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![2021 Whistling Eagle Vineyard Eagles Blood Shiraz]()
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2021 Whistling Eagle Vineyard Eagles Blood ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich, dense and bold, this is a classic example of Heathcote Shiraz.
Renown as one of Heathcote’s leading growers and viticulturalists, Ian Rathjen also produces small parcels of wine under his own label, Whistling Eagle. Matured in French oak (25% new) for a period of 18 months, the Eagles Blood Shiraz is his ultimate expression of the Cambrian terroir displaying spectacular colour, depth and power.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Heady aromas of ripe blackberry and liquorice waft through the nostrils trailed by some ripe black cherry, subtle dark chocolate, spicy vanillin cedar, fennel and pepper notes. Rich, plush and concentrated, the palate is greeted by a dense wave of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Lurking in the background are notions of spicy fennel, vanillin cedar and peppered earth. Opulently textured it has a velvety yet solidly built tannin structure, outstanding power and a long, sumptuous finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
An exceptional vintage shows Heathcote shiraz at its best. As ever, Eagles Blood delivers a wine with a strong sense of place, of Aussie bush scents, acacia, briar, bracken and mineral red earthiness against a core of sturdy, ripe black fruits, chocolate and spice. In the fuller-bodied style, but it carries it well with tannins laid out evenly. There is the kind of balance in place that encourages drinking now – which I would do – but with the potential for further ageing – which I would also do. Drink by 2039.
96 Points
Jeni Port - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![1028241_1.jpg]()
- Nicks Import
Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum (1000ml)Kingston, JAMAICA$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 63%Closure: Screw Cap"made by one company that remembers its roots and continues to distil a real rum." - thelonecaner.com
Ask a native where you could sample J.Wray & Nephew over-proof rum, and they will tell you knock on the door of any household. Such is the legendary status of this spirit that it accounts for 90% of rum sales in Jamaica. Other brands produced under the J.Wray & Nephew name are Captain Morgan, Coruba and the renowned Appleton Estate range. Use this product in classic rum punches with tropical juices. Alternate with flavoured rums and liqueurs for something new. Also great in the traditional Mai Tai and Daiquiri.
Other reviews... This is the flagship rum from Wray and the rum ... familiar instantly on the nose, with a mixture of citrus and petrol notes, very aromatic with florals and the raw alcoholic notes one expects from an overproof rum. The body is a bit tougher and astringent, slightly charcoal-dusted but otherwise intense with fruit, both citrus and tropical, with overtones of overripe banana, bubble gum, and a touch of eucalyptus on the finish. Surprisingly approachable despite the heavy alcohol level. - drinkhacker.com
...I’m not a huge white rum lover but this is as good as I have had. It will give a massive kick to tiki style cocktails, where it is very often used. W&N Overproof is very popular and highly regarded amongst bartenders and mixologists. Rightly so as well. The danger in this drink maybe that at 63% its very drinkable. At the price it is also very good value. W&N Overproof needs to be evaluated on what it is. It is a very good white overproof mixer. It’s availability and price makes it a no-brainer to have on hand. 4/5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
...I have gained a sort of sneaking appreciation for overproofs, including this one, because while it lacks the subtlety of a more refined 40% variation (subtlety? don’t make me laugh…the thing is like a charging brontosaurus on steroids at rutting time), it makes an intense, strong, powerfully tasting mix with whatever you decide to chase it. Try adding cola to a 40% low-ender and then to the White Overproof and try and tell me this one doesn’t have more character, more taste, more…well, cojones. It absolutely is not afraid to charge the gates and get the hell off the reservation. When you drink J. Wray’s clear hooch, reader, there’s no ifs, ands or buts — you know Elvis has left the building; and didn’t just exit, he took off with rocket-powered, turbo-charged steel-toed boots. And a jet pack.... made by one company that remembers its roots and continues to distil a real rum. - thelonecaner.com
5 Stars - diffordsguide.com
![2024 Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Bush Vine Grenache]()
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2024 Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Bush Vine GrenacheBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich, power packed and super juicy with a plump, bouncy feel.
Made from a collection of gnarled old bush vines with an average vine age of 75 years, 75% of the blend spent 10 months in seasoned French oak puncheons and hogsheads.
Semi translucent vibrant ruby red colour with black shaded edges and a light crimson red hue. Fragrant red raspberry and red liquorice scents sail through the nostrils with complimenting notes of cherry, scorched earth and pepper also evident. Rich, power packed and super juicy, the mid weighted palate is engulfed with red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and cherry fruits. Lending further nuance are vanillin confectionary, earth and pepper elements. Possessing vibrant acidity and velvety tannins, it has a plump, bouncy feel finishing long, fresh and succulent.
Joyous drinking over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews……
Yalumba has been a great champion of Grenache from these older Barossa vines. This one, medium-bodied, highly perfumed and aromatic, and with a delicious, crunchy, vibrant, supple medium-bodied palate loaded with red fruits, a little chocolate, and some slightly leafy notes. Soft, deliciously fruit-driven and screaming for current drinking. Drink 2026-2032.
93 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com![2023 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz]()
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2023 Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $69.99$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkA richer, more opulent rendition of Yalumba’s Signature that has a long and quite sumptuous conclusion.
A classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz first produced in 1962, Yalumba’s Signature pays homage each vintage to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the culture and traditions of Yalumba. The 2023 vintage’s signatory is Yalumba’s trade marketing manager, Peter Sawrey who has been responsible for writing the last 32 Signature back labels. This year’s release marks the 52nd vintage of Yalumba The Signature.
From vines with an average age of 23 years the 2023 Signature is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Shiraz with maturation taking place in a combination of French barriques and Hungarian hogsheads (22% of which was new oak) for a period of 19 months. Impenetrable inky black heart with a near equally deep dark red black hue. A mix of blackcurrant, blackberry and liquorice aromas engulf the nostrils. Vanillin cedar, tobacco, hints of dark chocolate and bay leaf follow on. Rich, opulent and full bodied, the seductive palate is flooded with blackcurrant, liquorice, dark plum and lush blackberry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, subtle earthy tobacco and bay leaf accents linger across the back half. Velvety yet underlyingly sturdy tannin structure. Deep and powerful it has a long and quite sumptuous conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews……
Yalumba's iconic blend sees 55/45% cabernet sauvignon/shiraz with the '23 release. Again, the release impresses with its fruit purity, elegance and cellaring potential. Deep blackberry, satsuma plum and black cherry fruit with underlying layers of brown spice, cedar, tobacco, pencil case, roast meats, dried herbs and black olive tapenade. Beautifully composed on the palate with a firm yet kinetic, fine-grained tannin structure, lacy acidity and a finish that sails on gracefully for ages. A cracking release. Drink by 2055.
96 Points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionWe might be yet to learn who is to be honoured with the 2023 Signature, but whomsoever it is should be well pleased. This is a cracking release, one of their best. An opaque centre with a dark maroon rim, there is still vanillin oak evident on the nose, but it is integrating well. The aromas include notes of dried herbs, black fruits, graphite, licorice, mocha, chocolate, plums and cassis. This is balanced, youthful, offering real persistence and coiled power. The palate sees the move to gorgeous chocolate notes. A wine with serious length, there is much to love here.
96 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com![2021 Yalumba The Caley Cabernet Shiraz]()
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2021 Yalumba The Caley Cabernet ShirazSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 20 Years (2026-2046)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkThis is the seventh release of Yalumba’s flagship wine, the ‘Caley’ and it’s up there with their best yet. A classic marriage of two noble grape varieties sourced from two of Australia’s greatest wine regions, Coonawarra and Barossa it’s a blend of 74% Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Barossa Shiraz. The wine is matured for 18 months in a mix of 21% new French oak barriques with the balance in 1 year and older French oak barriques.
A seamless blend of Cabernet and Shiraz highlighted by extraordinary length and wonderful finesse.
Pours with spectacular colour density featuring an inky black heart alongside a deep dark red black hue. Soaring through the olfactory senses is a complex matrix of blackcurrant, liquorice and mulberry scents interwoven with vanillin cedar, subtle earthy dark chocolate, tobacco, pepper and bay leaf notes. Rich yet gorgeously refined and structured, the mid weighted palate is flooded with red to black currant, liquorice, dark chocolate and ripe mulberry fruits which meld into a spicy vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and bay leaf infused back drop. Displaying immaculate tannin integration and outstanding power, it concludes long, highly finessed and sophisticated.
Drink over the next 20 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews...
At this viewing (and we are a long way off from this wine's intended release), we are in for a very special wine – Yalumba's flagship, from the excellent 2021 vintage. It is a picture of elegance and fruit power in one package. There is a glass-staining deep crimson colour for starters. The fruit, seemingly reduced to an essence, is all blackberry, cassis, black cherry and dark plum. Hints of deep spice, blackforest cake, licorice, cedar, tobacco pouch, bouquet garni, black olive tapenade, pencil shavings, roast beef, earth, veal glace and dark chocolate. The tannins are powdery, layered and in perfect resolution, the oak sitting simpatico with the deep fruit, the finish stretching out for a considerable length of time. The best Caley release thus far for mine. Drink by 2024.
99 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionIt might be suspicion only but one feels that our venerable old Barossa producer, Yalumba, may have felt that, as impressive as its portfolio of wines is, the world did not see them having a release which challenged the Granges and the Hills of Grace and a surprising number of new releases at ridiculously high and arguably undeserved prices. Enter this wine, although it still sits well below how others when we start talking cost, but then that is only to its advantage. They opted for the great Aussie red blend to take it away from the usual single variety rock stars. It is also a blend of regions with the Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra and the Shiraz from the Barossa. There have been some absolutely superb releases of this wine over the years but for me, none better than this 2021. It is a superstar. Under cork. Gleaming blood red/maroon, the nose reveals notes of bright cherries, tobacco leaves, spices, well integrated oak, plums, blackberries, aniseed, cassis and beef stock. It is subtle and seductive, generous and plush, offering a fine line of acidity in great length. There are silky tannins on the lingering finish. Superbly focused, this is surely the best Caley to come my way (and I have seen them all). Stonkingly good, if one wishes to get technical. Thirty years with ease. Drink 2026-2056.
99 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.comThe 2021 The Caley Cabernet Shiraz hails from an excellent year in South Australia. The season was warm but not hot (in fact, it has been described as cool, although I think "mild" and "benign" are more accurate terms) and offered both growers and makers the opportunity to get the best of their vineyards and produce some of the best wines possible. These should be exceptionally long-lived wines. So here, the 2021 The Caley Cabernet Shiraz leads with a nose of deep dark chocolate, dark fruits, mahogany and black olive tapenade. In the mouth, the tannins are both intense and profuse, encasing the fruit at this early stage yet promising many years in the future to come. This is persistent and long, powerful and concentrated. Sealed under Diam and wax. Drink 2026-2051.
97 points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine AdvocateThis is not only the greatest wine to ever emerge from the hallowed halls of Yalumba, it is categorically the finest exemplar of the great Australian blend of the modern era, and the equal of the greatest in history. Kevin KG Glastonbury’s relentless fanaticism has fused Coonawarra Cabernet with Barossa shiraz (26%) to perfection, and I use this word very deliberately.
While I was not alive at the time to have the privilege of tasting it in its youth, it has perhaps not been since Max Schubert’s legendary 1962 Penfolds Bin 60A that this union has been mastered with such breathtaking harmony. Since its inaugural release a decade ago, The Caley has set the standard for refinement in cabernet shiraz, reincarnating the Coonawarra/Barossa blends of Yalumba of a half- century ago to become the first wine to win Matthew Jukes and my The Great Australian Red competition four times with three vintages, each of which I scored 98-99 points. 2021 embraces this profound legacy and takes it further to establish an all-new benchmark. It elevates this distinguished label by effortlessly contrasting greater depth of black fruits, higher lift of violet fragrance, more energetic, cool season acidity and more profound confidence of tannins that are at once finer and more velvety and yet somehow stronger, more rigid and more enduring - the pinnacle of KG’s life work. I have bestowed a perfect score on an Australian table wine only once in the past decade, and The Caley 2021 is every bit deserving. Be sure to be first in line when it is unleashed on 1 May 2026.
100 Points
Tyson StelzerI am infinitely grateful to have creator, creative and creation knowledge of this wine, from its inception to this moment in time. All vintages, all progressions, all inflections and all moments of ‘worry’ have been shared, and so when a wine, and there are few on the planet with this epic consistency of production, is released, the world must pay attention. There is so much class here, it is extraordinary. How would you place this wine if you were an alien landing at our intergalactic hub in search of a refreshing libation? It could only be a wine from the 5263 quadrant of SA, which I am sure an alien could compute faster than most humans. But there is a looming sense of disquiet about this 74% Coonawarra wine, because it has an x-factor that transports into an otherworldly plane that is simply jaw-dropping. My wine mind does all it can to personify every sip I taste and yet, as much as I admire all the James Bonds, Hans Solo, and even, and this might sound somewhat incongruous, the Jackson Lambs of this world, this wine has no earthly human form synonym. It soars, mythical, half-human, half-deity, and it holds back more than it gives, and then releases unfathomable mysteries when you momentarily switch off. It is, in short, epic. I wondered if any wine could eclipse the inaugural 2012 The Caley, and then a handful of them have done just this. 2021 is the most recent to do so, and I am thrilled to bring it to your attention.
20/20
Matthew Jukes![2024 Yering Station Pinot Noir]()
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2024 Yering Station Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $37.99$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA moreish Yarra Valley Pinot that’s light, fresh and supple in its flow.
Matured in French oak puncheons for a period of 10 months. Semi translucent ruby red in colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Wonderfully fragrant nose with a bouquet of violet, red to dark cherry and wild strawberry trailed by hints of anise, rhubarb, forest floor and spicy cedar. Light, fresh and supple in its flow, the moreish palate is decorated with red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits. Subtle anise, dried herb, forest floor and spicy cedar elements lie underneath. Polished fine grained tannins with a long savoury, red fruited finish laced with spice.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%
Other Reviews…….
Matured in 500L French puncheons (13% new). Fruit from Yering, Coldstream and Gruyere. A light, bright crimson. A pretty wine with its bouquet of strawberry, raspberry, floral notes and cinnamon spice. There's good persistence, too, on the gently mouth-filling palate with supple, fine-grained tannins rounding out a wine to drink now and over the next four to six years. Drink by 2031.
94 points
Philip Rich - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
Sumac and strawberries, paprika and lingonberries. Red fruit is taut and crunches with bursting acidity. A small portion of new oak adds some floral spice, potpourri and rose spray. Some Jarrah wood, cedar and red clay earth tones add further dimension. I find it so hard to fault the Yering Station line for its fruit purity, presence and price point. All is considered and makes for a harmonious drink, now and in the near future. This will show well in another 3-6 years further. Drink with simmered slices of thin pork in a cabbage and mushroom stew. Drink 2026-2032.
95 points
Shanteh Wale – WinePilot.com![2022 Clos du Roy]()
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2022 Clos du RoyFronsac, Bordeaux, FRANCE$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 15.5%Closure: CorkRich, dense and powerful, this is a hefty, full bodied Bordeaux that has a grippy feel lingering across the finish.
Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Ripe blackcurrant, liquorice and black cherry scents flood the nostrils followed by some toasty cedar, earthy tobacco and spicy dried herb notes. Rich, dense and powerful, this is a hefty, full bodied Bordeaux which boasts a concentrate of blackcurrant, liquorice and black cherry fruits framed by a robust tannin structure. Scorched earth, vanillin cedar and spicy tobacco elements lie underneath. Finishes firm and chewy with a grippy feel lingering across the long opulent finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 15.5%
Other Reviews....
A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the 2022 Clos du Roy offers up aromas of dark berries, flowers and licorice intertwined with delicate oaky notes. Less concentrated and rustic than usual, it's medium to full-bodied and layered with a dense core of fruit and velvety tannins, finishing long and penetrating. This is an impressive effort. Drink 2026-2032.
90 points
Yohan Castaing - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateA focused and well-shaped red showing dark plums, wild herbs and warm spices. Medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Chalky and vivid, this has a flavorful yet tight finish. Drink from 2028.
92 points
James SucklingI love the nose on the 2022 Clos Du Roy, a ripe, broad, impressive 2022 that has sweet cassis and black cherry fruits, nicely integrated oak, medium to full body, and building yet ripe, balanced tannins. It’s an incredibly impressive Fronsac that has the fruit and texture to shine today as well as the balance and structure to evolve for 10-12+ years. Drink 2025-2037.
92 points
Jeb Dunnuck![1890161811_1.jpg]()
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Don Papa Baroko Rum (700ml)PHILIPPINESReduced from $139.99$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%Distilled from molasses milled on the island of Negros, this American oak aged rum is subsequently infused with local sugar. At the very sweet end of the rum spectrum, it promises a seductive dessert drink, or is ideal if you want to sweeten up classic rum-based cocktails. 40% Alc./Vol.![489016810156_1.jpg]()
- Nicks Import
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Don Papa Masskara Rum (700ml)PHILIPPINESReduced from $175.00$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%Don Papa Masskara is a limited edition celebrating the famous party on the Philippines’ Negros island, going by the name of Masskara (aka 'Smile party'). It's essentially the original Don Papa rum enriched by mixing in other local ingredients including honey from the Kanlaon forest, the Filipino citrus variety Calamondin and local Siling Labuyo chillies. The striking label was designed by Olaf Hajek.
Other reviews... In a body of this rum you can smell and taste the original Don Papa's vanilla, although there is additional taste of the honey and dried fruit. It is really sweet rum, already close to Elixir rums. 40% Alc./Vol. - rumratings.com
![Kilchoman Batch Strength Single Malt & Elements of Islay Cask Edit Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Bundle Buy (2 x 700ml)]()
Kilchoman Batch Strength Single Malt & Elements of Islay Cask Edit Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Bundle Buy (2 x 700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenBuy Kilchoman Batch Strength 57% together with Elements of Islay Cask Edit and save $85!
Notes on Kilchoman Batch Strength...
Kilchoman's first ever core range batch strength release is drawn from a combination of re-charred red wine casks married with Oloroso Sherry butts and Bourbon barrels. The result is a colossal dram combining the natural peat smoke and citrus character of Kilchoman with dark fruits, rich spices and sweet caramel. Technically it's not cask strength but it's not far off. A few drops of distillery spring water were added to bring the ABV down to 57% before bottling without chill filtration. Says Kilchoman's Founder Anthony Wills “Batch Strength is a giant of a dram, it has a raw intensity, that I love. But importantly, that power is balanced by a delicacy and finesse that speaks for the quality of our production processes in the stillhouse, and also the quality of casks used for maturation". If you've been waiting for a release that embodies Kilchoman’s robust, maritime character, in particular a Kilchoman with a strong salty bite, this is it.
Other reviews... Faultlessly made and sympathetically matured. 95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2025-2026
This recipe uses Kilchoman matured in bourbon barrels, oloroso butts, and re-charred red wine casks, and combines the fruit and smoke really well. Red apple, red currant, black raspberry, heather honey, and salted caramel on the nose, with beach bonfire smoke turning peaty as it builds in intensity. Silky texture on the palate, with red apple, smoked plum, raisin, cherry pie, and a long-lasting finish with peppery spices running riot. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
This dram is delicious – the proof’s in the pudding, or to put it more plainly, in the remaining liquid level in the bottle, which is dropping at an alarming rate. So much so that I’d hedge my bets that when it’s finished, I’ll be planning to replace it fairly quickly, if the price is right. And price is the slight kicker here – there has to be at least one right? Retailing at around £75, it is rather higher priced than I’d have hoped, particularly taking into account that it is not in fact officially a cask strength bottling, although to all intents and purposes it drinks like one. Neither is it age-stated. So I’ll be keeping a close eye on any offers when it comes to replacing mine. Score wise I should be docking a point and giving this a 7 out of 10 Dramface rating based on the slightly high suggested retail price. However, I need to recognise how quickly I’m tearing through it. I’m loving this. It’s an 8. Would I recommend it? Yes wholeheartedly. I recognise how easy it is to reach for of an evening, and know it is in the great drams category. - dramface.com
Notes on Elements of Islay Cask Edit...
A 49% / 51% split of Laphroaig and Caol Ila.
"...I’m having a hard time putting this bottle down and I would wager that you would as well." - dramface.comElements of Islay Cask Edit is part of the new core range trilogy alongside Sherry Cask and Bourbon Cask. It's a composition of refill, bourbon and sherry casks bottled at 46% for the perfect balance of drinkability and personality. Two big names are involved - Laphroaig and Caol Ila with liquid aged from seven to twelve years old. The combination of rich, smoky single malt from Islay’s south coast married together with a fresher, fruitier style from the north makes for perfect winter dramming.
Other reviews... The 46% ABV strength is perfect for an easy-drinking but richly flavoured experience. The sherry casks are not over-bearing, providing some delicate nuances under these well-matured bourbon malts. I’m having a hard time putting this bottle down and I would wager that you would as well. If you like peated whiskies, and balanced ones at that, then this should be sitting on your shelf. I’m very much intrigued to get my hands on the Bourbon cask and Sherry cask releases from Elements of Islay now. Well played Elements of Islay team.... If this is priced below other Islay malts in your market, it’s a steal and get it on your shelf ASAP. If it’s in the same price range as Ardbeg 10, Port Charlotte 10, Ardbeg Corrie/Oogie/An Oa, then use your discretion. However, depending on your preferences, this blended malt can stand toe-to-toe with any of these single malts. - dramface.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: The aromatic notes of freshly brewed coffee, tempered with hot milk. Sugared almonds and white chocolate truffles are misted with light peat smoke. A fresh fruit basket brings balance. Palate: Sweet, with mineral qualities. Vanilla smoke and wood spice permeate through freshly baked butter croissants and hot, milky coffee. Finish: The finish is lightly smoked and sweet, with gentle notes of fruit salad.
![2022 Nicks Secret BFW Barrel Selection Shiraz]()
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2022 Nicks Secret BFW Barrel Selection ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $350.00$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 15%Closure: CorkProduced from only exceptional vintages and from a selection of the very best barrels, this Shiraz sits at the very top of this estates collection. Priced accordingly at $350 you can secure some for just $49.99 on a Nicks Secret deal. Fruit was sourced from 100 year old vines in Seppeltsfield (89%) with the balance coming from a 40 year old vineyard in Stockwell. Maturation took place in premium French oak barrels for a period of 20 months.
Incredibly rich, dense and potent, this is a luxurious expression of old school Barossa Shiraz at an amazing 85% off.
Spectacular depth of colour featuring a pitch black heart and a very deep dark red black tinged hue. Incredibly potent, the nose offers up decadent aromatics of dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate, lavishly overlaid with spicy vanillin oak and mocha. Some earthy fennel like notes also chime in. Rich, densely concentrated and opulently textured, the weighty palate is saturated with blackberry, dark plum, dark chocolate and liquorice flavours. Prominent vanillin oak inserts itself in the middle with mocha, earth, fennel and spice elements forming the undercard. Luxurious and powerful, it features a velvet smooth yet underlyingly sturdy tannin structure and a very long, plush vanillin oak and mocha laden finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 15%Other Reviews….
Powerful and graceful, this brooding shiraz shows dark fruit richness, smoked game, vanilla, toasty oak, and potpourri aromas on the nose. It's concentrated and plush on the palate, with an opulent mouthfeel and a velvety texture, wonderfully framed by chalky tannins, making it robust and firmly structured with a sustained, gratifying finish. At its best: 2028 to 2042
97 Points
Sam KimFrom the excellent 2022 vintage, the fruit is sourced from two Barossa Valley vineyards, 89% from 100-year-old vines in Seppeltsfield and the remaining 11% from an estate vineyard in Stockwell, where the vines are forty years of age. A percentage of whole bunches are included in the fermentation which is with native yeasts. Maturation is for two years in French oak, 50% new, with the remainder in older hogsheads. Near black with a deep maroon rim, the nose gives us aromas of spices, cassis, root vegetables, dried herbs, cocoa powder, delicatessen meats and blackberries. There is great concentration here, with wonderful balance, and the wine has immensely impressive length. A silky texture with satiny tannins, intensity is maintained throughout. Like this a lot. Enjoy this over the next twenty years. Drink 2026-2046.
96 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com![2019 Nicks Secret OKR Yarra Valley Cabernet Merlot]()
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2019 Nicks Secret OKR Yarra Valley Cabernet MerlotYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $29.99$13. 99Bottle$167.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 13.2%Closure: StelvinThis new Nicks Secret wines hails from one of the biggest names in the Yarra Valley who have been producing wine since 1978. Destined for export markets, where it would normally sell for around $30, it’s now been cleared out a price that’s almost unheard of for quality Yarra Valley Cabernets.
A Yarra Valley Cabernet that shows ample fruit, a savoury elegance and impressive complexity for the price.
Sourced from high quality vineyards in Coldstream, Yarra Glen and Seville, this is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Merlot matured for 15 months in French oak barrels. Totally opaque black dark red colour with a red to dark red hue. Lifted blackcurrant and mulberry scents are intertwined with gentle cigar box, dried herb, earthy black olive and spice notes. Elegant and refined, the medium bodied palate features red to black currant and mulberry fruits which morph into a spicy cedar, subtle earthy tobacco, black olive and dried herb background. Slightly grainy tannins with a savoury medium to long finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.2%![2023 Nicks Secret CUTS Adelaide Hills Single Vineyard Shiraz]()
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2023 Nicks Secret CUTS Adelaide Hills Single Vineyard ShirazAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $24.99$12. 99Bottle$155.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSourced from a single vineyard located at Woodside in the Adelaide Hills at relatively low elevation (350 metres), this Nicks Secret Shiraz is a flavour packed bargain at just $12.99. The fruit was fermented in two batches, one batch incorporating whole bunches with the two parcels then matured separately in French oak barriques (35% new). Only the best barrels make the final blend.
Flavour packed yet refined and fresh, this superb Adelaide Hills Shiraz delivers remarkable value.
Dense inky black colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Elevated red to dark plum and liquorice aromas are interwoven with hints of clove, scorched earth and peppered meats. Rich and intensely flavoured yet refined and fresh, the medium to full bodied palate is awash with juicy red to dark plum and liquorice fruits. Notions of spicy clove, scorched earth, dried meats and pepper extend across the back half to lend further interest. Fleshy textured, sturdy fine grained tannins provide structure. Finishes long and succulent with a flurry of pepper and spice.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Shiraz can be expressed in so many ways depending on all its elements of source, site, regional and specific climatic influences, of vintage weather variations, and of course winemaking techniques. In other words, it’s not all one and the same. This has a definite cool climate, colder season stamp, with a wonderful, bright-eyed character, aromatics of summer berry pudding, crushed grape flesh, and dark mint. An exuberance as well: perhaps whole cluster and whole berry components. A tasting sensation that lifts upwards rather than buries the fruit under timber, earth and heavy spice. A swirl of crimson and black cherry and berry with gossamer tannins. A joyous wine to taste then drink again – its natural purity is all that’s needed.
96 Points
Tony Love – WinePilot.com![2022 Nicks Secret ROCKG Shiraz]()
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2022 Nicks Secret ROCKG ShirazFrankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $22.99$11. 99Bottle$143.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFrom one of Western Australia’s most well known wineries and arguably the state’s premier producer of Shiraz and Riesling, this Shiraz is their entry level offering made with small additions of Touriga Nacional and Malbec to provide additional complexity and aromatic lift. At it’s normal price of $22.99 it offers great value – at it’s secret price of just $11.99 it’s a complete steal!
Juicy, pepper laced and well fleshed with chewy tannins, this is a highly savoury Shiraz that’s a complete steal!
Midnight black dark red core with a dark red black tinged hue. Black cherry, dark plum and liquorice aromas mix with scorched earth and peppered dried herb notes. Rich spicy dark plum, liquorice and black cherry fruits abound carrying with them a nicely fleshed feel across the mid weighted palate. Juicy mouth feel with chewy tannins and an underbelly of scorched earth, dried meats and peppered herbs. Highly savoury, it has a long pepper laced conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
This is a good wine, and it’s good value. It’s a spicy, medium-weight style of shiraz, with a touch of positive reduction helping it along, with bell pepper and black pepper characters wedded to cherry-plum fruit. There’s also the merest whisper of musky vanilla, though oak is a low-impact player here. The tannin has a grainy, grunty aspect to it but then, it’s not overdone, and not dominant. There are no question marks here, everything is positive, though a slight warmth to the alcohol is the only thing you’d point to, if you were forced. It’s no real matter and besides, even at full price the value here is decidedly in the buyer’s favour. Drink 2025-2030.
92 Points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine FrontDark purple hues with a ruby outer rim lead toa bouquet of ripeness and richness, aromas of dark berries and roasted plums, a dark raspberry almost jammy quality then smoky earth, a touch of boot polish wood smoke. Fleshy, fruity, varietal and dry on the palate. All the fruit scents turn into flavour on the palate set in a silky frame with fine polished tannins and medium+ acid line. A lovely example, balanced and well made with best drinking from day of purchase through 2030+.
92 Points
CamDouglasMS.com![Planteray (formerly Plantation) 20th Anniversary XO Rum (700ml)]()
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Planteray (formerly Plantation) 20th Anniversary XO Rum (700ml)BARBADOSReduced from $149.99$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%A rich and luxuriously textured dessert-style rum.
Made from pot and column-distilled rums re-casked and aged for a second time in small French Cognac barrels for 12 to 18 months. The restrained nose nevertheless entices with vanilla slice, creme caramel, dried coconut and choc-fudge notes - the prelude to a dessert lover’s dream. The theme continues on the palate: rich and luxuriously textured flavours of praline, creme caramel, barley sugar and coconut melt in the mouth followed by confectionary and dried coconut. For all of its sweetness - and this is very sweet and coconutty - it (just) manages to maintain sufficient vibrancy. Bottled in honor of the distillery’s 20th anniversary. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Rich copper color. Bold aromas of coconut creme pie and creme brulee follow through on a rich entry to a fruity medium-full body with layers of dried tropical fruits and sweet baking spices. Finishes with a spicy praline, cherry, and toasted coconut fade with spicy cedar and leather underneath. A mildly sweet, very flavorful and appealing aged rum for sipping or fruity cocktails, especially piña coladas. 94 points - tastings.com
...This rum is just one shade of brown darker than the Original Dark, but it’s much more fully developed. The nose offers intense chocolate and coffee notes, with kind of a brown sugar sweetness on top. The body is glorious, a big rum full of dessert notes that run from chocolate pudding to marshmallow cream. Butterscotch and gingerbread notes come along in the finish, all begging in unison for this rum to be served alongside a nice slice of cake. Something with chocolate, methinks. - drinkhacker.com
![2021 Wynns Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon]()
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2021 Wynns Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinOne of Coonawarra’s benchmark Cabernets from an outstanding vintage.
Renown as one of Coonawarra’s benchmark Cabernets, Wynns John Riddoch is made from parcels of the estates best fruit and is only produced in exceptional vintages.
Outstanding colour featuring an impenetrable inky black heart along with a very deep dark red black hue. Soaring out of the glass are captivating aromas of blackcurrant, liquorice and mulberry which are complimented by vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle earth, violet and traces of bay leaf. Rich and concentrated yet refined and structured, the medium to full bodied palate is redolent in fleshy red to black currant, liquorice and mulberry fruits. Lending further complexity are spicy vanillin cedar, earth, delicate tobacco and bay leaf accents. Fine grained, sturdily built tannin framework yet quite polished in it’s feel. Marrying finesse with power it finishes very long and eloquent with a deep core of fruit.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
16 months French oak hogsheads and barriques (31% new, the balance one to six years old) and 22 months in bottle prior to release. A cacophony of blackberries, Bing cherries and elderberries. Blackcurrant leaf, acaí and prune skin. Black coffee, vanilla pod, ash and charcoal. Acidity wisps about the palate like magic, a mesh of thread-like tannins pull and draw the focus. A hint of dark chocolate bitters; the wine finishes perky with echoing tunes of granite. It's just so centered and chic. Pure cabernet poise. Drink by 2038.
98 Points
Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe 2021 John Riddoch Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon is a brilliant wine. It is achingly intense yet is defined by its levity, which is not a common attribute in Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine expounds the virtues of the red gravel in which the fruit was grown, via its iodine and crushed shells, cassis and blood, sweet marrow and tobacco. It tastes so clearly of the place, which is a wonderful thing. The back palate swells with flavor, framed by the earth and the attuned oak. This is a tribute to the earth, an ode to it. Plentiful tannins bob along on the current of fruit. This will cellar interminably. It's up there in both quality and feel with the 2010, or so I think. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2024-2051.
98 Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine AdvocateOne of the best vintages in Coonawarra for many years. Little wonder this release of the John Riddoch is one of the best since the initial release from the 1982 vintage. Aromas of violets and red berry with a slightly cherry glaze character adding further intrigue. The palate is medium weight and refined but with tremendous power and persistence. A combination of hogsheads and barriques has been used to deliver the perfect level of oak. One of the best of these I can recall. Drink 2024-2054.
98 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.comThis 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Wynns John Riddoch is stylish and built for the long haul. It takes a couple of days to show its true colors. It radiates with blackcurrant, gravel and dried mint aromas, with a dusting of earth all wrapped up in a gentle blanket of French oak. Composed and super refined, the wine is underpinned by a line of seductive yet firm tannins with killer length and balance to finish. It is already very approachable but with serious staying power. Drink 2030-2045.
97 Points
Angus Hughson - Vinous
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