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2025 Jim Barry The Florita RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 12 Years (2026-2038)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinTense, concentrated and racy with sculpturing acidity and a long, ultra focused finish.
Brilliant water like colour with a faint greenish tinge across the outskirts. Intense lime and lemon scents jump from the glass followed by some Granny Smith apple, chalky talc, orange rind and flinty mineral notes. Tense, concentrated and racy, the palate is lined with mouth watering lime, lemon and green apple fruits which are sculptured by zippy, mineral infused acidity. Delicate orange rind, wet steel and flint elements also chime in. Finishes long and ultra focused.
Drink over the next 10-12 years.
Alc. 11.5% -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
- Organic
2024 Feudo Montoni Nerello Mascalese Rose di AdeleSicily, ITALY$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkA terrifically fragrant Sicilian Rose that’s both racy and concentrated.
Very pale salmon pink tinged colour. Terrific aromatic intensity with rose petal, raspberry, pomegranate, musk and subtle wet stone scents soaring out of the glass. Delicious raspberry, pomegranate and musk flavours are delivered with impressive concentration. Racy acidity with some blood orange and slatey mineral elements extending across the long stimulating finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 91
2024 Coli Vernaccia di San GimignanoTuscany, ITALY$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinSlippery entry with lime and green apple skin flavours and a crisp, bone dry finish.
Bright straw colour with a watery hue. Nosing offers up aromas of lime and green apple infused with fresh herbs, wet slate and minerals. Slippery entry with lime and green apple skin flavours intermeshed with Mediterranean herbs, wet stone, traces of almond and minerals. Bone dry finish with crisp acidity and a river stone like feel.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Five Vineyard Onyx ShirazVictoria, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA juicy medium bodied Shiraz with slightly chewy tannins.
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Filling the nose are aniseed and black cherry scents trailed by some smoked meat, fennel and peppered earth notes. Juicy aniseed and black cherry flavours carry medium body weight with smoky vanillin cedar, earthy fennel and peppered meat elements lying underneath. Slightly chewy tannins with a mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
- 95
2023 Mt. Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2031-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinLight in body yet possessing a dark to black fruit profile with a tightly wound finish.
Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Unfurling from the glass are lifted aromatics of black cherry, dark plum, ripe strawberry and anise which mix with hints of dried herbs, earth and spice. Light in body yet possessing a dark to black fruit profile led by cherry, strawberry and anise flavours which meld into an earth, dried herb and spice back drop. Tightly wound it has slightly grainy tannins, tense acidity and a spicy medium to long conclusion.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
This has deeply perfumed aromas of dark cherries, dried rose petals, cocoa beans and pencil as well as Asian spices and citrus peel. Seamlessly integrated tannins and bright acidity cut through a creamy, textural, medium-bodied palate, showing flavors of wild strawberries, ruby grapefruit, damson plums and cinnamon bark. Very poised and tightly wound with a high level of refinement. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 92
- 92
2022 Ladies Who Shoot Their Lunch Wild Ferment ChardonnayVictoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.1%Closure: StelvinRich and creamy textured with a ripe, shapely finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour to straw colour with yellow green tinged edges and a watery hue. Aromas of peach, bees wax and lemon butter are trailed by some citrusy nougat and gentle spice notes. Rich and creamy textured, the medium bodied palate feature fleshy ripe peach and nectarine fruits which meld into a bees wax, roasted almond and spicy nougat back drop. Balanced acidity finishing ripe and shapely.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.1%Other Reviews…..
Barrel fermentation brings added complexity to this generous chardonnay. Peaches, nectarine, citrus and spice with added nuttiness and a touch of honey nougat savouriness are served well, with oak adding weight and chew through the palate. A soft, rolling mouthful of a wine. Drink by 2029.
92 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Russell & Suitor Son of a Bull Pinot GrisTasmania, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA juicy, well rounded Pinot Gris with a fruity yet dry finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Pear and ripe Jonathan apple aromas mix with hints of quince and musk. Juicy pear and Jonathan apple fruits carry a rounded feel with infusions of musk and delicate spice sitting in the background. A lick of brisk acidity enlivening the fruity yet dry finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 La Colombera Derthona Colli Tortonesi TimorassoPiedmont, ITALY$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinTexturally waxy yet brisk feel with a dry, invigorating finish.
Made from Timorasso grapes which a has a history dating back to ancient times in the Piedmont region. Bright straw colour with a watery hue. Dried pear and oily toast like aromas are followed by some baked apple, citrusy bees wax and spice notes. A mix of fresh pear and dried apple fruits make a shapely entrance with brisk acidity enlivening a back half that’s layered with bees wax, oily toast like elements and spice. Texturally waxy yet brisk mouth feel with a dry, invigorating finish.|
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
- 95
2022 Handpicked Single Vineyard Highbow Hill Yarra Valley Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12.7%Closure: StelvinSupple and light yet expansive and powerful with a long silky finish.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant violet, red to dark cherry and strawberry scents are interwoven with brambly cedar, forest floor, rhubarb and spicy dried herb notes. Very supple and light in its flow, savoury red to dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits are layered across the palate. Expansive and possessing cashmere like tannins, notions of brambly vanillin cedar, dried herbs, forest floor and spice lend further nuance. Concludes long and silky.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.7%Other Reviews….
A little more of that black dirt, autumn decay on the nose at first, yet give this a moment, and plenty of dried rose petals and native violet come out to play. Plenty of perfume as it opens with cooler fruited tones of blue cherries, plum pit, wet slate minerality and char-kissed. Tannins are silken, acidity is vibrant, and this lighter-framed Pinot slips through the mouth with style and surety. This wine is all about the phenolics and a cut-lip bloodiness. So fine and nimble, and seemingly seamless – just one long flow in the mouth. It’s polished and structured, supple and leaves an impression on the palate. However, it remains guarded. This needs a little more time, and I predict there is plenty more for this to say.
95 Points
Cassandra Charlick – WinePilot.com -
- 95
2023 Teusner Wark Family ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, abundantly fruited Barossa Shiraz that marries opulence with a sturdy structure.
Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black hue. Pronounced black cherry and liquorice aromas are welded to vanillin cedar, scorched earth and peppered fennel notes. Rich, juicy and concentrated, the weighty palate is awash with lush black cherry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Ripe slightly chewy tannins with vanillin cedar, scorched earth and peppered fennel elements the undercard. Abundantly fruited it concludes long and opulent yet sturdy in structure.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 95
- 93
2022 Mont-Redon Reserve GigondasGigondas, Southern Rhone, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, engulfing Gigondas with slightly chewy tannins and a long, bold finish.
A blend of 80% Grenache, 20% Syrah/Mourvèdre sourced from 70+ year-old vines in two lieu-dits in the north of the appellation, in roughly equal proportions. Notre-Dame-des-Pallières is a south facing site at about 200m, whilst Pallière et Pied-Gu is north-facing and at 300m. The fruit from Notre-Dame-des-Pallières is fully de-stemmed, whilst that from Pallière et Pied-Gu is fermented as whole bunches. Malo is completed in tank and then 60% of each parcel is transferred to 228L barriques for 16 months maturation.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Pronounced dark to black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry aromas flood the nostrils with trailing notes of scorched earth, provincial herbs and peppered meats also evident. Rich, engulfing dark raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits make an opulent entry displaying both intensity and depth. Infusions of provincial herbs, scorched earth and pepper sit in the background. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins with a long, bold finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
A well-balanced, succulent red with aromas of red cherries, black peppercorns, cured meat and dried leaves. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins. Refined texture with a velvety stream of sweet red berries and a lovely bitter-orange character on the lively, lingering finish. Drink or hold.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
2024 McArthur Ridge Southern Tor Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA generously fruited, fleshy textured Central Otago Pinot.
Deep dark purple black tinged colour with a dark purple red hue. Intense dark cherry, violet, dark plum and anise aromas flood the nostrils followed by some earthy dried herb and spice notes. Rich juicy dark cherry and dark plum fruits meld into an anise, subtle scorched earth and spicy dried herb back drop. Fleshy mouth feel with velvety tannins, fresh acidity and a generously fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 95
2024 Maude Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSpicy and juicy with ample power and a long spicy fruit driven finish.
Includes 15% whole bunches with maturation taking place in French oak barriques for a period of 10 months. Dark red core with black toned edges and a youthful purple red hue. Blossoming out of the glass with fabulous intensity are alluring scents of violet, dark cherry, strawberry and ripe plum trailed by some anise, fresh herb, delicate forest floor and spice notes. Juicy dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours carry plenty of spice and flesh. Infusions of fresh herbs, earth and delicate cedar lie beneath. Amply powered, it has polished tannins and fresh acidity which enlivens the long spicy fruit driven finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 89
2025 Vasse Felix Classic Dry RoseMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$18. 99Bottle$227.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinEnergetic and tangy with a nicely rounded yet invigorating finish.
Made from Shiraz grapes. Salmon pink tinged colour. Peach, strawberry and raspberry aromas flow from the glass with hints of pomegranate and spicy musk also evident. Delicate and possessing an energetic, tangy feel, pomegranate, water melon and blood orange flavours intermingle with a stony minerality on the back half. Crisp acidity with a nicely rounded yet invigorating finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
- 93
2023 Turkey Flat Butchers Block ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich, fleshy dark and blue fruits with slightly chewy tannins and a sturdy finish.
Fermented with 15% whole bunch fruit and matured in seasoned French oak hogsheads and puncheons. Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black hue. Dark plum, liquorice, vanillin spice, earth and blueberry aromas are expelled from the glass with ample intensity. Rich, fleshy dark plum, liquorice and ripe blueberry fruits decorate the mid weighted palate with scorched earth and vanillin spice elements lying beneath. Slightly chewy tannins with a generously fruited yet sturdy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
Yes, there is still a Butcher’s Block in the old restored blue stone cellar door on the property. I like this wine for its vibrancy and fresh fruit characters, and it’s been designed to suit drinking in the short to medium term. Has a nice plummy savoury combination with a little dollop of dark chocolate and fine dried herbs, slightly sage bush character to finish. It’s a complete wine, harmoniously balanced with fine, understated oak in support of the tannins. Sits together perfectly.
93 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com -
- 95
- 96
2022 Chateau Tanunda 50 Year Old Vines ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2025-2035)ABV: 14.9%Closure: StelvinRich, opulent and weighty with a sturdily built tannin structure and long, lavish black fruited finish.
Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black hue. Aromas of dark plum, liquorice and black cherry fill the nostrils followed by scorched earth, vanillin cedar and peppered fennel notes. Rich, opulent and weighty, the palate is engulfed with lush dark plum, liquorice and black cherry fruits which meld into a scorched earth, vanillin oak and peppered fennel background. Excellent power and concentration with a sturdily built tannin structure and long, lavish black fruited finish.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 14.9%Other Reviews…..
A year and a half in a mix of new and older French barriques, has seen a wine of grace and intensity emerge. This is really good. Granted, not priced for everyday drinking, but even at this price it drinks better than many wines which will cost you double or more. A near opaque, black hue, this is dense and gorgeous with a plush and generous structure. The nose is dominated by notes of cassis and plums, along with deftly handled oak. A powerful wine, yet one which is almost cuddly, with soft and gentle tannins. It has impressive length and will drink wonderfully well for the next fifteen years. Love it. Drink 2025-2040.
96 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com -
- 93
- 92
2022 Penley Estate Tolmer Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA sturdily built Coonawarra Cabernet with plenty of rich blackcurrant fruit.
Black as night heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Elevated blackcurrant and liquorice aromas intermingle with black olive, vanillin cedar and spicy tobacco notes. Rich, ripe blackcurrant fruit is framed by sturdily built tannins. Notions of liquorice, spicy vanillin cedar, gentle tobacco and earthy dried herb elements extend across the back half. Chewy and muscular in it’s feel with a deeply fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
This vintage sees the wine matured in 20% new oak for 12 months. It's a brooding wine with black cherries, brown spices and undulating waves of acidity. A carob and black-sesame-paste richness. There is almost a sarsaparilla spice without the sweetness that follows those concoctions. Some velvety but persistent tannins, and caraway and rye spice on the finish. A very edible wine with plenty of character and interest. Drink by 2030.
92 Points
Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
2025 Parish Vineyards Sorell RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinConcentrated and textural yet super scrumptious Tassie Riesling.
Yalumba’s Robert Hill Smith and Louisa Rose of Pewsey Vale & Heggies fame are intrinsically linked with Eden Valley Riesling. They had also long admired the potential of Tasmanian Riesling, so when the opportunity came up to work with a unique site of mature Riesling vines they jumped at it. Located in the Coal River valley, this small block of Riesling is hidden in the midst of larger plantings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines.
Brilliant water like colour with a faint greenish tinge around the outskirts. Bursting from the glass with tremendous intensity are lime, citrus and green apple scents which are trailed by orange rind, wet steel and slatey mineral notes. Concentrated and carrying excellent textural volume yet super scrumptious in nature, lime, citrus and green apple fruits meld into a back half of orange rind, wet slate and flinty mineral elements. Crunchy acidity with a long, intensely flavoured finish that shows plenty of zest.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 93
2025 William Downie Cathedral Pinot NoirVictoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinJuicy and fresh with a youthful, fruit driven finish.
Deep dark red core with a vibrant purple red tinged hue. Fragrant violet, red cherry, raspberry and red liquorice scents make their way out of the glass trailed by some dried herb and rhubarb notes. Delicious ripe cherry, red liquorice and strawberry fruits make a juicy entrance with subtle rhubarb, dried herb and earth elements sitting in the background. Fine grained tannins with a fresh, youthful, fruit driven finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
2023 Patrick Underwood Dash Farms Leanganook ChardonnayVictoria, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinRichly flavoured and glossy textured yet fresh and elegant.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Delightful aromas of white peach, nectarine and dried honey sail through the nostrils followed by hints of biscuity nougat, delicate cashew and gun flint. Medium bodied with ample richness and a glossy texture it nonetheless carries a refined feel. White peach, nectarine and melon fruits are layered across the palate with plenty of freshness. Subtle notions of biscuity oak, nougat and citrusy minerals extend across the back half. Long elegant finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
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- 92
2017 Conde Valdemar Gran ReservaRioja, SPAIN$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkFor 124 years, five generations of the Bujanda family have produced some of the finest wines from Rioja. It was Joaquín Martínez Bujanda who started the company with 10 hectares of vines in Rioja Alavasa and over the years the estate has expanded to include vineyards across the region.
A blend of 88% Tempranillo, 8% Graciano, 2% Maturana and 2% Garnacha matured for 25 months in French and American oak barrels. Dense midnight black dark red heart with a dark red hue. Black raspberry, liquorice and dark chocolate aromas waft through the nostrils followed by some vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich black raspberry and liquorice fruits make an opulent entrance carrying with them medium to full body weight. Earthy mocha, vanillin oak and spice elements extend across the back half. Shades of leather and walnut also make an appearance. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins with an earthy mocha and spicy vanillin oak laden finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Walnuts, subdued dried plums, dried sweet spices, hazelnuts, chocolate and touches of dry earth and pine cones. Still quite juicy and firm, with a medium to full body and a creamy, lengthy finish that turns a bit savory at the end. Drink or keep holding.
92 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 89
- 95
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Clarnette RieslingGrampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinCrunchy lime and citrus flavours with a dried herb and steely graphite like infused back drop.
Brilliant very pale straw almost water like core with highlights of green around the edges. Graphite and clove like top notes are followed by some lime, green apple and spice scents. Crunchy lime and citrus flavours meld into a dried herb and steely graphite like infused back drop. Crisp acidity with a dry chalky finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
Matured on lees for six months, 50% in old, aged barrels. Showcases the outstanding complexity that can be achieved with Grampians riesling. Sweet herbal notes rise from the glass with lime, sunny citrus, lemongrass and ginger spice. They gather, layer upon layer, on the palate, producing a spice-fuelled, citrus tangy taste sensation, smooth and supple in texture and long on the finish. Brings a touch of the exotic with herbal-edged makrut lime and lemongrass to close. Effortless beauty. Drink by 2034.
95 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 91
2023 Smith & Hooper MerlotLimestone Coast, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinMedium bodied red to black fruit married to some leafy characters with a slightly edgy finish.
Matured for 11 months in seasoned French oak barriques. Midnight black heart with a vibrant dark red hue. Elevated red to black currant and mulberry aromas mix with tobacco, black olive and bay leaf notes. Rich red to black currant and mulberry fruits are married to leafy tobacco, spicy cedar and bay leaf characters. Bright acidity with grainy tannins and a slightly edgy mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 94
- 95
- 94
- 94
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2020 Il Poggione Brunello di MontalcinoTuscany, ITALY$145. 00Bottle$1740.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkDark to black currant fruit with bright acidity, slightly chewy tannins and an elegant finish.
Very deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark brick red hue. Red to black currant and dark cherry aromas mix with red liquorice, earth, tobacco, leather and spice notes. Medium bodied, the palate features dark to black currant fruit over red cherry, earth, spicy tobacco, dried herb and leather elements. Bright acidity with slightly chewy tannins and an elegant, spicy mid length finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
A saturated red color, the 2020 Brunello Di Montalcino is pretty and inviting with aromas of baked cherries, toasted spices, cedar, dark cocoa, and rosemary. Full-bodied, it retains an even spine of acidity, plush tannins, and a savory and sanguine, mouthwatering finish. Hints of iron-rich earth frame the wine beautifully, and it's a generous wine with a lot to enjoy over the coming 10-12 years. Drink 2025-2037.
94 Points
Audrey Frick - JebDunnuck.comThe 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is explosive, bright and punchy at first, evolving from cranberry to cherry with dusty sage, spiced blood orange and Tuscan dust. The is pure elegance, texturally deep and nearly velvety in feel with a core of tart wild berries that add contrast as a balsamic tinge emerges along with fine-grained tannins toward the close. It finishes long, structured and staining, leaving a flinty sensation and primary core of fruit that drenches the palate as violet inner florals and hints of lavender abound. The 2020 is seamless from start to finish and, while more approachable than a typical vintage of Il Poggione, is balanced for an extended maturation. Drink 2028-2040.
95 Points
Eric Guido – VinousShowing very nice results, with greater accessibility in this vintage, the Il Poggione 2020 Brunello di Montalcino has dark fruit aromas with blackcurrant followed by something spicy or herbal. I am reminded of licorice root, exotic spice, pressed rose and fragrant tea leaf. It finishes smoothly with silky tannins and an open-knit approach. This vintage is almost ready to drink, and you get elegant complexity at the same time. It sees three years in oak botti. Fruit is sourced across vineyards with 25-year-old-plus vines. Drink 2025-2038.
94 Points
Monica Larner – Robert Parker’s The Wine AdvocateA restrained mix of licorice and graphite, bright red cherries and toasted notes. Firm tannins on the medium- to full-bodied palate with refreshing acidity. Chewy style overall. Try in 2025, but best after 2026.
94 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- 96
- Reduced
2022 Nicks Secret PE STYN Coonawarra Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $64.99$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThis Nicks Secret Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon is from one of the region’s leading family owned producers. Established in 1988 they have a wine making history that dates back to 1844. Crafted by the 2024 James Halliday’s Wine Companion’s winemaker of the year, whose impressive resume includes stints at Wirra Wirra, Seppelt and Punt Road, this is a classic expression of Coonawarra Cabernet. At less than a third of it’s original price it represents incredible value.
Rich and powerful yet beautifully refined, this is a serious Coonawarra Cabernet.
Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Engulfing the olfactory senses are intense ripe blackcurrant and mulberry scents which are complimented by some cigar box, liquorice, earthy black olive, dried herb and spice notes. Medium to full bodied, the palate is layered end to end with rich blackcurrant, ripe mulberry and to a lesser extent liquorice fruits. Lending further complexity are notions of spicy vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle earthy black olive and infusions of bay leaf. Seamlessly built and powerful, it has perfectly integrated tannins and a long, beautifully refined conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
There is a forest of fruits, exotic spice, kirsch, blood plums and bilberries. But the spices draw you in and keep your palate captivated. Star anise, black mustard seed and nigella. Charred ancho chillies and a hint of yeast extract. It's laden with interest and the pillars of structure to age like a dream. Acidity is ethereal, so fine, and maintains the flavour right to the long final tunes. Some burdock root and mace, too. Truly a unique and fascinating wine. Drink by 2036.
96 Points
Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
- 93
2025 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon BlancMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA fabulously concentrated Cloudy Bay with crisp acidity lending a zesty feel.
The 2025 release of the Sauvignon Blanc that put New Zealand wine on the map marks it’s 41st vintage. Brilliant water like core with a greenish tint to the edges. Pungent gooseberry, passionfruit, lime and green apple aromas engulf the olfactory senses with some herbaceous grassy and mineral notes also evident. Mouth watering ripe gooseberry, passionfruit and green apple flavours are delivered fabulous intensity, carrying with them ample textural volume. Some lime, delicate herbaceous grassy characters, spicy asparagus and flinty mineral elements extend across the back half. Crisp acidity lending a zesty feel across the long scrumptious finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews…..
Concentrated and fragrant, with lemongrass, lemon verbena and celery salt notes to complement the pineapple, mango and lemon curd flavors, plus a touch of orange sherbet. Gains momentum on the long, expressive finish. Drink now.
93 Points
Wine Spectator -
- 93
2024 Laroche Reserve ChardonnayVin de France, FRANCE$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA fresh, slatey textured Chardonnay.
Renown Chablis producer Domaine Laroche are behind this very affordable Chablis styled Chardonnay. Sourced from cool, high altitude vineyards in the Limoux sector, the wine was vinified in a mix of 60% stainless steel and 40% demi-muid barrels, and aged on fine lees for a period of 6-8 months.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Aromas of pear and lime mix with hints of wet slate and mineral notes. Possessing a slatey feel, the palate features citrus, pear and lime fruits over a wet stone and oyster shell back drop. Fresh minerally acidity with a stony finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
2025 Mount Riley Sauvignon BlancMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA scrumptious, flavour packed Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
Fruit was sourced from the Marlborough sub regions of Awatere Valley and Wairau Valley. Brilliant water like core with green tinged edges. Pungent herbaceous gooseberry, passionfruit and citrus aromas leap out of the glass followed by some grassy asparagus and flinty mineral notes. Scrumptious passionfruit herbaceous gooseberry, lime, grassy asparagus and mineral elements line the palate. Crunchy acidity with a long snappy finish. Great value.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
- 90
- Nick's Import
2022 Domaine des Escaravailles Les Sablieres Cotes du RhoneCotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkA light to medium bodied, fresh and juicy entry level Cotes du Rhone.
Domaine des Escaravailles has been owned by the Férran family since the 1950’s. It consists of 65 hectares of vineyards, 40 of which are on the rocky, clay-limestone hillsides of Rasteau. Les Sablieres is a Grenache Syrah blend sourced from vines between 30-50 years old.
Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant red to dark raspberry, dark cherry and red liquorice scents flood the olfactory senses with some provincial herb and peppered earth notes also chiming in. Light to medium bodied, rich juicy red to dark raspberry, cherry and red liquorice fruits are featured over a provincial herb infused back drop of earth and pepper. Mildly chewy tannins and fresh acidity with a bright, succulent finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
Based largely on Grenache (there's 20% Syrah), the 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Les Sablières sports a medium ruby hue to go with a pretty perfume of spicy red and black fruits, peppery garrigue, and violets. This balanced, elegant, medium-bodied, seamless beauty will put a smile on your face any time over the coming 4-6 years, if not longer. It would be one hell of a house red. Drink 2024-2030.
90 Points
JebDunnuck.com -
- 94
- 92
- Organic
2023 Brancaia Chianti Classico DOCGTuscany, ITALY$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam CorkA savoury, red to black fruited Chianti with bright acidity and gently chalky tannins.
Very deep dark red colour with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Spicy red to dark currant, violet and red liquorice aromas are interwoven with earth, dried herb and tobacco notes. Mid weighted the palate features a mix of red to black currant and red cherry fruits which meld into an earthy back drop of tobacco, dried herbs and spice. Gently chalky, fine grained tannins and bright acidity concluding savoury and elegant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Aromas of cherries, dried herbs, strawberry bush, wet stones and subtle spices with some dusty mineral notes. Silky and textured on the medium-bodied palate, it’s deliciously fruity and smooth, with a lingering finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
92 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Jericho Selected Vineyards GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA juicy, energetic, red fruited Grenache laced with spice and pepper.
Matured in older French oak barrels. Red to dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Subdued nose with spicy dark raspberry, earthy graphite, faint red liquorice and peppered dried herb scents gradually evolving out of the glass. Juicy red raspberry and red liquorice fruits carry plenty of spice and pepper over an earthy graphite and dried herb underbelly. Mildly muscular tannin structure with lively acidity and an energetic red fruited finish that’s laced with spice and pepper.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews....
From the Jericho-owned Bracken vineyard in Blewitt Springs; matured in old French oak. Pale in the glass and super pretty and lifted, blooming with red and blue florals, musk and rosewater, across cranberry, redcurrant, pomegranate and orange oil – a notably cool year and a modern sensibility writ large. It’s light of weight, could likely be chilled a fraction, but it’s got tannin, and will match a broad range of dishes. Delicious.
93 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
2021 Fermoy Wilyabrup Cabernet MerlotMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich yet refined with sturdily built tannins and a long, elegant finish.
A blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 2% Shiraz matured for 18 months in French oak barriques (15% new). Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Filling the nostrils are aromas of blackcurrant and mulberry infused with black olive trailed by some dusty cedar, subtle spicy tobacco and bay leaf notes. Rich yet refined in its structure, the palate is decorated with blackcurrant and mulberry fruits which sit over a spicy vanillin cedar, tobacco, earthy black olive and bay leaf background. Sturdily built tannins finishing long and elegant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 92
2021 Jansz Vintage CuveeTasmania, AUSTRALIA$52. 99Bottle$635.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkSculptured, dry and slightly chalky with a vibrant mineral laced finish.
Aged for 3 years on lees. Subsiding into a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold tinged edges is a buoyant mousse. Flowing through its core is a fine persistent bead. Nosing offers up aromas of pear, baked bread and yeast lees which interact with some citrus and toast notes. Crisp acidity sculpts flavours of citrus and pear with some baked bread, roasted almond and yeast less characters the undercard. Dry and slightly chalky it has a vibrant mineral laced finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 94
- 93
2020 Pauletts Clare Valley ShirazClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, lush Clare Shiraz with a long juicy blackpepper laced finish.
Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Dark plum, liquorice and black cherry scents infused with black olive are trailed by some earth and peppered smoked meat notes. Rich lush dark plum, dark to black cherry and liquorice fruits flood the palate with vanillin cedar and peppered meat elements the undercard. Slightly chewy tannins with a long juicy blackpepper laced finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
SHZ, aka shiraz, from Clare Valley. The 'no vowels on wine labels' for grape varieties thing is catching on in Aus. Anyways, here we have heartland stuff of choc-berry, cocoa powder, black olive and sweet earthiness with whiffs of mint in the bouquet. Flavours carry on these characters, with ripe plum, brined black olives, mint, dark chocolate and sooty spices. It's mellow, well balanced and very smooth. Well played.
93 Points
Mike Bennie – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
1990 Conde de Valdemar Gran ReservaRioja, SPAIN$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenCellar: Drink now (2025)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkA museum Release Rioja that’s soft, supple and driven by tertiary flavours.
For 124 years, five generations of the Bujanda family have produced some of the finest wines from Rioja. It was Joaquín Martínez Bujanda who started the company with 10 hectares of vines in Rioja Alavasa and over the years the estate has expanded to include vineyards across the region.
Made from a blend of Tempranillo and Mazuelo aged for 30 months in oak barrels. Deep brown dark red tinged core with a sienna brown hue. Aromas of stewed plum, liquorice and dried cherries intermix with earth, vanillin oak, old leather, spice and balsamic notes. Rich and soft, dried cherry, liquorice and stewed plum flavours fade into an earth, old tobacco, dried herb, spicy leather and balsamic infused back drop. Velvet smooth tannins with a long, supple, tertiary flavour driven finish.
Drink now.
Alc. 13% -
- 96
- 95
2021 Zema Estate Coonawarra Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.8%Closure: StelvinA rich, large scaled Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon.
One of Coonawarra’s long standing Estate’s, the Zema family having been crafting wines from their vineyards for nearly 40 years. The family arrived from Italy in 1953 bringing with them a wealth of traditional vineyard practices and experience. In 1982 they purchased their first 20 acre property, located in the heart of the famed terra rossa strip adjacent to Coonawarra landmarks Mildara, Rouge Homme and Wynns. Eight acres were already planted to Shiraz, the remaining 12 acres were subsequently planted to Cabernet Sauvignon.
Magnificent inky black colour with an equally deep dark red black hue. Wafting out of the glass are ripe blackcurrant and liquorice aromas infused with mint. Cigar box, earthy black olive and spice notes also chime in. Rich and full in body, the palate is engulfed in a tidal wave of opulent blackcurrant, liquorice and black cherry fruit. Very concentrated with firm, sculpting tannins, notions of toasty vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco, black olive and spicy bay leaf lie underneath. Reminiscent of some of the larger scaled Bowen Estate Cabernet Sauvignon’s it boasts outstanding power and has a long, deeply fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.8%Other Reviews….
Prunes, fresh dates and blackcurrant fruit straps. A mist of crushed cloves and black sesame. There is beetle leaf, star anise and friable gravelly stones. New leather and long, elongated lines of acidity; it's almost creamy in texture, that's how fine the tannins are. The wine is fresh like living, breathing new potting soil and its instinctive, showing very youthful fruit. Beautifully tailored and with a very long life ahead. Another wine where value is hard to believe.
95 Points
Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Muto ProseccoMurray Darling, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 11%Closure: Crown SealCrisp, bone dry and minerally with racy flavours of lemon, quinine and green apple skin.
Pours with an exuberant mousse that slowly dissipates to reveal a straw coloured base with pale gold edges. A generous stream of tiny bubbles threading its core. Citrus and green apple scents are trailed by some pear and sherbet notes. Crisp and minerally the palate has a racy flavour profile of lemon, quinine and green apple skin. Finishes bone dry with a chalky feel.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 11% -
- 93
2024 William Fevre Petit ChablisChablis, FRANCE$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinFresh and frisky yet shapely with a saline edged finish.
Founded by William Fevre in 1957 the domaine has grown to now become one of the biggest land owners in Chablis with 78 hectares of prestigious vineyards, of which 15.9 hectares are classified as Premiers Crus and 15.2 as Grand Crus. The Petit Chablis was matured in stainless steel vats for a period of 8-10 months to preserve freshness.
Brilliant pale straw colour with flashes of green to the edges and a watery hue. Elevated lime and green apple aromas are intermeshed with pear, fresh herb and wet stone notes. Fresh and frisky yet shapely, the palate is layered with lime and green apple fruits which meld into a fresh herb infused back drop of wet stones and a saline like minerality. Crisp acidity with an energised finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 88
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Redcote Heathcote ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.8%Closure: StelvinSweet vanillin oak overwhelms plummy liquorice fruits.
Impenetrable inky black in colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Sweet plummy scents dominate the nose with some liquorice, vanillin confectionary and spice notes ensuing. Plummy liquorice fruits are overwhelmed by sweet vanillin oak characters across the back half. Some confectionary and spice characters also chime in. Chewy tannins with a sweet plummy vanillin oak laden conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.8% -
- 95
2024 Josef Chromy Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.3%Closure: StelvinRich and supple yet light in its feet with an expansive flavour profile.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Gorgeous nose with perfumed aromas of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise surging out of the glass. Some forest floor, fresh herb and spicy cedar notes follow on. Richly fruited and supple in it’s flow yet light on it’s feet, the palate features expansive flavours of red to dark cherry and wild strawberry over an anise, fresh herb, forest floor and spicy cedar back drop. Excellent power with polished tannins and ample freshness to the long juicy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.3% -
- Limit One per customer
Foursquare Mandamus Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXIX 16 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 57%"Excellent...If you’re a fan of heavily sherried or ported scotches, then you’ll feel right at home with this rum." - whiskyadvocate.com
The twenty ninth edition in the ECS series reaches the considerable age of 16 years, pushing beyond the 12-14 year mark of most previous releases. Time in oak was broken down to ten years in ex-Bourbon casks followed by six more years of aging in ex-Port barrels. In line with its predecessors, this is a blend of pot and column still rums. Richard Seale seems to have a never-ending repertoire of names up his sleeve, with "Mandamus" taken to refer to "an order from a court to an inferior government official ordering the government official to properly fulfill their official duties or correct an abuse of discretion." The rum is bottled at 57% without chill filtration.
Other reviews... While the port cask’s role in the whisky world is well-known, some drinkers would be surprised to find that they’re also popular in aged rum. Here, like in whisky, they’re often used for finishing to impart darker fruit notes, typically following a longer maturation in bourbon barrels... Mandamus, explores the power of port with a notably long secondary maturation. If you’re a fan of heavily sherried or ported scotches, then you’ll feel right at home with this rum. It’s darkly sweet and alluring on the nose, with black cherry, stewed fruits, marzipan, cinnamon sugar, plum, chocolate, and vanilla—getting even sweeter with a few drops of water. The palate is full and complex, bearing wine-soaked fruits, cherry pie, soft baking spices, molasses, overripe fruits, and pipe tobacco. Plum returns for an intense and seemingly eternal finish, joined by blackberry, marzipan, toasted coconut, and a kiss of oak. In a word, it’s excellent. - whiskyadvocate.com
...The Mandamus is a rum of great generosity and character. The longer aging seems to bring out more vanillic sweetness and honeyed tones, while the port continues to contribute those jammy, stewed fruit dimensions that sit more comfortably in the more aged blend (as compared to older port-influenced ECS expressions). What I mean is that while the port cask lends more tannic grip and oak spice than a pureplay ex-bourbon ECS, the density generated by the longer period of ex-bourbon aging seems to incorporate it better and keep things balanced while some tannins and spice add structure and liveliness. This line is famous for its consistency, and the Mandamus is no exception in terms of its DNA, yet you can clearly taste the rewards of an extended 16-year aging: richer caramel, brown sugar and vanilla depth, with port influences well integrated. For me, this is probably the most layered of the ex-port cask aged Foursquare ECS so far. To take two points of reference, this feels a little rounder and more confectionary-influenced than the Covenant (which stands at 18 years, 100% ex-bourbon), and its port integration seems more seamless and complete compared to younger port-aged expressions like the Détente (10 years, of which 6 were spent in ex-port casks). - 88bamboo.com
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- Limit One per customer
Foursquare Convocation Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXVIII 14 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 62%"...fans of aggressive and out-there rums should seek this one out." - drinkhacker.com
Convocation is release number twenty eight in Foursquare's long-running Exceptional Cask Selection Series. A blend of two distinct 14-year-old single blended molasses rums coming from the double-retort pot still and twin column Coffey - one was aged in bourbon barrels, and the other in ex-Madeira casks. As usual, apart from the consistently high quality, what we like about all these rums is that there are no additives, including sugar or colouring, coupled with the fact that they're bottled at blazing strengths - yet you often wouldn't know it to taste. Having said that, this one's said to be more intense than most! 62% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... rich, intense and quite sweet (not sweetened!)... In terms of this I think Foursquare Convocation is pretty much at its peak in terms of ageing... The mid palate gives you an array of flavours with the dark fruits allowing more of the peppery notes to come through alongside some light vanilla ice cream and some papaya notes. The finish as you would expect from a 62% spirit is long and very, very good. It reminds of the everlasting gobstopper scene in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory….theres just so much going on and it never seems to completely fade. The fruity notes continue through the finish alongside more oak and some leather, a hint of toffee, vanillla the list goes on and on and on… This is (from memory) one of my most favourite ECS releases thus far. I really like this. Top, top drawer stuff. 5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
...The involvement of Madeira casks had me nervous with this rum, and the nose indicates more than a little involvement from that divisive wine style. While there’s plenty of rummy vanilla and baking spice and a lacquering of molasses, it’s the oxidized wine that makes the biggest aromatic impact. Those notes of heavily extracted plum and cherries, put through a balsamic wringer, are impossible to miss, and they settle inside the nostrils for the long haul. The palate continues to see the sweet wine theme moving ahead full force, the palate veering quickly into a blend of maple, vanilla candies, and reduced sherry, together creating a decadent dessert sauce-like quality. Citrusy and rich, the rum is unabashed and in-your-face, pouring on that unmistakable Madeira quality, so rich it gets between your teeth. Elements of coconut nectar, peach melba, completely brown banana, and a thick swirl of molasses dosed with cloves make this one of the sweetest and most decadent rums I’ve ever tasted. A tiny dose goes a long way, and the finish sits with you: Caramelized brown sugar, some tropical notes, and more baking spice. It’s hardly tiki material, but fans of aggressive and out-there rums should seek this one out. - drinkhacker.com
...Wow! Very potent. One of the funkiest Foursquares I’ve tried. Smell seems like any other Foursquare, Doorlys, etc. Hits hard up front, in a good way. Sharp on the tongue. One sip lasts a long time. Only way to describe it is an uppercut of Foursquare rums to all your senses. This one is an experience and not for the faint of heart. I’d give it a 10 if I could understand it better. I’m working on it. - rumratings.com
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- 93
2025 Water Wheel ViognierBendigo, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.9%Closure: StelvinA rich, full and texturally luscious Viognier.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Ripe peach and apricot aromas leap out of the glass followed by some honeysuckle, vanillin spice and delicate ginger notes. Rich, full and texturally luscious the palate is filled with ripe peach, apricot and honeysuckle flavours which are complimented by some butterscotch and ginger spice characters. Round and soft it has mild acidity and a long viscous finish that shows plenty of spice.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.9% -
- 96
- 97
2025 Best's Great Western RieslingGreat Western, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinRiesling vines were first planted as part of Henry Best’s ‘Nursery Block’ vineyard in the 1860s. Subsequent plantings followed in 1944 (since removed), 1978 and 1998. Always very flavoursome and very age worthy, the Best’s Great Western Rieslings are renown for their beautiful balance, texture and aromatics.
An Outstanding Great Western Riesling that boasts terrific drive, zest and concentration.
Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Intensely aromatic, the nose features lime, red apple and citrus scents which mix with whiffs of orange blossom, faint honeysuckle and slatey mineral notes. Boasting terrific drive, zest and concentration, mouth watering lime, citrus and green to red apple fruits are underscored by racy, slatey mineral infused acidity. Delicate mandarin and honeysuckle flavours also make an appearance. The finish is long, dry and zippy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews….
Grampians riesling at its very best. It defines varietal intensity but so too a fine and utterly delicious delicacy of touch. Aromatic, spicy, apple and lime scented with a lemon-lime essence quality, almost crystalline, that impresses and resonates deep. The palate brings an airy, powdery expression that runs deep and long and intense in lemon-lime citrus, grapefruit pith, apple and gingery spice married to a pure and lively acidity. Runs long, stays bright and will age and keep on going.
Drink by 2040.
97 points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion2025 Canberra International Riesling Challenge Elite/Gold award and the Trophy for:
• Best Australian Riesling
• Best Dry Riesling
• Best Wine of the Challenge
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- 95
- 94
2025 Garagiste Le Stagiaire ChardonnayMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinThe 2025 Le Stagiaire Chardonnay draws on fruit from Merricks (35%), Balnarring (25%), Merricks North (30%) and Tuerong (10%). Sorted in the vineyard and winery before being pressed as whole bunches to 500-litre puncheons, this wine is wild fermented with no temperature control, followed by seven months on lees to slowly enrich the texture. A couple of barrels went through malolactic, and the nicely integrated new oak component stands at 10%.
A rich, generously flavoured Mornington Peninsula Chardonnay with a beautifully rounded feel.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Elevated aromas of white peach, nectarine and dried honey are complimented by some cashew, biscuity nougat and spice notes. Mid weighted, the palate features ample richness and a mildly creamy textural feel with fleshy white peach and nectarine fruits to the fore. Cashew, subtle dried honey, biscuity nougat and spice elements sit underneath. Fresh and balanced it finishes long and generous with a beautifully rounded feel.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
I always chase Barney Flanders for his wines, which I think he quite likes. This is Merricks (35%), Balnarring (25%), Merricks North (30%) and Tuerong (10%). 500L puncheons, 10% new.
This is juicy and flavoursome. Nectarine, pink grapefruit, a lightly salty and spicy preserved lemon thing. It has a pulpy citrus flavour mixed with stone fruit, a little creamy and nutty, some flinty bits, with a seaside saline and citrus finish of excellent length. It’s such a tasty Chardonnay. Everything is in the right place. Drink 2025-2032.
94 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front -
- 94
2024 Ninth Island Sauvignon BlancTasmania, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinZippy acidity with a dry, herbaceous finish.
Brilliant water like colour with a delicate greenish tint to the edges. Leaping from the glass are herbaceous gooseberry scents accompanied by some passionfruit and distinct grassy asparagus notes. Mouth watering herbaceous gooseberry, passionfruit, lime and grassy asparagus flavours line the palate underscored by zippy acidity. Long, dry, herbaceous finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 88
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Artis Single Vineyard Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.4%Closure: StelvinLight and elegant with modest length to the finish.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Pretty violet, red cherry and red liquorice aromas drift out of the glass followed by some fresh herb and delicate spicy earth notes. Light and elegant the palate features juicy red cherry and cranberry fruits which meld into subtle spicy cedar and forest floor elements. Fine grained tannins and fresh acidity with modest length to the finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.4% -
- 95
2023 Handpicked Collection Tasmania ChardonnayTasmania, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: 1 - 6 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinRich yet refined with a gently creamed textural feel and an underlying freshness.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Drifting through the nostrils are elevated aromas of white peach, nectarine and citrus which are intertwined with subtle dried honey, biscuity nougat and spice notes. Rich, fleshy white peach, pear and dried honey flavour carry a refined flow across the palate which has a gently creamed textural feel. Showing an underlying freshness citrusy nougat, biscuity oak and spice elements linger through the long finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.5%














































