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![2012 Nicks Secret McLaren Vale AR Shiraz Museum Release]()
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2012 Nicks Secret McLaren Vale AR Shiraz Museum ReleaseMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $39.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFrom a highly regarded estate that has regularly featured in our newsletter over the years comes this Museum Release Shiraz that offers excellent value with all of the bottle ageing done for you. Matured in a mixture of French and American oak with only the best barrels selected for the final blend this offers superb drinking over the next year or two.
A seductively rich and velvety McLaren Vale Shiraz that’s sitting in its prime drinking window.
Dense inky black core with a deep very dark red black tinged hue. The nose gives up pronounced liquorice, black cherry and blackberry aromas which are complimented by vanillin oak, scorched earth, hints of leather and blackpepper. Rich, plush and seductive the palate is layered with liquorice, dark plum and blackberry fruits which overlay a toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and blackpepper back drop. Possessing excellent power and velvety tannins it has an opulent yet refined feel. Cruises through to a long, silky smooth finish that sees pepper and subtle tertiary elements lending further complexity.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2021 Journeys End Coonawarra Station Cabernet Sauvignon]()
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2021 Journeys End Coonawarra Station Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinCoonawarra’s famous strip of Terra Rossa soil has long been considered to be ideal for the production of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and the Journeys End Coonawarra Station has consistently proven to be one of the best values the region has to offer. The 2021 vintage was exceptional with a long mild vintage allowing for steady increases in maturity levels of the fruit which meant winemakers could pick at optimum levels of ripeness and flavour. The resultant wines feature great depth of colour, fruit concentration and tannin structures.
A perfectly proportioned Coonawarra Cabernet that combines the variety's trademark structure with a wealth of rich, generous fruit.
Dense pitch black heart with a deep black dark red hue. The nose is drawn in by captivating and powerful scents of ripe blackcurrant, mulberry and cedary tobacco characters which are followed by hints of black olive, dusty earth and bay leaf. Rich, concentrated black currant, ripe mulberry and liquorice flavours reign supreme over a back drop of dusty vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle black olive characters and infusions of bay leaf. A classic Cabernet Sauvignon structure of sturdy yet nicely integrated tannins frames the deep well of glorious ripe fruit. Long, robust yet generously endowed conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%![05081941_1.jpg]()
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2010 Journeys End Arrival Shiraz Museum ReleaseMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2020-2022)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThe high point of Ben Riggs' Journeys End Shiraz Collection, differentiated by the use of only the best barrels, longer barrel maturation times and fruit from lower cropping vines. The label is of particular interest in that it celebrates a turning point in Australia's early wine history. James Busby left Australia for a European tour in 1831 and is generally considered to be the first to return with Shiraz vines.
From one of the great vintages of the last decade, this superb McLaren Vale Shiraz is flush with rich, satiny black fruits and primed for drinking.
Midnight black colour with a deep very dark to brick red hue. Hedonistic aromas of aniseed, black cherry and dark plum leap from the glass trailed by smoky vanillin oak, fennel, earth and pepper notes. Full in body with incredible richness and a plush feel, the palate is awash with lavish liquorice, dark plum and blackberry fruits which have a velvety feel. Moving in on the back half are complexing elements of vanillin oak, fennel, scorched earth, spicy leather and blackpepper. Magnificent power and concentration with silky smooth tannins flowing onto a long sumptuous conclusion laden with black fruits and hints of black pepper.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2019 Three Brothers Reunited Shiraz]()
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2019 Three Brothers Reunited ShirazSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$9. 99Bottle$119.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinIt’s a rare achievement in this industry for a wine to maintain its price point for more than 15 years without sacrificing quality, even more so when it's priced under $10. But the Three Brothers Reunited Shiraz has done just that. Most new labels (particularly in the sub $20 category) start with a bang and over deliver in the first couple of vintages in an attempt to win new customer's loyalty. However, in follow up releases they often stretch expectations of quality in order to meet increased demand. Gradually the brand fades away as customers are disillusioned with what's become a lesser wine. Three Brothers, on the other hand, has made quality and consistency its number one priority, only gradually increasing production while growing a very loyal customer base that's made this our top selling red for over 20 years. Further testimony to this label's commitment to quality was demonstrated by the fact that no wine was produced from the difficult 2011 vintage - the challenging conditions simply didn't offer fruit to meet the label's required standards.
Succulent, silky textured and deeply flavoured this is the ultimate quaffing Shiraz that delivers unbeatable value.
Very deep midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Nosing draws out lifted aromas of dark plum, liquorice and dark cherries followed by some toasty cedar and peppered earth notes. Rich, velvety and juicy, dark plum, liquorice and dark cherry fruits unfold across the medium to full bodied palate with scorched earth, subtle dried herb and spicy pepper characters lying underneath. Excellent concentration and fruit weight for the price. Velvet smooth tannins impart a plush feel to the long refined and highly moreish finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2021 Kaesler Reach for the Sky Shiraz]()
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2021 Kaesler Reach for the Sky ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThe fruit for this wine was sourced from a vineyard that was planted using cuttings taken from the Old Bastard and Alte Reben vineyards.
Impenetrable inky black colour with a deep dark purple black tinged hue. Flooding the nostrils are attractive ripe dark plum, liquorice and blackberry scents which are trailed by vanillin cedar and earthy fennel like notes. Generously weighted and rich, juicy dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits show a fleshy texture across the lavish palate. Vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth elements linger through the plush finish. Velvet smooth tannins with just the right amount of freshness on the long opulent aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2022 Kalleske Clarry’s GSM]()
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- Biodynamic
2022 Kalleske Clarry’s GSMBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA certified organic and biodynamic blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro. The oldest Grenache block dates back to the 1940’s with remaining vines varying in age up to fifty years old. In order to preserve the fresh fruit flavours ageing takes place only in very old oak hogsheads for a period of 6 months.
Very deep black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Engulfing the nostrils are heady scents of dark raspberry, plum and liquorice are complimented by hints of dried herbs and vanilla spice. Rich, plump and juicy the palate is awash with dark raspberry, ripe dark cherry, plum, blueberry and liquorice fruits. Vanillin spice and traces of earth lie underneath. Lush and opulent it has velvet smooth tannins and finishes with a long flurry of super succulent fruit.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews....
The Kalleske Clarry's GSM has always impressed for its density of fruit, and the '22 release is no different. Deeply coloured with deep plum, raspberry and boysenberry fruit tones, plenty of spice and hints of gingerbread, violets, wild strawberries, red licorice, ironstone-flecked earth and mocha notes. Lovely pure fruit flow with plenty of texture, gentle powdery tannins and a finish packed with fruit and layered spice. Drink by 2030.
92 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion![2021 Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz]()
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2021 Kay Brothers Basket Pressed ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFounded by brothers Herbert & Frederick Kay in 1890, the Kay family have spent more than 130 years tending the Amery vineyard. This is the strongest release of Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz that we have seen for quite some time.
Matured for 12 months in a combination of French, American and Eastern European oak. Impenetrable inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Wafting out of the glass are ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas followed by some toasty vanillin oak, earthy dark chocolate and pepper notes. Rich and plush but far from overweight the palate is laden with succulent dark plum, liquorice and dark cherry fruits which have an underlying freshness. Traces of blueberry, vanillin cedar and spicy earth elements are also apparent. Excellent concentration with a sturdy yet well integrated tannin structure concluding long, juicy and vibrant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
Includes 5% Grenache. Aged in French, American and Eastern European oak. Not reviewed here since the 2018 vintage, though aside that, I think it’s one of the better vintages of this wine.
Juicy blue, black and red fruit, hazelnut and toasted coconut, dried herb and lavender perfume. It’s medium to full-bodied, a black and blue jube richness to fruit, but also some ironstone and umami flavours in the mix too, tannin is ripe, rippling and supple, and the finish is plump, fresh, and satisfying. It’s a warm hug from McLaren Vale kind of thing, and really lovely. A couple more years to let it shed some puppy fat may not be a bad idea, though it’s still pretty good fun as at now. Drink 2024-2030.
93 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2022 Kilikanoon Killerman's Run Grenache Shiraz Mataro]()
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2022 Kilikanoon Killerman's Run Grenache Shiraz MataroClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 1997, Kilikanoon has established a reputation for producing world class, iconic Shiraz from vineyards located in the Barossa & Clare Valley. Winemaker Kevin Mitchell also produces more budget priced offerings, producing wines that offer ‘Killer Value’ under the Killerman’s Run label, with fruit now being sourced from entirely low yielding Clare Valley vineyards.
A blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Shiraz and 10% Mataro matured in seasoned French oak hogsheads for a period of 15 months. Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Elevated dark raspberry, red liquorice and dark cherry scents stream out of the glass trailed by some subtle inky earth, provincial herb and pepper notes. Rich and succulent the mid weighted palate is awash with dark raspberry, red liquorice, cherry and blueberry fruits. Delicate earth, Herb du Provence and pepper elements lie underneath. Fresh, energetic and fleshy it possesses velvet smooth tannins and finishes long and juicy.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2020 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Cabernet Sauvignon]()
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2020 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Cabernet SauvignonClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 1997, Kilikanoon has established a reputation for producing world class, iconic Shiraz from vineyards located in the Barossa & Clare Valley. Winemaker Kevin Mitchell also produces more budget priced offerings, producing wines that offer ‘Killer Value’ under the Killerman’s Run label, with fruit now being sourced from entirely low yielding Clare Valley vineyards.
Matured for 16 months in new and used French oak hogsheads. Dense midnight black dark red colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Elevated blackcurrant aromas infused with a mix of tobacco and bay leaf are trailed by some dried herb, black olive and dusty cedar notes. Rich and generously weighted the medium to full bodied palate is flooded with ripe blackcurrant and mulberry fruits. Excellent concentration with cedary tobacco characters, black olive and spicy bay leaf infusions adding further interest. Sturdy fine grained tannin structure with a long, slightly firm yet well endowed finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2020 Kilikanoon Killerman's Run Shiraz]()
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2020 Kilikanoon Killerman's Run ShirazClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 1997, Kilikanoon has established a reputation for producing world class, iconic Shiraz from vineyards located in the Barossa & Clare Valley. Winemaker Kevin Mitchell also produces more budget priced offerings, producing wines that offer ‘Killer Value’ under the Killerman’s Run label, with fruit now being sourced from entirely low yielding Clare Valley vineyards.
A rich, weighty Clare Valley Shiraz that delivers fantastic value.
Pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Showing plenty intensity out of the glass are aromas of liquorice, black cherry and dark plum with some spicy vanillin cedar, subtle fennel and blackpepper also coming through. Rich and weighty, the palate delivers excellent concentration and depth of flavour for its price. Mouth filling liquorice, blackberry and dark plum fruits carry ample flesh with spicy vanillin cedar, earthy fennel and pepper characters chiming in on the back half. Opulently textured with a sturdy yet quite polished tannin structure it powers through to a long lusciously fruited finish. One of the benchmark Shiraz’ when comes to consistency and value.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%![8906101656_1.jpg]()
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Kinglake Distillery O'Grady's Stand Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$104. 99Bottle$1259.88 DozenABV: 46%Founded in 2018, Kinglake distillery was specially designed to take advantage of its bush setting. Sam Lowe & Chantal Daniels make whisky from scratch in their off-grid project using both local and imported barley and water from a mountain stream on the property. Rather than focussing on single cask releases, the couple are aiming to maintain a consistent line of the best malt they can make by vatting different barrels (typically small-format ex-bourbon barrels re-coopered in Australia). We tasted the cask strength bottling and this. What's impressive in both is the purity and balance. The aroma is a near faultless co-mingling of dark chocolate and pristine barley, repeating on the palate where a touch of fruit and grassy freshness gives way to oily peat at the finish. While not especially complex, it's assured, precocious whisky and worth seeking out. 46% Alc./Vol.![2022 Kooyong Clonale Chardonnay]()
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2022 Kooyong Clonale ChardonnayMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA blend of fruit from Kooyong Estate’s Tuerong and Balnarring vineyards with fermentation and then maturation on lees taking place in French oak barriques (15% new) for a period of 10 months.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a greenish tint around the edges and a watery hue. Enticing aromas of white peach, nectarine and dried honey sail out of the glass complimented by hints of biscuity nougat, cashew and faint gun flint. Refined and mid weighted, the palate features white peach, nectarine and citrus flavours which show good underlying freshness. Delicate biscuity oak, nougat and spicy cashew elements ensue. The elegant medium to long finish both energetic and gently creamy in its feel.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%![2021 Kooyonga Creek Tempranillo]()
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2021 Kooyonga Creek TempranilloNorth East Victoria, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThis is Kooyonga Creek’s first release of Tempranillo after grafting Merlot vines across to Tempranillo and it’s a real surprise packet for the price. Fifty percent of the ferment was whole berries with ageing taking place in stainless steel tanks for 6 months.
Rich and succulent yet robust this is a real surprise packet for the price.
Midnight black core with a deep dark red black hue. Pronounced black cherry aromas are followed by some liquorice, earth, leather and spicy dried herb notes. A classic Tempranillo flavour profile of rich black cherry and liquorice fruits cast an opulent feel across the full bodied palate with ripe chewy tannins lending ample structure. Superb fruit intensity with notions of scorched earth, new leather and spice elements chiming in on the back half. Fantastic depth and power with a long succulent yet robust aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%![4080056_1.jpg]()
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2018 L'Aventure Estate CuveePaso Robles, California, UNITED STATES$230. 00Bottle$2760.00 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2027-2029)ABV: 16%Closure: CorkStephan Asseo, founder and winemaker at L’Aventure Winery, came to Paso Robles in California seeking more freedom to express his winemaking ideals than was allowed while working in Bordeaux. Falling in love with the rolling topography of the Santa Lucia Mountain Range, he felt the deep calcareous soils, and the maritime influence had the potential to craft some of the world’s greatest blends. So far he's been proven right, and his array of red blends has quickly resulted in wines which have earned high scores and critical acclaim. These are rich and deeply impressive wines from one of the most talented winemakers in America.
A blend of 45% Syrah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot. Inky black glass staining colour with a very deep dark red black hue. Soaring out of the glass are heady aromatics of blackberry, liquorice and cassis followed by dark chocolate, toasty vanillin oak, earthy fennel like overtones and spice. Large scaled, voluptuous and boasting insane levels of richness, the palate also has a surprising youthful freshness underpinning the fruit. Lush blueberry, vanillin oak, spicy fennel, a subtle graphite edge and pepper elements ensue. Robustly built, muscular tannins firm up the finish and provide the decadently long aftertaste with some grip.
Cellar 6-8 years plus.
Alc. 16%Other Reviews....
The 2018 Estate Cuvée is made up of 45% Syrah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot aged in 90% new French oak. Deep ruby-purple, the nose takes some time to unfurl to touches of cast-iron pan, tar, turned earth, cassis and blueberry pie with floral top notes. The palate is full-bodied with lush, mineral-tinged fruits in a firm frame, lifted by surprising freshness and finishing long and perfumed. Give it another 3-5 years in bottle. Drink 2020 - 2035.
95 points
Erin Brooks - Wine Advocate (Oct 2020)Deep, glass-staining violet. Powerful, mineral- and smoke-accented blueberry, cherry liqueur, incense and pipe tobacco aromas show outstanding definition and pick up suggestions of mocha and exotic spices with air. Offers deeply concentrated black/blue fruit, cherry-vanilla, espresso and bitter chocolate flavors; a spicy flourish emerges as the wine stretches out. Finishes smooth, energetic and extremely long, with youthful, slowly building tannins and lingering suggestions of candied flowers and smoky minerals. Drink 2025-2035.
97 points
Josh Raynolds - VinousThis is a superb red with blackberry, blueberry, crushed-stone and currant character. Full-bodied, yet nervy. Hints of burnt orange and walnuts. Energy here. Framed and precise. 45% syrah, 40% cabernet sauvignon and 15% petit verdot. Give it three or four years, but already great.
98 points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2018 Estate Cuvee checks 45% Syrah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot brought up in 90% new French oak. Tasting like the straight Cab, yet with more sex appeal, it offers a huge nose of crème de cassis, white flowers, crushed stone, graphite, and crushed flowers. This carries to a full-bodied, gorgeously textured red with incredible balance, no hard edges, a thrilling mid-palate, and a great, great finish. It's going to benefit from 5-6 years of bottle age and keep for upwards of two decades or more. Hats off to winemaker Stephan Asseo on another incredible wine, as well as, I suspect the wine of the vintage.
100 points
Jeb Dunnuck![81006181031_1.jpg]()
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La Gritona Reposado Tequila (700ml)Jalisco, MEXICOReduced from $114.99$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%Premium Tequila scoop buy. Get ready for Spring / Summer Margaritas.
‘La Gritona’ is Spanish for ‘The Screamer’ - an appropriate name seeing that one of the people behind this outstanding tequila is LA-based punk guitarist Andy Coronado. The other significant player is the renowned tequilero Melly Cárdenas, who fashions La Gritona at her small distillery in Valle de Guadalupe in the highlands of Jalisco. One of Mexico’s few female master distillers, the fiercely independent Cárdenas—who has 20 years of quality tequila production under her belt—shares Coronado’s love of the exceptional and unconventional, and leads a team staffed by only local women.
In a market dominated by major companies like Herradura, Patrón and Fortaleza, the duo set out to create a rocking, pared-down Reposado that would stand out by staying true to the region’s heritage. For a Reposado, La Gritona is light on colour and sweetness—Coronado and Cárdenas want none of the flavours that mask many commercial Reposados like vanilla, chocolate and dulce de leche. Instead this is packed with delicious, honest and savoury, roasted agave flavor, reminiscent of the old-style ‘rested’ tequila, before the mass market took hold: “It’s tequila like our grandparents drank,” says Cárdenas.
Working with 9- to 10-year-old, mature Blue Weber agave grown in the iron-rich red soil of the Jalisco highlands, every step of production after harvest takes place under Cárdenas’ own roof and with an attention to detail that the big boys, or those outsourcing distillation, cannot hope to replicate. The agave is steam-cooked in a single, thick-walled earthen oven for 24 hours and then allowed to rest for another 24 hours before crushing. The collected liquid is naturally fermented (no additives are used to push things along) in open steel vats at a rate dictated by the ambient air temperature and the wild yeasts, usually lasting between six to nine days. The double distillation takes place in small steel stills. Those bespoke bottles by the way are made from recycled Mexican glass, hand-blown just an hour’s drive from the distillery. Coronado uses any recycled clear glass he can find (mostly old Coke bottles) then chips in a few Dos Equis bottles for the green tint!
The distilled blanco is then rested in reused American whiskey barrels for eight months before bottling. These low-impact second- or third-fill barrels are given only the lightest char which allows for the refreshing, sappy notes of the agave to shine through, resulting in a tequila that sips and mixes perfectly in equal measure - it’s crisp, clean and elegant and kills it in a Tommy’s Margarita. Tasted uncut, the bouquet offers stunningly pure and keenly fresh scents of brine, dill pickles, capsicum, black pepper and pine sap; Five minutes stirs up sweeter scents of grilled pineapple, vanilla and coconut butter. The silky, medium bodied delivery is gently sweet and wonderfully elegant; Capsicum, green pine and white pepper feature while sappy agave flavours finish the profile with admirable balance. Seamless from start to finish, this stands out from Reposado pack. Highest recommendation. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Look for a pale straw hue and fruity/funky aromas. The palate offers distinct tropical fruit notes, opening with lychee and a faint floral hint, plus a faint waft of ripe-banana funk midpalate. The finish is long and drying, showing grapefruit peel and pink peppercorn. Sip or mix into Palomas. 95 points — wineenthusiast.com
![2020 La Sorda Vendimia Selleccionada Rioja]()
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2020 La Sorda Vendimia Selleccionada RiojaRioja, SPAIN$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 14.26%Closure: CorkA blend of 90% Tempranillo, 5% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo aged in used American oak for 5 months followed by a further 9 months in tank.
Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Pronounced ripe black cherry and liquorice aromas are followed by vanillin cedar, earth, leather and spice notes. On the palate rich black cherry and liquorice fruits carry a ripe chewy feel with notions of vanillin oak, scorched earth, leather and spice lingering through the back half. Excellent concentration with a robust tannin structure leading into a deeply fruited, slightly grippy conclusion of admirable length.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.26%Other Reviews….
A fine if youthful Rioja, naturally Tempranillo dominant. It is deep magenta in colour with a lovely focused nose exhibiting notes of cherries, herbs, raspberries and roast meats. Soft texture and of medium length, this is finely balanced with a slow, gentle fade. Attractive now and for the next three to four years. Worth seeking out. Drink 2022-2026.
92 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com![2021 Langmeil Valley Floor Shiraz]()
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2021 Langmeil Valley Floor ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFruit for the Valley Floor Shiraz was sourced from the Barossa (86%) and Eden (14%) Valleys with vines aged between 10 to 150 years old and yields of 1.5 to 3.5 tonnes per acre. Maturation took place in a combination of 14% new American oak and 86% seasoned American and French oak hogsheads for a period of 24 months.
Rich, super plush and sumptuous, this is Barossa Shiraz at its best.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a deep dark red black hue. Wafting out of the glass are heady scents of liquorice, ripe blackberry and dark plum which are complimented by mocha, vanillin oak, hints of dark chocolate and spice. Rich, opulent and concentrated the full bodied palate is saturated with ripe blackberry, dark chocolate, liquorice and dark plum fruits which carry a super plush feel. Notions of vanillin oak, mocha, faint earth and spice slide through the back half. Silky smooth tannins. Excellent power and volume finishing long, succulent and sumptuous. A superb Barossa Shiraz from the outstanding 2021 vintage.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2022 Langmeil Rough Diamond Grenache]()
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2022 Langmeil Rough Diamond GrenacheBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThis exuberantly fruited, power packed Grenache is sourced from vines ranging in age from 5 to 48 years old and includes 3% each of Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise in the blend. Maturation took place in seasoned American oak barrels for a period of 8 months.
Deep dark red black tinged core with a bright red hue. Jumping out of the glass are intense dark raspberry, ripe cherry and liquorice scents which are followed by some vanillin confectionary and subtle earth notes. Rich, concentrated and juicy, the palate is awash with dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruits. Vanillin confectionary and spicy earth elements lie underneath. Plump mouthfeel, good freshness and silky smooth tannins. Finishes long and intensely flavoured with a super succulence that make this dangerously drinkable.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2022 Lawson's Dry Hills Gewurztraminer]()
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2022 Lawson's Dry Hills GewurztraminerMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2023-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinThis luscious, intensely flavoured Gewurztraminer was sourced predominately from Lawson’s Home Block vineyard which was planted in 1981.
Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Wonderfully exotic the nose offers up intense aromatics of rosewater, lychee and pear with some Turkish delight and musk notes also evident. Rich and luscious in its texture, the moreish palate is awash with lychee, pear and Turkish delight flavours. Notions of musk and ginger linger on the back half. Fresh off dry finish with a long concentrated aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5%![Le Brun de Neuville Cote Blanche Champagne]()
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Le Brun de Neuville Cote Blanche ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: Diam CorkLe Brun de Neuville is one of the leading producers in the limestone slopes of the Côte de Sézanne, one the southern sub-regions of Champagne. Their vineyards are predominantly Chardonnay and they are committed to encouraging a sustainable approach to viticulture by adopting increasingly environmentally friendly practices and the resulting wines are certified 'Haute Valeur Environnementale'. The vineyards are fascinating with only a thin layer of soil covering the intensely chalky soil.
Their Côte Blanche is 100% Chardonnay from the 45 year old vines. The harvest base is 2016 with 52% reserve wines spending 60 months on lees before disgorgement and release.
Pours with a fine satiny mousse that shows good hold over a pale straw pale gold coloured base. The bead is very persistent and fine. Nosing offers up a classic Champagne sniff of baked bread, dried honey, yeast lees, brioche and cashew that’s quite intoxicating. Rich and expressive with a cream tinged mouth feel and dry chalky finish, baked bread, pear, yeast lees and brioche flavours are quite full across the palate. Citrus and roasted cashew like nuances the back drop. Vivid acidity with a long bready, oily textured aftertaste.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
This has aromas of dried pineapple, lemon, ripe pear, hazelnut and biscotti. It’s medium-bodied with vibrant acidity and a focused and subtly saline palate. Silky bubbles and a sleek, flavorful finish. Excellent length, too. Dry. 100% chardonnay. Base vintage 2016 with 53% reserve wines. 6g/l dosage. Drink now.
93 points
JamesSuckling.com![2021 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay]()
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2021 Leeuwin Estate Art Series ChardonnayMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$155. 00Bottle$1860.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinFirmly standing at the top of the tree of Australian Chardonnays, Leeuwin Estate have turned out yet another spectacular release from the 2021 vintage. Barrel fermented and matured in new French oak barriques with regular lees stirring for a period of 11 months.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a subtle tint of green around the edges and a watery hue. Captivating aromas of white peach, nectarine and dried honey delicately infused with gun flint engulf the nostrils. Biscuity oak, subtle cashew, citrusy nougat and spice notes add a further dimension of complexity. Beautifully shaped, expansive and refined the palate is layered with fleshy white peach and nectarine fruits which overlay a biscuity nougat, subtle dried honey, ginger spice, roast almond and gun flint back drop. Tremendously powerful yet relatively light on its feet it has a fresh silken like feel. Finishes with exceptional length and finesse.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
The 2021 Art Series Chardonnay leads with a distinctly floral nose: jasmine and white garden rose, wisteria and lemon blossom. The season was a challenging one in Margaret River, defined by the rainfall, which was constant. The temperatures were modest (not cool, as plenty of rain might suggest),and given that the region is so diverse in terms of distances between vineyard areas, this created quite a patchwork of outcomes for producers. On the palate, the wine is powerful and savory—it leans heavily on exotic dry spice and cracked honeycomb, with hints of salted butter on fresh white bread, beeswax and salted pink grapefruit. Stylistically, it is not dissimilar to the 2017; however, the dovetailing of acid and fruit feels seamless and well matched here. The wine is piercing and structural, tightly coiled and almost rigid, in the best of ways. It's an impressive wine, one that, at this stage of its life, is defined by its penetrating acid line. Sealed under screw cap.
97+ points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine AdvocateThere’s always an anticipation when a new vintage arrives. This doesn’t disappoint – it’s archetypal Art Series: powerful, rich and layered with flavour from stone fruit, pink grapefruit and Meyer lemon to a touch of mandarin. The palate builds with creamy lees, oak spice and some phenolics – the oak is superbly integrated, and pure acidity leads this to a persistent finish. Impressive as always. Drink by 2034.
97 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionI seem to have missed tasting the 2020 LEAS Chardonnay, which is kind of disappointing. It’s a blip in my Leeuwin radar, given I’ve tasted every one of them on release since the 1992 vintage. Anyway, teeth gnashing aside, the bottle seems to be lighter these days, which is very good.
Pear, lime, grapefruit, floral too, with a distinct mint/aniseed top note, backed with discreet spicy cinnamon/ginger oak. It’s fresh and lively, quite saline too, flinty and chalky, a honey ginger drink character in the mix, along with a cucumber coolness and biscuit spices, a whole lot of presence and power here, delivered in a kind of understated, but confident way. The finish is very long, and refreshing. Gee, this is good wine. It ripples through the mouth like a flat white stone pitched across a cool lake. That’s an image for you, and I’ll leave you with that. Drink 2025-2040+
97 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2019 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon]()
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2019 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet SauvignonMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2023-2038)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinBest known for producing arguably Australia’s greatest Chardonnay, Leeuwin Estate’s Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon has demonstrated over recent vintages that it can match it with best of the region and comparatively still remains under priced when compared to other Margaret River heavy weights such as Cullen & Moss Wood.
Predominately Cabernet Sauvignon with a 4% Malbec component also included in the blend, this wine was matured in French oak (50% new) for a period of 22 months.
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a deep dark red hue. Compelling aromas of red to black currant, violet and mulberry captivate the olfactory senses with vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle dusty earth and bay leaf scents ensuing. Rich red to black currant and mulberry fruits are generously layered across the regal medium bodied palate with vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and bay leaf elements lying underneath. Superb refinement with seamlessly integrated fine grained tannins marrying into a long elegant finish.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
It’s masterful to craft a wine that is structured, detailed, powerful and concentrated, and yet, it feels effortless. Mulberries, cassis, warm spices, violets and cedary oak come together in harmony while the tannins sashay across the palate. Flavours persist, as does the finish, and it will age beautifully but hard to resist now. Impressive wine. Drink by 2042.
97 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe 2019 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon has admirable fruit presence in the mouth. As an immediate follow on from the great 2018 vintage, the 2019 vintage was cooler and wetter, but the average quality across the region was excellent. In many corners, the quality is argued as being on par with the 2019; it comes down to a matter of preference. Here, the wine is elegant and fine, very aromatic. It's an excellent wine and a clear statement about the direction and refinement of the Cabernet program at Leeuwin. Drink 2023-2045.
96+ points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate96% cabernet sauvignon, 4% malbec.
Gosh this is good. This is the region and the variety and the estate all committing to the task and combining to exemplary effect. Such structure, such fruit, such balance and such impact. Blackcurrant and pencils, dark chocolate and herbs, some eucalypt lift and even some florals. Tannin, my word, it’s beautifully formed, a keel with wings, a determinant. I kept tasting this wine and it kept telling me things. Leeuwin Estate cabernet is now right up there with the best. Drink 2028-2040+
96 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front![2023 Lethbridge Menage a Noir Pinot Noir]()
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2023 Lethbridge Menage a Noir Pinot NoirVictoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $31.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinFruit was sourced predominately (75%) a low yielding vineyard in Drumborg (Henty) with vines planted in the 1980’s. The balance of the fruit comes from Geelong. The destemmed fruit ferments in a combination of 5,00-litre open vats and 3,000-litre wooden fermenters; the fruit in the vats gets punched down, while the fruit in the wooden fermenters is pumped over daily. The wine then matures in a mixture of old and new (approximately 10%) French oak of various sizes.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a light red hue. Blossoming out of the glass are perfumed aromas of violets, red to dark cherries and strawberries infused with fresh herbs. Subtle forest floor and spice notes are also evident. Juicy cherry and strawberry fruits are supplely layered across the palate with notions of forest floor, dried herbs, anise and spice threaded through the back half. Polished tannins finishing with a juicy freshness, plenty of spice and a long moreish aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%![2023 Lethbridge Pinot Gris]()
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2023 Lethbridge Pinot GrisVictoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $31.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinSourced from three vineyards, two of which are in Henty and the other in Geelong with fruit picked over a number of passes to maximise flavour and texture. Ferments take place in small batches in new wood, with some portions seeing up to 48 hours of skin contact. The wine then matures in foudre on fine lees for a few months before bottling.
Brilliant pale straw to straw colour with a watery hue. Rising out of the glass are lifted scents of pear, Jonathan apple skin and rosewater which are complimented by hints of musk and ginger. Luscious pear and ripe apple fruits are interwoven with musk and ginger. Slippery mid palate feel finishing dry and spicy with fresh acidity. Long texturally pleasing conclusion.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Planted on limestone in the mid-1990s. Fermented in stainless and wood with some components receiving up to eight hours' skin contact. Matured in foudre. Enticing with aromas of fully ripened yellow apples together with ginger and spice. Textured and slippery with just enough grip at the finish to give the wine tension and length. Drink by 2027.
93 points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![2021 Lethbridge Que Syrah Syrah]()
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2021 Lethbridge Que Syrah SyrahPyrenees, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$31. 99Bottle$383.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14.2%Closure: StelvinWinemaker Ray Nadeson has sourced the fruit for this highly savoury Syrah from Malakoff Vineyard in the Pyrenees and has made it a traditional old world style. Fermented in a 3000 litre oak vessel it was then matured in 1200 litre oak foudres for 10 months which according to Ray “allows for both a pure expression of the rich fruit and spicy aromatics of Australian Shiraz as well as the development of the savouriness and texture reminiscent of Syrah.”
Midnight black dark red colour with a deep dark red hue. Spicy red liquorice and plum aromas intermix with clove, smoked meats and peppered earth notes. Rich and savoury but not heavy, succulent red plum and red liquorice fruits are cast across the mid weighted palate with a supple feel. Infusions of dried clove, vanillin cedar, earth and peppered meat characters lie underneath. Polish tannin structure finishing fresh with a long delicious red fruited aftertaste that’s infused with herbs and spice.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.2%![2020 Levantine Hill Chardonnay]()
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2020 Levantine Hill ChardonnayYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinFermented and matured in a mix of premium French oak sourced from Mercurey, Saint Martin, Taransaud, Cavin and Doreau cooperages (22% new) for a period 10 months.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Pronounced white peach and nectarine aromas are married to dried honey, biscuity oak, nougat, cashew and spice notes. Rich and creamy yet wonderfully refined, the mid weighted palate is decorated with white peach, nectarine and dried honey flavours which meld into a complex back drop of biscuity oak, cashew, nougat and spice. A wine of outstanding power, texture and balance that has a long, sophisticated Burgundy like finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews......
Fragrant aromas of white flowers, white stone fruit, grilled nuts, melon skin, grapefruit pith and nougat. Rich, textured, layered and mouth-filling. Lashings of nectarine, creamy oak, sweet spice, melon and lively acidity. Long, sophisticated and very satisfying.
95 points
Aaron Brasher – The Real Review![2021 Linke Shiraz]()
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2021 Linke ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 15.8%Closure: StelvinLocated in Tanunda in the Barossa, Linke remains a 5th generation family owned producer. Their two vineyards - the "Stonewell Block" on the western side of the Barossa, and the "Dorrien" which is on the valley floor, consistently produce top notch fruit for renowned labels (including St Halletts and Langmeil). Since 2002, a portion of fruit has been reserved for the family's own label utilising vines that have an average age of 20 years old. Maturation is American oak, 90% used and 10% new.
An ultra rich, high octane monster.
Dense inky black in colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Soaring out of the glass with tremendous intensity are heady aniseed, black plum and black cherry scents which are trailed by vanillin oak, scorched earth and pepper notes. Thick, dense and extravagantly rich, the enormously sized palate is drenched in black plum, liquorice and black cherry fruits. Vanillin oak, scorched earth and pepper elements ensue. Showing pedal to the metal power it has velvet smooth tannins and finishes long and super lavish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 15.8%![2021 Linnaea Electric Magnolia Arinto]()
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2021 Linnaea Electric Magnolia ArintoHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now (2022)ABV: 13.9%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with a glimmer of green to the edges and a watery hue. Spicy green apple and lime aromas are married to wet steel, fresh herb and flinty mineral characters. Intense flavours of pear, lime rind and green apple are underscored by electric, mineral infused acidity which is counterpointed by a generous mouthfeel. Finishes dry, crisp and very flinty with a long zesty aftertaste that has a dash of white pepper to it.
Drink now.
Alc. 13.9%Other Reviews….
A Portuguese grape that doesn’t mind a bit of heat, and still stays fresh. Likely a taste of things to come.
Distinctly saline with some chamomile perfume, crushed lemon pulp lends tang and subtle bitterness, some umami miso, nori and chicken flavour, fine chalk dust texture, preserved lemon, and heaps of crushed lemon and grapefruit on a tangy finish of good length. Very different, lots of texture, savoury, yet refreshing. Drink 2021-2025.
94 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2023 Lone Star Creek Vineyard Lone Star Red]()
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2023 Lone Star Creek Vineyard Lone Star RedYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinLocated in the upper Yarra Valley on the boundary of Woori Yallock and Hoddles Creek, Lone Star vineyards was established in 1997. Grape production is sold to a number of renowned Yarra Valley winemakers with the 2017 vintage being the first commercial release under their own label. Hoddles Creek’s Franco D’Anna is in charge of winemaking.
A blend of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Syrah. Bright purple red colour with a light purple tinged hue. Exceptionally fragrant the nose offers up a pretty bouquet of violets, strawberries, red raspberries and red liquorice with hints of clove, fresh herbs and spice also evident. Light and juicy, delicious red raspberry, red liquorice and strawberry fruits flood the mouth over an earth dried herb and spice back drop. Polished tannins finishing fresh, succulently fruited and with plenty of length.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
A 50/50 blend of Shiraz and Pinot Noir. I can’t tell you the RRP, as it was written on the bottle in white pen, which has rubbed off, so I’ll guess.
This is meaty, spicy and perfumed, blue and black fruit, dried herb with a stony thing happening. The Shiraz component seems to dominate the flavour profile, though there’s some raspberry and cherry from Pinot Noir, or so I think. The tannin is grainy and fine, and the finish is long, offering juiciness with meaty/savoury complexity. Nicely done. Drink 2024-2029+
92 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2019 Luna Eclipse Pinot Noir]()
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2019 Luna Eclipse Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinMatured for 1 year in French oak puncheons of which 20% were new with a small portion of whole bunch included in the ferment. Deep dark red colour with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Fragrant dark cherry and strawberry scents infused with violets fill the nostrils followed by anise, earth, subtle dried herbs and spicy cedar. Rich dark plum, anise and strawberry fruits are delivered with intensity and have an expansive supple feel. Toasty oak, earth, dried herbs and spice linger through the generous finish. Velvet smooth tannins with a long fleshy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Nice people at Luna Estate, doing nice things. So that’s nice. Here we have a wine from 1992 plantings, with a bit of whole bunch and 15% new oak.
Cherry and plum, baking spice, coffee grounds and clay, and lively dried herb and green capsicum top note. It’s plush, a bit savoury, quite a fleshy feel in the mouth, rich cocoa tannin, a subtle dried orange peel bitterness, and crushed rock kind of thing happening on the finish. I like that it doesn’t feel too forced, nor trying too hard. Nice expression of vineyard here. A charmer. Drink 2021-2027.
94 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2022 Mader Pinot Gris]()
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2022 Mader Pinot GrisAlsace, FRANCE$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinThis Pinot Gris comes from 37 year old vines planted on a heavy and deep clay soil with a bit of limestone. The clay brings softness and texture to the Pinot Gris and the deep soil provides lengths 20% of this cuvee is aged in old neutral oak with the balance in stainless steel.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Lifted ripe pear, Jonathan apple, honeysuckle and quince aromas emerge from the glass with hints of ginger spice also evident. Rich, texturally full and concentrated the palate is engulfed with luscious ripe pear, apple and honeysuckle flavours. Some refreshing quince and ginger spice elements sit in the background. Dry to off dry finish with a long lush and voluminous aftertaste. A classically styled Alsace Pinot Gris.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14%![2020 Majella Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon]()
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2020 Majella Coonawarra Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA success story of long term agricultural diversification, the Majella property was originally owned by Frank Lynn, and bought in 1960 by his nephew, George, for a prime lamb enterprise. Viticulture was not on the agenda until 1968, when George, encouraged by his friend, Eric Brand (of Brand's Laira fame) decided it would complement the sheep. Eric purchased the fruit for Hardy's, but the deal later fell through and for a couple of vintages tonnes of premium grapes were left to rot. The risk ultimately paid off. Majella have since had a long term contract supplying Wynns and today, plantings have continued to expand (150 acres now under vine), with Cabernet the flagship varietal. First produced in 1994, Majella Cabernet Sauvignon has quickly established a reputation as one of Coonawarra’s best.
The 2020 Coonawarra vintage was one of excellent quality but low yields. Maturation took place in a mix of new and second use French oak hogsheads for a period of 18 months.
Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Intense red to black currant and ripe mulberry aromas are interwoven with vanillin cedar, subtle earthy tobacco and bay leaf notes. Rich fleshy blackcurrant and ripe mulberry fruits flood the medium to full bodied palate overlaying a cedary tobacco, subtle earthy black olive and bay leaf back drop. Polished fine grained tannins provide ample structure. Long, beautifully refined conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews……
The interesting thing here is the tannin. Indeed, as good as the fruit is, tannin is the defining aspect. It spreads from the mid-palate onwards, assertive and dry, fine grained but commanding. It gives a pronounced sense of gravity, but it also calls into question the wine's balance. It otherwise offers trademark blackcurrant, boysenberry, mint and cedar flavours, all of which are delivered in both delicious and substantial volume. Drink by 2038.
94 points
Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![2018 Majella Coonawarra Shiraz]()
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2018 Majella Coonawarra ShirazCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA success story of long term agricultural diversification, the Majella property was originally owned by Frank Lynn, and bought in 1960 by his nephew, George, for a prime lamb enterprise. Viticulture was not on the agenda until 1968, when George, encouraged by his friend, Eric Brand (of Brand's Laira fame) decided it would complement the sheep. Eric purchased the fruit for Hardy's, but the deal later fell through and for a couple of vintages tonnes of premium grapes were left to rot. The risk ultimately paid off. Majella have since had a long term contract supplying Wynns and today, plantings have continued to expand (150 acres now under vine).
2018 was a superb vintage in Coonawarra with an extended ripening period delivering fruit of outstanding quality which resulted in wines with deep colours, fine tannins and strong varietal flavours. Maturation took place in a mix of French and American oak hogsheads for a period of 18 months.A rich, seductive old school Coonawarra Shiraz.
Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Wafting from the glass are heady aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and mocha which are complimented by vanillin oak, subtle earth and spice. Rich, concentrated and plush the palate is awash with succulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits which are enveloped by velvety tannins. Notions of vanillin oak, mocha and mint also chime in. Finishes long, opulently fruited and highly seductive.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%![Makers Mark Private Select Cask Strength Bourbon Whisky (700ml) - The Original Barracuda Selection]()
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Makers Mark Private Select Cask Strength Bourbon Whisky (700ml) - The Original Barracuda SelectionKentucky, UNITED STATES$165. 00Bottle$1980.00 DozenBeyond single barrel picks: Barrel customisation. A unique approach to the Private barrel program.
Whether you consider it genuinely novel or simply a clever gimmick, this series - which is rarely found in Australia - follows the success of the 2015 distillery-only release of Maker's 46 at cask strength. It's not quite the same as the Private Selection Wood Finished Collection, instead the Private Barrel Program is aimed at retail or restaurant partners. As with any private pick, you get to pre-taste and purchase a barrel. The twist is, you then choose ten finishing staves from a set of five options: Baked American Pure 2, Seared French Cuvee, Maker’s 46, Roasted French Mocha and Toasted French Spice. That's 1001 possible stave combinations. Given the number of potential combinations, not every bottling is going to be a winner. We feel this selection succeeds in taking Maker's in a new direction that's truly engaging.
The finishing staves were 2 x Baked American Pure 2, 1 x Seared French Cuvee, 3 x Maker's 46, 2 x Roasted French Mocha and 2 x Toasted French Spice. What firstly strikes you is the gorgeously pure, bright copper colour, followed by a bouquet that shifts ground and blossoms over five to ten minutes, opening with pecan pie, vanilla, dried coconut and light rye (even though there's none in the mashbill), later smelling more like Armagnac - think dates, dried apricots, brandy cream sauce and dark chocolate. Tasted undiluted it's unbelievably restrained - at least on entry where it hits the tongue pillow-soft. Once again, those classic Bourbon notes of vanilla oak and caramel arrive but, in this expression, half the finishing staves were French oak, which usually means more wood spice and astringency - consequently, it's Bourbon that's a balancing act between sugars and tannin. That also makes it more elegant than most. You've got to work this around your mouth to extract extra richness and / or give it plenty of time to breath. Those sweeter caramel-vanilla notes recover through the finish and aftertaste, mingling with cinnamon, clove, peppermint, dried fruits and satisfying spirit heat. If you're partial to high cocoa dark chocolate, you should love this, or if you just like variation in your American whiskeys, it offers a nice point of difference. As with the best wood aged spirits, we found its sweet spot after 20-30 minutes of breathing.
Commissioned by "The Original Barracuda", Dubai's largest retail wine and spirits store to celebrate their 25th Anniversary and labeled as such, according to the Maker's website, this is a single barrel bottling, however the total outturn isn't stated. You can also expect the mash bill to be the distillery's standard at 70% corn, 16% wheat and 14% malted barley. [55.35% Alc./Vol. barrel tasted] One shipment only.
![2021 Marchand & Burch Villages Pinot Noir]()
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2021 Marchand & Burch Villages Pinot NoirMount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinMarchand & Burch is a collaboration of two old friends from France and Australia who share a love of fine wine. Winemaker Pascal Marchand and vigneron Jeff Burch have embarked on a partnership to hand-craft Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from selected sites in both countries.
Fruit is sourced from the Mount Barrow vineyard located in the eastern, elevated end of Mount Barker. Approximately 15% to 20% whole bunches were included in the ferment and maturation took place in French oak puncheons, 40% of which was new, for a period of 6-9 months.Juicy, expansive and long.
Dark red in colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Perfumed violet top notes are followed by red to dark cherry, strawberry, forest floor, dried meat and spicy cedar. Delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits have an expansive succulent like feel with some toasty cedar, dried herb, forest floor and spice elements lingering in the background. Concludes fresh with velvety tannins and a long aftertaste that is both savoury and supple.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%![2022 Mas des Volques Urnia Rose]()
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2022 Mas des Volques Urnia RoseDuche d’Uzes, Rhone Valley, FRANCE$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkVibrant salmon orange colour. Jumping out of the glass are blood orange, cherry and water melon scents which are intermixed with hints of Turkish delight and wet stone. Buzzing with energy and deliciously fruity, blood orange, peach and spicy melon flavours are featured over a wet slate back drop. Crunchy acidity is counterpointed a beautifully rounded river stone like textural feel. Finishes dry, long and tangy. Great value!
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5%![2020 Mas des Volques Volcae]()
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2020 Mas des Volques VolcaeDuche d’Uzes, Rhone Valley, FRANCE$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 15.5%Closure: CorkPositioned on the border between the Rhône Valley and the Languedoc, and straddling the mountainous climate of the Massif Central and the gentle Mediterranean climate of the Costieres-de-Nîmes, the AOP Duché d’Uzes is not only one of France’s newest appellations but historically one of it’s most ancient. This rugged region was the birthplace of the Volcae, an ancient Celtic confederation that at one time controlled a vast area stretching from northern Spain to Macedonia.
The Souchon family, who have farmed vineyards in this region for generations sold their fruit to a cooperative outfit for more than 80 years until 2010 when fourth generation Nicolas Souchon (who was also the assistant winemaker at Clos Saint Jean in Chateauneuf du Pape), together with the able assistance of Philippe Cambie decided to produce his own wines. ‘Mas des Volques’ Estate was created and a new winery built with fruit sourced only from the highest quality, older vineyards.
A rich, hefty Rhone that has a blockbuster finish.
Super dense inky black core with a deep dark red black hue. Intoxicating aromas of ripe black raspberries and liquorice engulf the olfactory senses with some blackberry, scorched earth and peppered herb scents also evident. Considerably sized, rich and exuberant, the opulently textured palate is saturated with a concentrate of plush black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry liqueur like flavours. Notions of blackberry, scorched earth and peppered herbs lie underneath. The ripe, chewy tannin structure largely concealed by the sheer weight of fruit. Powerful, deep and voluminous, it concludes with a long blockbuster finish. Rich and large scaled yet balanced.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 15.5%Other Reviews….
An impressive wine in every vintage I've been able to taste, the 2020 Duché D'Uzès Volcae is no exception and has a darker blackberry and black cherry-driven style as well as Provençal notes of saddle leather and pepper. This ripe, hedonistic, medium to full-bodied, wonderfully pure red is perfect for enjoying over the coming 7-8 years. The blend is 40% Syrah, 35% Grenache, and the rest Carignan that was 75% destemmed and aged in 15% new French oak. Drink 2023-2031.
92 points
JebDunnuck.com![2020 Mas des Volques Esus]()
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2020 Mas des Volques EsusDuche d’Uzes, Rhone Valley, FRANCE$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkDense black as night core with a dark red black tinged hue. Pepper infused aromas of blackberry and liquorice intermingle with some earthy graphite like notes, dried herb and spicy dried meat scents. Rich, fleshy textured blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits overlay dried meat, earth and peppered herb elements. Ripe, slightly chewy mouth feel with polished yet sturdy tannins. Concludes plush and juicy.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
As to the reds, the 2020 Duche D'Uzes Esus is also pretty and elegant, which is very much in the style of the vintage. Offering notes of black raspberries, violets, and flowers, it has good ripeness, medium body, fine tannins, and outstanding length.
89-92 points
JebDunnuck.com![2021 Mas des Volques Alba Dolia]()
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- Nick's Import
2021 Mas des Volques Alba DoliaDuche d’Uzes, Rhone Valley, FRANCE$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 14.5%Closure: Diam CorkAn exotic, texturally rich blend produced from Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and a small amount of Clairette. The Roussanne and Viognier are fermented in oak barrels ranging in age from new to 5 years old and then matured in the same barrels on lees for 6 months. The Clairette and White Grenache are stored in tank until blending and bottling.
Brilliant pale straw to straw colour with a watery hue. Ripe peach and apricot scents stream out of the glass followed by some subtle honeycomb like notes, hints of crème brulee and ginger spice. Rich, intense and possessing a full voluminous feel, luscious ripe peach, apricot and honeycomb flavours coat the palate. Subtle crème brulee and ginger spice elements linger through the back half. Balanced acidity lending just the right amount of freshness to the long opulent finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
The 2021 Duché D'Uzès Alba Dolia Blanc checks in as 45% Viognier, 30% Grenache, and the rest Roussanne and Clairette. It has lots of white flowers, honeyed mineral, and apricot-like aromatics and is medium-bodied, fresh, and lively on the palate. Drink bottles over the coming couple of years. Drink 2023-2025.
92 points
JebDunnuck.com![2021 Massena The Moonlight Run Grenache Mataro Shiraz]()
- 95
2021 Massena The Moonlight Run Grenache Mataro ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 2000 Massena is owned by Dan Standish and Jaysen Collins who until 2006 were employed full time at other Barossa wineries (Dan as winemaker at Torbreck and Jaysen as general manager at Turkey Flat). All Massena wines are from 100% Barossa valley fruit from dry-farmed, low yielding vines up to 155 years age located in the north-western Barossa. The Moonlight Run takes its name from Dan and Jaysen’s midnight drive back to the Barossa after working vintage in the Clare Valley.
Inspired by the wines of Chateauneuf du Pape the Moonlight Run is a blend of 34% Grenache, 33% Mataro and 33% Shiraz sourced from the sub regions of Seppeltsfield, Southern Moppa, Greenock and Tanunda. Fermented with 50% whole bunches ageing takes place in seasoned French oak puncheons for a period of 15 months.
Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. An extroverted nose of dark raspberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas jump out of the glass followed by some earthy fennel, vanillin spice and subtle pepper notes. Rich, plump and seductive the opulent palate is awash with dark raspberry, liquorice, dark plum and dark cherry fruits which meld into a fennel, vanillin spice and peppered herb back drop. Possessing power, textural volume and velvet smooth tannins it finishes long and juicy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%![2021 Massena The Eleventh Hour Shiraz]()
- 96
- 95
2021 Massena The Eleventh Hour ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThe Massena venture was started by two High School mates, Dan Standish (formerly winemaker at Torbreck) and Jaysen Collins (previously manager at Turkey Flat). The duo are noted for trialling unusual varieties such as Primitivo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Roussanne, Saperavi and Tannat. The sixty year old Shiraz vines from Greenock that form the base of this wine were ready to be uprooted due to the lack of yields and the reluctance of other companies to pay extra for the A grade fruit. After repeated requests for access to these grapes, at 'the eleventh hour' the owners agreed to stop the bulldozer and retain a small area of vines. No American oak is used at Massena. After 15 months in seasoned French oak the wine was moved to tank in individual components for several months before blending and bottling without fining or filtration.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep black dark red hue. Intense dark plum and liquorice aromas waft through the nostrils followed by some blackberry, dark chocolate, vanillin oak, mocha and spicy earth notes. Rich, dense and lavish, the palate is saturated with a concentrate of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits which meld into vanillin cedar, earth, fennel and subtle spicy mocha elements. Opulent in its texture yet possessing an underlying blueberry like freshness it boasts velvet smooth tannins and great power. Finishes long and sumptuous.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews....
Old-vine shiraz sourced from the Barossa's northwest corner, from a strong vintage for the region. Plush satsuma plum and blueberry fruits dredged with spice and flecked with citrus blossom top notes that slide effortlessly across the palate. There is a pleasing velvety flow and energy to this wine as it moves in the mouth; fine, pumice-stone tannins providing ample support and a finish that lingers with pure berry fruits and spice. Nice one. Drink by 2035.
95 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion![2023 Maude Pinot Gris]()
- 94
2023 Maude Pinot GrisCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2023-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinForty percent of this wine was fermented in seasoned oak barrels to provide additional texture and body. Brilliant very pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Pronounced pear and red apple aromas emanate from the glass followed by hints of musk, quince and ginger spice. Concentrated and mouth filling the palate is engulfed with delicious ripe pear, red apple, musk and fresh quince flavours which are underscored by refreshing, energised acidity. Finishes dry with a dash of spice on the long, texturally full yet highly invigorating aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5%![2022 Mesh Riesling]()
- 96
- Reduced
2022 Mesh RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $29.99$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinMesh is a joint venture between two of Australia’s leading exponents of Riesling, Clare Valley’s Jeffrey Grosset and Eden Valley’s Robert Hill-Smith.
Brilliant water like core with a distinct greenish tinge to the edges. Intense lime, lemon and orange rind scents fill the nostrils with notions of talc, green apple and chalky mineral notes also present. Crunchy lemon and lime fruits are delivered with excellent concentration and carry a zesty feel. Providing a tense structure is a steely core of mineral infused acidity with Granny Smith apple, chalky talc, wet steel and flinty mineral elements lying underneath. Finishes dry with a long zippy tightly focused aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%![2023 Ministry of Clouds Riesling]()
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2023 Ministry of Clouds RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinAfter almost three decades of shared experience in the wine industry, Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood decided to have a crack at their own venture sourcing fruit mainly from high quality vineyards in McLaren Vale to produce wines under their Ministry of Clouds label. Further broadening their portfolio they also added other varieties including Riesling from the Clare Valley.
2023 was the third year in a row to experience a cool growing season in the Clare Valley resulting in intensely flavoured Rieslings with healthy natural acidity and exceptional length. 93% of the grapes were sourced from the terrarossa/ red loam laid over limestone of the renowned Watervale subregion often referred to as "The Golden Mile", with picking times staggered to retain natural acidity. The balance was sourced from the lean, hungry and rocky soils characteristic of the cooler and later ripening hills of Penwortham.
A glorious explosion of scrumptious lime and citrus fruit.
Surrounding the brilliant water like core are distinct highlights of green. Intense aromas of lime, citrus and orange rind soar out the glass combining with talc, green apple and chalky mineral notes along the way. The explosive, super scrumptious palate sees lime and citrus fruits burst across it with terrific force, concentration and textural volume. Green apple, orange rind, chalky talc and flinty mineral characters ensue. Juicy, mouth watering acidity finishing exceptionally long, pure and crunchy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Watervale and Penwortham. I sat down to taste these wines with co-winemaker Julian Forwood, and I said, this smells of lavender, and he was quite happy about that.
Pretty, perfumed, lavender, and pink grapefruit, lime. Juicy, firm powdery texture, pure and long, with a cinch of refreshing tonic bitterness. The mouth-feel of it is excellent, but not at the expense of purity and classic expression of Clare Riesling. Top shelf. Drink 2023-2033+
95 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2022 Ministry of Clouds Grenache]()
- 96
2022 Ministry of Clouds GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 14.7%Closure: StelvinAfter almost three decades of shared experience in the wine industry, Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood decided to have a crack at their own venture sourcing fruit mainly from high quality vineyards in McLaren Vale to produce wines under their Ministry of Clouds label.
This stellar example of Grenache is comprised 8 different Grenache ferments with varying amounts of whole bunch ranging from a couple of whole berry ferments to the highest being 28% whole bunch, skin time varying between 3 to 6 weeks. The 8 ferments are off four vineyards - three of which all neighbour each other in Blewitt Springs. One planted in 1930, another in 1939 and the last is believed to be planted in 1940s. These 3 vineyards make up 82% of the blend. The last component is from the oldest part of the Smart vineyard in Clarendon planted in 1920. Maturation took place in large old oak for 6 months.A Grenache of phenomenal intensity and power.
Vibrant dark red coloured core with black shaded edges and a light purple red hue. Wafting from the glass with a perfumed like intensity are intoxicating aromas of dark raspberries, ripe cherries and red liquorice that are infused with an intriguing mix of fresh herbs and rose petals. Subtle vanillin earth and spice notes are also evident. Carrying only light to medium body, the palate has a power without weight quality, juicy dark raspberry, red liquorice and red cherry fruits unfolding like a never ending peacocks tail to deliver superb depth. Magnificent purity of fruit and with its concentration on another level. Lingering underneath are some vanillin confectionary, earth and subtle spicy pepper characters. Fresh acidity and a sturdy matrix of tannins provide a fine boned structure. Concludes with an explosively long, succulently fruited finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.7%![2022 Ministry of Clouds Riesling]()
- 96
- 96
2022 Ministry of Clouds RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 12.3%Closure: StelvinAfter almost three decades of shared experience in the wine industry, Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood decided to have a crack at their own venture sourcing fruit mainly from high quality vineyards in McLaren Vale to produce wines under their Ministry of Clouds label. Further broadening their portfolio they also added other varieties including Riesling from the Clare Valley.
2022 was the second year in a row to experience a cool growing season in the Clare Valley resulting in intensely flavoured Rieslings with healthy natural acidity and exceptional length.Scintillating Clare Valley Riesling.
Brilliant water like core with distinct highlights of green skirting the edges. Explosive aromatics of lime, citrus and green apple leap out of the glass trailed by some orange rind, chalky talc and flinty mineral notes. Zesty lemon, lime and Granny Smith apple fruits burst across the scrumptious palate, searing acidity providing laser like focus and tension to the concentrated fruit profile. Dry, steely mineral infused finish with some flinty chalk like elements lingering on the long super crunchy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.3%Other Reviews….
Free-run juice cold-settled and cool fermented. Obviously dodged most of the rain: this has an exceptionally rich, layered and complex palate, acidity piercing the veil of citrus fruit on the lingering finish and aftertaste.
96 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion![2023 Mitchell Watervale Riesling]()
- 95
- 95
- 95
2023 Mitchell Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinOne of Clare Valley’s stalwarts, the first Mitchell Watervale Riesling was released in 1977. Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Jumping out of the glass are intense lime and red apple scents which are followed by some citrus, subtle wet slate and mineral notes. Flooding the mouth are concentrated lime and citrus fruits with notions of green apple, wet steel, chalky talc and a saline like minerality lending further nuance across the back half. Power and textural volume are counterpointed by zippy acidity. Finishes dry, long and zesty.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Flavour. Texture. Precision. Poise. A scintillating riesling of strong regional character, yet details of citrusy fruit, saline minerality, faint nutty savouriness and talc-like textural pucker. Fantastic. It's a highly perfumed expression with extreme length, vitality and freshness with drinkability now and a sense that time in the cellar will bode very, very well. Straight up delicious, with plenty going on. Mitchell delivers the goods with this variety, and the 2023 release is a belter. Kudos. Drink by 2035.
95 Points
Mike Bennie – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe wine is jubilant with native florals and citrus zest. Lime sorbet, fig leaf and Lemon Myrtle. There is a woody smell of sandalwood and a base note of vanilla sugar. The freshness of cut celery and green apple peel leads to a pithy lace like texture with a crunchy crisp finish. Acidity flows along the palate and lime oil lingers on the finish. There is always an added layer of phenolic tension in this wine and once again it delivers the aromatics of the Clare Valley with the added details of great wine making. Drink now or will cellar well for 8-10 years. Serve with butterflied spatchcock and preserved lemon. Drink 2023-2033.
95 Points
Shanteh Wale – WinePilot.comI’ve not tried these wines for some years, so nice to try them again.
Maybe not your average Clare Valley Riesling here, maybe a little more Germanic, if you don’t mind me. Here we have apple, lime and lemongrass, with a jasmine flower thing. It’s juicy, all ginger, lime and lemongrass, quite spicy, fleshy too with rich mint and apple flavour in the mix. Texture is gently chalky and something of a highlight, cashew, aniseed and exotic spice. Finish is excellent, maybe a little sweetness too by way of lime cordial. Zesty. Lovely wine. Drink 2023-2032+
95 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2021 Mont-Redon Reserve Cotes du Rhone]()
- 95
- 93
2021 Mont-Redon Reserve Cotes du RhoneCotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinMont-Redon is one of Chateauneuf-du-Pape’s largest estate’s with almost 100 hectares under vine and has one of the longest histories in the entire Rhône Valley. The estate has passed through many families over the centuries, but it’s modern history really started in 1923 with the then manager, Henri Plantin. Henri was a colleague and contemporary of Baron Pierre Le Roy de Boiseaumarié, the man credited with spearheading the creation of France’s entire AOC system in 1936. It was Henri’s drive and vision that established the estate as one of the ‘Grand Crus’ in Chateauneuf du Pape. Since 2017 Mont-Redon has been managed by Pierre Fabre, Henri’s great-great-grandson who has brought with him a renewed enthusiasm for producing the very finest wines.
Mont-Redon also produce a great value Cotes du Rhone. The 2021 vintage is a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah destemmed and fermented in stainless steel with about two weeks on skins and gentle pump-overs to promote a fine tannin structure. It then sees a further 8 months maturation in tank.Gorgeous aromatics, succulent fruit and a long finish make for a very seductive Cotes du Rhone.
Deep black dark red colour with a bright dark purple hue. Gorgeous aromatics of spicy dark raspberries and liquorice infused with Herbs du Provence show a perfumed like intensity out of the glass with notions of earthy incense and peppered meats also evident. Medium to full bodied with a juicy texture and plenty of power, dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruits engulf the mouth with infusions of Herbs du Provence, earthy incense characters and spicy pepper lying underneath. Good freshness with ripe, slightly chewy tannins, the long aftertaste layered with succulent fruit and pepper. A real surprise packet!
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews.....
Ripe and generous with complex red and black fruit character plus a slew of spice, licorice and old balsamic vinegar aromas. This is an excellent Cotes-du-Rhone that's not a jot too rich. The tannins and bitter chocolate character build impressively at the long finish. Drink or hold.
93 points
JamesSuckling.com
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