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- 93
- Organic
2024 Cantine Pra Classico Otto SoaveVeneto, ITALY$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinAn invigorating Soave that combines an intense flavour profile with a river stone like mouth feel.
Located in the heart of the Soave Classico DOC near Verona, Cantine Pra is run by brothers Sergio and Graziano Pra, the former tending the estates 25 hectares of vineyards and the latter in charge of the cantine. The Pra range of wines are considered to be one of the benchmarks for the region.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Attractive pear, lime and red apple aromas carry a distinct wet stone overlay with some fresh herb notes also evident. Delicious pear, red apple and lime fruits are layered across the scrumptious palate with impressive intensity. River stone like mouth feel and crisp acidity. Lingering through the long invigorating finish are infusions of slatey minerals and fresh herbs.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Montresor Primo Pinot NeroITALY$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 12%Closure: Diam CorkA light, energetic Pinot with juicy red fruit.
Red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a bright red hue. Delightful red cherry, winter strawberry and red liquorice scents flow from the glass trailed by some fresh herb and subtle earth notes. Delicious red cherry, strawberry and red liquorice fruits carry a juicy and agile feel across the lighter bodied palate. Earth and infusions of fresh herbs sit in the background. Fine grained tannins with an energetic red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 93
Storytellers Distillery Fwah Grass Australian Lemon Scented Grass Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 43%This is the world’s first gin built around native Lemon-Scented Grass (Cymbopogon ambiguus). The process involves an overnight steep, pot distillation, vapour infusion and a final post-distillation maceration. Lemongrass, citrus and fresh ginny notes are evident on the first sniff, then more pronounced on the palate where crushed pine buds and lemongrass fill the middle stages; Pickled ginger and wasabi warmth lifting the finish. A vibrant Asian-styled take on the distillery's Original Australian Dry. The fun presentation extends to each bottle containing a single blade of the grass. 43% Alc./Vol.
- 2024 Giuseppe Quintarelli Bianco SeccoVeneto, ITALY$125. 00Bottle$1500.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Cork
Giuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Bianco Secco is Quintarelli’s dry white from Garganega, Trebbiano, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and the local variety Saorin. Unlike the estate’s long-aged reds, this wine is fermented and matured on fine lees shortly after harvest with minimal time in oak, allowing freshness and structural balance to shine alongside Quintarelli’s traditional craftsmanship. Though often overlooked next to the legendary reds, Bianco Secco is quietly serious and capable of rewarding short- to medium-term cellaring, embodying the estate’s meticulous approach across styles.
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- 93
2023 Giuseppe Quintarelli PrimofioreVeneto, ITALY$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkGiuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Translated to “first flower”, Primofiore is the youngest of the wines of Quintarelli released each year. The mix here is Corvinone, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc where most of the grapes are directly pressed except for the Cabernet which undergoes air drying for around five weeks. A hallmark of Primofiore is its freshness and vibrant nature, and this highly aromatic wine is the perfect introduction to the charms of Quintarelli.
Other Reviews....
The 2023 Primofiore is more savory than sweet, opening with dusty rose tones, a beguiling whiff of tangerine, wild strawberries and stone dust. It is round and energetic in style, perfumed with violet and lavender tones as ripe blackberry fruits swirl throughout. The finish is classically dry and long, yet remarkably fresh, leaving a subtle tannic crunch and a hint of wild blueberry to linger. Drink 2025-2030.
93 points
Eric Guido - Vinous -
- 94
2018 Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico SuperioreVeneto, ITALY$285. 00Bottle$3420.00 DozenABV: 15%Closure: CorkGiuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Valpolicella Classico Superiore from Quintarelli is no ordinary Valpolicella and is released much later than most from the region after around seven years of ageing. Half of grapes are pressed after a 3-4 day maceration, while the other half is air dried for approximately two months. The wine then undergoes a second fermentation in contact with the lees of Quintarelli’s Amarone, in the Italian tradition of Ripasso, thereby utilising by-products of the legendary latter to add a layer of complexity to the already high-quality base wine. Quintarelli's Valpolicella shows outstanding depth and complexity, and would put many other producers' Amarone bottling to shame.
Other Reviews....
The 2018 Valpolicella Classico Superiore pulls the taster close to the glass with a darkly alluring blend of dried roses, violets, crushed stone, clove and blood orange. It washes across the palate with silken textures, lifted and finessed in the style of the vintage, as ripe wildberry fruits swirl beneath an air of sweet lavender. The word ethereal comes to mind as the 2018 tapers off with sweet tannins that provide a lovely framework to perfumed inner florals and hints of blackberry that resonate. Drink 2025-2032.
94 points
Eric Guido - Vinous -
- 97
2018 Giuseppe Quintarelli Amarone della Valpolicella ClassicoVeneto, ITALY$750. 00Bottle$9000.00 DozenABV: 16.5%Closure: CorkGiuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Only produced in exceptional years, Amarone from Quintarelli is one of the great wines of the world and one every wine lover should experience at least once in their lifetime. Attention to detail is critical during the drying process ensuring a natural and even result. The wine is aged for around seven years, and alcoholic fermentation occurs during this time to produce a dry wine at the end. Despite the elevated alcohol levels, this Amarone is light and lively on the palate, and displays an incredibly complex array of flavours even as a young wine.
Other Reviews....
The 2018 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico slowly evolves with a whimsical mix of dusty dried violets, cedar box, cardamom, stone dust and dried black cherries. It displays textures of pure silk, lifted and feminine in nature, as bright red berry fruits wash across the palate, leaving a tactile staining of minerals and sweet tannins. The 2018 shows incredible length and poise, leaving blue and purple inner florals over notes of licorice and clove through the lightly structured and completely harmonious finale. Bury this radiant beauty deep in the cellar. Drink 2027-2040.
97 points
Eric Guido - Vinous -
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- 95
2019 Pascal Agrapart Pinot Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature Champagne Premier CruChampagne, FRANCE$330. 00Bottle$3960.00 DozenClosure: CorkChampagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.
The newest cuvee in the Agrapart range, Pinot is the domaine's first Blanc de Noirs and comes from the family's small parcel of Champ Saint-Bernard in Avenay-Val-d'Or, a historic Pinot village north of Aÿ. The vines, now 40 to 50 years old, sit mid-slope on deep, clay-rich soils over chalk with a southeast exposure. The wine was fermented in demi-muids with native yeast and full malolactic, then matured under cork. Disgorged in June 2025, it marks a distinctive extension of the Agrapart style, drawing on the site's structure and darker spice-leaning character while maintaining the estate's hallmark finesse and balance.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Brut Nature Blanc de Noirs Le Champ Saint-Bernard is 100% Pinot Noir from the Agrapart family's vineyards in Avenay-Val-d'Or that also inform the Terroirs bottling. Creamy and layered, the Champ Saint-Bernard offers lovely textural resonance. Kirsch, dried flowers, ginger and spice are all seamless in the glass. This is a strong debut. Bottled with no dosage. Disgorged: May 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year. Drink 2025-2034.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA complex, fruity wine that shows aromas of green apples, chalk and strawberries. Medium-bodied and powerful, with medium-size bubbles, a creamy texture, crisp acidity, a lot of tension and a chalky and toasty finish. A wine full of personality. A pinot noir brut nature. Drink or hold.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- 97
2019 Pascal Agrapart Mineral Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand CruChampagne, FRANCE$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenClosure: CorkChampagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.
Mineral is blended from two adjacent vieilles vignes plots (50-plus years old) on the border between Avize and Cramant, where the vine roots plunge straight into the chalky bedrock. The fruit from Le Champ Bouton in Avize fermented in tank, while the component from Les Bionnes in Cramant was vinified in 600-litre oak casks. The 2019 spent just over five years on lees and was dosed at 3.5g/L.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Minéral Grand Cru is fabulous. All it needs is time to unwind. Readers should be in no rush. Bright and packed with energy, the 2019 is so classy right out of the gate. Vibrant and intensely mineral, the 2019 is very closed in on itself. That won't be a problem in a few years' time, but for now, the Minéral is a wine for the cellar. Extended saline-inflected notes punctuate the sculpted finish, adding to the wine's alluring personality. Minéral, a blend of old-vine sites in Avize and Cramant, is slow to emerge, but it's a Champagne that rewards cellaring. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: June 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year. Drink 2027-2039.
96 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA minerally Champagne with aromas of chalk, citrus, lemon pith, oyster shells, iodine and linden tree. Vertical on the palate, with floral flavors and a fine mousse. Very intense and persistent, with a medium body and long, zesty, lingering mineral acidity. 3 g/L dosage. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- 97
2019 Pascal Agrapart Mineral Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru Magnum (1500ml)Champagne, FRANCE$799. 00Bottle$9588.00 DozenClosure: CorkChampagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.
Mineral is blended from two adjacent vieilles vignes plots (50-plus years old) on the border between Avize and Cramant, where the vine roots plunge straight into the chalky bedrock. The fruit from Le Champ Bouton in Avize fermented in tank, while the component from Les Bionnes in Cramant was vinified in 600-litre oak casks. The 2019 spent just over five years on lees and was dosed at 3.5g/L.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Minéral Grand Cru is fabulous. All it needs is time to unwind. Readers should be in no rush. Bright and packed with energy, the 2019 is so classy right out of the gate. Vibrant and intensely mineral, the 2019 is very closed in on itself. That won't be a problem in a few years' time, but for now, the Minéral is a wine for the cellar. Extended saline-inflected notes punctuate the sculpted finish, adding to the wine's alluring personality. Minéral, a blend of old-vine sites in Avize and Cramant, is slow to emerge, but it's a Champagne that rewards cellaring. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: June 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year. Drink 2027-2039.
96 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA minerally Champagne with aromas of chalk, citrus, lemon pith, oyster shells, iodine and linden tree. Vertical on the palate, with floral flavors and a fine mousse. Very intense and persistent, with a medium body and long, zesty, lingering mineral acidity. 3 g/L dosage. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 97
- 97
2019 Pascal Agrapart Avizoise Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand CruChampagne, FRANCE$499. 00Bottle$5988.00 DozenClosure: CorkChampagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.
Avizoise is sourced from old vines of around 50 to 60 years of age, situated in the clay-rich (argilo-calcaire) Coteaux d’Avize vineyards of Les Robarts and Les Gros Yeux. The richer soils and altitude of these neighbouring sites bring more exotic fruit and roundness. The wine aged entirely in 600-litre demi-muid, and bottle fermentation took place under cork rather than crown seal. The 2019 spent just over five years on lees and was bottled without dosage.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs L’Avizoise Grand Cru is dialed up to the maximum. Ample and broad on the palate, the Avizoise is seriously impressive right out of the gate. So expressive today, the 2019 will only improve over time. Even in the early going, it soars with tremendous textural resonance and body. The natural gravitas of these sites (Champboutons and Bionnes) in Avize comes through loud and clear. The Avizoise is the most dense and potent of these Champagnes from Agrapart. It is bottled with no dosage but does have 3 grams of natural residual sugar. Disgorged: June 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year. Drink 2027-2039.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousAn austere nose of lime zest, chalk and lemon leaves. It needs time in the glass to become gentler, with lemon curd and apple flavors, pinprick bubbles, a medium body and very good concentration that’s typical of the vintage. A restrained wine with zesty, integrated acidity and a super tight-knit texture. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 97
- 95
2019 Pascal Agrapart Venus Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature Champagne Grand CruChampagne, FRANCE$775. 00Bottle$9300.00 DozenClosure: CorkChampagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.
Venus is a very special wine from a very special plot. It comes from one-third of a hectare of vines in the renowned Avize vineyard plot, La Fosse aux Pourceaux. This 0.3-hectare section of La Fosse lies on the chalkiest portion of the slope near the village (contrasting with the more clay-rich soils of the Avizoise cuvée). The vines were planted in 1959 and so are extremely old by Champagne standards. This single parcel cuvée is therefore made in only tiny quantities each year. The wine is named after the Boulonnais mare, Vénus, that first ploughed the vineyard. Venus has more depth, grip and phenolic power than Avizoise, yet it offers plenty of finesse and mineral intensity to match the wine’s power and complexity.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Vénus Grand Cru is another striking wine in this range. Seamless and layered in the glass, the Vénus has so much to offer. All the elements are so well balanced, so totally put together. White pepper, chalk, mint and crushed rocks are all finely delineated. This tiny parcel in Avize, planted in 1959, consistently turns out pedigreed Champagnes. Magnificent. Bottled with no dosage. Disgorged: June 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year. Drink 2027-2039.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousAromas of minerals, nuts, subtle pastry, lemon pulp and orange blossoms. Medium- to full-bodied with zesty lemony acidity and tingling fine bubbles extending to the finish. Drink or hold.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- Biodynamic
2023 Domaine Pernot Pere et Fils Bourgogne Cote d'Or Pinot NoirBurgundy, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkDomaine Pernot Pere et Fils is rising producer in the Côte de Nuits, historically rooted in the village of Brochon, just north of Gevrey-Chambertin. The estate, formally established in 1900, is now led by the ambitious fourth-generation winemaker, Pascal Pernot. Since taking over in 2018, Pascal has quickly elevated the domaine's reputation by championing a philosophy of vineyard purity, working hard to progress the vineyards to a sustainable viticulture while slowly implementing aspects of biodynamics. A key point of difference is his commitment to early picking to ensure the wines retain freshness and natural acidity, providing structural elegance and longevity. Fermentations are carried out with indigenous yeasts, and the elevage is handled judiciously with a mix of traditional barrels and larger demi-muids.
Other Reviews....
The fruit in Les Prielles, on the stones, suffered a bit so Pascal started picking there. A delicious bouquet with ripe but not excessive raspberry fruit. Attractive crunchy fruit with some depth and length. Half has been aged in barrel and half in tank. Drink from 2026-2028.
88 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- Biodynamic
2023 Domaine Pernot Pere et Fils Gevrey-ChambertinBurgundy, FRANCE$180. 00Bottle$2160.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkDomaine Pernot Pere et Fils is rising producer in the Côte de Nuits, historically rooted in the village of Brochon, just north of Gevrey-Chambertin. The estate, formally established in 1900, is now led by the ambitious fourth-generation winemaker, Pascal Pernot. Since taking over in 2018, Pascal has quickly elevated the domaine's reputation by championing a philosophy of vineyard purity, working hard to progress the vineyards to a sustainable viticulture while slowly implementing aspects of biodynamics. A key point of difference is his commitment to early picking to ensure the wines retain freshness and natural acidity, providing structural elegance and longevity. Fermentations are carried out with indigenous yeasts, and the elevage is handled judiciously with a mix of traditional barrels and larger demi-muids.
Other Reviews....
From the northern end of the appellation, Champerrier, En Derée, En Croisotte. Intense purple in colour, all destemmed. 20% new wood. The aromatics are on the cusp of strawberry and raspberry. A bit more extraction but this has worked really well. In the mouth, the raspberry side dominates while the acidity and tannins provide structure. Drink from 2027-2032.
92 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- Biodynamic
2023 Domaine Pernot Pere et Fils Gevrey-Chambertin (375ml)Burgundy, FRANCE$105. 00Bottle$1260.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkDomaine Pernot Pere et Fils is rising producer in the Côte de Nuits, historically rooted in the village of Brochon, just north of Gevrey-Chambertin. The estate, formally established in 1900, is now led by the ambitious fourth-generation winemaker, Pascal Pernot. Since taking over in 2018, Pascal has quickly elevated the domaine's reputation by championing a philosophy of vineyard purity, working hard to progress the vineyards to a sustainable viticulture while slowly implementing aspects of biodynamics. A key point of difference is his commitment to early picking to ensure the wines retain freshness and natural acidity, providing structural elegance and longevity. Fermentations are carried out with indigenous yeasts, and the elevage is handled judiciously with a mix of traditional barrels and larger demi-muids.
Other Reviews....
From the northern end of the appellation, Champerrier, En Derée, En Croisotte. Intense purple in colour, all destemmed. 20% new wood. The aromatics are on the cusp of strawberry and raspberry. A bit more extraction but this has worked really well. In the mouth, the raspberry side dominates while the acidity and tannins provide structure. Drink from 2027-2032.
92 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- Biodynamic
2023 Domaine Pernot Pere et Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Les Jeunes RoisBurgundy, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkDomaine Pernot Pere et Fils is rising producer in the Côte de Nuits, historically rooted in the village of Brochon, just north of Gevrey-Chambertin. The estate, formally established in 1900, is now led by the ambitious fourth-generation winemaker, Pascal Pernot. Since taking over in 2018, Pascal has quickly elevated the domaine's reputation by championing a philosophy of vineyard purity, working hard to progress the vineyards to a sustainable viticulture while slowly implementing aspects of biodynamics. A key point of difference is his commitment to early picking to ensure the wines retain freshness and natural acidity, providing structural elegance and longevity. Fermentations are carried out with indigenous yeasts, and the elevage is handled judiciously with a mix of traditional barrels and larger demi-muids.
Other Reviews....
Pascal pulled out half after 2023 so as to be able to replant in a better organised fashion. All destemmed, and aged in wood from the forest of Jupille. Deep dark purple. The nose has a little stewed plum, Rich sultry fruit, very dark raspberry, but opens out a little more at the back. Quite a powerful expression. Black cherries to finish, though not overdone. In the end, the juicier of the two single vineyard wines. Drink from 2028-2033.
91 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 92
2022 Tenuta Ulisse Amaranta di Ulisse Montepulciano d'AbruzzoMontepulciano D'Abruzzo, ITALY$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkA rich, lush Montepulciano with prominent vanillin oak and a ripe chewy tannin structure.
For the eighth or ninth year in a row… we’ve lost count… this wine has yet again received a 99 point rating from Italian wine critic Luca Maroni.
Aged for 9 months in French and American oak barriques. Dense inky black in colour with a very deep dak red black hue. Pronounced liquorice and ripe morello cherry aromas combine with vanillin spice, scorched earth and cinnamon notes. Rich lush morello cherry, black plum and liquorice fruits meld into a prominent vanillin oak, earthy cinnamon and spice back drop. Ripe chewy tannin structure with vanillin oak and cinnamon spice characters lingering across the finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 97
- 95
2025 Henschke Julius RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenABV: 11.7%Closure: StelvinFourth-generation winemaker Cyril Henschke developed the Henschke reputation for premium Riesling wines as early as the 1950’s from the vineyard areas of Eden Valley, Keyneton and Springton in the Eden Valley wine region.
Winery Notes: Pale lemon with green hues. Fragrant aromas of orange blossom, frangipani and lime zest are lifted by hints of elderflower, white rose and chamomile. A rich and elegant palate of finger lime, white peach, pink grapefruit, lemon and musk is driven by pure minerality and crisp acidity, carrying through to a long and focused finish.
11.7% alc
Other Reviews.....
Brings some cracking acidity to concentrated lemon-lime citrus Riesling fruit and the result is quite startling and perky. There is an impressive, driving acidity – brisk, busy and racy – which filters through every moment the wine is on the tongue. In keeping with its Eden Valley origin, the apple blossom, honeysuckle florals are inviting and in harmony with green apple, grapefruit pith, lemons and limes, bath salts, saline and flinty, wet rock minerals. The palate is crisp and moves at a clip before finishing on a long, attractive floral note. And, as always, Julius Riesling is a keeper, a wine that can only – and most definitely, does – improve with time. Drink 2025-2045.
95 points
Jeni Port - WinePilot.com
Pale straw in the glass with a flash of green and beautifully defined aromas of freshly squeezed lime juice, green apple, Bickford's lime cordial and grapefruit. You'll find hints of crushed quartz, Christmas lily, orange blossom, almond paste, ozone, lemongrass and makrut lime. Sleek, focused and wonderfully pure. There is an ache of precision and minerality that marks its passage over the palate, all tension and velocity and cadence. Jeez, it is a lovely wine, finishing dry and slatey with just a glimpse of umami as it trails off. Drink by 2040.
97 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
- 92
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- 93
2023 Tenuta San Guido GuidalbertoTuscany, ITALY$140. 00Bottle$1680.00 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews....
The Tenuta San Guido 2023 Guidalberto comes from a challenging vintage, shaped by heat and rain that brought pressure from downy mildew, particularly affecting early-ripening Merlot. Big efforts were made during selection. Aromatically plump and expressive, the wine shows ripe cherry and blackberry preserves layered over a medium- to full-bodied mouthfeel, with primary fruit rounded by sweet notes of cinnamon. Despite the difficulties of the year, there is appealing freshness on the palate with hints of orange peel and blood orange that lift the fruit, giving the wine energy and balance. Drink 2025-2032.
93 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Guidalberto is another terrific wine from Tenuta San Guido in this vintage. Aromatic, medium in body and gracious, the 2023 is pure charm. Crushed flowers, bright red-toned fruit, spice and blood orange all pulse through a vibrant, refreshing Guidalberto that will drink well on release. The more refined side of Bolgheri is very much on display. This is a fine effort in a year marked by heavy rains and elevated disease pressure. What a delight. Drink 2025-2033.
92 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousThis vintage shows a remarkable aromatic profile of Mediterranean herbs, cassis, black cherries, leather and earth with a kind of gamey depth. Full-bodied, it shows velvety, slightly sandy tannins with a firm structure, refreshing integrated acidity and a savory cedar finish. Drinkable now, but best in one or two years.
96 points
Aldo Fiordelli - JamesSuckling.comThe 2023 Guidalberto was tasted as a preview and was a preliminary blend of barrel samples prepared for this tasting by the winery team, led by Carlo Paoli. The second sample that was blended was pure and ripe, with detailed layers of youthful cherry liqueur, fresh herbs, and lavender perfume. The palate offers medium to full-bodied richness, with a supple and primary feel, though it starts to reveal its underlying refined structure. While this was an early preliminary look at what the wine could look like, I’m looking forward to next year’s tasting to see how it develops.
92-94 points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.comSuper-fresh with balsamic herb, blueberry and floral aromatics, Guidalberto 2023 has blossomed into a grand vin all of its own. Invigorating cool forest berry flavours mingle with touches of spice and fine, silky tannins. So poised. Wow! Drink 2026-2040.
96 points
James Button - Decanter -
- 95
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2015 Arras Grand VintageTasmania, AUSTRALIA$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkA sculptured, toasty style of Sparkling finishing very dry, tense and minerally.
A frothy mousse dissipates to reveal a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold tinged edges and a nimble stream of bubbles rising to the surface. Springing from the glass are aromas of pear, citrus and oily toast like notes followed by whiffs of lemon butter, lees and roasted almond. Sculptured by crisp, chalk tinged acidity, the palate features mouth filling flavours of baked pear, citrus, yeast lees and oily toast like characters over traces of lemon butter and roasted almond. Finishes very dry with a tense, minerally finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews....
I like the nose. Beef stock and porcini. Earthenware. Grounded. Then, ginger and orange marmalade with some peony and redcurrant crunching beyond. This is another richly flavored fizz, dense, full and playing the aldehydic card of toast and creaminess with a stacked deck of complexities. Yet the aura is less obvious and more savory. What I really like about this is the complete, mineral-clad filigreed finish. A superlative Tasmanian fizz. Drink or hold.
96 points
JamesSuckling.comThe new release of the Grand Vintage sees a blend of 66.7/33.8% chardonnay/pinot noir sourced from the East Coast, Derwent Valley, Coal River Valley and Pipers River. On tirage seven years, dosage 2.6 g/L. Medium straw in the glass with an über-fine bead and energetic mousse. Aromas of juicy white peach, green apple, pithy grapefruit and pear cut with hints of soft spice, grilled nuts, fresh brioche, dried honey, orange blossom and stone. There are some umami notes on the palate – a gentle ache is all, but its presence is felt nevertheless. Notes of sea spray, honeycomb and fresh pastries swell on the mid-palate and the finish is long and true with tight acidity, impressive tension and a wash of biscuity tones on the exit. Drink by 2033.
96 points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 98
2024 Pierro ChardonnayMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2025-2035)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA benchmark Australian Chardonnay that balances power and richness with exceptional finesse and impeccable structure.
Owner and manager of Pierro Estate, Dr Mike Peterkin, has a viticultural pedigree second to none. Besides making one of Margaret River's and Australia’s best Chardonnays, Mike also produced the first Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blend in Australia.
Fermented in French barriques, the wine goes through a full malolactic fermentation which helps achieve superior texture, mouth feel and a more refined, persistent flavour. Lees are stirred fortnightly by hand in barrel over a period of 12 months.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green highlighted edges and a watery hue. Both complex and captivating, the nose features an elevated aromatic profile of white peach, nectarine and citrus infused with gun flint married to biscuity oak, faint nougat, delicate dried honey and spice. Rich and incredibly powerful yet possessing wonderful finesse, the medium weighted palate is layered with mouth filling white peach, pear and nectarine fruits. Infusions of gun flint, citrusy nougat, subtle dried honey, mealy roasted almond like characters, traces of crème brulee and spice lend further sophistication to what is a kaleidoscopic flavour experience. Generous creamy like textural feel counterpointed by a delightful underlying freshness. Finishes exceptionally long with a Burgundian like refinement.
Magnificent drinking over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
From one of Margaret River’s great chardonnay producers, this is yet another brilliant example of the style that has made Pierro so admired. You wouldn’t guess it came from a warm year—it’s delicate and fine, with a pristine brightness. The nose shows light grapefruit, citrus, a touch of butterscotch, and a subtle mealy note in the background. The palate has real zing, with lively, pristine acidity driving through to a sustained finish. A chalky, minerally edge adds to the linear feel and precision. Another outstanding Pierro chardonnay.
98 points
RayJordanWine.com.au - Glengyle Distillery Kilkerran 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2025 BottlingCampbeltown, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 46%
The Kilkerran brand has been described as "Springbank's big middle finger to the SWA" for trying to screw them out of a regional designation. In 1998 the Scotch Whisky Association decided to cease referring to Campbeltown as a whisky region. Two distilleries (Springbank & Glen Scotia) simply weren't enough. Prompted to restore the Peninsula's reputation, Hedley Wright, the owner of Springbank envisioned Glengyle as a project to cement Campbeltown as a region proper, rather than just an extension of the Lowlands. Its whiskies are now on just about every malt maniacs short list. Many who were lucky enough to be acquainted with Springbank's output a decade or so ago appreciate that Kilkerran is essentially a slightly less peated version of the same malt - for less dollars. The same distillery team run both operations. There is a slight difference in the production process but the upshot is a lightly peated West Highlander with fresh citrus notes and an oiliness on the palate, plus a little briney, coastal character. Because its profile clocks the range of flavours found in single malt Scotch, it is in many ways quintessential. The 12 year old is the perfect introduction. The 2025 edition was matured in 70% Bourbon and 30% Sherry casks and bottled at their standard strength of 46% without chill filtration. Experience has shown that the best time to buy it is at the start of each allocation cycle while the opening prices hold. Global demand for this distillery is already catching up with Springbank.
Notes from the producers... Initially zesty with citrus notes of lemon cheesecake and an oiliness typical of a Campbeltown whisky. Peat smoke, leather bound books and peppery, spicy notes develop over time, along with sweet sticky toffee pudding. The peat smoke carries through to the finish in campfire embers, with sweet hints of pecan pie and butterscotch.
- Bundaberg Regeneration 3 Year Old Rum (700ml)AUSTRALIA$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 37%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Having raised a reported one million dollars from 100% of the profits, Bundaberg's Regeneration Rum went a long way to help WWF's Wildlife & Nature Recovery Fund after the Black Summer bushfires. The money raised has also continued to help with WWF's conservation and rebuilding efforts after various other ecological disasters. Signifying the commitment from Bundaberg, they have replaced the iconic Polar Bear with a Koala, one of many species dramatically affected by the bushfires. The bottling is their standard UP Rum. 37% Alc./Vol. -
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Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass Cask Strength Rye Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 59.56%While this whiskey is finished in Kentucky, it's actually made up of ryes sourced from undisclosed distilleries in Indiana, Tennessee and Canada. Each component was finished separately in Martinique Rhum Agricole casks, apricot brandy casks, and Madeira barrels. On the surface, this seems like a quirky and rather risky blending exercise that could have ended up as a costly mistake. Yet, according to several reviews, the combination works, and works surprisingly well. Fred Minnick listed it as number 2 in his Top 100 American Whiskeys of 2021, while the boys at breakingbourbon.com also considered it a success (see below). 59.56% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Barrell Seagrass is a bold risk that utilizes wildly different finished whiskeys, yet manages to nail it thanks to precision blending. Barrell Seagrass features a set of finished whiskeys that can all be potent on their own and the idea of blending them seems a bit insane. But blending is what Barrell Craft Spirits has built their name and reputation on. It cannot be a small task to seamlessly blend together the flavor of rye, rum, madeira, and brandy into one product and there really isn’t anyone in the American whiskey market experimenting with such wild blends. There’s no denying Seagrass offers a unique flavor profile - that’s a given at this point - but that Barrell was able to make it work is the bigger takeaway. Using a rye as the base was the correct decision as it contrasts the sugary fruit profile from the finishing barrels effectively. Barrell Seagrass is a one-of-a-kind sip, that for all of its uniqueness, may not be as polarizing as some of the others that the company has released in the past. Barrell Seagrass is a testament that there are still plenty of opportunities in American whiskey for those who seek them out and take a chance. - breakingbourbon.com
Candied oranges and watermelon, pineapple, and confectionery shop meet tropical fruit grove, anchored by an earthy note of potpourri. There's sweetness on the palate, but a chile powder heat serves as counterweight when things become spicier—quite different from its dulcet start, though water evens out the balance. The finish reveals cinnamon-raisin cake and Christmas spice. There's generous spice and sweetness here, but at times a lack of balance. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com
San Francisco World Spirits Competition - DOUBLE GOLD (2021), (2023)
Ultimate Spirits Challenge - 92 Points (2021), 93 points (2022)
Notes from the producers... Nose: High concentrations of bright, fruity esters lend a perfume-like character to the aroma. Honeydew melon and plum sit alongside a slice of ripe apricot resting out in the sun. The underlying rye is revealed by a sea-like salinity, tarragon, and elderflower. Palate: Sweet and juicy, Seagrass opens on pear, lychee, and white grapefruit. Classic rye flavors of cinnamon, rosemary, fennel seed, and rosehip aren’t far behind. Unctuous texture and sandy tannin are complemented by a delicate astringency so common to Canadian whiskeys. Finish: Fresh and clean, but the persistent tannin and astringency focus the powerful burst of camphor, chalk dust, and scorched earth. With a few drops of spring water. Despite bright notes of passionfruit and geranium, the nose settles down considerably. The fresh notes are now candied -- papaya, orange peel, and ginger. Liege waffle and beef tallow lay a rich foundation. The palate grows creamier, displaying french vanilla ice cream, pawpaw, and orris root.
- Elijah Craig Ryder Cup 2025 Edition Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$189. 99Bottle$2279.88 DozenABV: 47%
Whisk(e)y brands partnering with celebrities and sporting events are becoming increasingly common. Often there's nothing particularly special about the whiskey itself. Instead, all you get is a minor change in label design. When it comes to Elijah Craig’s partnership with the Ryder Cup Golf Tournament, that's not the case. The distillery has released a new wood finished bourbon that uses toasted sugar maple and applewood staves - a fitting tribute to the tournament's locale (the sugar maple is the state tree of New York, and applewood represents "The Big Apple"). The resulting flavour profile includes maple syrup, apple and caramel with notes of chocolate and spice. Reviews are generally positive, noting its sweetness, warmth, and smooth, toasty finish. It's one for collectors, golf enthusiasts, and bourbon lovers looking for a uniquely themed bottle. 47% Alc./Vol.
- 1975 Delord Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$270. 00Bottle$3240.00 DozenABV: 40%
Situated in Bas-Armagnac, Delord's distillery is to be found in the village of Lannepax, the ancestral home of the Delord family. They comment, "Our old Sier Armagnac alambics, that we wouldn't part with for all the gold in the world, produce less than 30 litres of eau-de-vie an hour. Our cellars contain our old treasured vintages and include more than 700 oak barrels that protect and age the Armagnac eau-de-vie dating from the 20th Century to the present day". This rare edition was distilled from the 1975 harvest. 40% Alc./Vol.
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2023 Forest Hill Vineyard Cabernet SauvignonMount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Malbec with the Cabernet component coming predominately from blocks planted in 1975. Ageing took place in a combination of French oak barrels (20% new) and a 3000 litre Foudre for a period of 12 months.
Captivatingly rich and concentrated yet refined, this is a superb Mount Barker Cabernet from the outstanding 2023 vintage.
Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Delightful red to black currant, red liquorice and mulberry aromas sail through the nostrils complimented by some cedary tobacco, dusty earth, subtle spicy black olive and bay leaf notes. Rich and intensely flavoured yet gorgeously refined, the mid weighted palate is layered with red to black currant and mulberry fruits. Lending further complexity are seamlessly integrated spicy vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco, subtle black olive and bay leaf accents. Slightly dusty but very fine grained tannins concluding long and concentrated yet elegant.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
There is 3% malbec in this wine. A variety of blocks are utilised for the cabernet component. Sleek and elegant, really understated and refined. A sheath of lightweight but puckering, al dente tannin keeping in dark cherry, cassis, alpine herb notes, clove, white pepper and tobacco. The wine does two speeds of fruit friendly and fresh while being earthy, herbal and savoury at the same time. Excellent length, tightly wound and just so darn superb overall. How is this this price?! Ludicrous. Drink by 2035.
95 Points
Mike Bennie – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
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- 93
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- Reduced
Louis Roederer Collection 246 Brut ChampagneChampagne, FRANCEReduced from $99.99$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkCrisp and sculptured with a long, tense and chalky finish.
Collection 246 is the 6th release of this multi-vintage cuvée which replaces the Brut Premier. The Collection 246 shares the same philosophy as the Jacquesson 7 series and Krug’s Edition wines, which are based on a younger vintage blended with some older reserve wines. A blend of 54% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir and 11% Meunier, it is based on the finest wines from the 2021 harvest (55%) and complemented by 35% of the Perpetual Reserve (2012-2020) and 10% of oak-aged reserve wines sourced from young Cristal vines (2012-2017).
Exuberant mousse with a pale straw coloured base that has luminous pale gold edges and a nimble stream of bubbles coursing through it. Gorgeous, lifted aromatics with baked bread, yeast lees and pear scents trailed by some citrus and subtle roasted almond notes. Lighter and more delicate in style than the 245, mouth watering pear, citrus and yeasty baked bread flavours are sculptured by crisp acidity which provides it with a chiselled feel. Subtle cashew and chalky mineral elements lie underneath. The long, dry finish, tense and chalky.
Alc. 12.5%
Other Reviews…..
The NV Brut Collection 246 is positively stellar. It’s a terrific example of where Roederer is going with this cuvée stylistically. Brisk saline notes cut through a core of orchard fruit, mint, white pepper and slate. There are no hard angles or awkward contours. The 246 is based on 2021, an extremely tricky vintage for Champagne. Chef de Caves Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon bumped up the percentage of Chardonnay considerably and focused on Pinots from the Montagne de Reims. About 30% of the lots underwent malolactic fermentation to soften the edges. Twenty-four percent of the wines were fermented in oak, the rest in tank. The 246 is a blend of 55% base 2021 vintage wines described above, plus 30% perpetual reserve going back to 2012 (mostly from Cumières, Vertus and Verzy) in tank and 10% young-vine juice from Cristal plots aged in cask. The final blend is 54% Chardonnay (as opposed to the more typical 44%), 35% Pinot Noir and 11% Meunier. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. More importantly, the 246 is impeccably done and absolutely delicious. Drink 2025-2035.
93 Points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
This has pretty and elegant aromas of pears, apple blossoms, grapefruit and chalk. It’s silky, fresh and beautifully balanced on the palate, with very soft bubbles. Based on 2021, with reserve wine from a perpetual reserve created in 2012, plus reserve wines kept in oak from 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. Drink now.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com
A harmonious Champagne that shows impeccable balance, with depth and focus to its flavors of white cherry, Honeycrisp apple, tangerine peel and biscuit, while retaining vibrancy and grace. A chalky underpinning comes to the fore on the creamy finish, joining delicate spice and floral accents. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier. Drink now through 2030.
93 Points
Wine Spectator -
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Signature Tasting Pack (3 x 200ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenA premium gift box containing three Burdekin signature spirits: Virgin Cane Spirit, Vintage Cane Spirit, and Premium Aged Rum. Ideal for gifting or for those wishing to sample the range.
Premium Aged Rum – Elegant and refined, with layers of smoke, vanilla, and burnt orange.
Virgin Cane Spirit – Freshly pressed sugarcane, hybrid distilled for a pure, crisp flavour.
Vintage Cane Spirit – Aged in Pedro Ximénez barrels, rich with notes of toffee and mixed spice.
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Overeem Distillery "Man of Promise Reserve" Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml) - 2025 ReleaseTasmania, AUSTRALIA$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 46.2%Hand-selected by distillery founder, Casey Overeem, the 2025 ‘Man of Promise Reserve’ is a marriage of Bourbon and Port cask matured malts resulting in a deliciously approachable, medium-bodied whisky that's all about the finish; oak spice and vanillas peacock into a plump, port-soaked, fruit cake finale. Tasted from a 20ml sample. 46.5% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... The bourbon imparts vibrant, fruit-forward notes, while the Port lends a lovely richness, resulting in a whisky of remarkable balance and sophistication, perfect for the festive season.
- Pokeno Alchemy Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (700ml)NEW ZEALAND$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 46%
A rich, complex New Zealand single malt derived from maturation in six different cask types: Pedro Ximenez Sherry, Virgin American Oak, and Tawny and Ruby Port casks. Reviews highlight tasting notes of ripe red fruits, dark chocolate and Black Forest gateau, with rich honey, caramel, and vanilla on the finish. It is considered the distillery's most full bodied release to date, resulting from a "magical process of creation and combination of whiskies." 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Distillers Edition Second Giru Cane Spirit Coral Sea Strength (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 54.5%Building on the foundation of the JP Edition, Second Giru Cane Spirit is created from fresh crushed cane from the 2024 harvest and elevated by a higher proof. Burdekin source local sugarcane, then single pass distill resulting in a British Navy (Coral Sea) strength expression. The spirit presents traditional French Caribbean aromatics of cut grass, sea and minerality, and a smooth palate of salt and aniseed. . There are no additives. One for purists and lovers of Clairin or Rhum Agricoles. 600 bottles produced at 54.5% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The 'Coral Sea Strength' title on this Burdekin Distillers Edition unaged cane spirit from 2024 refers to its powerful 54.5% abv. But boy, does it wear that booze well. Drinking this, you’d never guess it was so strong, and in many ways it’s more integrated and less volatile than some of Burkdekin’s much lower-strength releases. The nose shows wonderful integration and no spirit harshness with notes of grilled pineapple, black pepper and tropical rain on hot concrete, as well as a super fresh oyster brininess. The abv shows itself on the palate, but not anywhere near as harsh as you’d expect, the alcohol incredibly well integrated into this sweet, creamy spirit that lingers with the green herbaceousness of fresh sugarcane. An incredibly enjoyable and incredibly drinkable spirit. I’d be tempted to drink this as a martini, or simply on the rocks, but it would make an incredible Martinique-style Ti' Punch, too. 96 points - Fred Siggins, winecompanion.com.au
Double-Gold 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Gold 2025 Royal Queensland Awards -
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Distillers Edition Burnt Cane Spirit (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 40%Burdekin Distillery is located in Majors Creek, Queensland, at the foot of Mt. Elliot within Bowling Green National Park. The area is a hub for sugar cane growing, providing the key ingredient for its rum production which includes both fresh cane juice and molasses-based spirits.
Double distilled and rested in a re-charred ex-bourbon barrel for two years, Burdekin's Distillers Edition was initially only available to guests of Queensland's Sweet Days, Hot Nights festival — so it's kind of a special memento to commemorate the spirit of the event. Burnt cane from the cutting competition in Home Hill was crushed then fermented with a proprietary yeast blend. It's described as having aromas of peach, vanilla and Anzac biscuits followed by subtle flavours of honeyed spices, woody undertones and a super-smooth, smoky finish. 40% Alc./Vol. No additives.
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- Nick's Import
2012 Edradour 12 Year Old Small Batch Bordeaux Wine Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 48.2%Another diversion from the norm of sherry and bourbon matured malts that Edradour does so well. Apparently this was full-term matured in red wine casks, which is quite daring. Some say the taste is absolutely wine dominant, not sweet at all, though without the winey tannins you might expect. To sum up, "Very very winey Scotch, interesting." Labelled as a small batch release, so the outturn was probably around 1200 bottles. 48.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... N: Moderate lactic acidity, blackcurrant, oak nuances with tannins, subtle rosehip (with hints of rose fruit and citrus), dirty spices, a hint of earth. Rosa perfume. T: Fragrant blackcurrant, red berries, a hint of tannin, and a hint of pencil lead. Perhaps, as expected from a Bordeaux cask (I'm not sure what wine was used, but I'm guessing it's from the Médoc Left Bank, with a strong Cabernet Sauvignon note from Graves and Pauillac). This was due to the milky, silky texture, the prominent pencil lead, and the soft, tannin-like undertones that seemed to settle in the mid- and lower-bodied palate. The characteristic character and silky/milky texture of the Edradour Spirit were impressive. Additionally, the flavor revealed nuances of rose, mud, and a hint of spice. The bright, refreshing red berry character was also impressive. F: The finish was consistent and long. Even after adding water, the berry nuances remained, and the slippery oiliness and minerality-derived bitterness were impressive. The moderate tannins tingled the tongue, creating a pleasant balance with the spice. - whiskybase.com
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2024 Elm Bomba BiancoAlpine Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA generously textured and spicy dry white.
Made from Malvasia d’Istria and Pinot Bianco grapes. Bright straw colour with a watery hue. Spicy pear, dried apple and quince aromas are trailed by some almond and slatey mineral notes. Ripe pear, Jonathan apple and quince fruits are quite round and full in their flow across the palate with delicate honeysuckle and spice elements sitting in the background. Brisk acidity with a generously textured and spicy finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 90
2024 Erste + Neue Kalterersee Classico SuperioreAlto Adige, ITALY$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkLight, fresh and energetic with a bright, juicy red fruited finish.
Semi translucent cherry red colour with a light red tinged hue. Aromas of red raspberry and red liquorice mix with some earth, subtle fresh herb and spice notes. Delicious red raspberry and red liquorice fruits carry a slippery textural feel across the light, fresh palate. Energetic acidity with delicate earth, fresh herb and spice elements also chiming in. Polished tannins with a bright, juicy red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 92
2023 Radford Dale Vinum Chenin BlancStellenbosch, SOUTH AFRICA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinJuicy and texturally rounded with a lick of fresh acidity shining through the fruity mid length finish.
Bright straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of ripe red apple, baked pear and honeysuckle are trailed by some quince and cinnamon spice notes. Juicy ripe apple and pear fruits overlay a subtle honeysuckle, quince and spice back drop. Texturally rounded in it’s feel with a lick of fresh acidity shining through the fruity mid length finish that has a dash of ginger to it.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13% -
- 92
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2024 Yalumba Vine Vale Grenache BlancBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA racy dry white with a refreshing, mineral laced finish.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Lifted pear and red apple skin aromas mix with hints of lime and wet slate. Racy green pear, lime and green apple fruits line the palate with some wet stone and flinty mineral elements lying underneath. Crisp acidity with an energetically refreshing mineral laced finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews….
I'm seeing an increase in grenache blanc in the Barossa and I am totally here for it. Pale in the glass, aromas of poached pear, grapefruit and green apple with hints of crushed quartz, white flowers, almond paste and clover blossom. It has a slinky, briney palate shape and I'm a sucker for some briney slink! I imagine myself, windswept and interesting, drinking this in an exotic locale while eating grilled shellfish, and I'm sold. You will be too. Drink by 2027.
93 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
2022 Maxwell Ellen Street ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich and opulent with a solidly built tannin structure and long, lavish finish.
From vines planted in 1953. Impenetrable inky black heart with a near equally deep dark red black hue. Heady ripe blackberry, dark chocolate and liquorice scents engulf the nostrils followed by toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich and opulent, the full bodied palate is flush with dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate flavours. Spicy vanillin oak and earthy mocha elements extend across the back half. Ripe, solidly built tannin structure with a long, lavish finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Woodstock Next GEN MontepulcianoMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinJuicy with bright acidity, slightly chalky tannins and a vibrant blue fruited finish.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. A mix of dark plum, morello cherry, liquorice and blueberry aromas greet the nostrils. Some subtle earth and spicy dried herb notes also chime in. Juicy plum, morello cherry and blueberry fruits are underpinned by bright acidity with some liquorice and earthy dried herb elements lingering across the back half. Slightly chalky tannins with a vibrant blue fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% -
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Distillers Edition Premium V.O. Rum (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$189. 99Bottle$2279.88 DozenABV: 48%A limited run of 600 bottles, Burdekin's high ABV 'VO' expression is matured for 3 years and 4 months in wet Heaven Hill Bourbon barrels. Delivering slightly more body and depth, the bouquet is relatively shy, the palate understated, but there's a quiet confidence that speaks of authenticity. Gingery warmth, dark chocolate and low key fruitiness are here; because there's no added sugar it remains on the drier side, rather elegant and debonair by most rum standards. This also boasts the most 'premium' feel of the distillery's current collection. Our tasting was limited to a 20ml sample. 48% Alc./Vol. No additives.
Other reviews... This Distillers Edition rum from Burdekin is a higher-proof version of its Premium Aged Rum, matured for three years in ex-bourbon barrels from Heaven Hill Distillery in Kentucky. As a blend of its two earliest batches of molasses distillate, this is very much a work-in-progress bottling for the young distillery, which I love to see as a liquid record of a producer's development over time. In other words, don’t expect future batches to taste like this. Much less floral and spice forward than the Premium Rum, this version is instead rich and sweet-smelling, with notes of treacle and honey. Yet this still retains an overall fruity brightness of pears poached with lavender, the oak lending an element almost reminiscent of Speyside single malt. Dry, light and oaky on the palate, this is not a rum for sweet tooths, but this would add a lot of complexity and depth to your favourite rum cocktail. 92 points - Fred Siggins, winecompanion.com.au
Notes from the producers... Aroma of toasted hazelnuts and dark chocolate, along with hints of acacia flower and ginger, culminating in a rich butterscotch finish on the palate.
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- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Golding The Purveyor Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinLight and supple with a fresh, spicy red to dark fruited finish.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a red hue. Fragrant violet, dark cherry, strawberry and clove scents sail through the nostrils with hints of rhubarb, forest floor and spicy dried herbs also evident. Light supple entry with dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb flavours melding into a spicy dried herb, clove and forest floor back drop. Polished tannins with a fresh, spicy red to dark fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 92
- 92
2024 Forest Hill Vineyard ChardonnayMount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA brisk, mid weighted Chardonnay with lively acidity and a refined finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour with distinct highlights of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Aromas of nectarine and peach mix with hints of grapefruit, biscuity oak, bees wax and gun flint. Fleshy nectarine and grapefruit flavours carry a brisk feel across the mid weighted palate with biscuity oak, faint bees wax and gun flint elements the undercard. Lively acidity finishing fresh and refined.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
A lavish, lush chardonnay which has richness but not a lot of intensity, which should suit many. Toasty, sweet spices, a lick of toffee apple, some lime and preserved lemon citrus influence, a bit of talc and quite a dose of cinnamon, coconut water and cedary notes. It washes over the senses well, albeit not particularly complex. A bit diffuse, perhaps, although generally pleasing. Drink by 2030.
92 Points
Mike Bennie - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 92
2024 Villa Wolf Pinot GrisPfalz, GERMANY$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA generously fleshed yet fresh, zingy Pinot Gris.
Villa Wolf is the Pfalz estate of Mosel Riesling legend Ernst Loosen. The Pfalz region is in the Rhine river valley in southwest Germany, directly north of France’s Alsace region. The low-lying Haardt mountains protect the area from cold, wet Atlantic weather, making it one of the warmer and drier areas of Germany.
Brilliant very pale straw almost water like colour with a faint greenish tinge around the outskirts. Pear and red apple aromas lead the way with some musk, hints of honeysuckle and gentle spice ensuing. Generously fleshed pear, apple and musk flavours are underscored by zingy acidity. Delicate honeysuckle and flinty mineral elements are flecked across the back half. Nicely shaped yet racy in it’s feel with a fresh, energised finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Distillers Edition First Giru Cane Spirit JP Edition (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$164. 99Bottle$1979.88 DozenABV: 45%Aka the 'JP Edition', First Giru is a tribute to a collaboration with dedicated farmer, John Pierotti. Burdekin harvested the first local crop of Giru sugarcane in Spring 2022. What followed was a double distillation of 500 bottles that sits firmly in the tradition of French agricole. The bouquet evokes icing sugar, green olive brine and semi-ripe papaya complexed by hints of caraway rye bread and white pepper. Semi-sweet, intense and vivacious flavours continue the aromas including semi-ripe tropical fruits and a white pepper tingle. The finish is soft and vaguely saline, with crushed papaya seeds, cocoa, hints of match box and a prolonged rush of spirit warmth. More Haitian than Martinique? Whichever, it's an impressive debut. 45% Alc./Vol. Zero additives.
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- 91
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Mr Brightside Eurotrash Nero D’AvolaFleurieu Peninsula, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinRich and chewy with a ripe, slightly rustic finish.
Deep dark red black tinged core with a dark red hue. Pronounced ripe black cherry and liquorice aromas mix with earthy incense and spicy dried herb notes. Rich black cherry and liquorice fruits are featured across the mid weighted palate which is supported by slightly chewy tannins. Some scorched earth, infusions of incense and spice are also evident. Ripe, slightly rustic finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
This wine is slightly un-done and that needn't be a negative attribute. It's rusticity loosely knits together the herbal and black cherry characters. It sits on the slightly richer end of the spectrum in both body and profile with some prune and chocolate elements having their time in the sun. Enjoyable acidity sees this being the perfect accompaniment for pasta night. Value plus. Drink by 2027.
92 Points
Katrina Butler – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
- 96
- 96
- 96
- Biodynamic
2023 Marco Lubiana One Terroir ChardonnayDerwent Valley, Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$95. 00Bottle$1140.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkA rich, shapely Chardonnay with brisk underlying acidity and a long cream tinged finish.
Brilliant pale straw core with straw tinged edges and a watery hue. Aromas of nectarine, white peach and dried honey mix with citrus, hints of crème brulee and faint cashew. Rich, fleshy white peach, ripe nectarine, pear and dried honey flavours meld into a subtle crème brulee and roasted cashew back drop. Nicely shaped it has brisk underlying acidity and a long cream tinged finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
A chardonnay parcel off slightly more silty/gravel over brown/red washed out clay on the Granton Estate hill in the Derwent Valley. A mineral-driven wine with notes of struck match wisping over the white peach, nectarine and citrus fruits below. There's a sense of compression and tension here that I really like; the fruit is quite concentrated but the mineral-laden acid line governs it and provides a great cadence and energy. White peach, nectarine, lemon curd, spiced meal, struck flint, sea spray, crushed shell, white flowers and almond paste with a creamy curd wake marking its passage as it tracks across the palate. Super classy stuff. Drink by 2032.
96 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionReductive and mineral-driven aromas of flint, lemon confit, sea spray and tangerines. The palate is tightly wound with a creamy texture and precise acidity, giving notes of grapefruit pith, graphite, orange blossoms, honeysuckle and beeswax. Truly exceptional with a high level of sophistication. Excellent. Drink or hold.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.comThis comes from a single parcel that feels distinct for winemaker Marco Lubiana. The winemaking approach seems to lean into more pressing (more texture) and more flavour (more barrel). Both ok by me. The fruit is biodynamic (certified) grown.
At the meatier, fuller end of the spectrum but the whoosh of cooling, briny acidity comes through and whips things into shape. It’s just-ripe peach and nectarine, green almond, pear, a lick of natural yoghurt and a faint crackle of honeycomb and sea spray. It has a glossiness and bulbous nature, slips and slides along well and long, a bit of warmth but fits the bill, finishes with just a touch of (pleasing) bitterness that finishes dry and mouth-watering. Serious wine, serious flavour, complex, layered, intense and just damn good. Drink 2025-2035.
96 Points
Mike Bennie – The Wine Front -
- 91
- 92
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2024 Domaine Famille Paquet Macon-Villages Nos Cinq TerroirsBurgundy, FRANCE$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA fresh mid weighted Chardonnay with lively acidity and a gently rounded yet elegant finish.
Located in the heart of Burgundy, Famille Paquet is a 30 hectare property located at the foot of the rocks of Solutré and Vergisson. The Paquets take great care of their vineyards, using organic and biodynamic compost and manage each of their 50 plots individually. The property is currently in conversion to organic viticulture.
This Chardonnay is sourced from vines planted between 1929 and 2015 in Cruzille, Lugny, Prissé, Loché and La Roche-Vineuse.
Aged in oak barrels (25%) and stainless steel on lees. Bright straw colour with a watery hue. Peach and ripe apple aromas intermix with bees wax, pear and faint lemon butter notes. Fleshy pear and peach fruits lie delicately across the fresh mid weighted palate with notions of bees wax, subtle lemon butter and spice the undercard. Lively acidity with a gently rounded yet elegant finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
The forthright citrus-fruit and garden-herb aromas are married to ample substance and a crisp acidity on the medium-bodied palate. Pronounced minerality at the impressively long, structured finish. Matured sur lie, 75% in stainless steel tanks and 25% in oak foudre casks. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
92 Points
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