and blood, sweet marrow and tobacco. It tastes so clearly of the place, which is a wonderful thing. The back palate swells with flavor, framed by the earth and the attuned oak. This is a tribute to the earth, an ode to it. Plentiful tannins bob along on the current of fruit. This will cellar interminably. It's up there in both quality and feel with the 2010, or so I think. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2024-2051.
98 Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine AdvocateOne of the best vintages in Coonawarra for many years. Little wonder this release of the John Riddoch is one of the best since the initial release from the 1982 vintage. Aromas of violets and red berry with a slightly cherry glaze character adding further intrigue. The palate is medium weight and refined but with tremendous power and persistence. A combination of hogsheads and barriques has been used to deliver the perfect level of oak. One of the best of these I can recall. Drink 2024-2054.
98 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.comThis 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Wynns John Riddoch is stylish and built for the long haul. It takes a couple of days to show its true colors. It radiates with blackcurrant, gravel and dried mint aromas, with a dusting of earth all wrapped up in a gentle blanket of French oak. Composed and super refined, the wine is underpinned by a line of seductive yet firm tannins with killer length and balance to finish. It is already very approachable but with serious staying power. Drink 2030-2045.
97 Points
Angus Hughson - Vinous![2022 Yalumba Paradox Shiraz]()
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2022 Yalumba Paradox ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinOne of Yalumba’s distinguished site wines, the Paradox is sourced from the Northern Barossa and is made with an emphasis on velvet like texture and the use of less new oak than many of its counterparts. Maturation taking place in French oak puncheons, with only 8% new oak employed, for a period of 17 months.
Rich, expansive and enveloping, this marries Barossa opulence with a gorgeously refined finish.
Magnificent colour featuring a super saturated inky black core and a deep black dark red hue. Seducing the olfactory senses are captivating blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas which interact with delicately smoked vanillin cedar, fennel, dark chocolate and peppered earth notes. Rich, silky and concentrated across the full bodied yet perfectly proportioned palate is a sumptuous flow of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Undertones of spicy vanillin cedar, subtle scorched earth, dark chocolate and peppered fennel lend further interest. Boasting fantastic power and depth yet not heavy handed in it’s feel, it has velvet smooth tannins and a long, opulent yet gorgeously refined finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%![2022 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz]()
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2022 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkA classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz first produced in 1962, Yalumba’s Signature pays homage each vintage to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the culture and traditions of Yalumba. The 2022 vintage’s signatory is Yalumba’s Executive Director of Sales for Australia & New Zealand, Paul Midolo. This year’s release marks the 51st vintage of Yalumba The Signature.
From vines with an average age of 49 years the 2021 Signature is a blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz with maturation taking place in a combination of French barriques and Hungarian hogsheads (21% of which was new oak) for a period of 18 months.Deep and powerful yet finessed, this is Yalumba Signature at it’s finest.
Inky black heart with a deep dark purple black tinged hue. Unfurling from the glass in what is a wonderful show of both refinement and intensity is a mix of red to black currant, liquorice and mulberry scents trailed by some vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and faint bay leaf notes. Rich red plum, red to black currant, liquorice and mulberry fruits flow eloquently across the medium to full bodied palate. Piquing further interest and complexity are spicy vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco, earthy dark chocolate and bay leaf accents. Deep and powerful yet finessed it has a sturdy fine grained tannin structure that bodes well for longer term cellaring. Finishes very long, sophisticated and elegant.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews....
Yalumba's famous Signature cabernet sauvignon and shiraz blend has a strong pedigree when it comes to cellaring and the 2022 release will certainly carry on long into the future. The fruit density and purity here are impressive. Blackberry, doris plum and black cherry tones, their flow elegant and graceful across the palate with hints of spice, cedar, tobacco, pencil shavings, roasting meats, dried herbs and olive tapenade. Fine-grained tannins are in abundance and there is an extended finish that rolls on and on. It's a super release. Drink by 2054.
96 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
The 2022 The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz is so pretty—floral, red fruited and fine. This is a beautiful iteration of this wine. Ironically, there's a coastal freshness about it—kelp, brine, crushed shells—given it is nowhere near the coast. It's capacious and mineral and so fresh. The tannins are fine and neat, and the wine has incredible focus and line through the long finish. It's very impressive, potentially one of my favorite releases of this wine to date. It has wholly Barossa fruit this vintage. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork. Drink 2025-2052.
97 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate![2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs Field Blend]()
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2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs Field BlendMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA juicy, youthfully vibrant Rhone blend that finishes fresh and succulent.
A blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Carignan, 10% Counoise, 2% Cinsault and 1% Mourvedre. Vibrant dark red core with black toned edges and a bright purple red tinged hue. Alluring red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and plum scents intermingle with whiffs of fresh herbs, vanillin confectionary and delicate peppered earth notes. Light to medium weight, juicy and possessing a youthful vibrancy, red raspberry, red liquorice and red plum fruits overlay dried herb, subtle scorched earth and pepper elements. Smooth, seamlessly integrated tannins finishing fresh and succulent.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%![2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs Grenache]()
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2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinYangarra Estate’s Circle Collection is a new range of entry-level wines that focus on Southern Rhone varietals. Made from younger vines they are uber delicious fruit driven wines that deliver fantastic value.
An explosive, super juicy Grenache that makes for highly addictive drinking.
Deep dark purple red core with black shaded edges and a bright purple hue. The wonderfully fragrant nose is singing with red to dark raspberry, violet, red liquorice and blueberry scents. Subtle fresh herb and peppered earth notes are also evident. Super juicy and intensely flavoured, rich red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and cherry fruits explode across the exuberant palate with delicate infusions of dried herbs, scorched earth and pepper the undercard. Magnificent power and silky tannins with fresh acidity lending an energetic feel to the long super succulent finish. Highly addictive drinking over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews....
This is the younger vine bottling, coming mainly off vines planted in '08. Up to three weeks on skins; maturation in steel and old puncheons and foudre. This is a nice foil to the Old Vine bottling, showing what relatively youthful vines can do on this great site. There’s an open red-berried and cherry fruitfulness, with red florals supported by savoury spice and a foundation of purposeful natural tannin. This doesn’t have the mineral depth of the Old Vine, but the fruit vibrancy and exuberance yield their own rewards. Drink by 2030.
95 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![905354_1.jpg]()
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Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut ChampagneChampagne, FRANCEReduced from $89.99$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: Diam CorkWhen it comes to Pinot Noir in Champagne, the grand cru villages of Bouzy and Ambonnay rank amongst the greatest in the region. And one of the most talented exponents from here is the Clouet family based in Bouzy. Champagne Andre Clouet have been producing Champagne for over two centuries, and under the guidance of Jean Francois Clouet the wines have never looked better. While his wines are exuberant and concentrated, Jean Francois manages to counter this with immaculate finesse and detail on the palate.
Made from a Pinot Noir base this blend is aged on lees for a period of 36 months and includes 30% reserve wines. It pours with a fluffy white mousse which gradually evaporates to reveal a pale straw coloured base with pale gold tinged edges that's threaded by a fine, persistent bead. Delightful aromas of baked bread and yeast lees combine with pear, baked apple and brioche notes. Rich, mouth filling favours of baked bread, pear and brioche linger over a subtle roasted hazelnut and yeast lees back drop. Full, creamy like feel with chalk tinged acidity. Finishes dry, long and expansive.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews....
The effusive nose of candied citrus, ripe pear and brioche pulls you into this fresh and creamy champagne that hits all the pleasure buttons for a non-vintage Brut. Then the chalky freshness at the finish pulls you back for another sip. Excellent balance! 100% pinot noir. Drink now.
93 points
JamesSuckling.comIncredible value for a blanc de noirs (100% Pinot Noir) grower Champagne from the grand cru vineyards of Bouzy. It shows gorgeous aromas of stone fruit, citrus and strawberry, with complex brioche nuances, remarkable balance, ongoing elegance and a rich, refined, persistent finish.
92 points
Stacy Slinkard - Decanter (March 2021)![Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml) with Free Ardbeg T-shirt]()
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Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml) with Free Ardbeg T-shirtIslay, SCOTLANDReduced from $310.00$249. 99Bottle$2999.88 DozenABV: 46%Get a FREE Ardbeg t-shirt with every order containing a Smoketrails purchase. Maximum one t-shirt per order.*
The first edition in Ardbeg’s inaugural travel retail series. One litre, 46% NCF.
'Smoketrails' is the name for Ardbeg's new and first-ever collection of single malts exclusively dedicated to the travel market. Launched in late 2022 with annual batches in the pipeline, each edition will be a marriage of Ardbeg aged in American oak with Ardbeg matured in secondary casks sourced from around the world. This is the first edition, employing Manzanilla (dry) Sherry casks from Sanlúcar de Barrameda on Spain’s Atlantic coast. Light and fresh in style, Manzanilla sherries are aged close to the sea and are typically bone dry with a salty tang - well matched to Ardbeg's island profile.
Distillery Manager, Colin Gordon says, “For each Smoketrails release we’ll pack our suitcase and zig zag across the globe in search of new flavour adventures...With a unique batch code on this and future bottlings, we hope Ardbeggians will jump at the chance to get their hands on this delectable, collectable dram when they are on their travels.”
Ardbeg’s Master Distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden adds “In Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition, salty sea spray and deep, nutty notes mingle with pungent aromas of soot, dark chocolate and Brazil nuts. Clouds of pine and fennel fill the senses with notes of saddle soap and aniseed trailing gently behind. All I have to say to anybody who lays their hands on a bottle is… get ready for a smoky blast!” Available at selected airports around the globe, we've sourced a small parcel for Australian devotees who might otherwise miss out. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... I've just seen that this one is still available in travel retail, for a price that's much lower than in regular shops. They were having dozens at Basel airport just last week, for example. It is a vatting of ex-American oak (Heaven Hill?) and ex-manzanilla casks. I remember some superb ex-fino Ardbeg around Feis 2005, but I'm not sure we've already tried some ex-manzanilla 'beg. But was Dr Bill's idea to add saltiness to saltiness? Let's see, while it's mentioned on the label that it should display some 'saddle soap'… Remember horses are another specialty of Jerez… Colour: straw. Nose: frankly, the territory of an (unsherried, ha) Ardbeg and that of some manzanilla are so close to each other that I'm finding this nose particularly tautological. Fresh walnuts shouting out, green apples and lemons, some chalk, a touch of mustard, sea spray, fresh almonds and chalk, then only a wee touch of mutton suet or something like that. Having said all that and while it's classic Ardbeg in my book, it is not really 'big'. Mouth: perhaps a little too much grittiness, fresh oak at first, making it bitterish (bell pepper, walnut skin), but also loads of salt, as expected. It feels young for sure. Cold ashes, lemon skin, tart cider apples, lemon jellybeans… I find it relatively simple, but Ardbeggy enough. Finish: rather long, still salty. Or, let's say it triggers a lot of saltiness. Walnuts and mustard in the aftertaste. Comments: now, what to do with a litre of this, if you've also got a bottle of the superior Ten in your cabinet? And I'm afraid I couldn't recognise any notes of saddle soap, but that is me. Don't get me wrong, it's some very good Ardbeg that we could quaff with langoustines on the shore of the Guadalquivir, in Sanlucar. 86 points - whiskyfun.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Lemon peel. Gentle smoke, not too peaty, more bonfire than medical. Some fruity notes. Taste: Sweet, toffee notes, milk chocolate, then the citric notes from the nose are coming back. Smoke is rather gentle. Finish: Long. Now reconcilable peaty, yet sweet.
*Please request your preferred t-shirt size in the Special Instructions field of the checkout. T-shirt sizes are subject to availability and we cannot guarantee we will have your size. If no t-shirt size is requested it will be selected at random.
![2023 Coldstream Hills Chardonnay]()
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2023 Coldstream Hills ChardonnayYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $32.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinRich and gently creamy in its feel with a long, refined finish.
Fermented and matured on lees for a period of 7 months in a mix of seasoned and new French oak barriques, puncheons and vats. Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Delightful nose with aromas of white peach, nectarine, dried honey and cashew streaming out of the glass. Notions of biscuity nougat and spice also chime in for additional nuance. Rich and gently creamed in its flow across the palate, flavours of white peach, nectarine and dried honey are featured over a cashew, biscuity nougat and spice back drop. Beautifully balanced acidity finishing long, refined and shapely.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews....
Barrel fermented and matured in a combination of seasoned and new French oak barriques, puncheons and vats. A light, bright green gold. Gee, Andrew Fleming and the team have a lovely touch when it comes to making chardonnay. Gentle aromas of nashi, just-ripened nectarines and a hint of vanillin spice. The palate has good mid-palate intensity, juicy acidity and a long, even finish. A steal at this price, really. Drink by 2028.
95 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![Dictador 20 Year Old Rum (700ml)]()
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Dictador 20 Year Old Rum (700ml)COLOMBIAReduced from $140.00$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%Dictador's premium offering is distilled partly in copper pot alembics and partly in steel continuous column stills before being aged in a solera system. It's noteworthy that the oldest part of the blend is twenty years old - not the youngest, which is seven. Tasting the 12 and 20 year old releases side by side, the younger version showed more aromatic personality and better overall length. It will be a question of personal preference; both are nicely balanced examples worthy of a rum lover's attention. In this expression, the bouquet opens with soft, sensuous notes of sticky date pudding, brown sugar and creme caramel with a sense of freshness retained. Entry is light and brisk building into a superb, concentrated profile of roasted nuts, dilute molasses and sweet ginger biscuit and spice trailing off with moderate length. The presentation makes it unmissable on a bar shelf. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... not so much brilliant as simply, conservatively solid in its display of rum making fundamentals. It is a well made, well-tasting solera rum that somehow finds a reasonable harmony between its earthy maturity, and the the sweetness and sprightliness of youth... - thelonecaner.com
...Although I would describe this rum as medium bodied, it has a long smooth finish which is more consistent with a heavier rum. The wonderful oak and caramel syrup I described earlier leaves a strong impression on the palate and the throat. Long afterwards I swear I can taste coffee, chocolate and cola lingering. - therumhowlerblog.com
![2013 Lady of the Glen Craigellachie Single Cask #300805a 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)]()
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2013 Lady of the Glen Craigellachie Single Cask #300805a 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 60.5%Malt lovers know Craigellachie as one of Speyside’s bigger distillates, the result of a fast fermentation, little reflux on the large stills and the use of worm tub condensers. This bottling turbo charges the sherry influence via a double maturation - eleven years in a very active refill oloroso butt followed by over eighteen months in an x-oloroso hogshead, adding layers of dried fruit. There is a beautiful oloroso pick up to both the weighty, malty, marmalade-laced bouquet and the dense, oily, honey-drizzled attack. Spices also come through thick and fast with giddy alcohol, weetbix, cream and sweet oak. This has been well handled. Almost a sherry bomb. Better described as a lavish, buxom whisky that achieves a surprising balance at 60.5%, handling water so well as to be two bottles in one. 332 bottles produced but our allocation is tiny. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... I’ve just noticed the distinguished owners are calling this a ‘Scottish’ whisky rather than a ‘Scotch’ whisky. I know, a rather pointless observation... Colour: amber. Nose: double oloroso, no less! So here we have more walnut cake and a healthy dose of Nescafé. Behind that, nargileh tobacco and fresh leather—think a stopover in Turkey during a Mediterranean cruise. Yup. With water: out comes the damp earth, yet again. Mouth (neat): it’s very creamy, it’s very rich, it’s very good, and it’s already deep into Christmas spices, along with a hefty pour of honey. For once, we’re early... With water: now it’s excellent, rich, jammy, thick, with bags of candied fruits and just the lightest touches of cedarwood and fir. Finish: same again, but with a lovely reappearance of citrus, which is fantastic. Comments: rather brilliant, this double oloroso. 87 points - whiskyfun.com
Notes from the bottlers... Cinnamon doughnut, rich fruit cake and rolling tobacco.
![2023 Wantirna Estate Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot]()
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2023 Wantirna Estate Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon MerlotYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $110.00$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin2025 marks 62 years since the first vines were planted at Wantirna Estate, established in 1963 on an east-facing slope in Melbourne's southeastern outskirts. Once a mix of orchards, bush, and grasslands, the vineyard thrives today under the care of Maryann, Reg's daughter, though Reg remains actively involved. The wines, named after his four grandchildren, feature labels illustrated by Michael Leunig, reflecting each grandchild's personality, a heartfelt touch to this family-run estate.
Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot is crafted primarily from the original 1963 plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, with a smaller contribution from Petit Verdot vines planted in 1989. The blend typically consists of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot, though proportions vary yearly. The Petit Verdot, harvested last in mid-April, adds tannin and natural acidity.
Other Reviews....
A 45/45/10% cabernet sauvignon/merlot and cabernet franc/petit verdot blend with the majority coming off the original dry-grown 1963 plantings. A fabulous, bright crimson/purple. A touch riper and richer than the '22. There's a sumptuous core of dark fruits, violets, cedar and fresh pencil shavings on the nose. It's just as enticing on the perfectly pitched, medium bodied, elegant and very persistent palate. Everything is in place for a long and productive life! Drink 2025-2035.
97+ points
Philip Rich - James Halliday's Wine Companion44% Merlot/Cabernet Franc, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot.
Blackcurrant, raspberry, redcurrant, lots of pencils, a dusty spicy almost peppery top note, roast red capsicum, some menthol, violets too. It’s medium-bodied, very tight with cool glassy acidity, again those pencils and dark tobacco, a fine grainy grip to tannin, with a crunchy cranberry finish of excellent length. It’s a vintage where the Cabernet Franc perfume and brightness seems to ride quite high, and I like that sort of thing very much. And the pencils. I love pencils in my Cabernets. It’s finely-etched and classic in its Yarra Valley restraint. I reckon it’s tops. Drink 2028-2043+.
96 points
Gary Walsh - The Wine FrontThe 2023 Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon is leafy and spiced on the nose, with cassis and bramble, graphite and tobacco and delicate notes of cracked black pepper, pomegranate and cherry. This is floral and medium-bodied yet structured by tannins that feel eminently pulverized into the fruit—not a frame, rather a skeleton. I recently had the pleasure of a 1991 Cabernet Merlot from Wantirna Estate, and it was utterly fantastic. A perfect wine that moved into its apogee the following day. It was elegant, intense and incredibly fresh and a bitter disappointment to reach the end of the bottle. From that experience, one could surmise that the drinking window will span 30 or more years with ease. It is so pretty and unforced. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2043.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
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It's not uncommon for long-time customers to comment, "I've never had a bad wine from Nicks" . Part of the reason is that we taste and rate all the wines before you do. In fact, we offer an independent review for most of the wines on this website. Think of the "What's Hot" page as a shortlist - not only of the most highly rated wines from every category and price point - but also many of the best value spirits and liqueurs in Australia. Our selections include the most exciting wine growing regions around Australia as well as imports from around the world. Not sure what to buy? Give us a call on 1800 069 295. Let us know what you've enjoyed in the past and one of our knowledgeable staff will guide you in your choice. Unlike many retailers, we let you mix it up. Order online in straight dozens or make every bottle different to enjoy a new flavour each day. When you order more than $200 worth, get it delivered free to most areas of Australia.