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2025 Rob Hall Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinGrowing 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.
2025 was another excellent year in the Yarra Valley, the weather was close to perfect right through the season, resulting in a fairly early harvest, producing wines with 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).Richly fruited, supple and expansive, this is yet another great value Pinot from the ever reliable Rob Hall.
Red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Perfumed wafts of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and subtle anise greet the nostrils. Some subtle rhubarb, bramble, fresh herb and vanillin spice notes are also evident. Richly fruited, supple and polished, the moreish palate is flooded with a wave of red to dark cherry, strawberry, anise and delicate rhubarb flavours. Lending further interest are some dried herb, bramble, forest floor and spice elements. Both powerful and expansive, it has velvety tannins and a long, seductive finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews.....
Mainly destemmed with a small number of whole bunches. Light bright crimson. Delicate and perfumed with strawberry, rose and lavender. The palate is equally delicate, with lovely persistence and balanced, svelte tannins. Finishes silky and long. A lovely and well-priced wine to drink now and over the next two to three years. Drink by 2030.
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Romana White Sambuca Liqueur (1000ml)ITALY$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%Not only is Romana the world's best selling export brand Sambuca, it was also one of the first to be effectively marketed. Made by the Pallini family, liqueurists since 1875, Romana Sambuca has long been the bartenders preference over competitors. They tell us it’s a fuller flavoured drink, with plenty of sweet anise aromas - thick, sweet and viscous. Experiment with these mixers for starters to find out why:
White Cloud – One fluid ounce of Romana in tall glass, fill with ice and soda. Refreshing!
Mosca – Float three coffee beans into one ounce of Romana in a thin liqueur glass.
Briefly flame before drinking. Intriguing but risky.
Romana Caffe – Add one half fluid ounce of Romana Sambuca to a cup of hot black Espresso or regular coffee. Stir. Lady's favourite. -
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Ron Santiago De Cuba Carta Blanca Rum (700ml)CUBAReduced from $69.99$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 38%Until now, the Cuban rum category in Australia has been limited to Havana Club. Santiago de Cuba breaks the drought with three new lines. Named after the city of Santiago and boasting over 160 years of distilling experience, Cuba Ron's rum making tradition is unrivalled on the island. Their portfolio starts with the Carta Blanca, a three year old spirit intended primarily as a mixer, offering a balance of a light sweetness with a dry finish. 38% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... A typically characterful Cuban light rum with pleasing grassy, vanilla and leathery notes. 4.5 stars - diffordsguide.com
...Despite the plus points to this rum I still feel that overall it is all just a little bit to light and to clean. The only real evidence of “rum” comes in the finish which is slightly leathery with a note of tobacco. I really enjoy more fruity white rums such as Chairman’s Reserve White Label and Appleton Special. This is probably handy for a bartender needing a more easy going rum. From my perspective though it is very average. 2 Stars - thefatrumpirate.com
Try it in a Daiquiri:
DESCRIPTION: Cuba is seen as the home of many classic cocktails and none are more famous than the Daiquiri - best made with Ron Santiago de Cuba Carta Blanca!
INGREDIENTS:
60ml Ron Santiago de Cuba Carta Blanca
30ml lime juice
30ml sugar syrupMETHOD: In a shaker add in all of the ingredients and then fill with as much ice as possible. Shake until shaker has chilled.
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Ron Santiago De Cuba 11 Year Old Anejo Rum (700ml)CUBAReduced from $124.99$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%A big age statement for Cuban Rum, Ron Santiago's Extra Añejo 11 year old blends the sweetness of sugarcane molasses grown in the Oriente province in the South East of the island with the skillful touch of the Maestros del Ron Cubano. Aged in white oak, there's a nice balance of mature notes including estery tropical fruits, coconut, delicate vanilla and almond, with the sweetness perfectly balanced by moderate spices. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... If you are looking to explore the “lighter” side of rum. I would recommend this as a sipper. It’s quite easy going but at the same time has enough going on to remain interesting. The balance of this rum is really good... Sure this works great in things like an Old Fashioned but I think its best enjoyed on its own. 4 stars - the fatrumpirate.com
Try it in a Cuban Crown:
DESCRIPTION: This organic twist on the Daiquiri uses honey to balance the sharp lime with a hint of salt to season. This provides a cocktail with lasting depth.
INGREDIENTS:
60ml Ron Santiago de Cuba Extra Añejo 11 years old
45ml salted honey syrup (2:1)
20ml lime juiceMETHOD: To make the salted honey syrup combine 2 parts honey to one-part warm water and add a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined. Then shake all of the ingredients over ice and strain into a chilled coupette glass.
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Ron Santiago De Cuba 8 Year Old Anejo Rum (700ml)CUBAReduced from $79.99$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 40%Every bottle of Ron Santiago de Cuba is certified by the DOP (Denominación de Origen Protegida) meaning production, bottling and 100% of the sugarcane is from Cuba. It also means the minimum age of any liquid found in the Anejo is 8 years old, with older material included. This lighter styled Cuban classic is made for mixing, but equally enjoyable over ice where you'll savour its aged notes of honey, vanilla and coffee. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Dry oak tannins, cinnamon and peppery spice are mellowed by toffee, sugar cane and honey sweetness with vanilla with cacao and citrusy passionfruit. 4.5 stars - diffordsguide.com
Try it in a Spritz:
INGREDIENTS:
50ml Ron Santiago de Cuba Añejo 8 years old
20ml fresh squeezed lime juice
40ml salted honey syrupMETHOD: Fill with ice and top with soda. Garnish with a squeezed half lime. *Make the honey syrup: Mix equal parts hot water and honey. Add a pinch of salt, stir until combined. Let cool.
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Roseisle The Origami Kite 12 Year Old (Special Release 2023) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLANDReduced from $159.99$114. 99Bottle$1379.88 DozenABV: 56.5%Completed in 2010, Roseisle is a new addition to the Diageo stable, built to produce large quantities of malt for blends. Its design is also geared towards flexibility. According to Scotchwhisky.com. "Six of its seven pairs of stills can switch between stainless steel or standard (copper) shell and tube condensers. If a light grassy spirit is required, long fermentation (in excess of 90 hours) is used, along with slow distillation with air rests, and condensing in the copper condensers. Conversely, if a heavy style is needed then the stainless steel condensers will be used. The lack of extended copper ‘conversation’ will add the requisite weight to the spirit. A nutty (malty) style could also be produced by shortening mashing and fermentation regimes. The grassy style which is currently produced is different noticeably to that from other Diageo sites such as Glen Ord or Royal Lochnagar."
This special release was matured in first-fill and refill bourbon barrels. A sweet, chewy malt, it conjures notes of toasted cereals, dried grass, sponge cake and bittersweet chocolate, leavened by some attractive fruity moments through the warm, spirity finish. 56.5% Alc./Vol. Tasted from a 20ml sample.
Other reviews... This first single malt release from Roseisle has a nose of orchard and citrus fruit, with kumquat, lime, banana leaf, nectarine, red apple, and jasmine, with a touch of white pepper and vanilla oak. Buttery and fruity on the palate, with green apple, orange, lime, and plenty of spice, settling to apple, marshmallow, cotton candy, and background spices. Residual fruit, spice, and a touch of creaminess on the finish. 89 points - whiskyadvocate.com
Here, I believe, is the first commercially released version of Roseisle, beyond the various samples that have been circulating since its launch in 2010. Roseisle's total capacity is 10 million LPA, which isn't huge (Glenfiddich and Glenlivet are much larger). I had the joy of visiting Roseisle with the Malt Maniacs on our 15th anniversary in 2012. Roseisle can produce very different styles, especially by using stainless steel instead of copper in the condensers, which generates thicker, less pure textures, even quite sulphurous ones, but it seems that the priority has remained with light and herbal malts, no doubt much easier to 'correct' when filled / used. Colour: golden. Nose: indeed, I find it quite herbal at the start, then more on apples and plums, then melon, nectarines, almond paste, coconut, and fresh wood. It's nice but there isn't a huge personality, we remain in the realm of the largest Speyside distilleries. With water: the same feeling. Ripe apple, beer, freshly mown lawn... Mouth (neat): very creamy, peppery and fruity at the same time, then increasingly herbal, with a bit of syrup and hops in the background. It's especially the quite thick texture that is remarkable, had they used stainless steel condensers? With water: much fruitier, a bit in the style of the strongest Californian IPAs, then more and more herbal and spicy, with a lot of green pepper and pink berries. Finish: quite long, always very spicy, a bit dominated by new wood at this stage. Pear. Comments: nothing more to say, it does the job very well, with a lot of texture. 85 points - whiskyfun.com
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Royal Lochnagar 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLANDReduced from $129.99$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 40%"...projects a delightful richness unique to Royal Lochnagar. " - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible
From the smallest member of Diageo’s roughly thirty strong distillery portfolio. We've always enjoyed the lightness and freshness that comes with this bottling, which is not without a touch of honey. It's slow fermented and the distillation is the same, maximising copper contact and producing a new make that's fruity and grassy and well suited to sherry casks. A fresh pour opens with suggestions of cheesecake, granita biscuits, straw bale and poached pears on the nose, following in a light to medium bodied, well-rounded malt; Mid palate candied fruitiness arrives with a honeyed glaze while the finish turns mildly grassy. The final stages are gently spicy, crisp and appley. When you need a dram that's soft and a little sweet - think Highland Park, less the peat. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews… Superb! A sharp, copper-rich aroma going on heavy esters. The malt forms a lovely outer shield.... a succulent, salivating delivery, soft on arrival with the barley and light caramels melting first...pleasant farewell of vanilla, toffee, light ulmo honey... for the first time in some little while I have found an intense dram true to its traditional style. 93 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
...Nose: Fruitcake. Faint burnt currants. Palate: Cakey, sherryish, sultanas with a malty, grassy, sweetness. Finish: Peatier than I remember but becomes rich and spicy. Comment: Complex, beautifully rounded and soothing. 40% Alc./Vol. Rating: 8/10 - www.whiskymag.com
The area in the North of the River Dee was one of the most popular places for illicit ‘moonshine’ distilleries. In 1826, after the introduction of the Excise Act, one operator by the name of James Robertson applied for a licence to produce legally. Other ‘moonshine’ distillers considered him a traitor and set fire to his business. Determined, Robertson constructed another distillery, naming it “Lochnagar” after a nearby mountain. When this venture also burnt to the ground in 1841, Robertson too abandoned the whisky world. Four years later, John Begg built a distillery South of the Dee, close to Balmoral castle (the summer residence of the Royal family). He named it “New Lochnagar”. When the distillery became operational, Begg wrote a letter to the private secretary of the royal family, inviting their Royal Highnesses to experience the delights of the distillery. The very next day, both Prince Albert and his wife, Queen Victoria paid an impromtu call and were impressed enough to allow Begg to rename the distillery 'Royal Lochnagar', making him official supplier to the court. The Royal connection had an immediate effect on the sales and the price of the whisky. It has also seen the distillery play host to a string of famous visitors, many of them British prime ministers taking an hour or so off between meetings with the monarch of the day at Balmoral. Completely renewed in 1967, Royal Lochnagar today preserves its traditional, iconic character with an approach to whisky manufacture that is thoroughly hands-on and artisanal. Fermentation times are long, ensuring that every last morsel of character is extracted from the mash, and the distillery's short, stubby stills maximise the broad flavour spectrum. The distillery uses a mix of third-fill Sherry butts and third-fill American Oak hogsheads. The result is one of the fruitiest, richest Single Malts on the market. Traditionally nearly all the malt production from Lochnager was used in the famous VAT 69 blend. Today the majority is bottled as single malt.
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Ruinart Blanc de Blancs ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkA 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.
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Ruinart Champagne RoseChampagne, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkA 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
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2024 Savaterre ChardonnayBeechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$115. 00Bottle$1380.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinKeppell Smith's vision for Savaterre found its perfect home in 1996 when he planted vines on the golden-granite slopes of Beechworth. Since then, Savaterre has earned its place among Australia's elite for Chardonnay, thanks to that decomposed granitic loam soil and the altitude-driven climate of the Victorian Alps.
The 2024 vintage proved to be an exceptional, classic Beechworth season: long warm days and cool nights allowed for slow, even ripening. This perfect maturity was aided by a small crop per vine from the mature, close-planted vineyard, delivering a wine of incredible focus, precision, and finesse. Fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels seamlessly integrated depth and complexity into its structure, resulting in a tightly coiled, seductive Chardonnay built to beautifully evolve.
Other Reviews...
Here is the art of winemaker laid bare, in all of its beauty as well as mystery. It's a slow reveal, all the better to take in a wine both plush in fruit and fine in structure, citrusy fresh and oak defined, savoury influenced and varietally pure. Complex, tangy fresh aromas arrive Beechworth-bright before leading into a tightly packed, concentrated palate of lemon citrus, grapefruit, stone fruits and toasted almonds creamily textured with honeysuckle aromatics. A suitable ending with saline cut and grip on the long finish. Drink 2026-2036.
97 points
Jeni Port - James Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionThis is a richer iteration of Savaterre Chardonnay with not much in the way of struck match (though, granted, that can sometimes vary between bottles in my experience). It’s glossy and creamy but has firm cut of grapefruit acidity, there’s fine powdery grip to texture, a savoury nutty element and something of a sour yoghourt flavour, honey nougat, spicy oak, a mix of nectarine, pear, lime and melon with a tangy and savoury finish of outstanding length. Drink 2027-2036+.
96 points
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Scapa 21 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Orkney Islands, SCOTLAND$699. 00Bottle$8388.00 DozenABV: 52.9%Aged for 21 years in first-fill American oak housed in warehouses in Orkney, this hard-to-find Scapa is released just once a year. Non chill-filtered and released at cask strength.
Other reviews... Colour: gold. Nose: gingery, cinnamon and spices. Green peppercorn, charred pineapple, cereal, waxes and a little aniseed. With water: nutmeg, cedar wood and sandalwood, with some subtle beach sand and healthier horny vibes – feeling suitably ‘Orcadian’ and even a little bit HP, dare I say. Mouth: grippy spices and a nice menthol note on arrival. Eucalyptus, lemon verbena, bergamot and dried exotic fruits in muesli. With water: herbal, honeyed and waxier. Still quite spicy but the overall weight, texture and dried fruity vibes are lovely. Finish: good length, on coconut, herbal teas, heather honey and peppery spice again. Comments: very good, oak involvement once again but it’s a solid older Scapa with excellent development and a clear Orkney accent. 88 points - whiskyfun.com
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Scapa 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Orkney Islands, SCOTLANDReduced from $159.99$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 48%Other reviews... Worth noting is the rising alcohol strength, which could—just an observation—suggest a focus on malt enthusiasts rather than the wider public, which seems increasingly drawn to lightness, if not outright superficiality, in all things. Right. Colour: gold. Nose: indeed, not the rather light and airy malt one might have expected a few years back; on the contrary, it has presence, even a certain weight, with spicy notes on the nose, sunflower oil, very ripe apple, orange cake, exotic fruit jam, as well as Sichuan pepper and even a wee touch of curry. Style-wise, it seems to lean somewhat towards that other great Orkney name. Mouth: very fruity but with a lovely mentholated touch, almost medicinal, certainly a little salty, though it remains on pineapple and apple. Gradually shifting towards allspice, with a bit of turmeric and caraway. A small spoonful of mashed potato. Finish: great length, beautifully stewed fruits complemented by spices—pepper, turmeric, nutmeg, mint, ginger… Roasted pineapple lingers in the aftertaste. Comments: I forgot to mention the honeyed side. This is very good, with active oak, no doubt about it. Glad to see Scapa back! 85 points - whiskyfun.com
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Scapa 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Orkney Islands, SCOTLANDReduced from $399.00$229. 99Bottle$2759.88 DozenABV: 48%Off the market for several years, this island gem is finally back sporting new packaging. Located on the mainland of Orkney, one of a group of islands off Scotland's northern coast, also home to one of Scotland's most revered distilleries, Highland Park. Scapa's unique flavour profile has been attributed to their water source, one that contains peat, but also involves a comprehensive pipe system from source to distillery which reduces exposure to contaminants on the water's journey. Scapa's barley is malted without the use of peat smoke, yet some peat influence can be found, though not in a smoky form, rather it comes across as added depth, richness or sweetness. Because it's matured in warehouses close to the sea, in some minds this contributes to its salty tang.
Following Pernod Ricard's change of direction for the brand, what was once a charming and unusual whisky was re-positioned as a "luxury" label, heavily filtered and bottled at an entry level ABV while proudly proclaiming it's bold and smooth characteristics. For some, this new styled Scapa was appealing, for others, a tragedy. Hopefully the latest incarnation bottled at 48% will help to reinvigorate the brand.
Other reviews... Same elements, same battle, same manoeuvre here, with active American oak. I quite like that they seem to aim to preserve a ‘house style’ across multiple expressions rather than veering off in all directions (cabernet, PX, IPA, merlot, mizunara—you get the idea). Colour: gold. Nose: this is rather amusing, as you really feel like you’re standing in front of the same whisky, just six years older. It’s therefore rounder, more on exotic fruit preserves (banana and mango), orange blossom, honeysuckle, marmalade, but also beach sand and a hint of ‘old cellar’. Very pretty, with even a touch of ‘oceanic melon’ à la B’laddich. Mouth: same sensations, almost a concentrated version of the 10-year-old in every dimension. Beautiful notes of quince paste, oranges, and citron. Careful—high drinkability index. Finish: long, lovely, on candied fruits (orange zest) with a touch of liquorice and mint. Comments: I find this really very good. Give this one some of your precious time, you do get a bit of active white oak, but you have to look for it. 87 points - whiskyfun.com
40% ABV bottling tasted... Attractive pale gold appearance. The aroma is almost floral offering up soft scents of dilute honey and a cantaloupe like fruitiness, anticipating an easy going whisky - which this is. Plenty of honeyed malt on entry leads into a medium bodied profile featuring stone fruits, dilute honey, hints of marzipan and cocoa. Gently spicy, buttery mouthfeel on the finish. Aftertaste is clean and deliciously fresh though somewhat brief, fading with traces of toasty malt, dried fruits, hints of brine and soft spices. A departure from the brawnier Scapa we fell in love with a decade ago.
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Scapa Glansa Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Orkney Islands, SCOTLANDReduced from $119.99$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%'Glansa' which is Old Norse for "shining storm-laden skies" is a gently smoky Scapa initially aged in first-fill American oak casks, then finished in casks that previously contained peaty whisky. Compared to the unpeated Skiren, you get more of a saline / ocean breeziness to the nose; the peat is earthy but slight, the barley defined by orchard fruits; It's also fuller and spicier than its sibling, the peat adding an extra layer, weaving its way through the honeyed malt, followed by hints of sweet tea biscuits and baked fruits through the sprightly, tangy finish. This presents a dainty, airy kind of smoke, akin to Ardmore, or Scapa's famous neighbour - a good thing, as the distillate's finer points could easily be smothered. This has been sensitively handled. The result is a delicious 'aperitif' island style, possibly unique to Orkney. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews… A delightful whisky which could be raised several notches in quality if the influence of the caramel is diminished. 91 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...Madeira notes on the nose, with vanilla, honey, and pears. Richly fruity on the palate, with cocoa powder, vanilla, caramel, and mild wood smoke. Dark berries emerge from the background. The dark fruits continue through the lengthy finish, where smokiness increases. 87 points
- whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Spring 2017)[+/- 2021 bottling]...With an NAS at 40% vol., we don't speak much. It seems that this is finished in ex-peaty-malt casks, which is just in-cask blending in our book. They should call these (many do that these days) blended malts, no? Colour: gold. Nose: there, naturally, this rather works, with a feeling of Ardmore and some rather lovely whiffs of meadow flowers and lighter compost. I'm even finding notes of fino sherry (that mineral smoke) and fermented plums. Oh and bandages and ointments in the background. Mouth: a blended malt, rather on smoked coffee, with some cigar ashes and, once again, a rather smoky kind of sherry. We're extremely far from Scapa's light honeyed floralness, but indeed it's a fine drop. Good blended malt. Finish: I'm also finding a little mustard in this fine blended malt. More fino, that's great. Comments: congrats to the blenders, very fine piece of work. At 46% vol., this well-crafted in-cask blended malt would be a killer. And then, again, who am I. 84 points - whiskyfun.com
4.5 stars Creamy, fruity and smokey with attractive ripe peach and bready malt. - diffordsguide.com
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2024 Sella & Mosca Cala Reale Vermentino di SardegnaSardinia, ITALY$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkTerrific concentration and textural shape with zingy fruit lining the palate.
Brilliant pale straw colour with flashes of green to the edges and a watery hue. Delightful lime and green apple aromas infused with fresh herbs jump out of the glass followed by some citrus and stony mineral notes. Terrific concentration and textural shape with zingy lime, green to red apple, guava and pear fruits flooding the mouth. Infusions of fresh herbs and mineral elements lend further interest. Crisp acidity with a long, wonderfully fresh and beautifully fleshed finish. A superb example of Vermentino.
Drink over the next year.
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2022 She-Oak Hill Estate Heathcote ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2031-2033)ABV: 14.8%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 1975, this little known estate is one Heathcote’s oldest and along with Jasper Hill and Mt Ida was one of the pioneering vineyards of the region. Further plantings were made in 1996, the dry grown vines from both vineyards now well established with deep roots in the mineral rich Cambrian soil. Winemaking is undertaken by the talented Mark Hunter from Sanguine Estate and maturation takes place in French oak barriques for a period of 18 months.
Dense, powerful Heathcote Shiraz with lashings of black fruit framed by muscular tannins.
Opens with spectacular colour density featuring a super saturated pitch black heart along with an equally deep dark red black hue. Heady aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark chocolate fill the nostrils with spicy vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth notes also chiming in. Rich, concentrated and dense the full bodied palate is engulfed with succulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits which are framed by a muscular tannin structure. Relatively stern yet opulent in it’s feel, earth, spicy vanillin cedar, subtle dark chocolate and blackpepper elements lend further nuance. Deep and powerful it finishes long and juicy yet robust.
Cellar 6-8 years.
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2007 Signatory Vintage Speyside 18 (M) Cask No: DRU 17/A190 #14 18 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$499. 00Bottle$5988.00 DozenABV: 58.4%As is always the case with these 'Secret Signatorys', Macallan isn't stated on the label, however the ever-reputable whiskyfun.com have reviewed bottlings from the same "M" series and their classification and tasting compass points firmly towards Edrington's darling. Matured for 18 years in a first-fill sherry butt (presumably oloroso), this promises all those lovely rich aromas and flavours of dark fruits, chocolate, manuka honey and crème brulee that sherry heads consistently seek out. Few tasting notes are available on this batch, but hopefully that list extends to classic Macallan descriptors like orange marmalade, dried figs, cigars and no sulphur! Judging by reviews for other (M)s, it should be pretty darn good. Signatory's already reasonable asking price is made all the more sweet by direct import pricing. We've received a small share of the 658 numbered bottles produced, un-chillfiltered. 58.4% Alc./Vol.
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2015 Signatory Vintage Glen Spey 9 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #37 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 57.1%Considered by several whisky writers as "one of the most 'obscure' distilleries in Scotland", Glen Spey would have continued to slip under the radar of malt chasers, had it not been for a handful of favourable releases. Formerly known as the "Mill of Rothes", it was built in 1878 by James Stuart & Co (who later went on to buy the Macallan distillery). Always intended as a filler for blends, as with its neighbour, Glen Grant, pot stills are equipped with "purifiers", redirecting some vapour to reflux within the still to produce a less feinty and lighter spirit. This edition was matured in a first-fill sherry butt. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Always these very affordable series from Signatory, with that heavily worked sherry that perhaps doesn’t always let the character of the distillate shine through, but does its job very, very well. Colour: full gold. Nose: ah this is pretty, there's a touch of exhaust fumes (not pleasant in the street but sometimes rather charming in your glass), then green walnuts, cherry stalks, and peach leaves. A few hints of satay sauce, followed by pear cake. With water: marked saponification but it fades quickly, then comes a mix of Indian spices, think tandoori seasoning. Mouth (neat): surprising, on mustard, pepper, tar and dark chocolate, quite the unusual trio. With water: this time, beyond the Indian spices, there's candied ginger and fir bud. Really very unusual. Finish: long, and there's even a flavour of poppadums at the end. Comments: very hard to categorise, this isn't your typical sherry cask. In any case, it feels much more Indian than those super Indian malt whiskies, ha. 84 points - whiskyfun.com
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2009 Signatory Vintage Cameronbridge 16 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #3 Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 57.1%Judging by online reviews, this sounds like a grain that tastes like it's peaking early, probably the result of input from the first and second refill casks which makes it taste richer than you'd expect. Says one, "Pleasant dram for sure, and very decent for quite a young grain." 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Nice, consistent whisky. Powerful, but not too much; sweet and red fruits, and some earthy vibes later on. Nose: Full scent, vanilla sweetness and some berries, a whiff of darker red fruits. Taste: Powerful, not too hefty. Red fruits, berries, milk chocolate now, vanilla sweetness. A little earthy touch noticeable later on. Finish: A bit more alcohol noticeable, but still very drinkable. Red fruits again, berries, a bit of earthy touch as well. A bit drying mouthfeel, medium long finish. - whiskyfun.com
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2009 Signatory Vintage North British 15 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #2 Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 57.1%"A nice find in this SV 100 Proof collection." - whiskybase.com
A dedicated blend filler, North British never bottle whisky under their own label, so few would have had the opportunity to taste it on its own. This one's apparently not as extreme as many others in the 100 Proof series and pretty young for a grain, but does its job well - no doubt due to the injection of added flavour from the first and second fill oloroso sherry butts. Some bourbon barrels are also in the mix. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Very pleasant, even though this grain whisky is only 15 years old. Cereal-like, fruity, spicy and very well-balanced. Smooth and oily on the palate. A nice find in this SV 100 Proof collection. A nice balance between Bourbon and Sherry. Vanilla and walnut in the finish. - whiskybase.com
...Taste: Some power, but very drinkable. A lot of sweetness and red fruitiness, berries. Later on it gains some power. Finish: Now a little alcohol bitterness comes in, but not too dominating. Sweet, red fruits, medium long finish. - whiskybase.com
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2012 Signatory Vintage Cameronbridge 12 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #1 Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 57.1%Obviously relatively young for a grain whisky, but balanced and (just) mature enough to bring vibrant layers of vanilla, toffee and gentle oak, enhancing the distillery's naturally mellow, sweet spirit. Aged exclusively in first-fill bourbon barrels. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Crazy aroma but great taste and finish. Despite its intensity, it remains refined and gentle until the very end. Nose: Initially very strange, like a freshly opened paint bucket and very alcoholic. Then sweet vanilla, cream candies, fresh coconut and citrus fruits come through. Also a hint of marzipan. Taste: Powerful and creamy on the tongue. This is complemented by caramel, toffee, roasted almonds and plenty of spice. Finish: Long finish with lingering sweetness and delicate oak notes. - whiskybase.com
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2022 Sons of Eden Zephyrus ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinSons of Eden is a partnership between winemaker Corey Ryan and viticulturist Simon Cowham who both learnt their trades in the vineyards and cellars of Eden Valley. The name of this wine is taken from Zephyrus, the Greek god of the west wind who is often depicted as a horse. The vineyards of the Barossa are regularly buffeted by cooling Westerly winds creating an ideal temperature range in which to slowly ripen Shiraz.
The 2022 Zephyrus is a blend of 10 different Shiraz parcels located throughout a wide range of vineyard sites within the cooler climate Eden Valley (44%) and warmer Barossa Valley (56%) regions. The vines are aged between 25-60 years old. Each parcel of fruit was fermented with varying levels of whole-bunch fruit clusters (between 10% to 35%). Maturation took place in a mix of new (35%) and seasoned French oak hogsheads for a period of 12 months.Rich, sumptuous and undeniably powerful with lavish layers of fruit carrying a luxurious feel.
Dense inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Intoxicating scents of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum waft out of the glass complimented by some subtlety smoked vanillin cedar, fennel, mocha and peppered earth notes. Rich, plush and concentrated, the moreish palate has an opulent coating of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Vanillin cedar, spicy fennel, subtle earthy mocha and pepper characters lend further interest. Boasting magnificent power and depth it has a velvety yet underlying sturdy tannin structure. Concludes exceptionally long and sumptuously rich yet retains a sense of refinement.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
Deep crimson in the glass with aromas of macerated doris plum, black cherry and blackberry fruits, cut with hints of baking spices, licorice, dark chocolate, cedar, panforte, pan juices and earth. Weighty, with impressive depth and ferrous-edged tannin grip, fading with a crème-de-cassis-like intensity to the fruit. Drink by 2036.
95 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionBrooding aromas of blackcurrants, mulberry bush, cassia bark and wild blackberries. The palate is full-bodied with fine tannins, bright acidity and a generous mouthfeel, showing fresh notes of blood plums, sarsaparilla, violets, graphite and pepper. Very giving and generous, with a beautiful aromatic lift. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 Points
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2022 Sons of Eden Romulus Old Vine ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $69.99$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2025-2035)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinSons of Eden is a partnership between winemaker Corey Ryan and viticulturist Simon Cowham who both learnt their trades in the vineyards and cellars of Eden Valley. Their labels Romulus and Remus come from the fable of the legendary founders of Ancient Rome. These twins were abandoned at birth and reared by a she-wolf. Romulus murdered his twin Remus in a fit of rage over the naming of Rome, the city which both had built. Legend presents Romulus (Barossa Valley) as the stronger, more powerful of the brothers, while Remus (Eden Valley) was more refined, focused and elegant.
Fruit was sourced from the Nuriootpa, Light Pass and Moppa sub regions of the Barossa Valley with vines aged 80 plus years old. Maturation took place in French oak hogsheads of which 45% were new for a period of 18 months.Dense, concentrated and velvety, this is top line Barossa Shiraz at its seductive best.
Magnificent inky black core with a very deep dark red black hue. Wafting from the glass with great potency are seductive aromas of dark plum, blackberry and liquorice which marry into some vanillin oak, mocha, subtle earthy fennel and spice notes. Rich, powerful and opulently layered, lavish blackberry, dark plum and liquorice fruits saturate every corner of the weighty palate. Weaving their way across the back half are vanillin oak, mocha, subtle earth and spicy fennel elements. Dense and concentrated it has velvety tannins and an exceptionally long finish that exudes flamboyance.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
An explosion of blackberries, crushed violets, green leafy herbs and plum cake unfurls over the glossy texture and silky tannins with a supple mocha note to end.
96 Points
Decanter World Wine Awards -
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2023 Sons of Eden Marschall Shiraz - Last StocksBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinSons of Eden have been at the forefront of a new wave of Barossa winemakers revitalising the regions wine styles. Whilst some have pushed the barrier a little too far, overshooting the mark in their pursuit of elegance and freshness at the sacrifice of Barossa’s trademark richness, these boys regularly hit the bullseye. Right through their range of reds they are a model of consistency combining Barossa’s famed rich fruit with supple textures, a delicious savouriness and a fresh feel, never losing sight of what Barossa does best – produce rich, opulent full bodied reds.
Rich, seductive and deeply fruited with a plush feel.
The Marschall Family vineyards are located in the Tanunda and Ebenezer districts of the Barossa Valley with vines aged between 25 to 55 years old. Maturation takes place in a mix of new and seasoned oak hogsheads for a period of 14 months.
Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of liquorice and dark plum engulf the nostrils with hints of ripe blueberry, vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth notes also chiming in. Rich, succulent and fleshy, dark plum, liquorice, blackberry and blueberry fruits carry a plush feel across the seductive palate. Fennel, spicy vanillin cedar and peppered earth characters sit in the background. Showing ample power it has velvet smooth tannins and a sleek feel. Long, deeply fruited, pepper laced finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
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Springbank Fino Sherry Cask Matured 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Campbeltown, SCOTLAND$599. 00Bottle$7188.00 DozenABV: 55%We're fast approaching the end of Springbank’s five part Sherry Series, with just the 10 Year Old Manzanilla left to be released. This, the fourth instalment was matured for ten years in total, four years in bourbon casks followed by six years in Fino (dry) sherry casks. Distilled in 2015, 11,400 bottles were released at 55% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Fino can be very specific, and its influence is relatively mild compared to say, Oloroso or Pedro Ximénez. That's a good thing here. It might have added to the saline character, but left plenty of room for Springbank's DNA to shine. - wordsofwhisky.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Dark chocolate, cocoa, sherry, leather, a bit of smoke, minerality, honey and overripe red fruits. Taste: Lightly peaty, nectar, crème brûlée, dried mango, sweet cream, chocolate-covered cherries, slightly salty, with a little red pepper. Finish: Long-lasting nectar, sweet orange, creamy popcorn, roasted malt, minerals and a bit of spiciness.
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Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 28th ReleaseCampbeltown, SCOTLAND$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 55.5%"Without the sherry influence, the actual distillate shines through more clearly...a great success." - whiskybase.com
This release will be notable in the Cask Strength timeline, as it marks a return to 100% ex-bourbon casks. The absence of any sherry input means the whisky will be more 'distillate-driven', a quality that many appreciate in Springbank due to the latent complexity of the spirit. Some are even describing it as their favourite bourbon-matured expression to date! 55.5% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
"Another fantastic Springbank 12 bottling. What makes it special is its pure bourbon maturation. Without the sherry influence, the actual distillate shines through more clearly, in my opinion. Others will miss the sherry component. I appreciate the decision to use pure bourbon cask maturation for Batch 28. For me, it's a great success." - whiskybase.com
"An intense, pure Springbank with wonderful notes of orange peel, citrus, sea air, and a delicate sweetness, along with a good amount of minerality. It's really enjoyable after a few minutes in the glass. Interestingly, you almost miss the sherry influence. This is pure pleasure, practically a significantly more mature version of the 5-year-old 100 proof. I like it a lot." - whiskybase.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: A sweet and inviting introduction to this dram, we have notes of fruit salad candy, raspberry ripple, dried mango, frosting and dark chocolate. Palate: The complexity builds in the palate with notes of smoked cayenne pepper, crushed chillies, toffee and charred steak. Finish: Gentle peat smoke emerges in the finish, along with notes of pink grapefruit, cocoa powder, glazed cherries and salted pretzels.
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Springbank 5 Year Old 100 Proof Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2025 ReleaseCampbeltown, SCOTLAND$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 57.1%"I adore this distillate-dominated sort of profile... top notch, uber-charismatic young malt whisky in the very best sense." - whiskyfun.com
It's speculated that this 2025 addition to the range is a response to the increasing scarcity of Springbank's core products, alleviating demand while keeping the brand 'out there'. Intended as an ongoing quarterly release, '100 Proof' pays homage to several historic distillery bottlings, such as those from the 2000s. Released at 57.1% (British 100 Proof) and matured in ex-bourbon casks, its youth and strength should offer a compelling sensory insight as to what Springbank's one-of-a-kind distillate is all about: an eclectic combination of peat and iodine freshness, cut hay, barnyard, creamy vanilla and tropical fruits. In short, a powerful whisky with a classic coastal Campbeltown personality that will make a curious contrast to the benchmark 10 year old. The first batch sold out instantly in Europe. Be quick! Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Disarming. Clean and oily with vanilla and cream soda. A salty and sweet arrival brings a hint of fizz from lemons and pale-yellow fruits; Japanese pears and unripe honeydew melon. There’s a farmyard mulch, like a damp barn or warm hay mulch. Soft peppermint, white pepper too, with distant liquorice... After a glass or two, I reached for a Springbank 10 year old that’s been open a while and, in the glaring light of direct comparison, the youth of the new release was immediately obvious. But here’s the funny thing; after I’d drained both glasses, the one I reached for a second pour of was the 5yo. The purity of spirit drew me in. The silky texture and the heft of it, the simple focus alongside the odd pleasure of licking it off my teeth, were what the mood called for. - dramface.com
"The profile is quite similar to the Springbank 10 yo, but it is more vigorous, the peat is stronger, and the fruits are more present." - whiskybase.com
"Quintessential Springbank at its youth - not uncommon in some sub-10yo bourbon cage bottle. Campbeltown in a glass. At RRP this is quite decent, I it also strikes a better balance between spirit and cask than Longrow 100 proof. Worth noting that SB new make does require time to tame the funk, and 5 years feels like a bare minimum." - whiskybase.com
...Composed of 100% bourbon casks, although not too sure if everything was first fill. Colour: pale straw. Nose: an abundance of fresh breads and citrus notes. Yeasty sourdough starter, wool, fresh linens and white flowers. Then lemon barley water and impressions of bay leaf, citrus curds, heathery floral notes and some firmer mineral and stone qualities that nod towards waxiness. The very epitome of excellent young malt whisky. With water: lighter and almost feathery, more focussed around cereals, breads, pressed flowers, wool, ink and mineral oil. Mouth: fantastic! Pure Springbank distillate character, very waxy and much oily and more emphatic than the nose suggested, going here much more decisively towards lemon waxy notes, chalk, clay, sheep wool, delicate medicinal tones and wild coastal flowers. There's also a slightly sharp, white stone fruitiness and fermentary side that makes me think of old Glen Grant 5yo 100 proof bottlings. With water: gets bone dry, even salty and superbly coastal now, lemon juice on sheep wool, watercress, white pepper and a trace of brittle peat smoke. Finish: good length, warming and peppery, with impressions of warm draff, old school ales, chalky and still those persistently bright lemony notes. Comments: It's true that I adore this distillate-dominated sort of profile, but even with that caveat, I think this is top notch, uber-charismatic young malt whisky in the very best sense. Swings a wrecking ball through most of these frankly embarrassing NAS wine finished things that clutter up whisky these days. That being said, it also demonstrates that in order to be able to release young, unvarnished, high strength bottlings such as this, you need the sort of distillate that can stand on its own. 88 points - whiskyfun.com
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Springbank Local Barley 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2025 ReleaseCampbeltown, SCOTLAND$599. 00Bottle$7188.00 DozenABV: 55.2%Springbank's sought-after Local Barely series are genuine ‘grain to glass’ limited editions. Different farms, barley varieties, cask maturations and age statements mean that from one batch to the next, malt fans can get a unique tasting experience, every time. The 2025 edition was distilled on 1 July 2015 from Bere barley grown at Clochkeil Farm in Campbeltown, within a few miles of Springbank. Maturation took place in a combination of ex-bourbon casks (60%) and ex-sherry casks (40%) with an outturn of 8,000 bottles at 55.2% Alc./Vol. Word has it that this is one of the more quintessential in the series, with the distillate really shining. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Proper oily texture. Hints of orange marmalade, white pepper and wet pebbles, but also coastal and/or saline notes. A touch of olive brine alongside gentle earthy peat and smoked tropical fruits such as guave. A tad farmy too... Forget my earlier mention of Longrow, as this is Springbank through and through. There’s not much to dislike here, if anything. Slightly austere, definitely old school and 100% quality stuff. - wordsofwhisky.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Notes of fig rolls, date syrup, plums and star anise kick off this year’s Local Barley. Palate: A savoury element becomes more pronounced on the palate, with notes of burdock, shiitake mushrooms, tamari soy sauce and liquorice. Finish: Notes of campfire ash and treacle molasses come to the forefront in the finish.
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Springbank 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2024 bottlingCampbeltown, SCOTLAND$799. 00Bottle$9588.00 DozenABV: 46%"This is riiiight up my alley... either Springbank 18 is evolving, or it’s me. Or, well, perhaps both." - whiskyfun.com
The all-Bourbon matured 18 year old makes a return to our shelves with the annual 2024 edition just landed. The last time Serge Valentin from whiskyfun tasted this expression was back in 2020. As noted from his most recent tasting below, these bottlings seem to be getting better and better. The producers note honeyed granola, fruit gums, pear drops and tropical fruits. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... A freshly bottled edition, August 2024. A sign of the times, you’ll currently find Springbank 18 priced anywhere between €350 and €750 from online retailers, or from €250 on eBay. Of course, this doesn’t change the quality of the liquid one bit. The last one we tasted was the 2020 edition, very good (WF 86) but a far cry from our favourite, the 10-year-old (WF 91 last time) or the younger Local Barleys (also 91). And it's far superior to the ‘Red’, about which we’ll remain silent. Colour: straw. Nose: surprising, heading in the direction of the 10-year-old, with plenty of wet chalk, raw wool, sourdough, aspirin tablets, even bandages, followed by lemon zest, paraffin, a hint of seawater, and traces of tar. This is riiiight up my alley. Mouth: oilier and saltier on the palate, with peat, ashes, a touch of green apple liqueur, and that persistent wet chalk that’s a bit reminiscent of ‘natural’ champagnes. A lovely green pepper then appears, accompanied by small bits of candied lemon, which I find particularly ‘Springbank’. Finish: long, saline, peppery, with fine bitterness and ash, and then paraffined lemon in the aftertaste. Comments: well, either Springbank 18 is evolving, or it’s me. Or, well, perhaps both. 90 points - whiskyfun.com
On the nose very much determined by the bourbon barrel: Ripe yellow fruit, vanilla and flower meadow. Accompanied by very subtle smoke. A wonderfully complex nose. Lots of bright yellow fruits are again present on the tongue. There is also a spicy eucalyptus note and plenty of complexity. A wonderful whisky. Springbank and 100% bourbon simply work brilliantly. One of the best whiskies I've had the pleasure of drinking so far. - whiskybase.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Tropical fruits are at the forefront in notes of papaya and pineapple. There is a malty, dried barley note, with vanilla and custard creams. Palate: Notes of golden syrup and honeyed granola emerge on the palate, along with fruit gums, pear drops and butter icing. Finish: The tropical fruits carry through to the finish, with the addition of a herbaceous, gorse note and a touch of sea salt.
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Springbank 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2024 BottlingCampbeltown, SCOTLAND$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 46%Why has Springbank been so hard to get of late? Quite simply, the distillery has always had a relatively low output. Patchy supply has been an issue for quite a number of years, but that's slowly changing. Production has increased marginally, but it will be quite some time before there's sufficient age stated stock is available to meet year-round global demand. In the meantime, allocations from the official Australian importer remain negligible. Just landed is another tiny instalment of the 15 year old, this time matured in Oloroso sherry casks. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... The issue for me remains the same: it’s nearly impossible to beat the 10-year-old, even more so in terms of quality/price ratio. In short, the 15 is sold at twice the price of the 10. This is the 2024 release in our glass—I imagine the 2025 version is already in the pipeline. Colour: gold. Nose: a restrained sherry greets us, with the distillate in full command of itself, brimming with Springbankness. Damp plaster, fresh concrete, low tide, paint pot, lemon, menthol, old ointments, and not the slightest trace of sulphur this time. We found a bit in an earlier version, but that was back in 2017. Mouth: less luminous than the 10 OB, with more leather and simply more sherry (old walnuts) as well as tobacco, yet the brininess is spot-on, before things shift more towards bitter oranges rather than lemons. Finish: long, oily, with a touch of curry and very peppery olive oil. Comments: excellent, as expected, but as the old ad used to say, I wouldn’t trade two bottles of the 15 for one of the 10. Well, there we are… 88 points - whiskyfun.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Hints of dried fruits, oak, and a subtle maritime influence. Taste: Layers of toffee, vanilla, and a touch of peat. Finish: Long and warm.
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Stagg Batch #24B Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$330. 00Bottle$3960.00 DozenABV: 63.9%Since Australia experienced price hikes in Buffalo Trace's Antique Collection, 'Stagg' (formerly known as Stagg Junior) is now generally considered the best buy in the distillery's portfolio. This batch has been talked up as a "return to form" according to some bloggers - whatever that means - as variation between batches is usually not that significant. Stagg 19 22B was the first edition with the new batch numbering system, where the batch details are displayed next to the proof on the label (e.g.- 22B = the second release of 2022). Hence, we can tell at a glance that this is the second release of 2024 (yes, it takes that long for these to get to Australia!) Rumoured to be matured for nearly a decade and bottled at 63.9% ABV with zero filtration, whichever batch you're lucky enough to secure, keep in mind that these high-octane Bourbons usually need taming with water, or at a minimum, we suggest letting your Stagg breathe in the glass to let it unravel and better appreciate its flavours.
Other reviews... "The sweetness, dryness, and tannins are intricately weaved together, adding complexity, depth, balance, and an overall fabulous sipping experience. This, along with batch B22, is one of my favorite recent Stagg Jr’s." - Bourbon, Whiskey & Rye
Notes from the producers... Nose: Cherry, fig, baked apples, sweet oak and leather. Taste: Cherry, caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, hint of cocoa and black pepper. Finish: Long, sweet with mild spiciness.
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Suntory Hakushu Distiller's Reserve Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)Hokuto, Yamanashi, JAPANReduced from $179.99$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 43%PLEASE NOTE: PRESENTATION BOX MAY VARY BASED ON STOCK. YOU MAY RECEIVE THE OLD STYLE GREEN BOX, OR THE NEWER WHITE BOXES.
An intriguing NAS whisky from the ever-consistent Hakushu distillery. The Distiller's Reserve combines young, lightly peated and older, heavily peated malts rumoured to be up to eighteen years in age. Like it or not, these NAS releases have been crucial for the ongoing presence of Japanese distilleries on the shelves, allowing continued market access by marrying dwindling older barrels with younger stock coming online. Executed by expert blenders, the results can be distinctive and sometimes outstanding. If mixing is more your thing, this is said to make a fantastic Highball.
Other reviews... On smelling the whisky, I found it had a grassy scent that struck me as different to other Japanese whiskies I’ve tasted in the past. After tasting the drink, I picked up flavours of mint, cucumber and fruit. Each flavour unfurled on my tongue, building up slowly over time. I also enjoyed the fact that the Distiller’s Reserve was so easy to drink. It had a smooth quality that chimed well with the ice in my glass. Whereas some whiskies leave behind a fiery aftertaste, the Hakushu went down as easily as a bottle of Peroni. Another important note was the clean sensation. I found the drink gave my palate a sense of freshness that I’ve not experienced before with whisky. In conclusion, the Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve is a highly herbaceous single malt whisky that’s easy to drink, fresh to the taste and packed with fruity flavour. 2019 review - yamatomagazine.home.blog/
Retasted Nov 2016... Subtle, with light wafts of fresh sawn American oak, gobstopper and stewed pear. Air contact draws out hints of granita biscuit. More presence in the mouth than the nose suggests with a nicely rounded, fresh delivery that's peppermint lozenge-like followed by cool mint confectionery melting in the aftertaste. Unexpected and quite delightful. 43% Alc./Vol. 90 points
First tasted 2013 Pale straw gold colour. Moderately intense, grassy and mildly fruity aromatics combine with a malty-vanilla base and a soft, round, light to medium weighted delivery with cereal and vanilla flavours, nicely balanced alongside the gently buzzing spices that carry well into the aftertaste. Shows good persistence. 89 points
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Suze Gentian Aperitif (1000ml)FRANCE$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 15%Closure: Screw Cap'Suze' was created in 1889, at the Rousseau, Laurens and Moureaux distillery in the outskirts of Paris. To differentiate his product from the many wine based aperitifs of the day, Fernand Moureaux decided to create an aperitif from the Gentian plant, a yellow Alpine flower with massive roots that dig deeply into the flanks of mountains. It is these same roots that are used to prepare the base material of the liqueur.
Legend has it that Moureaux bought the formula from an old distiller in the Canton de Bern on the Swiss Jura Mountains where Gentian thrives, and where the river Suze flows. Here, Hans Kappeler had been selling "Or des Alpes" to the locals for years as a remedial tonic. Late in his life, sick and almost financially ruined, Kappeler may well have taken the opportunity to sell his creation to the French negociant. The story goes he convinced Moureaux that one day his liqueur "would flow in France like the Suze", in reference to the river passing through the village.
A more prosaic version has it that the aperitif was named after Fernand Moureaux's sister in law, Suzanne Jaspart, who enjoyed the drink during sessions of tennis. Regardless, Suze became a sensation due to its original flavour. A testament to its popularity is the plethora of advertising material that was produced around the brand by illustrious artists including Pablo Picasso, and the nickname it received from fans - "The Yellow Fairy!"
In the present day production of Suze, wild Gentian is still sourced from Jura, but also from Auvergne where other famous brands of Gentian liqueur are still produced. The modern-day Suze is much sweeter than the original recipe, but still includes all of the aromatic plants in its formula, though exactly which remains closely guarded.
The gentle alliance of sweetness and bitterness is the trademark of this aperitif, which continues to be the biggest selling in its category. It also makes it hugely versatile:
Try it neat or on the rocks: Traditionally enjoyed chilled as a pre-dinner drink. Pour it over a single ice cube, let it dilute slightly to cut the sweetness, and enjoy as the French do.
Suze Tonic: Mix 1 part Suze with 3 parts premium tonic water over ice, and garnish with a twist of lemon. The quinine accentuates the herbal, medicinal notes of the gentian root, making it a fantastic low-alcohol alternative to a standard Gin & Tonic.
In a White Negroni: Substitute Campari with Suze in a classic Negroni (mix with gin and dry vermouth) for a lighter, more herbal, and floral cocktail.
Suze Spritz: Combine 50ml of dry white wine or sparkling wine, 50ml of Suze, and 25ml of soda water over ice with a lemon slice
With Citrus: Serve it over ice with a lemon or orange twist to highlight its bright, citric notes.
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Talisker 10 Year Old Gift Pack with Glass Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 45.8%Comes with a bonus branded Talisker tumbler.
'The lava of the Cuillins' - that's how Talisker, the Golden Spirit of Skye was described by one poetic taster: the only single malt from a spectacularly beautiful island of wild moorlands and dramatic mountain peaks known as the Cuillins. Built in Carbost in 1831 near 'Talisker House', the distillery has entertained such personalities as Boswell & Johnson. Another celebrity who enjoyed his Talisker was author, Robert Louis Stevenson, describing it in 1880 as 'king 'o' drinks'. Stevenson rightly recognised it as bearing similarities to both the Glenlivet and Islay malts. However, by taking 'the best of both worlds' so to speak, it achieved a unique style. In 1892 Roderick Kemp, a part owner sold his share to establish the now-immortal Macallan. Talisker has continued strong since under the ownership of Diageo. An individual malt that remains an island classic, Talisker invariably offers a great sniff. At ten years old, the aromas are pungent-yet-fresh with Islay-like seaweedy smokiness and sweet fruity malt. There's a bold maritime influence on the palate too, perfectly complemented by a spicy, very peppery lingering finish. A little honey threads its way through the beautifully balanced spirit. Not harsh but warming. Always satisfying to re-discover this West Highland gem. 45.8% Alc./Vol.
A quite stupendous malt to be enjoyed at any time. But especially at night. - 93 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2019
...Another that should need no introduction. The thing to look for in Talisker, as with all smoky whiskies, is sweetness that gives the requisite balance to the drying effect of smoke. Underneath Talisker’s smoke, which ain't as all-pervading as Lagavulin, is a sweet pear-like quality. When young there are notes of the land: heather, moor, sweet seaweed, and a finish that has a distinctive cracked black pepper hit. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Dave Broom (Summer 2012)
… Nose: A razor-sharp spiciness lances through Demerara sweetness and rich peat. Absolutely magnificent. Palate: The enormous build up of spice adds to the multi-layered peat. The sweetness is almost like freshly crushed grist. Wave upon wave, layer upon layer of complexity. Finish: Massively warming and still spicy. The peat lingers while the spice bristles. Comment: A dram to be savoured and celebrated. Rating: 95 - www.whiskymag.com
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Talisker Dark Storm Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml)Isle of Skye, SCOTLANDReduced from $199.99$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 45.8%"...this is just brimming with vitality and purpose." - Jim Murray
There's 'Storm' and then there's 'Dark Storm': One is ubiquitous, the other frustratingly difficult to find yet generally considered the most desirable NAS expression from a distillery that excels in youth. Judging by the success of previous shipments, we know Dark Storm is a favourite of many who otherwise would have to be traveling internationally to buy it. The peatiest whisky Talisker produce, maturation in heavily charred casks imparts even more smoke and pepper to an already intense malt. The result is extreme yet balanced. We've managed to secure another parcel while maintaining the sharpest price possible. One litre duty free exclusive bottling. 45.8% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... some pretty chunky peat and spice is blown around the glass, certainly big enough to take the muscovado sugars head on...the sugars on the nose appear to multiply on delivery, as does the bourbon-style tannin-led liquorice and hickory...all is fresh and balanced enough to come good, even with some very late spices; much more like it! Unlike the storm which appeared to labour under some different American oak, this is just brimming with vitality and purpose. 92 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2016
...Dark Storm is exclusive to Travel Retail outlets, and maturation has taken place in deeply charred casks. Rich, fruity spices on the nose, quite citric, with brine and aromatic smoke. The smoke elbows its way to the fore in time. Full, sweet, fruity flavors on the palate, some vanilla, then smoke, licorice, and spice hit home. A classic Talisker smoke and chili finish, but cranked up a notch or two!
89 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2013)...Liked this baby when it first came out, although the 10 always reigned supreme in my book. Colour: gold. Nose: it does nose young, but not immature. It’s big Talisker, rather emphatic and even slightly ‘in your face’, with nice notes of fermenting leaves and fruits, dried kelp (more dried kelp than on an inaccessible beach), a very grassy/leafy smokiness, and not that many pencil shavings, while earliest version had more of that. Notes of bitter marmalade. Mouth: seriously, this is super good, if a tad cloying. They seem to have pushed the ashes and the drying parts, and lowered the fruits. Tends to become a little bitter, on Fernet Branca, various artichoke liqueurs, ginger, heavy cinnamon… The wood sure has a lot to say here. Finish: long, drying, very smoky and extremely spicy. Some oak in the aftertaste. Comments: a comedian that goes a little overboard, but it’s still one of my favourite young Taliskers. Like ‘Storm’ better, though – and of course the 10. 83 points - whiskyfun.com
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Taltarni Cuvee Rose Victorian SparklingVictoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $22.99$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: Diam CorkEstablished in 1969, Taltarni Vineyards is one of the pioneering wineries of Victoria's Pyrenees region and has built a long standing reputation for the quality of their Sparkling wines. Their Cuvee Rose is one out of the box delivering terrific value for just $20.
A savoury, flavour packed Sparkling Rose.
A blend of 52% Chardonnay, 39% Pinot Noir, 9% Pinot Meunier aged for a minimum of 2 years on lees. A satiny mousse slowly fades into a salmon pink coloured base that has a fine, persistent bead coursing through it. Attractive pear and strawberry aromas intermingle with raspberry, brioche and subtle lees notes. Crisp and stimulating, the palate has a savoury, flavour packed profile of pear, strawberry and raspberry fruits which meld into a brioche, yeast lees and baked bread background. Lively acidity with a long, very dry finish that has a slightly chalky feel to it.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews….
A blend of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier sourced from a range of Victorian and Tasmanian vineyards. This salmon-pink rosé is beautifully complex, with gentle savouriness giving the mid-palate presence and depth. A thread of gorgeous acidity sails effortlessly through the wine. Every element is beautifully balanced and refined, from the warm strawberries and baked bread nuances to the faint dried rose petal tones. A sophisticated drop, simply excellent for the price!
95 Points
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Tamnavulin Sherry Cask Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLANDReduced from $79.99$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 40%A new leader in the sub $100 single malt category.
"Superb delivery, I must say!" - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
The softer side of Speyside is on show in this deeply coloured Tamnavulin. Finished in three different types of sherry casks, the nose offers a delicate and gently sweet sherry infusion leaving the malt intact, American oak adding an undercurrent of vanillas. At first dryish and Oloroso-like, by mid palate this develops impressive weight and mouthfeel with a brief burst of fruit cake and a thrust of warming spices. The finish lingers with more dried fruits (think PX), bitter peel and a late succulence. The wine input is sensitively handled, and at just 40%, the depth of flavour unexpected. Prepare to be surprised.
Other reviews... [Edition 2 tasted] I'm presuming PX is one of the sherry types here because there is a dominant stickiness to this bottling. Superb delivery, I must say! 91 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...Rather exotic on the nose, reminiscent of bananas foster, fresh ginger root, shaved coconut, dried apricot, and orange blossom. The palate offers enticing touches of coffee liqueur, ripe mango, salted cashew, and tinges of orange zest that offer lift to a long, semisweet finish. 91 points Excellent, Highly Recommended - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021
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2022 Teusner Bilmore ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich, exceptionally concentrated and voluptuous, this is quintessential Barossa Shiraz.
Teusner’s Bilmore Shiraz is sourced from vineyards along the western ridge of the valley floor, an area stretching south of Seppeltsfield Road, around the back of the golf club at Rowland Flat and then on through the parish of Gomersal that overlooks the southern township of Lyndoch. Shiraz grown in these parts produces richly flavoured wines with soft and round textures that are dangerously drinkable. For the Bilmore Shiraz Kym Teusner puts the emphasis on Barossa’s trademark luxurious fruit using only older, seasoned barrels to mature the wine for a period of around 12 months.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a near equally deep dark red black hue. Wafting from the glass are heady aromatics of liquorice, dark plum and black cherry followed by vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich, exceptionally concentrated and voluptuous, plush dark plum, blackberry and liquorice fruits caress the full bodied palate. Lurking underneath are vanillin oak, mocha, subtle earth and spice elements. Boasting magnificent power it has silky smooth tannins and a long decadent finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
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The Clydeside Distillery Fortnight Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 46%The latest addition to the core range from The Clydeside Distillery is Fortnight, named after an annual two-week window when peated spirit is distilled. 100% Scottish barley is malted using Highland peat and then matured for six years. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... a very well-rounded whisky where the price-performance ratio is also good. Not an exceptional whisky, but a solid standard. / Young but beautifully fruity and malty distillery character. Smooth and creamy with a great aromatic smoke. This style has a lot of potential. A little more alcohol would have done it good, though. Excellent value for money - not a highlight, but really fun. - whiskybase.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Gentle smoke, stone fruit and vanilla. Palate: Bright citrus and heather honey. Finish: Warm spice and peat.
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The Clydeside Distillery Stobcross Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLANDReduced from $89.99$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 46%Ever since the Kinclaith stills at Strathclyde fell silent, Glasgow has been without a malt whisky distillery. The city's whisky renaissance recently took another step forward with The Clydeside, the second distillery to open there in over 100 years. Owners, Morrison Glasgow Distillers have been synonymous with single malts for generations. The family’s independent bottling business, A.D. Rattray, traces its roots back to 1868. For their latest project, the family worked closely with the late Dr. Jim Swan to refine wood selections and develop a ‘light but fruity spirit’, less grassy than other Lowland malts, instead veering toward a spicier Speysider. The concept was "...to reflect Glasgow’s past in bringing tobacco and spices to the UK." An inaugural distillation took place on the 6th November 2017 and the distillery's first whisky was bottled in 2021.
Like other newcomers (think Lochlea, Raasay or The Hearach), Clydeside's presentation is sleek and modern, designed to stand out on the shelves. A nautical theme is evident on the labels, split in half by a horizontal stripe, echoing the Plimsoll line along a ship’s side indicating the maximum depth to which it may be safely immersed when loaded with cargo. The whiskies arrive reasonably priced and it's pleasing to note that they're bottled at a minimum of 46%, without chill filtration.
The Stobcross is named after a historic cross which once marked the route to Dumbarton Rock. The whisky is matured in a combination of Bourbon and Sherry casks. It's a fresh, lively style with floral notes, tropical tones, orchard fruits and hints of white pepper.
Other reviews... The Stobcross is obviously youthful, and it’s light, fruity and uniformly enjoyable, but to expect anything more than this would be unreasonable – it’s the first output from a completely new distillery. The flavour components that I’m finding show it’s got the makings of really interesting whisky – the tobacco whiffs in particular, but it does, like Wally said when we were chatting about it recently, feel like it could have benefitted with a little bit longer in the cask if only to develop the hints of flavours that always seem to be at arms reach. You want to grab hold of them and give them a good scrutinising, but they remain elusive, distant and frustratingly fleeting. A good opening gambit however and, with more time spent in the casks to develop the interesting flavour signatures, there’s no doubt the spirit flowing from the Clydeside Distillery will deliver the experience hinted at in the Stobcross. There’s a lot to be excited about and, with new and re-established distilleries popping up each year, Clydeside is perfectly positioned to become a prominent presence in what’s becoming Glasgow’s 21st century industrial revolution. - dramface.com
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The GlenAllachie 12 Year Old & The GlenAllachie 12 Year Old Moscatel Wood Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky Bundle Buy (2 x 700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenBuy the world-beating 12YO together with the 12YO Moscatel Wood Finish and get $300 worth of GlenAllachie for just $240!
Notes on Glenallachie 12YO... The GlenAllachie have done it again! The 12 Year Old has won the award for World's Best Single Malt at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards, an honour it previously received in 2021 for Batch #4 of its 10 year old Cask Strength release. Billy Walker considers the 12 year old to be the heart of the core range with some of the very best virgin oak, Oloroso sherry and Pedro Ximenez casks selected. It is slightly less robust than the ten year old, though just as deeply coloured and easily one of the more flavour-packed 12 year olds going around, opening with notes of chocolate box and Turkish delight followed by a medley of dried fruits, cocoa, clove, honey and vanilla, plus no shortage of concentration on the palate; A saturate of dried fruits and spices, orange oils, citrus blossom, chocolate box and dried apricots combine with fine astringency for excellent sweet-dry balance. Overall, fresher, and with a little more 'breed' than the brawny 10. If you enjoy exuberant sherried styles, then this will be right up your alley. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 92 points
Other reviews... "A nose of rich sultanas, flapjacks, and milk chocolate, alongside acetone notes. On the palate, dried apple, gourmet chutney, orange zest, nutmeg, and cinnamon emerge, complemented by vanilla custard. The finish is medium-long, oily, and slightly warm, making for a very enjoyable dram." - World Whisky Awards 2025
Notes on Glenallachie 12YO Moscatel Wood Finish... Initially aged for over 8 years in ex-Bourbon barrels and then finished for approximately 42 months in hand-selected Moscatel barriques (a Portuguese sweet dessert wine) imparting floral aromas and a luxuriously smooth texture. It's another decadent, fruit-forward Speysider, typical of GlenAllachie’s celebrated wood-finish lineup. Bottled exclusively for Europe, it's unlikely we'll see this one again! 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... The Moscatel cask is mainly noticeable in the nose, where it pours out of the glass very sweet and sticky and light fruity (gooseberries, light grapes, star fruit, etc.). The fruit flavors integrate nicely into the light Glenallachie character without overwhelming the whisky. There is a slight spice in the finish, but it is much lighter than many of its distillery siblings. Overall, nice summer whisky with a lot of pressure and well-integrated alcohol. The cask influence is very restrained by Billy Walker standards and therefore somewhat unspectacular. - whiskybase.com
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Glenallachie 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 10Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 58.6%Whisky reviewers often say that modern day GlenAllachies are unashamedly 'cask-driven' - as opposed to emphasising the distillate. Precisely what that means and whether or not it's a criticism isn't something that's straightforward to answer or easy to quantify. At the end of the day, if something tastes good, most drinkers are not going to be nitpicking (especially when the price is right). Whether you think heavy barrel input is a plus or a minus, GlenAllachie's series of natural strength ten year olds have been the recipients of considerable praise, with Batch #4 awarded the ultimate accolade as "World's Best Whisky" at the World Whiskies Awards in 2021. From our own experience, there are plenty of people who appreciate the richness that these whiskies deliver, enhanced by a range of cask types, and not entirely sherry. For Batch #10, there’s an unspecified portion of red wine and virgin oak casks in the mix (in contrast to the 12 and the 15 year releases). Combine that with a high ABV and non chill filtration, and you have a flavour bomb that sweetens up with water. Normally these editions retail for around $200 in Australia. At direct import pricing, now is the time to buy!
Other reviews... a whisky that’s not exactly about showcasing the characteristics of the new make. Instead, Pedro Ximènez, Oloroso, red wine and virgin oak casks were used... This is seemingly all about the cask. Arriving on cracked black peppercorns, cloves, a touch of ginger and some mocha. Also peach pits, some cherry liqueur and eucalyptus. Somewhat vinous... A quintessential example of an engineered whisky. The GlenAllachie 10 Years Cask Strength Batch 10 is well-designed. This isn't about careful, slow maturation, but instead about waking up the spirit with an assortment of active casks. And it works, but it's also not without its downsides. - wordsofwhisky.com
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The Glenturret 2025 Release 7 Year Old Peat Smoked Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 46%Historically, Glenturret's peated expressions have been marketed via independents under the 'Ruadh Mhor' label. They only recently introduced peated styles to the core range. Highlighting a well-balanced, "sweet and smoky" profile, the 2025 official release comes matured in American, European and refill oak and lands at a slightly higher ABV than some previous editions. We're also informed that 2024 saw the distillery near the end of its peated stocks, so if you're a fan of this style, it's essential to buy up now as the peated whiskies are discontinued as of 2026.
Glenturret Managing Director, Jennie Baernreuther says the decision to ditch peat was largely influenced by marketing challenges abroad. Some drinkers outside of Europe and the U.S. were confused by the distillery’s peated expressions. “When they like peat, they tend to go straight to Islay and they don’t really know about Highland peat,” she explains. “It’s very difficult for people to understand what it is, let alone be likely to choose Glenturret’s peated [whiskies].” The decision to stop using peat also aligns with Glenturret’s ongoing sustainability efforts to reduce carbon emissions. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Taste: Medium bodied and firmly dry. Peaty and malty with orchard and dried fruits wrapped in black wood smoke and dark chocolate. Dark red berries add depth. Finish: Medium long. Dry, fruity and peaty, now joined by a firmer spicy grip of assorted peppers and oak. Chocolate milk and a pinch of salt round off the close. Comment: Dark peat with salty sweetness. - whiskysaga.com
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The Glenturret 2025 Release Triple Wood Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 45%Matured in American and European oak sherry seasoned casks and Bourbon barrels, the entry-level NAS 'Triple Wood' is considered a crisp, sweet and softly spiced introduction to the Glenturret range. True to its name, the wood influence is said to be prominent. Those who enjoy intense oak should appreciate it, while others may find it slightly dominanting The luxury-look statuesque bottles introduced in 2020 continue to make these editions stand out on the shelf. 45% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... vanilla and toffee apple. barley sugar entwines with hints of malt and light oak. cinnamon is soft alongside heavier notes of sticky ginger cake. light fruits and gentle wood spices deliver a sweet soft finish.
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The Glenturret 2024 Release 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 46.4%2020 marked the maiden release of Glenturret's 12 year old. The launch garnered renewed interest in the distillery, bolstered by the involvement of x-Macallan head, Bob Dalgarno, who took over whisky production. The distillery continues to offer its core range annually. The 2024 release 12 year old comes matured in PX & Oloroso seasoned European & American oak casks and lands at an unusual 46.4% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... From the distillery’s core range, aged in American and European oak, oloroso, and PX casks. Tarry barrel char, candied orange, vanilla-frosted cupcake, and steeped black tea on the nose. The palate is soft and nicely spiced with baked apples, cinnamon, and a hint of banana. The long finish offers balanced pepper spice, more baked apple, blueberry pie, and a hint of cigar ash. Depth and length on the finish, with layered complexity. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com
"I've already tasted the 2021 and 2022 bottlings, and this one ranks well in terms of quality. A lovely Glenturret with plenty of sherry." - whiskybase.com
"...a very pleasant, round, sherry-influenced (but not too heavy) whisky, no off-notes, much better than expected. Reminds me a of a Macallan 12-year-old Sherry Cask but comes with a much welcomed 46,4% ABV. Glad that I bought it." - whiskybase.com
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The Glenturret 2024 Release Triple Wood Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 44%Readers may recall Glenturret's 2022 Triple Wood which was rated 99 points and judged the world's top single malt Scotch whisky at the 2023 International Wines and Spirits Competition. We're now onto the 2024 release. It sees the same trio of cask types employed, building on the distinctive fruity flavours of the distillery's new make. 44% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Glenturret’s flagship, named for its aging in three different casks: American oak, European oak (both sherry seasoned), and bourbon. Spearmint, earthiness, and warehouse floor start this off on the nose. The palate is smoothly textured, with flavors of baked apricot, pepper spice, vanilla, and wine-soaked oak. The finish offers baked peach and apricot, chocolate, banana, and vanilla cream. Deep, richly flavored, and in great balance. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...surpassed my expectations, which is good. Maybe it also says something about my thoughts on Glenturret, a distillery I like but generally don't hold in the highest regard. Either way, the Glenturret Triple Wood certainly is just a that – a nice coalescence of three different wood types. - wordsofwhisky.com
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The Irishman Single Malt Irish Whiskey (1000ml)IRELANDReduced from $119.99$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%One lot only reduced to clear! Grab a litre cheaper than the 700ml while stocks last.
'The Irishman' is a brand from the same company behind the award winning 'Writer's Tears' Irish whiskeys. This is a triple-distilled expression aged in a combination of bourbon and oloroso sherry casks for a minimum of ten years. An attractive spicy fruit-cake integration into what is otherwise, a typical pot still profile. Air contact draws out a spirity, brittle edge to the malt. Third pass finds the intensity drop, revealing light orchard fruits, vanilla cream biscuits and slight caramel. Light-weighted, but the oils add body to what is a distinctive Irish: Sherried-vanilla meets a chocolate box of fruity cocoa in the aftertaste. Quaffable straight, but adding ice makes a noticeable difference to the texture. 40% Alc./Vol. [Batch 1916/2016]
Other reviews... [Batch 1703/2013] The Walsh Family releases 6,000 bottles in every small batch of their single malt. Each bottling is a combination of triple distilled whiskey matured in oloroso sherry and bourbon casks. The nose is bright with vanilla icing, butterscotch, and dried peach. The taste is quite active, with honey, cinnamon, gingerbread, ground almond, and dark chocolate. There is a brief flat spot where the bitterness burns through, before it fades to leave a pleasing tickle around the gums. 85 points - whiskyadvocate.com (Fall 2014) Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick
Gold Medal - International Spirits Challenge 2022
Gold Medal - London Spirits Competition 2018
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The Macallan Double Cask 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Annual 2024 ReleaseSpeyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$599. 00Bottle$7188.00 DozenABV: 43%Aiming for a perfect balance of flavours, Macallan's Double Cask comes matured in both American and European sherry-seasoned oak casks. The former adds delicate vanilla to the subtle spice of European oak, delivering a Macallan with a sweeter, warmer taste and character. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... [2020 release tasted] Deep notes of wood polish on the floral nose, with toffee and a whiff of cloves. The palate is slick, with Christmas pudding, orange, caramel, oak, and dark chocolate. Black coffee, citrus fruit, ginger, and black pepper in the lengthy finish. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com
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.
















































