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- 95
2022 Hunter-Gatherer Heathcote Shiraz

Heathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$24. 99
Bottle
$299.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Based in the Macedon ranges, winemaker, Brian Martin also sources exceptional parcels of fruit from top growers in nearby Heathcote. This Shiraz comes from the Chinamen's Bend vineyard in Tooborac with aging taking place in a mix of new and seasoned French oak for a period of 18 months.
An opulently fruited yet muscular Heathcote Shiraz that delivers great value.
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Ripe black cherry and liquorice aromas rise through the olfactory senses followed by flashes of blueberry, vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Full in body the palate is awash with succulent black cherry, liquorice and blackberry fruit with spicy vanillin cedar, blueberry and peppered earth elements in the background. Boasting superb intensity, depth and power, a sturdy tannin structure imparts a robust feel onto the long, fresh and deeply fruited finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 97
- 98
- 96
- 96
2020 Isole e Olena Cepparello

Tuscany, ITALY
$230. 00
Bottle
$2760.00 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)

ABV: 15%

Closure: Stelvin

In the 1950s, the father of current winemaker Paolo de Marchi purchased the adjoining hamlets of Isole and Olena and their estates in the Tuscan commune of Barberino Val d'Elsa. Paolo entered the business in 1976 and the quality of the estates wines improved rapidly after decades of sharecropping. Paolo de Marchi is one of the region's kings of the Sangiovese grape and at a time when Chianti was a blended wine it was he that stepped out to produce wines that were 100% Sangiovese. Cepparello is the true embodiment of a ‘Super Tuscan’ wine and one of Italy's most iconic wines.
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. A kaleidoscope of red to black currant, red cherry, red plum, Mediterranean herb, earth, spicy vanillin cedar and subtle fresh tobacco notes captivate the olfactory senses. Very refined and long across the palate a mixture of rich spicy red currant, red cherry and red liquorice fruits are featured over a Mediterranean herb infused back drop of vanillin cedar, earthy forest floor like characters, black olive and tobacco. Slightly muscular in it’s feel it possesses fine graphite like tannins and is both powerful and deep. The long, elegant and structured conclusion carrying a compelling savoury quality.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 15%
Other Reviews…..
My most recent visit to Isole e Olena was decidedly bittersweet. Paolo De Marchi turned out an exceptional set of 2020s, wines that are among his very best ever. However, the sale of Isole e Olena has been quite traumatic. It’s a complex subject, the result of a mix of family dynamics and the lack of an industry structure that could long-term stability. These factors are not unique to Isole e Olena but rather conditions that afflict all family-owned wineries in Italy. Personally, I would like to see more long-term thinking in Italy, but that is not typically part of the cultural construct here. New owners EPI Group, who also own Biondi-Santi, will surely put their own stamp on things. Obviously, it is much too early to know where things will go. Right now, I can only advise Isole e Olena fans to snap up the 2020s, as they are magical.
The 2020 Cepparello is a total stunner, just as it was last year. Deeply colored, layered and explosive in the glass, the 2020 possesses striking textural richness and overall intensity. Black cherry, graphite, plum, spice and lavender flesh out effortlessly. There's tremendous pedigree and sheer stature here. Cepparello is surely one of the wines of the year. Drink 2027-2045.
98 points
Antonio Galloni – Vinous
Supple and smooth, the 2020 Cepparello brings Sangiovese to soaring heights in a manner only Paolo De Marchi can manage. This is his second to last vintage before he would retire and sell this historic estate. The wine opens to medium to full-bodied concentration with dark plum and redcurrant. Those cede to sweet spice, earth, crushed stone, rusty nail and candied orange peel. Give the wine more time to flesh out with cellar age. It registers a powerful 15% alcohol content. Drink 2024-2045.
96 points
Monica Larner – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate
Expressive and sumptuous from the get-go, this red features cherry, strawberry, rose, orange peel, mineral and Tuscan herb aromas and flavors. Sangiovese. Best from 2025 through 2045. 4,800 cases made.
96 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

Delivery Information
- 96
2022 Izway Rob & Les Shiraz

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$32. 99
Bottle
$395.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)

ABV: 14.8%

Closure: Stelvin

Izway is a partnership of two well-travelled winemakers Brian Conway and Craig Isbel. They like to keep things simple and minimalistic in the winemaking process putting a real emphasis on fruit purity and to this point use mostly older oak. So named as a tribute to two of the boys grandparents, the 2022 Rob & Les is sourced from John, Barb and Andy Kalleske’s Koonunga Hillside & the Hoffmann Mickans vineyards both located in the north of the Barossa Valley. These two vineyards complement each other perfectly and combined with the near perfect vintage conditions of 2022 have produced a wine that has great depth, richness, energy and personality.
Silky, exuberantly fruited and seductive.
Aged in seasoned French oak. Impenetrable inky black heart with a deep dark purple black hue. Soaring out of the glass are flamboyant aromatics of dark plum, liquorice and black cherry which are complimented by fennel, smoky vanillin cedar and blackpepper notes. Rich, plush and sumptuous, the large scaled palate is engulfed with lavish dark plum, liquorice, blackberry and black cherry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, infusions of fennel and blackpepper complete the picture. Amply powered with the cooler vintage conditions imparting a blueberry like freshness. Silky yet structured tannins finishing long, exuberantly fruited and seductive.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.8%

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Packaging may vary
Jack Daniels Bottled in Bond 100 Proof Tennessee Whiskey (1000ml)

Tennessee, UNITED STATES
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 50%

A Jack that's more robust than most, aged for over four years instead of just three, thus meeting the standards of the 'Bottled in Bond Act of 1897.' The act also requires that the whiskey be a product of the grain of a single season, made by one distiller at a single distillery, and aged in a federal government-bonded warehouse. The act came as a response to the widespread adulteration in American whiskey around the late 19th century. It was an attempt by the federal government to guarantee the spirit's authenticity. This also honors the era when Jack began bottling his whiskey in the signature square bottle (1895). As usual, an added Tennessee touch sees the whiskey charcoal mellowed through ten feet of sugar maple, a reminder of Jack Daniel's commitment to quality. Big one litre format. Normally duty free exclusive. 50% Alc.Vol.
Other reviews... Quite confectionery and billowing with fruity candies—banana taffy, bubble gum, Pixy Stix, red cinnamon gumdrops, and Swedish Fish. The palate offers black cherry soda, more banana, and a bit of grapefruit. Very fruity, with just enough oak to deliver a drying finish. Fans of Jack will be like kids in the candy store, with the added proof and intensity. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jeffery Lindenmuth (Winter 2018)

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- 96
2019 JC’s Own Barossa Shiraz

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$59. 99
Bottle
$719.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

The JC’s Own label is the personal project of Massena winemaker Jaysen Collins with the labels inspired by street art he sees in his travels. The fruit for this wine is sourced from a single vineyard located in the Barossa Valley sub region of Greenock. Aged for 25 months in 1 year old low toast French oak barriques a portion of pressings was included to provide additional structure.
Dense pitch black colour with a very deep black dark red hue. Heady blackberry, liquorice and dark plum scents show plenty of intensity out of the glass with hints of vanillin cedar, earthy dark chocolate and spice also chiming in. Rich and concentrated yet also possessing a sense of refinement, the palate is layered with opulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Lying beneath are earthy dark chocolate, vanillin cedar and spice elements. Polished tannin structure. Superb power with a long deeply fruited yet focused aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%

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- 95
2021 Jeanneret Rank & File Shiraz

Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)

ABV: 15%

Closure: Stelvin

Ben Jeanneret calls this curiously named wine 'Rank & File'. It's what Shiraz represents to him - the heart and soul of the Australian wine industry. Sourced from some of the best low yielding, old vine vineyards in Clare, the fruit for this wine was matured in a mixture of French and American oak for a period of 17-23 months. Year in year out this is one of our best selling Shiraz, the powerful rich black fruits and opulent feel make it irresistible drinking.
A super rich Clare Shiraz layered with a dense wall of lavish fruit that’s underscored by a muscular structure.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep black dark red hue. Wafting from the glass are liquorice, black cherry liqueur like aromas and blackberry which meld into toasty vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Super rich, densely textured and exuberant, the full bodied palate is engulfed with lavish liquorice and black cherry liqueur flavours which are underscored by a ripe muscular tannin structure. Toasty vanillin cedar, scorched earth and blackpepper elements line the back half. Concludes long and opulent yet quite robust.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 15%

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- 96
- 96
- Reduced
2016 Jim Barry The McRae Wood Shiraz Cellar Release

Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
Reduced from $69.99
$64. 99
Bottle
$779.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Rich and concentrated with robust tannins lending some grip onto the long generous finish.
In 1964 Jim Barry and his wife Nancy purchased 70 acres of prime farm land from their friend and neighbour, Duncan McRae Wood where they planted their first Shiraz vineyard. The McRae Wood Shiraz is made from declassified Armagh fruit and other top parcels of grapes from the family’s other Clare Valley vineyards.
Pitch black dark red core with a dark red black tinged hue. Heady ripe blackberry, dark plum and liquorice aromas fill the nostrils followed by some vanillin cedar, hints of choc mint, earth and spice. Rich, concentrated ripe blackberry, dark plum and liquorice fruits engulf the mouth with an opulent feel. Dark chocolate, vanillin cedar, earth and spice elements extend across the back half. Robust yet integrated tannins lend some grip onto the long generous finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews…..
This is no pushover in the company of The Armagh, and it's a whole lot easier to enjoy, even though the day for each is long off. Here the fruits are rounder, the tannins following suit - even touches of red/purple fruits here. Once again, a wine to be respected. And enjoyed. Drink by 2046.
96 Points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion

Delivery Information
- 94
- 93
- 93
2024 Jim Barry Assyrtiko

Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$29. 99
Bottle
$359.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)

ABV: 12%

Closure: Stelvin

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

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

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

Delivery Information
- 96
- 96
- 95
2022 John Duval Entity Shiraz

Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$44. 99
Bottle
$539.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

With nearly 30 years spent making Penfolds Grange and developing the RWT label at Penfolds, John Duval qualifies as one of Australia's living wine legends. In 2003 he launched John Duval Wines and wasted no time sourcing some of South Australia's finest fruit. “After 35 years in the business, I know who the best growers are,” comments Duval. Today, John is joined by his son Tim who assists with both winemaking and marketing.
2022 was a standout season in Barossa vintage with mild harvest conditions allowing for even flavour accumulation and vibrant aromatics and acidity. Fruit was sourced from old vineyards in the Krondorf, Tanunda, Marananga, Ebenezer, Moppa and Eden Valley districts, the final blend being made from 85% Barossa Valley and 15% Eden Valley fruit. Maturation took place in French oak (28% new) for a period of 15 months.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Intense blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas engulf the nostrils complimented by vanillin oak, dark chocolate, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich and seductive yet terrifically refined, the medium to full bodied palate has a gorgeous layer of blackberry, dark plum and liquorice fruit flowing across it. Plush in its feel it has seamlessly integrated, velvety tannins and possesses an understated power. Spicy vanillin oak, earthy mocha and pepper elements ensue. The long, silky finish the epitome of finesse and class.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews….
Velvety opulence speaks from the moment this hits your tongue until the last drop disappears. It’s a luxurious take on the grandeur of fit, medium-bodied Shiraz, putting plush red berry characteristics on a pedestal, encasing them gently in oak and fine-gain tannin, then allowing them to saunter gracefully down the long catwalk before sashaying out the exit curtain. Bravo! Further ageing will only enhance its beauty. Drink 2024-2038.
96 points
Decanter.com
Shiraz sourced from vineyards in Krondorf, Tanunda, Marananga, Moppa and Eden Valley (BV 85%, EV 15%), matured in French oak, 28% new, for 15 months. A vibrantly coloured multi-subregional blend that shows plum, black cherry and blackberry fruits cut with hints of baking spice, cedar, vanillin, mace, licorice and earth. A thickly shouldered wine, plush with ripe fruit and creamy oaken nuance finishing long and elemental with fine, chalky tannins and a sense of mineral definition. Drink by 2038.
95 points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

Delivery Information
- 95
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Johnny Drum Private Stock Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)

Kentucky, UNITED STATES
Reduced from $124.99
$114. 99
Bottle
$1379.88 Dozen

ABV: 50.5%

One of those Bourbons where a single glass is never quite enough.
Great stuff! - Jim Murray
Located on the outskirts of Bardstown, Kentucky, lies the old Willet Distillery. Correspondence is currently pending as to the status of production, but its history dates from shortly after the repeal of prohibition in 1935. The distillery was established by brothers Thompson and Johnny Willett. The 1970s petrol crisis saw Old Willet producing alcohol as an alternate resource for fuel. The distillery closed its doors when the fuel crisis was no longer dire, unfortunately, all the whisky distilling equipment was stripped from the premises.

Enter Evan Kulsveen. Norwegian by descent, Evan married Thompson Willett's daughter, Martha, and endeavoured to bring the family distillery back to life by exporting old stock to Japan and Europe in the late 1980s when the market for Bourbon was starting to boom. The stock eventually ran out and whilst the goal of re-opening the distillery was still in sight, the cost involved made it an unviable proposition at the time. Instead, Evan started purchasing casks from multiple distilleries, masterfully creating his own whiskies, marketed under numerous labels, including ‘Old Bardstown’, ‘Kentucky Vintage’, ‘Rowans Creek’ and ‘Johnny Drum’, amongst others.

Pages on the Kentucky Bourbon Distiller’s website (a subsidiary of the distillery as a premium bottler and vendor of private brands) have indicated that the distillery is undergoing restoration (some twenty years after that promise was made!) Evan continues to operate the facility along with his children, Drew and Brit Kulsveen, continuing the line of prestigious American whiskies. We anxiously await the re-opening of this legendary Kentucky producer.

Tasting note: Copper gold colour with a gold hue. A touch of shellac at first, then the nose reveals aromas of toffee apple, mixed nuts and an enticing array of spices including clove, vanilla, anise and nutmeg over a charry oak base note. A big palate attack yields concentrated flavours of dried fruits, caramel, sweet spices and sandalwood. The mouthfeel is creamy and mildly prickly at the same time, however the whisky maintains excellent balance at this strength. Finishes soft and dry with an aftertaste of vanillan oak, creme caramel and a subtle liquorice strap fade. A big, complex Bourbon experience. 50.5% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Plenty of color, and the nose says it ain’t lying. Sharp warehouse oak aroma puts an edge on an authoritative nose of honey, Indian pudding, spicy hard candy, and old-fashioned root beer, the not-too-sugary kind. Fiery and bold on the tongue as oak roars from start to finish, but the sweetness builds sip-by-sip: cornbread, buckwheat honey, King syrup, and a teasy bit of citrus peel. Long finish as the oak dies down. At this price, let’s keep it our secret. Sourced whiskey. 88 points - www.maltadvocate.com, reviewed by: Lew Bryson (Fall 2015)

Delivery Information
- 93
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia Platino Tequila (700ml)

Jalisco, MEXICO
Reduced from $169.99
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Closure: Cork

"Enduringly subtle, the tequila feels meticulously crafted and deftly balanced, light on its feet but bursting with fresh flavors. Sip it, mix with it, whatever. Just buy it." - drinkhacker.com
Launched in 2007 but relatively new to Australia, the Platino expression from Cuervo's hugely successful "Reserva De La Familia" range of premium Tequilas comes with a strong recommendation from the World Tequila Awards - amongst others. Made using 10-12 year old estate grown agaves, the tequila benefits from a proprietary method which is said to capture the steam during the cooking process, which is then turned back to water to dilute the tequila to a standardised strength. On the nose it's an almost floral blanco with an appealing grilled capsicum, tobacco and white pepper lift that follows through to vibrant flavours suggesting dried pear, light vanilla, white pepper, earthy smokiness and sappy agave. The finish is salty, drying, minerally and pleasantly warm making for a complex standalone sipper that's closer to a Reposado, at least in terms of mouthfeel. Each hand-dipped wax-sealed bottle arrives housed in a presentation box, adding to the premium vibe. Certified organic. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Though it’s a blanco, this tequila is rested in stainless steel for 60 days before bottling, a common practice for higher-end white spirits. It doesn’t take long to see what the fuss is all about: This is instantly an expressive and engaging tequila that quickly becomes hard to put down. A gentle nose expresses notes of white pepper, lime juice, and a touch of coconut husk. Tropical and a little sweet, it’s mild and enveloping from the start. The palate keeps perfectly on message: Light sweetness paired with citrus quickly evokes a note of limeade, then moves into a light sprinkle of baking spice, green herbs, lemongrass, and another grind of white pepper. This is definitely not your father’s Cuervo, and it’s miles away from a brash, alcohol-driven experience. Enduringly subtle, the tequila feels meticulously crafted and deftly balanced, light on its feet but bursting with fresh flavors. Sip it, mix with it, whatever. Just buy it. Bottled Dec 15 2020. - drinkhacker.com
...vegetable notes, fried zucini and unripe pear. Finishes dry with slightly peppered notes and enduring agave flavours. 4.5 stars - diffordsguide.com
Gold Medal - World Tequila Awards 2021
"A benchmark blanco Tequila that tastes and smells exactly how your minds eye envisions one." 88 points - tastings.com (2023)

Delivery Information
- 96
- Reduced
2012 Nicks Secret McLaren Vale AR Shiraz Museum Release

McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
Reduced from $39.99
$29. 99
Bottle
$359.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

From a highly regarded estate that has regularly featured in our newsletter over the years comes this Museum Release Shiraz that offers excellent value with all of the bottle ageing done for you. Matured in a mixture of French and American oak with only the best barrels selected for the final blend this offers superb drinking over the next year or two.
A seductively rich and velvety McLaren Vale Shiraz that’s sitting in its prime drinking window.
Dense inky black core with a deep very dark red black tinged hue. The nose gives up pronounced liquorice, black cherry and blackberry aromas which are complimented by vanillin oak, scorched earth, hints of leather and blackpepper. Rich, plush and seductive the palate is layered with liquorice, dark plum and blackberry fruits which overlay a toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and blackpepper back drop. Possessing excellent power and velvety tannins it has an opulent yet refined feel. Cruises through to a long, silky smooth finish that sees pepper and subtle tertiary elements lending further complexity.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 96
2021 Journeys End Coonawarra Station Cabernet Sauvignon

Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Coonawarra’s famous strip of Terra Rossa soil has long been considered to be ideal for the production of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and the Journeys End Coonawarra Station has consistently proven to be one of the best values the region has to offer. The 2021 vintage was exceptional with a long mild vintage allowing for steady increases in maturity levels of the fruit which meant winemakers could pick at optimum levels of ripeness and flavour. The resultant wines feature great depth of colour, fruit concentration and tannin structures.
A perfectly proportioned Coonawarra Cabernet that combines the variety's trademark structure with a wealth of rich, generous fruit.
Dense pitch black heart with a deep black dark red hue. The nose is drawn in by captivating and powerful scents of ripe blackcurrant, mulberry and cedary tobacco characters which are followed by hints of black olive, dusty earth and bay leaf. Rich, concentrated black currant, ripe mulberry and liquorice flavours reign supreme over a back drop of dusty vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle black olive characters and infusions of bay leaf. A classic Cabernet Sauvignon structure of sturdy yet nicely integrated tannins frames the deep well of glorious ripe fruit. Long, robust yet generously endowed conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 93
2019 Three Brothers Reunited Shiraz

South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$9. 99
Bottle
$119.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

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

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

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

Delivery Information
- 88
- 85
- Reduced
Isle of Jura 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Isle of Jura, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $169.99
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 44%

Other reviews... There is an outlandish outbreak of massive flavour on delivery, both the malt and fruit almost shrill in their proclamations of intent. This is high juiciness in excelsis, the sugars crisp and full of grist and Dmaerara. And on the finish a slight chocolate note hovers, but then a degree of sulphur drifts in... as threatened by the nose.... This has so many beautiful moments. But... 85.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2014
Jura has introduced a new house style of ‘sweetness and smoke,’ and this spent 18 years in bourbon barrels, with a finish in red wine casks. Malt, peach blossom, raspberries, vanilla, and dark chocolate on the nose. The palate offers red berries, more chocolate, cloves, and peat. Dry red wine notes in the finish, with fruity spices and black pepper. 44% Alc./Vol. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Fall 2018)
Imagine I haven’t tried the 18 since… Oh my, 2007! But Jura was weak back then, really. Some nasty bottlings, not all of them, but there. Now this newer expression was finished in some Bordeaux red, most sadly (not STR), but you never know, this little juice may have escaped the mighty cabernety army. Which, by the way, I just love – In my wine glass. Colour: golden amber. Nose: some earth, peonies, blood oranges marmalade, heather honey, candied cherries, leather and ginger, more earth, wallflowers, pecan pie… I have to say this is a fine, rather rich and yet pretty elegant nose. But don’t we all know that silly wine finishings usually rather fail… on the palate? Mouth: nah, they know what they’re doing. This is not my preferred style at all, and we’re rather finding more café latte plus these dusty and honeyed sides (both at the same time), but otherwise except a drying cardboard and coffee combo in the back, this would rather kind of work, relatively. Well no, I’m having trouble liking it a lot, honestly. Finish: medium, dry and a little burnt and bitter. Burnt molasses, heavy cinnamon, some sour cardboard in the aftertaste. Comments: love the distillery, the people, the master blender, the settings and some of their whiskies, but frankly, I find this one rather too difficult. Tough love. 75 points - whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- 95
- 94
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2023 Kalleske Moppa Shiraz

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$26. 99
Bottle
$323.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

The fruit for this Shiraz is sourced from Kalleske’s certified organic Moppa vineyard with grapes coming from ten different blocks, the oldest of which was planted in 1961. Troy Kalleske reports that the 2023 vintage was an excellent one for quality, “Vintage 2023 has produced exceptional wines. It was the longest and latest on record, stretching from mid-March to early-May. The vines got off to a superb start with a wet and cool Spring providing plenty of sub-soil moisture for the growing season ahead. Summer typically brought average temperatures and was generally dry with occasional finite rain. The vines were in fantastic condition for slow and steady ripening into Autumn with its mild days, cool nights, and isolated light rain. Yields from 2023 are good and quality is excellent.”
Small dollops of Petit Verdot and Viognier were included in the blend to provide added complexity and give the wine a contemporary edge. Maturation took place in a combination of approximately 20% new French, American and Hungarian oak hogsheads for 13 months.

A plush, succulent Barossa Shiraz that possesses velvety tannins and a long, opulent finish.

Impenetrable inky black heart with a near equally deep dark red black hue. Wafting out of the glass with plenty of potency are dark plum, blackberry, liquorice and dark chocolate aromas which are complimented by vanillin oak, mocha and spice notes. Rich, weighty and densely concentrated, mouth coating flavours of dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate swamp every corner of the palate. Superb depth and power with spicy vanillin oak, earthy mocha and fennel characters echoed across the back half. Plush and succulent it possesses velvety tannins and a long, opulent finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews.....
Deep magenta-edged crimson with aromas of plum conserve, blueberry and boysenberry fruits cuts with hints of fine spice, cola, licorice, dark chocolate, fruitcake, pan juices, olive tapenade and earth. Full bodied and fruit pure with a powdery tannin backdrop and some nice sinew to accompany the plush dark and black fruits on the back-end. Drink by 2036.
94 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Delivery Information
- 97
- 95
- 95
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2022 Kalleske Greenock Shiraz

Barossa Valley, AUSTRALIA
$36. 99
Bottle
$443.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Kalleske’s Greenock Shiraz is a single vineyard wine produced from low yielding vines on the Kalleske estate at Greenock, in the North-Western Barossa Valley. Cuttings for these vines originate from a vineyard planted on the property in the late 1800’s. It’s certified both organic and biodynamic with maturation taking place in a mix of 30% new American and French oak hogsheads for a period of 14 months.

Voluptuous, dense and possessing a blockbuster finish this is opulent Barossa Shiraz at its best.

Super saturated inky black in colour with an equally deep black dark red hue. Wafting out of the glass are potent scents of dark plum, ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark chocolate which intermix with black cherry, vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spicy fennel notes – a truly hedonistic sniff. Incredibly rich and concentrated, the full bodied palate is layered with a thick coating of dark plum, blackberry, liquorice and dark chocolate flavours. Notions of black cherry, mocha and spicy vanillin oak are also evident. Voluptuous, dense and power packed, it features a long plush conclusion that’s drenched in opulent black fruit.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews....
Shiraz sourced from a single vineyard on the western edge of Greenock Creek; destemmed and matured in French and American oak for 14 months. Them Kalleske lads know their way around the Western Barossa, I guess 150 years of continual family ownership of their farm does that. Classic Western Barossa fruit density and flow, studded with fine, ironstone tannins, baking spices, pure macerated plum and summer berry fruits and earth, finishing long and true to its plot of sandy loam, red clay and limestone. Lovely. Drink by 2038.
95 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Such vivid colour always screams freshness – and provides compelling advertisement for this longstanding biodynamic vineyard – but the bouquet suggests something larger than expected, with clean tilled soil over raspberry and redcurrant, wild sage and funky dank vineyard floor atop vibrant blackberry and blackcurrant. This wine is alive with earthy vitality, plus a rather bouncy, plump palate and the persistence of rich, plummy flavours. Where such fruit purity goes in the cellar, aided by the benefits of sound tannin and acid support, will be an intriguing journey to follow. Drink 2024-2040.
95 points
Decanter

Delivery Information
- 94
- 92
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2023 Kalleske Clarry’s GSM

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

A 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 8 months.
Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Showing excellent intensity the nose is filled with an array of peppered dark raspberry, dark cherry, liquorice, dried herb and earthy graphite like notes. Rich, succulent dark to black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits swamp the palate with scorched earth and peppered dried herb extracts lying underneath. Opulently textured yet retaining good freshness it possesses velvety tannins and finishes long, plump and juicy.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews....
Clarry's has always represented great value and plenty of savoury, spicy, dark-fruited drinking for the price. Nothing's changed with the 2023 model and it ticks all the boxes once again. Ripe plums and blackberry with hints of baking spices, crushed stone, purple flowers, chocolate and earth with tight, powdery tannins and a medium-length finish. Such a solid bistro-style wine. Drink by 2034.
92 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Delivery Information
- Reduced
Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 2nd Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
Reduced from $9,999.00
$5999. 00
Bottle
$71988.00 Dozen

ABV: 52.1%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
"The Masterpieces in Eight Colours” is a series of eight batches of Karuizawa presented in different traditional Japanese colours. The second in the series was matured in a Sherry Butt, bottled at 52.1% without chill filtration and packaged in purple. Kanji writing on the label is by calligrapher, Souun Takeda, one of the most famous Kanji artists in Japan. His artwork is highly praised for its innovative, yet traditional way of expressing the beauty of the Japanese language and spirit. Normally these very rare Karuizawas are sold as full sets of eight making the cost prohibitive for most collectors. At the time of writing, we have four of the series on offer which can be purchased separately. One only.

Delivery Information
- Reduced
Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 4th Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
Reduced from $9,999.00
$5999. 00
Bottle
$71988.00 Dozen

ABV: 48.5%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
"The Masterpieces in Eight Colours” is a series of eight batches of Karuizawa presented in different traditional Japanese colours. The fourth in the series was matured in a Sherry Butt, bottled at 48.5% without chill filtration and packaged in blue. Kanji writing on the label is by calligrapher, Souun Takeda, one of the most famous Kanji artists in Japan. His artwork is highly praised for its innovative, yet traditional way of expressing the beauty of the Japanese language and spirit. Normally these very rare Karuizawas are sold as full sets of eight making the cost prohibitive for most collectors. At the time of writing, we have four of the series on offer which can be purchased separately. One only.

Delivery Information
- 95
Kilchoman Sanaig 2024 Edition Cask Strength Limited Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 57.8%

Sanaig and Machir Bay are Kilchoman’s two core products, but only the latter has had the honour of an occasional cask strength release. Prospective samples of Sanaig were floated during a 2021 Feis Isle virtual tasting. No release date was ever suggested and the label had to wait until November 2024 to finally get its own natural-strength iteration. Looking at the colour, you might think they've mistakenly filled the bottle with Loch Gorm. That's down to a high proportion of x-Oloroso sherry casks (the remaining 30% are x-Bourbon). Essentially, this release uses the same recipe as the regular Sanaig, however, we can assume casks have been cherry-picked, then bottled uncut as opposed to the regular release strength of 46% ABV. Impressive from the get go, through that’s fairly standard praise for Kilchoman, the bouquet kicks off with menthol rub, iodine, damp earth and wood smoke with bitter peel and dark chocolate in tow. Creamy on entry, then catapults into a full-throttle mid palate attack, keynotes being cocoa, Oloroso sherry and sweet peat. Bracing spices and alcohol give this a drying, bittersweet finale, trailing off with pepper, elastoplast and nutty chocolate. Feels like there's more sherry influence than your standard Sanaig. Either way, it's an absolute blast for Islay fans. No outturn is stated, but the Australian allocations are likely in the hundreds rather than the thousands. 57.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... the entry is bold and spicy, with an explosive mix of black pepper, chilli, nutmeg and aniseed, anticipating a palate of dark pastry, chocolate, red fruit (sour cherries, plums, blackberries), sweet liquorice, blood orange juice, pink grapefruit and carob. Fleshy and iodised smoke that envelops the flavours like Linus’ blanket. The addition of water accentuates the marine aspect, bringing sulphurous notes to the surface. The long finish is coastal and full, with a tingle of spices that accompany red fruits and citrus, liquorice, chocolate, coffee and a vegetal, sulphurous vein. This is closer to a Loch Gorm on steroids than the original, which could be seen as either a distortion of the classic Sanaig or a liberation of its nature. A matter of opinion, mine appreciates the fullness of a slightly rambunctious but sincere dram. - Lamberto Lamarina, whiskyart.blog

Delivery Information
- 91
- Australian Exclusive
2014 Kilchoman Single Cask #14/1007 Australian Exclusive Sauternes Cask Finish Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 56.3%

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

Delivery Information
- 94
2021 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Shiraz

Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$16. 99
Bottle
$203.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Established in 1997, Kilikanoon has established a reputation for producing world class, iconic Shiraz from vineyards located in the Barossa & Clare Valley. They also make 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 12 months in seasoned French oak. Dense inky black heart with a bright red to dark red hue. Sailing out of the glass with plenty of intensity are alluring scents of ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum followed by some vanillin cedar, earthy dark chocolate and peppered fennel notes. Rich, concentrated and spicy the palate is awash with plush dark plum, blackberry and liquorice fruits. Vanillin cedar, dark chocolate and earthy fennel like characters lie underneath. Velvety yet sturdy tannins. Loaded with succulent fruit it concludes long and opulent. Great value.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 94
2020 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Cabernet Sauvignon

Clare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Established 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%

Delivery Information
- 92
- Carbon Neutral Product
Kinglake Distillery O'Grady's Stand Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)

Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$104. 99
Bottle
$1259.88 Dozen

ABV: 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.

Delivery Information
- 91
- 94
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Knockando Slow Matured 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $149.99
$139. 99
Bottle
$1679.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

"Dense, intense, sharp, full...just sheer barley...concentrated... Beautiful for sure." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible.
High quality sherry casks are considered a luxury in the world of whisky, and the spirits they mature often command top dollar. This is the second oldest age statement and reportedly the most Sherry influenced expression in the Knockando line up. Akin to a ‘cleaner’, toned-down and more contemporary version of Glendronach 18 or Glengoyne 21, it retains distinct notes of dried fruits in a soft, succulent delivery making it the perfect choice for anyone wanting to acquaint themselves with sherried styles without emptying their wallet. The deep colour will be the first attractor for sherry-heads. An appealing medley of fruity American oak and winey sweetness comes next, which is also mildly nutty (think walnuts / almonds). Air contact develops the dried fruit aspect with prunes, dried fig, raisin slice and honey. Later hints of ‘old books’ and rancio too. First taste and you get a beautifully rounded mouthfeel with classic dried fruit / sherry input followed by light orange zest. Poached orchard fruits, sweet spice and pepper notes build through the medium long finish. It's simply a lovely balance of mature woody / fruity aromas and flavours that's too easy to like. Indulge as often as you can find it at the right price. Matured in European x-sherry casks and x Bourbon. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Malt. To the power of malt... the barley boasts a malt intensity that is rare to match in pure atomic mass; Dense, intense, sharp, full...just sheer barley...concentrated... Beautiful for sure. 94 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
n Gaelic, Knockando (Cnoc-an-dhu) means "little black hillock". It was founded in 1898 by John Thomson in the early 1900s, and was the first Speyside distillery to use electricity. A neighbour to big names like Cardhu and Glenfarclas, Knockando is situated on an isolated bend of the Spey River and is another Diageo dark horse distillery, with the major component going into the J&B blends. Closed two years after its creation, it was then acquired by W&A Gilbey Ltd, the famous Gin producers from London, who later rebuilt the distillery and doubled its production capacity. More recently, it became part of the Diageo group, but their whiskies are not always available on Australian shores. Only 8% of production is marketed as single malt, typically bottled with a vintage statement, and they persist with a long-standing practice of bottling the casks only when they are deemed to be at their peak maturation, as opposed to bottling them automatically at certain ages. Lightly smoky, fruity, and nutty, Knockando complements the savoury notes in rich, vegetarian dishes but they are also delicious on their own.

Delivery Information
- 90
- 82
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Knockando 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $99.99
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

"Speyside in its maltiest guise." - whiskyadvocate.com
The soft, clean aroma is attractive but needs teasing out; Sweet, faintly peated malt over more delicate notes of waxy green apple peel, spice and vanilla. Light, silky entry. A cereal sweetness at mid palate has a sense of lightness, building in depth, augmented by a surge of spices; Not long, as a tangy / grassy sensation counters the malt and dries the mouth. Sometimes it’s the dearth of complexity and tonnage that makes for the most satisfying ‘end of the day drams’. This is one of those whiskies. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Some lovely moments here for sure. But just too fleeting. 82 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
Notes from the producers... Body A light body and mouthfeel, as might be expected. Finish Relatively short. Clean and easy to drink. Nose Fruity-floral at first - flowering currant, a hint of blackcurrant - with some ash or char in the background (scorched brown toast?) and after a while a trace of damp linen. Water brings up cereal notes (principally maize), and some meaty aromas. The development is towards scorched paper - fragile and no off-notes. Palate Light mouthfeel, pleasantly sweet, central palate, drying lightly, with a trace of acidity.

Delivery Information
- 91
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Knockando Richly Matured 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $119.99
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Diageo owned 'Knockando' forms one of the major components of the renowned J&B blend. This 15 year old was matured in a combination of Sherry and refill bourbon casks.
Tasting note: [1998 vintage tasted] Polished copper colour. Light to moderate aromas include dried fruits (prunes, raisins, dates), developing vanilla, bitter chocolate and orange zest. Better after 2-3 minutes. On the palate, it's more convincing with cinnamon, clove and pepper mingling with raisin cake. A malty surge at the finish adds body, while the aftertaste is medium long with cocoa, dried peel and a touch of leather. Tastes like more oloroso input than PX, the European oak upping the spice. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... [1997 vintage tasted] According to its label, this one was ‘richly matured’, you understand… Colour: gold. Nose: it is, indeed, the 12/2000 with more richness. So more roasted nuts, brioche, malty things (chicory and coffee), chocolate, Kellog’s things… Then apple compote and, quite bizarrely, these roasted notes that one can find in heavily botrytised wines. Is noble rot to be found on barley, or do they always use massive doses of fungicides? Mouth: it’s a slightly coffee-ish Knockando that kind of ‘winks’ at Cragganmore. Honey, malt, chocolate, cappuccino, cornflakes again, agave syrup, apple pie, cinnamon rolls… Quite a few cinnamon rolls! Good body. Finish: surprisingly long, honeyed and malty. Strong dark honeys… Comments: I find this very good. What it doesn’t have is much distillery character, but it sure goes down a treat. In the same cluster as many good quality cognacs, I’d say, but of course this is much, much maltier.
83 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- 94
2020 Kooyonga Creek Chardonnay

North East Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

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

Delivery Information
- 95
- 99
- 99
- 94
- 94
- 96
- 97
- 96
- Reduced
Krug Grande Cuvee 171eme Edition Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
Reduced from $525.00
$425. 00
Bottle
$5100.00 Dozen

ABV: 12.5%

Closure: Cork

Since their inception in 1843, Krug Grande Cuvée has been their signature wine, and the most important wine they produce each year. Crafting Grande Cuvée only once a year, Krug now distinguish each release numerically, and provide great insight into the detailed composition via their Krug iD site. While these Edition wines are non-vintage, Krug prefers to call them multi-vintage given they use a large proportion of reserve wines in the blend, normally over 120 base wines spanning 10+ vintages. The 171eme Edition is a staggering blend of 131 wines from 12 vintages back to 2000, with the base wine hailing from the excellent 2015 vintage. The varietal mix of the base wine is 45% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay and 18% Pinot Meunier, and comprises 58% of the blend, while 42% of reserve wines are used from 11 older vintages stretching back to 2000.
Other Reviews....
Non vintage? Technically so, but in fact there is a new edition every year, this the 171st, based on 131 wines from 12 vintages dating back to 2000. It is composed of 45/37/18% pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier. Krug’s power is an iron fist in a velvet glove, and it’s my favourite champagne.
99 points
James Halliday's Top 100 Wines 2023
The NV Grande Cuvée 171ème Édition, (2015 base vintage) is bright and focused in the glass, showing notable tension and tons of class. Citrus peel, white flowers, mint and white pepper all lend remarkable brightness to a Grande Cuvée that is built more on linear cut rather than volume. Krug is always among the first houses to pick. The 171 clearly shows that style. The blend is 45% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay and 18% Meunier, vintages 2015 through 2000. Disgorged: Winter 2021-2022. Krug ID: 122003
95 Points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
The tightness and tension of this is impressive considering the youngest wine from this is 2015 (hot and dry year), with some wines going back to 2000. Ginger and orange zest. Some creme brulee. It's medium-bodied with apple, pie crust and floral character. It's salty and zesty yet, at the same time, complex and gorgeous. Chamomile and other floral teas highlight everything. Turns rich and flavorful at the finish. Terrific release. Really takes off at the end. Drink or hold.
99 Points
JamesSuckling.com
The NV Grande Cuvée 171ème Edition is a delightful blend of 45% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay and 18% Pinot Meunier and boasts an attractive and captivating aroma of dried fruits, pastry, lemon oil, marzipan, spring flowers and ginger, with hints of almond and vanilla notes that become more pronounced over time. This medium to full-bodied wine is precise and well-structured, with a fleshy core of fruit and a sapid, incisive finish. Crafted around the 2015 vintage, the blend comprises 131 reserve wines from as far back as 2000 (42% of the total blend) and is expected to age beautifully over the next decade. Drink 2023 - 2040.
94 Points
Yohan Castaing - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A vivid Champagne, with chiseled acidity and a fine, vivacious mousse creating a buoyant frame for layered flavors of crushed black raspberry, grilled nuts, pink grapefruit sorbet and coffee liqueur, plus fragrant accents of ground ginger and anise, graphite and lime blossoms. Long and expressive on the finish, crackling with a lingering fleur de sel note. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier. Disgorged winter 2022 to 2021. Drink now through 2033.
96 Points
Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator
Such a complete wine. It pushes flavour to the corners of the mouth. Complex and detailed. It’s a wholesome experience. Fine gentle mousse but firm enough to keep your palate energised. It smells of salted shortbread, quince and croissant with almond cream. Then nougat and razor-sharp acidity. Crème brûlée and salt flakes. Crunchy almonds and limey acidity. Oyster shell with lemon, the mineral note. Complete balance. And it’s long and delightful. I forgot about sparkling Shiraz for a moment. On that balmy winter day in Sydney. Drink 2023 - 2033+
96 Points
Kasia Sobiesiak - The Wine Front
Deliciously balanced, this Champagne is impressive. The iconic wine is in its 171st blend, meaning it combines vintages for the best result for each bottling, not a specific vintage. The 171st essence is dry, while also having fine textured fruit. This is a magnificent wine and worth aging for another year.
97 Points
Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast Magazine
Spanning from 1998 through the 2015 vintage, the NV Champagne Grande Cuvée 171 is lush with a kaleidoscope of aromas including orange marmalade, toasted brioche, almond, and ripe peaches. Full-bodied and rounded, it has a hint of warmth on the finish, but it’s highly attractive, balanced, and long, with outstanding depth and richness. This fantastic expression of the Grand Cuvée is gorgeous right out of the gate and will be a great addition for collectors to enjoy over the coming two decades. Drink 2023-2043.
94 Points
Audrey Frick - Jeb Dunnuck

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
KWV 3 Year Old Brandy (750ml)

SOUTH AFRICA
$64. 99
Bottle
$779.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

KWV is the second largest brandy producer in South Africa, sourcing chenin blanc and colombard grapes from over fifty different cooperatives and vineyards. Their distillate is casked at around 70% ABV, typically in either fine-grained Limousin or coarser-grained Tronçais oak casks. After three years, anything intended for additional aging is transferred into older barrels. A combination of new and older oak casks are used, as well as some that formerly held wine. The entry-level three-year-old is double pot distilled for a full, fruity taste including flavours of apple and pear. It's solid as a mixer or everyday drinker, but if you're looking for a brandy with more finesse, check out the superior age statements in the award-winning KWV range. 43% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
- 90
- Nick's Import
KWV 5 Year Old Brandy (750ml)

Suider Paarl, SOUTH AFRICA
$69. 99
Bottle
$839.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Brandy can justifiably lay claim to the title of South Africa's favourite spirit, selling more than white spirit and whisky markets combined. And so it should. With a heritage dating back to the late 17th century when early Dutch pioneers in the Cape quickly worked out that the typically Mediterranean climate and favourable soils were ideal for growing grapes - wine, and ultimately, brandy was produced. The quality has more than kept pace with demand.
South Africa remains a world-class producer (it’s also one of the few brandy making areas outside Cognac that still conforms to age-old Cognac traditions). The quality/price ratio combined with the range on offer is compelling. The KWV company is a case in point. It first distilled in 1926 and has been receiving praise for its brandies ever since. Master Distiller, Kobus Gelderblom is at the helm. In 2010 KWV was awarded a gold medal for the 20 Year Old Brandy at the London International Spirits Competition (it’s worth noting that only four brandies were awarded golds at the competition). A single estate bottling from KWV was subsequently honoured as “Best Brandy in the World’ by the same group. A remarkable achievement that continues to grow. Gelderblom has a passion for Pinotage with Chardonnay his other preference.
KWV's five year old blends pot still brandy with unaged wine spirits. Its opulent bouquet includes dried figs, raisins, clove and toffee apple. The mouthfeel is plush and soft, mirroring the aromas with flavours of dried figs, Christmas pudding and cafe-creme combined with a gently warming, spicy flourish. It's remarkably well balanced, with a persistence that brings notes of toffee apple and vanilla to the spicy afterglow. A very drinkable all-rounder and great value. 43% Alc./Vol.

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- Nick's Import
2018 L'Aventure Estate Cuvee

Paso Robles, California, UNITED STATES
$230. 00
Bottle
$2760.00 Dozen

Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2027-2029)

ABV: 16%

Closure: Cork

Stephan 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 - Vinous
This 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.com
The 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

Delivery Information
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La Gritona Reposado Tequila (700ml)

Jalisco, MEXICO
Reduced from $114.99
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Premium Tequila scoop buy. Get ready for Spring / Summer Margaritas.
‘La Gritona’ is Spanish for ‘The Screamer’ - an appropriate name seeing that one of the people behind this outstanding tequila is LA-based punk guitarist Andy Coronado. The other significant player is the renowned tequilero Melly Cárdenas, who fashions La Gritona at her small distillery in Valle de Guadalupe in the highlands of Jalisco. One of Mexico’s few female master distillers, the fiercely independent Cárdenas—who has 20 years of quality tequila production under her belt—shares Coronado’s love of the exceptional and unconventional, and leads a team staffed by only local women.
In a market dominated by major companies like Herradura, Patrón and Fortaleza, the duo set out to create a rocking, pared-down Reposado that would stand out by staying true to the region’s heritage. For a Reposado, La Gritona is light on colour and sweetness—Coronado and Cárdenas want none of the flavours that mask many commercial Reposados like vanilla, chocolate and dulce de leche. Instead this is packed with delicious, honest and savoury, roasted agave flavor, reminiscent of the old-style ‘rested’ tequila, before the mass market took hold: “It’s tequila like our grandparents drank,” says Cárdenas.
Working with 9- to 10-year-old, mature Blue Weber agave grown in the iron-rich red soil of the Jalisco highlands, every step of production after harvest takes place under Cárdenas’ own roof and with an attention to detail that the big boys, or those outsourcing distillation, cannot hope to replicate. The agave is steam-cooked in a single, thick-walled earthen oven for 24 hours and then allowed to rest for another 24 hours before crushing. The collected liquid is naturally fermented (no additives are used to push things along) in open steel vats at a rate dictated by the ambient air temperature and the wild yeasts, usually lasting between six to nine days. The double distillation takes place in small steel stills. Those bespoke bottles by the way are made from recycled Mexican glass, hand-blown just an hour’s drive from the distillery. Coronado uses any recycled clear glass he can find (mostly old Coke bottles) then chips in a few Dos Equis bottles for the green tint!
The distilled blanco is then rested in reused American whiskey barrels for eight months before bottling. These low-impact second- or third-fill barrels are given only the lightest char which allows for the refreshing, sappy notes of the agave to shine through, resulting in a tequila that sips and mixes perfectly in equal measure - it’s crisp, clean and elegant and kills it in a Tommy’s Margarita. Tasted uncut, the bouquet offers stunningly pure and keenly fresh scents of brine, dill pickles, capsicum, black pepper and pine sap; Five minutes stirs up sweeter scents of grilled pineapple, vanilla and coconut butter. The silky, medium bodied delivery is gently sweet and wonderfully elegant; Capsicum, green pine and white pepper feature while sappy agave flavours finish the profile with admirable balance. Seamless from start to finish, this stands out from Reposado pack. Highest recommendation. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Look for a pale straw hue and fruity/funky aromas. The palate offers distinct tropical fruit notes, opening with lychee and a faint floral hint, plus a faint waft of ripe-banana funk midpalate. The finish is long and drying, showing grapefruit peel and pink peppercorn. Sip or mix into Palomas. 95 points — wineenthusiast.com

Delivery Information
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- Nick's Import
2013 Lady of the Glen Glenlossie Single Cask #5306 11 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$139. 99
Bottle
$1679.88 Dozen

ABV: 58.4%

A less fruity style of Glenlossie which could be put down to the three year Oloroso spell that has added a dried peel tang. Otherwise, concentrated, nippy and a little tannic. Attractive touches of dry triple sec lift the finish, the aftertaste flattening with caramel and milk chocolate in tow. 261 bottles at 58.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... A light bodied distillate and a fairly modern style of Speyside whisky where the vast majority of output is destined for blends, we rescued this cask from mediocrity. More than 3 year finish in our famous oloroso cask sourced from Hidalgo cooperage in Spain has offered the spirit a softer side of ex-sherry with more of a toffee and caramel character rather than the expected Christmas cake and dried fruit notes. Tasting revealed - pastel de nata, black tea and orange zest.

Delivery Information
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- Nick's Import
2014 Lady of the Glen Ardmore Single Cask #944 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 57.1%

The famously peated Highlander gets a first-fill oloroso finish. Shy, fruity and floral-soft to start, faint phenols mingle with the sherry to give the impression of roasted nuts and sweet hay. Flips on the palate delivering a wonderfully textural, mouth-filling malt, laced with chimney soot, the oily residue leaves way for a fruity-malt-forward experience, and as the peat accentuates over time, the complexity keeps you coming back. Out of the ordinary. 313 bottles at 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Chocolate raisin, coffee grounds, honey on toast.

Delivery Information
- 90
- Nick's Import
2011 Lady of the Glen Loch Lomond (Inchmurrin) Single Cask #711 13 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$154. 99
Bottle
$1859.88 Dozen

ABV: 55.7%

The Madeira finish has had an influence on the nose, though not enough to eclipse the bright fruit character of the distillate. Intense biscuity malt climaxes with a zing, while a nectarine and feijoa-like fruitiness rises through the later stages - strikingly similar to the rebound on some hors d'Age cognacs. A fascinating, odd-ball malt in a league of its own. 200 bottles at 55.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Madeira Finish. A light bodied distillate produced at high strength in Loch Lomond's straight neck pot stills. Aged in a hogshead and finished in a first fill ex-Madeira cask for layers of caramel, walnut and citrus. This distillery is famous for its ability to consistently produce many different styles of spirit including grain spirit too. Inchmurrin is one of their lighter styles distilled in straight neck still with a higher cut point producing a light fruity style. This combined with well over a year finish in a Madeira cask has produced a lovely toffee and caramel character. Tasting revealed - banoffee, tinned peaches and cake mix.

Delivery Information
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- Nick's Import
2007 Lady of the Glen Auchentoshan Single Cask #4204 16 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Lowlands, SCOTLAND
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 55.7%

This should be interesting. A triple distilled spirit with a 17 month ruby port cask finish. At first subdued on the nose. Air contact opens up notes of soft white fruits and green grassiness. In the mouth, hints of Turkish Delight and rose chocolate. The port contribution feels meek, suggesting dried cranberries and blackberries on the palate, heightening at the finish. Drying oak and a grassy-peppery lift add vibrancy. Hardly the signatures of Auchentoshan one might expect, rather quite grappa-like, but certainly interesting and fresh. 244 bottles at 55.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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- Nick's Import
2009 Lady of the Glen Macduff Single Cask #4089 15 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 55.2%

Matured in a hogshead and finished for 20 months in a first-fill ex-Pedro Ximenez cask. An attractive, broad appeal whisky where the sweet sherry merely caresses the malt resulting in a simple but effective dram. Medium bodied, medium sweet, undeniably rich and nicely balanced uncut with some choc ripple cookie moments entering late. 271 bottles at 55.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Another rarely seen make in the independent bottler scene in recent years. This typically dry and nutty distillate has been matured in a PX cask that offered the spirit a lovely sweetness but without the strong tannins normally associated with type of cask. Tasting revealed - Dried fruit, dark chocolate and muscovado sugar.

Delivery Information
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2022 Langmeil Valley Floor Shiraz

Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
Reduced from $29.99
$27. 99
Bottle
$335.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

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

Delivery Information
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- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Laphroaig Quarter Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $159.99
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 48%

"Layer upon layer of sexed up peatiness. Hits mega malt status" - Jim Murray Whisky Bible
Two hundred years ago, when the Scotts began moving whisky around the country in smaller barrels (aka quarter casks) they were improving more than methods of logistics. The smaller vessels made it easier for mules to carry and for the distillers to smuggle (what better way to inspire innovation than a ploy against the tax man!). In more recent times, with the rise of the micro distiller, smaller casks have played an important part by rapidly speeding-up the maturation process, increasing the whisky to oak contact ratio, in theory making it more palatable, at a faster rate.
For this release, after an initial period in x-bourbon barrels, the liquid was transferred into new, specially produced quarter casks for a final seven-to eight-month period. It's also bottled at a higher ABV to keep in line with older traditions. There's a serious complexity to the bouquet, with the first passing reeking of choc fudge and vanilla-laced peat. After a few minutes in the glass, the nose loses a little punch, but becomes more maritime; A subtle peppermint note combines with hints of bandaid and seaweed. In the mouth, this is a robust, oily, mouth-filling Laphroaig experience with waves of sweet smoke, salt, pepper, iodine and vanilla delivered in a creamy, warming mouthfeel with a mild prickle. The finish is refreshingly dry with cocoa, more peat and subtle baked citrus note lingering. Quarter Cask is not a gentle Laphroaig, but it’s much more compelling than the standard issue 10. If you can score a bottle close to one hundred dollars, don't hesitate. 48% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... “Nose: Burning embers of peat in a crofter’s fireplace; sweet intense malt and lovely, refreshing citrus as well; Taste: mouthwatering, mouth-filling and mouth-astounding: the perfect weight of the smoke has no problems filling every crevice of the palate; builds towards a sensationally sweet maltiness in the middle; Finish: really long and dries appropriately with smoke and spice. Classic Laphroaig. Balance: a great distillery back to its awesome, if a little sweet, self. Layer upon layer of sexed up peatiness. The previous bottling just needed an extra complexity on the nose for this to hit mega malt status. Now it has been achieved” 96 points - Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2015
The whisky begins sweet and creamy, with notes of vanilla, honey, and ripe malt (reminiscent of a malting floor). Then the Laphroaig signature peat smoke, seaweed, tar, and medicinal notes emerge. Bottling at 48% and without chill-filtering keeps the whisky from being dulled down. A whisky that is very dynamic. Nicely done. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com

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- Nick's Import
Laphroaig 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$128. 99
Bottle
$1547.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

"So consistent is the Laphroaig 10, that this is one of the whiskies I test myself each day with to check that my nose and palate are on song". - Jim Murray
From the remote island of Islay in the Western Isles of Scotland. Laphroaig, pronounced 'La-froyg', is a Gaelic word meaning 'the beautiful hollow by the broad bay'. The full history of Laphroaig seems to be lost in the mists of time. It's clear that the Irish had been distilling on Islay for many years and that the locals picked up the skills when they left, but because it was illegal the small stills on the farms were rarely discussed - just a nod and a wink in the right direction! What is known, is that the family called the Johnstons started farming there around 1800, and that soon after messers Charles and Willie Doig were asked to do some 'work on a distillery' at Laphroaig. By 1815 Laphroaig's reputation had spread and the tax man was getting suspicious so they 'officially' established 'Johnston & Johnston' - the legend of Laphroaig had begun.
Laphroaig is a malt to either love or hate. Full of the smoke and iodine, seaweed character Islay has become famous for, it has spurred some commentators to describe it as 'mouthwash', 'hospital gauze' or at best, 'medicinal'. Suffice to say, this is not a whisky for the faint hearted. Take Laphroaig neat like a stalwart, or with a splash of soft water. Roll it around on your tongue, release the pungent earthy aroma of blue peat smoke, the sweet nuttiness of the barley, the delicate, heathery perfume of Islay's stream and either swallow or spit. The final judgment on Laphroaig must always be left to the individual. 40% Alc./Vol.
Re-tasted 2019... Tamer than previous incarnations, earthier too with a farmyard edge. Less iodine / elastoplast than before, more peppermint, baked citrus, kipper and lanolin, creaming up towards the finish, trailling off with hints of Fisherman’s Friend.
Other reviews... 95 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...An essay in voluptuousness. The oils speak volumes here, gathering the two-toned phenols and gathering them in all corners of the palate and ensuring they stick there... The finish is not so much enormous as controlled and long, with a sublime bit of mocha moving in for the last blissful moments. Glorious still, after all these years. 40% alc./vol. 94 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2019
...This expression offers an uncompromising note of brine-laden peat and iodine, with charcoal and sweeter fruit notes also present. The palate is equally out there, with old-fashioned fabric Band-Aids, bladderwrack seaweed, black pepper, smouldering peat, vanilla, caramel, and sweet oak. The finish is as big as everything else, with barbecue, iodine, and asphalt. Still a classic! 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Fall 2018)

Delivery Information
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- Reduced
Laphroaig PX Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $199.99
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 48%

"Unquestionably one of the great malts of the year...in spite of itself". - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible
Triple aged in ex-Bourbon barrels, quarter casks and Pedro Ximénez sherry butts, this deeply coloured Laphroaig opens with a PX top note almost overwhelming the expected distillery aromas. Brandy soaked raisins and dark chocolate amid flashes of sweet peat and pepper give way to smouldering cedar, cigar box and hints of elastoplast, accenting fruit cake in later inspections. Terrific balance in the sweet, smokey-malt mid palate; vanilla and Christmas cake add richness to the finish. Prolonged and lozenge-like with Laphroaig's trademark medicinal edge and pepperiness breaking through late, finally checked by the sherry. A big PX influence here but it's deftly handled - think of it as drunken Christmas pudding, Islay-style. 48% Alc./Vol. Normally travel retail exclusive.
Other reviews... This ultra sweet wine is often paired with smokey malt, often with disastrous consequences. Here it has worked, but only because the PX has been controlled itself by absolutely outstanding oak. And the ability of the smoke to take on several roles and personas simultaneously. A quite beautiful whisky and unquestionably one of the great malts of the year...in spite of itself. 96 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2015
...truly is excellent stuff, that sweet Pedro Ximenez sherry finish has added just enough fruit & spice to balance the oak and smoke. If the sweetness was just a tad more subdued, and it stated on the label if it was chill filtered, it likely would have scored even higher! Definitely my favourite Laphroaig so far, followed closely by Quarter Cask and 18 year old. 4.5 / 5 - peatedperfection.blogspot.com/
Gold Medal - International Wine & Spirits Competition 2021

Delivery Information
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2024 Lawson's Dry Hills Gewurztraminer

Marlborough, NEW ZEALAND
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

This luscious, intensely flavoured Gewurztraminer was sourced predominately from Lawson’s Home Block vineyard which was planted in 1981. The 2024 vintage was low yielding, and the dry season meant the grapes ripened perfectly, packed with flavour.
Luscious and exotic, this is a superb example of Gewurztraminer.
Brilliant water like core with distinct highlights of green skirting the edges. Incredibly potent nose with exotic scents of lychee, rosewater, musk and Turkish delight captivating the olfactory senses. Some pear and subtle ginger spice notes also chime in. Engulfing the mouth are luscious lychee, Turkish delight and rosewater flavours with notions of musk and ginger spice the undercard. Excellent concentration and power with a long off dry finish that’s balanced by fresh acidity.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
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Le Brun de Neuville Cote Blanche Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
$94. 99
Bottle
$1139.88 Dozen

ABV: 12%

Closure: Diam Cork

Le 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

Delivery Information
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2021 Nicks Secret Coonawarra LCFD Cabernet Sauvignon

Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Established in 1974, this is from one of Coonawarra’s most revered estates. Retailing for $40 on the winery's website this label doesn’t appear to have widespread distribution in the Australian market. Nonetheless at just $19.99, no matter what way you look at it, this Coonawarra Cabernet represents exceptional drinking.
A Super impressive Coonawarra Cabernet for the price.
Pitch black core with a very deep dark red black hue. Captivating the olfactory senses are alluring red to black currant and ripe mulberry scents which intermesh with black olive, cigar box, earth and spicy bay leaf like notes. Mid weighted, the highly delectable palate is flooded with rich red to black currant and mulberry fruits which are married to a dusty vanillin cedar, spicy tobacco and bay leaf infused back drop. Finely structured and elegant in it’s feel, it shows excellent tannin integration. Carrying superb depth of fruit the finish is long and refined.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews…..
One of the great joys of doing this is tasting a wine, scribbling the notes and then checking for a price, expecting something through the roof, only to find nothing of the kind. This is one of the best value Cabernets anywhere in the market today. Granted it is from a great vintage, but I expected it to be two or three times this price. Load up! An intense, balanced, linear Cabernet. Inky maroon in colour with the nose exhibiting notes of chocolate, blackberries, tobacco leaves, aniseed, mint, spices and ripe plums. The wine is supple and seamless with good acidity, silky tannins and impressive length with a really exciting texture. Still very young and leaving it for two to four years before cracking a bottle would assist, after which it will drink beautifully for another decade or more. A really impressive Coonawarra Cabernet. Drink 2024-2030.
95 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com
Oh, there is a pure essence of Coonawarra locked in here and this is Coonawarra Cabernet in a very good year. Aromas of blackcurrant, dark plum and a little dark chocolate with a faint leafy lift. The palate is sumptuous and intensely concentrated with such elegance and poise. Fine chalky tannins control through the palate while the oak has been perfectly laid. A wine with tremendous cellaring potential. Drink 2024-2044.
95 points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com
It's superbly fruited and richly aromatic on the nose, showing blackcurrant, dark spice, tobacco, cedar and vanilla characters. The palate displays succulent fruit intensity together with fleshy texture and plump mouthfeel, wonderfully framed by loads of polished tannins. Splendidly flavoursome with a lengthy plush finish. At its best: now to 2039.
95 Points
Sam Kim - Wine Orbit

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2021 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon

Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Rich and concentrated yet showing sublime finesse this is a wonderful Cabernet that draws comparisons to the great wines of Bordeaux.
A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec matured for 22 months in French oak. Midnight black dark red core with a dark red hue. A bounty of red currant, violet, mulberry and vanillin cedar aromas engulf the nostrils with a Bordeaux like nobility. Subtle tobacco, earth, bay leaf and spice notes lend further interest. Rich and concentrated yet showing sublime finesse, the mid weighted palate is layered with fleshy red to black currant and mulberry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, delicate earth, tobacco and infusions of bay leaf extend across the back half. Beautifully proportioned and refined it marriages power and depth with seamlessly integrated, fine grained tannins. Concludes very long and wonderfully savoury. Outstanding.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews….
One of the distinctive features of this wine, and in a way a DNA link to all Art Series cabernet, is its savouriness. It’s the rolled tobacco, nori, iodine and whiff of new leather plus the cedary oak, but these are not separate, they form a whole impression. There’s also the core of excellent fruit, the structure, the supple tannins and the bright acidity. And the joy of drinking it. Drink by 2036.
96 Points
Jane Faulkner - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
A fascinating wine which offers all the amazing qualities that Margaret River Cabernet possesses, but it walks the fine line with nuances of Bordeaux, more than most. It works wonderfully well. The wine incorporates 2% Malbec. All up, the wine spends 22 months in French oak. Crimson/blood red hue, it offers entrancing complexity. There are notes of tobacco leaves, black fruits, chocolate, smoked meats, licorice, a touch of ever-so-slightly charry cloves and quality oak, which is superbly handled here. A silky texture, this is a wine of balance and length with the finest tannins. Intensity runs the full length. Eerily reminiscent of an Aussie version of Bordeaux (or possibly a Bordeaux version of Marg River?). Whichever, it is a cracking wine. Drink for twelve to fifteen years. Drink 2024-2039.
96 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com
Immediately captivating: the nose is vibrant and energetic, while simultaneously the epitome of elegance and poise with restrained fruit power. This is a silk evening gown of a wine: form-fitting, precisely tailored, mellifluous and effortlessly chic. Abundant in aromatics and lifted perfume, fine red fruits include wild strawberry tip, bramble and just-ripe blackcurrant, alongside hints of piquancy: Szechwan pepper, clove and a fine dusting of deep, lightly toasted cocoa powder. There’s a charismatic iodine weave, the savoury and slightly saline minerality proving a foil to both the fruit flesh and the floral hues. Displaying extremely fine-grained tannins, it's firm, focused and delicate, with a graphite line, fresh acidity and plenty that will reveal itself in good time. Tasted pre-release. Drink 2024-2046.
96 Points
Decanter
The 2021 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon is lighter in color and tannic intensity than the 2020 tasted beside it. No surprise for the vintages that birthed these wines. The latter was sunny, hot and dry, while the 2021 season was decidedly cooler, with more cloud cover and rain. This wine bears the fruits of the diligent labor in the vineyards and is one of the shining lights in the region this year. There are notes of raspberry and nori, moss and petrichor, blood and forest floor. This is a lighter style of Cabernet—and a lovely one at that. Drink 2025-2041.
96 Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

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2022 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay

Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2025-2035)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Rich and enveloping yet remarkably fresh this is one of Australia’s most iconic Chardonnay’s.
Barrel fermented in new French oak barriques with regular lees stirring and matured in the same barrels for a period of 11 months. Brilliant pale straw colour with a greenish tint to the edges and a watery hue. Engulfing the olfactory senses are intense aromas of white peach, pear and nectarine which meld into a dried honey, subtle citrusy crème brulee, delicate cashew and gun flint infused back drop. Rich and layered yet remarkably fresh, enveloping the palate are mouth filling white peach, pear, nectarine and dried honey flavours. Lending further complexity are delicate biscuity oak, almond, citrus, crème brulee and flint elements. Beautifully shaped and refined, it boasts superb power and volume finishing long, texturally full and energetic.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
If you were sitting quietly in a corner, contemplating the vicissitudes of life, and a glass of this exceptional chardonnay came your way, well, all would be very well indeed. And you’d perk up. It’s a wine that tends to be scintillating in youth, driven by all manner of citrus flavours – lemon, pink grapefruit with a dash of lime but also a mille-feuille of leesy lusciousness, oak spices and a moreish savouriness. It seems powerful and explosive with its acidity, drive and energy yet manages to remain classy and complex. Drink by 2032.
97 Points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
The 2022 season was warm and low-yielding, particularly for Chardonnay, and many of the wines produced in the region this season can be typified by their nuttiness and a distinct chamomile tea/white flower character. Here, the 2022 Art Series Chardonnay is showing both of those characters, neatly wedged into the authoritative profile of Leeuwin Art Series Chardonnay. Today, for perhaps the first time ever in seeing these wines on release, I note that the oak is a key player in the drinking experience—as ever, seamlessly matched to the fruit and an important part of the wine's style and evident here today. There are toasted nuts, yellow fruits, exotic spices and an open fan of acidity/phenolics through the finish. This 2022 will prove to be a powerful and statuesque player in the wider footprint of Art Series Chardonnays. It's one to collect, but for drinking in the short/immediate term, decanting is recommended. Sealed under screw cap. Drink 2030-2047.
97 Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

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

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