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2023 Samuel Billaud Petit ChablisChablis, FRANCE$86. 99Bottle$1043.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkWhile the origins of this domaine date back to Charles-Louis-Noel Billaud in 1815, it's the current generation winemaker Samuel Billaud that has made waves with the exceptional quality of his wines produced since the creation of this project in 2009. Following the sale of the family business Domaine Billaud-Simon to Faiveley in 2014, Samuel received further prized parcels of land and now makes wines from five of the grand cru vineyards, and five of the top premier cru vineyards. The wines are vinified in a mixture of stainless steel and large old wood barrels, the latter mainly for the premier and grand cru wines.
Other Reviews....
Lively and pure, the Petit Chablis from Samuel Billaud is reminiscent of more focused wines from Kimmeridgian soils. The aromas range from gooseberry to lemon peel and white peaches; there is a distinct flinty mineral note. The texture is not heavy, but the finish has surprising persistence. The grapes are from a parcel of 0.60ha planted by his father in 1976 on the Portlandian plateau at the top of the grand cru slope of Sur Les Clos. Drink 2024-2030.
92 points
Charles Curtis MW - DecanterA smoky nose of mineral reduction, essence of pear, green apple and a touch of iodine precede racy, intense and chiseled middle weight flavors that exude evident minerality on the balanced and lingering finale. This agreeably dry effort could use better depth so 2 to 3 years of keeping should be helpful. Drink through 2027+.
87 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundSamuel Billaud’s 2023 Petit Chablis derives from 40-year-old vines in Sur les Clos, based on Portlandian limestone. It wafts from the glass with aromas of lemon zest, oyster shell, acacia and a hint of youthful reduction. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and taut and more mineral-driven than fruity, a considerable performance for the appellation. Drink 2025-2034.
88 points
Kristaps Karklins - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Petit Chablis Sur Les Clos comes from Billaud's fathers vines planted in 1976. It has a bright nose like the Bourgogne d'Or with yellow plum and light flinty aromas. The palate is quite sharp on the entry with good weight, perhaps not quite the length of the 2022, but there is tension throughout. Fine. Drink 2025-2029.
88 points
Neal Martin - VinousTo bottle before the harvest. Vines from 1976 on 41B rootstock, a windy site with some kimmeridgian soil. Pale lemon. A fine classy dry fruit on the nose. Delicious salinity, one of the best examples. Drink from 2025-2027.
89 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
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2023 Samuel Billaud Sechet Vieilles Vignes Chablis Premier CruChablis, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkWhile the origins of this domaine date back to Charles-Louis-Noel Billaud in 1815, it's the current generation winemaker Samuel Billaud that has made waves with the exceptional quality of his wines produced since the creation of this project in 2009. Following the sale of the family business Domaine Billaud-Simon to Faiveley in 2014, Samuel received further prized parcels of land and now makes wines from five of the grand cru vineyards, and five of the top premier cru vineyards. The wines are vinified in a mixture of stainless steel and large old wood barrels, the latter mainly for the premier and grand cru wines.
Other Reviews....
Restrained aromas of citrus confit, iodine, spice and apple give way to strikingly textured and slightly denser medium-bodied flavors that flash evident power that builds on the bitter lemon-inflected finish that is markedly dry, sleek and balanced. The Billaud Séchet is virtually always excellent and the 2023 vintage should be no exception. Drink through 2031+.
93 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundAnother brilliant wine from Samuel Billaud, and one of the most classically Chablisien in character, the 2023 Chablis 1er Cru Séchet Vieilles Vignes derives from 90-year-old vines, the oldest of the domaine, and is aged entirely in steel for 18 months. Opening in the glass to reveal a bouquet of lemon zest, oyster shell, white flowers and crushed chalk, it’s compact and chiseled, with extraordinary purity, a bright, incisive line of acidity and a strikingly sapid, mouthwatering finish. Chablis purists will want to seek this out urgently, as it ranks among Billaud’s finest premiers crus this year.
93-94 points
Kristaps Karklins - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Chablis Les Séchets 1er Cru has a detailed and mineral-driven bouquet that evokes images of the dark and stormy sea. This has wonderful salinity—it really benefits from no wood contact. The palate is old-school Chablis, with green apple and pear scents. It's a little strict, yet there is real depth and grip here. The 2023 is very complex and long on the finish, but it’s 100% Chablis in style. Outstanding. Drink 2026-2042.
94 points
Neal Martin - VinousPlanted by Samuel’s grandmother in the 1930s, yielding 40/45 hl/ha in 2023, the Séchets will be kept on lees in stainless steel for a full 18 months. Marvellous intensity right across the palate, once again a truly brilliant wine from Samuel. Beautifully dry finish to a wine that is so full of fruit. Drink from 2028-2035.
92-95 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Millebuis Bourgogne Cote Chalonnaise Pinot NoirBurgundy, FRANCE$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkA light, savoury Pinot that shows good freshness.
Red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Sour to red cherry and fresh herb scents drift from the glass trailed by some stalk and spice notes. Juicy red cherry fruits meld into a back drop of red liquorice, dusty earth, fresh herbs and spice. Slightly chalky tannins with the savoury finish showing good freshness.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Anti Heroes Coola Road Pinot NoirMt Gambier, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinLight and supple with a savoury finish that shows plenty of spice.
Fermented with a small proportion of whole bunches and matured in French oak (10% new). Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Top notes of spicy dried clove are joined by red to dark cherry, winter strawberry, rhubarb and subtle graphite like notes. Light and supple upon entry with red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits to the fore. Rhubarb, brambly cedar and spicy dried clove elements sit in the background. Polished tannins with a savoury finish that shows plenty of spice.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
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2022 Maude Mohawk Hill Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinExpansive, concentrated and powerful Central Otago Pinot.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant red to dark cherry, strawberry and violet scents engulf the olfactory senses with some trailing anise, forest floor, fresh herb and spice notes. Delicious red to dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits are expansive, concentrated and powerful in their flow across the palate. Brambly cedar, forest floor and spicy fresh herb infusions ensue. Supple mouth feel with bright acidity, velvety tannins and a long energetic red to dark fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14% -
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2020 Inkwell Perfect Day ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.3%Closure: StelvinA rich, concentrated McLaren Shiraz that shows some muscularity across the long expansive finish.
Matured in French oak barrels. Inky black heart with a deep very dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fill the nostrils followed by some smoky vanillin cedar, dark chocolate and peppered dried meat notes. Rich and concentrated with ripe blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and black cherry fruits making a plush entry. Earthy mocha, vanillin oak and peppered fennel elements also make an appearance. A sturdy tannin structure lends some muscularity across the long seductive and expansive finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.3% -
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2023 Grampians Estate Woolclasser’s GSTGrampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.6%Closure: StelvinA rich, succulent mid weighted Grenache blend.
A blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Shiraz and 10% Tempranillo. Dark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry scents flood the nostrils followed by some vanillin confectionary and subtle peppered earth notes. Rich and juicy, dark raspberry, liquorice and ripe dark cherry fruits dominate the mid weighted palate with some subtle scorched earth, vanillin spice and pepper elements sitting underneath. Plush mouth feel with velvet smooth tannins and a long succulent finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.6% -
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2024 Yalumba Samuel’s Collection ChardonnayEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA fresh, fleshy textured, fruit driven style of Chardonnay.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Delicate aromas of white peach, citrus and melon are trailed by whiffs of biscuit and mineral. The fleshy textured palate features white peach, melon and citrus fruits over a subtle stony mineral back drop. Fresh acidity enlivening the fruit driven finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
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2024 Liv Zak Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinElegant, supplely textured and savoury.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant red cherry and rhubarb scents mix with bramble, dried herb, forest floor and spice notes. Making a supple entrance onto the palate are delicious red cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits which are welded to a savoury back drop of forest floor, dried herbs and spicy cedar. Polished tannins with a long, elegant conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
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2022 West Cape Howe Hanna’s Hill Cabernet MalbecFrankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA sturdy, deeply fruited Cabernet blend.
A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Malbec. Dense midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced ripe blackcurrant, liquorice and black cherry aromas are complemented by vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and subtle bay leaf notes. Rich blackcurrant, dark plum and liquorice fruits engulf the medium to full bodied palate. Earthy bay leaf like elements, vanillin cedar and spice the undercard. Excellent fruit intensity and depth with a sturdy tannin structure. Concludes long, deeply fruited and spicy.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
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2022 Frank Cornelissen Munjebel BiancoSicily, ITALY$115. 00Bottle$1380.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: ArdeasealOther Reviews....
Wildly spicy, the 2022 Bianco MunJebel bursts from the glass with an array of fermented ginger, fennel, crushed stones and dried apricots. More like nectar than wine, this smooths over the palate then finds a beautiful lift through a bump of zesty acidity. Crisp orchard fruits cascade throughout. The 2022 tapers off with outstanding length and freshness, finishing with a perfumed floral resonance, hints of tropical melon and an air of almond custard. Drink 2024-2028.
92 points
Eric Guido - Vinous -
- 92
- Organic
2022 Frank Cornelissen Munjebel RossoSicily, ITALY$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: ArdeasealOther Reviews....
The 2022 Rosso MunJebel is wickedly spicy and fresh, bursting with a bouquet of crushed raspberries, sage and wet stones. It opens with a lovely inner sweetness, compounded by ripe red berry fruit juiciness as a core of zesty acidity adds an abundance of energy throughout. Tapering off with a resonance of hard candies, it finishes medium-long and clean, leaving behind rosy inner florals and a bitter tinge of clove. The 2022 is dangerously easy to drink. Drink 2024-2028.
92 points
Eric Guido - VinousThe 2022 Munjebel Rosso Classico is made from Nerello Mascalese hailing from different vineyard sites on the northern slopes. It's fresh and delicious, delivering mouthfuls of succulent red-skinned fruit, cherry tart, baking spice and star anise before closing on a note of blood orange. Chalky tannins provide seamless support and texture. Drink through 2030.
93 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 21 Year Old Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml) - Cardboard BoxHokkaido, JAPAN$1199. 00Bottle$14388.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
DISCONTINUED.
Following Suntory's lead, Nikka has discontinued its lines of extra-aged whiskies, with some reports that the shortage could last up to a decade before the taps are turned back on.
Nikka's range of blended, pure malt and single malt whiskies will be exciting new discoveries for any Whisky enthusiast. This 21 Year Old bottling is dedicated to the Father of the Japanese Whisky Industry, Masataka Taketsuru.
The tale of Masataka Taketsuru's life is of the same fabric legends are made of. Sent in 1918 as a young apprentice to Scotland by his Japanese employers to crack the secrets of whisky, he not only came back with that knowledge but also with Rita Taketsuru (nee Cowan), who went on playing a decisive role in the development of the Japanese Whisky industry. Thanks to her connection to Japanese high society, Masataka was able to finance the company that is now known as Nikka Whisky.This blend of malts is from the two Nikka distilleries, Yoichi and Miyagikyo.
Other reviews... A much more civilised and gracious offering than the 17 year old...Serious whisky for the serious whisky drinker. 88 points- Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2014
World's Best Blended Malt Whisky at the 2010 World Whiskies Awards.
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Storytellers Distillery Volume 3 Tickled Pink Strawberry Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 41%Originally a once-off experiment, Tickled Pink starts with Storytellers Australian Dry and ends with a punnet-and-a-half of ripe strawberries steeped in every bottle. The fruit infuses the spirit with a luminous blush, semi-ripe, fresh-picked aromatics, and just enough natural berry sweetness to keep the finish crisp and light. A very 'ginny' alternative to more liqueur-like Sloes, try it neat, over ice with sparkling water or shake it into a Tom Collins. 41% Alc./Vol. Vegan, celiac and nut-allergy friendly.
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2022 Wirra Wirra RSW ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2025-2035)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich, plush McLaren Vale Shiraz at it’s finest.
Wirra Wirra’s RSW is crafted from exceptional McLaren Vale Shiraz vineyards. The 2022 release consists of fruit from four blocks, three of which are from Wirra Wirra’s biodynamic Sandhill Vineyard. The fourth component is sourced from a Blewitt Springs vineyard planted in 1969. Maturation took place in French oak barriques (33% new) for a period of 18 months.
Super saturated inky black heart with a deep dark purple black tinged hue. Wafting through the nostrils are aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and dark chocolate followed by some vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich and plush, the palate is flooded with opulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice elements extend across the back half. Velvet smooth, seamlessly integrated tannins with a long seductively refined finish.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews…..
A mild season, again, and an elegant RSW, though still bristling with dark berries and plum, with some blue fruit echoes. Black tea, dried violet, some dried olive, dark panforte and amaro, licorice powder, old leather and tar. There’s an appealing savouriness to this, and a weight that sits below the fuller side of things, the detail clearly rendered, the tannic architecture resolute but not strident. It’s a very good release. Drink by 2038.
96 points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
The fruit for this outstanding Shiraz comes from four blocks, three of which are Wirra’s biodynamic Sandhill Vineyard. The fourth comes from Blewitt Springs, adding an important element from this great Shiraz sub-region. All blocks were treated separately, open fermented with some whole bunch use, and left for extended time on skins, contributing to the seamless integration of the wine. It shows a high degree of elegance within its stylish frame, with deeply concentrated red fruits, subtle peppery notes, and beautifully integrated tannins completing an impressive wine. Drink 2025-2040.
96 points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com
The 2022 Shiraz RSW is a sturdy rendition of this label, packed tight with dense fruit and surprising structure. It offers tight, brooding and focused aromas of dark earth, blackberry, spice and dried herbs. That savory theme continues thanks to a firm meaty core of flavor and robust gravelly tannins. The 2022 is impressive and built to last. Drink 2030-2044.
95 points
Angus Hughson - Vinous -
- 96
- Reduced
2021 Nicks Secret MST Gomersal ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $59.99$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinAn outstanding follow up release of this luxurious yet refined Barossa Valley Shiraz from what many describe as unicorn vintage where both healthy yields and exceptional quality was achieved. Presented in a striking package with a generously sized bottle that features a wax seal and laser-etched label, it’s crafted from premium parcels of fruit sourced from the winery's Gomersal Vineyard, utilising only the finest barrels. Typically retailing for $59.99 it’s available for just $24.99 as a Nick's Secret.
Rich, velvety and plush, this irresistible elixir embodies both opulence and refinement.
Matured in French oak puncheons and hogsheads, with 18% new oak, for a period of 13 months. Dense midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Wafting from the glass with great authority are dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate aromas which are interwoven with some vanillin cedar, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich, silky and plush, unfolding across the expansive medium to full bodied palate are dark plum, liquorice, blackberry and dark chocolate flavours. Vanillin cedar, subtle earthy mocha and spice characters seamlessly integrate into the background. Understated in its power and opulently textured, it has velvet smooth tannins and a long classy finish that shows great refinement and polish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
It's perfumed on the nose, showing blackberry, game, pepper spice, vanilla and assorted nut aromas. The palate delivers terrific weight and fleshy texture, superbly supported by fine, polished tannins, finishing robust yet silky with refinement and harmony. At its best: now to 2036.
96 Points
Sam Kim – Wine Orbit -
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2023 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $110.00$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13.6%Closure: Stelvin2025 marks 62 years since the first vines were planted at Wantirna Estate, established in 1963 on an east-facing slope in Melbourne's southeastern outskirts. Once a mix of orchards, bush, and grasslands, the vineyard thrives today under the care of Maryann, Reg's daughter, though Reg remains actively involved. The wines, named after his four grandchildren, feature labels illustrated by Michael Leunig, reflecting each grandchild's personality, a heartfelt touch to this family-run estate.
The vineyard's three distinct Pinot Noir blocks, covering just ten acres, are hand-harvested separately, often with up to two weeks between harvest dates. The mature block, with vines from the early 1970s, contributes savory tones and fine tannins. The Front block adds spice, while the Fruit Tree block offers generous fruitiness. Blended together, these components create the complex Pinot Noir style Wantirna Estate is renowned for.
Other Reviews....
A deep and brightly coloured crimson purple. Both to look at and smell, this is a concentrated and complex Wantirna pinot that's going to need some time. Aromas of black cherry, damson plum and dried red rose petals lead onto the palate, which is densely packed, structured and very long. Have it with food now, for sure, but those who still have some five to ten years from now will be very well rewarded. Drink 2026-2035.
96+ points
Philip Rich - James Halliday's Wine CompanionI visited Wantirna Estate around this time last year, and didn’t taste any wine, rather we had tea and biscuits on the porch. Lovely. It’s a vineyard as a garden, if you take my meaning, The place has a sense of intimacy and it’s a world away from many larger producers. 130 dozen produced using very light weight bottles at that. Yay!
Raspberry, red cherry, mint, cedar, pencils and spice, something of a potpourri perfume too. It’s medium-bodied, all red fruits, a little spicy and autumnal, fresh raspberry crunch to acidity, with a firmness to tannin that offers grainy grip, finishing a little sappy with lively acidity, savoury flavours, and excellent length. Oak still shows a little too much as at now, but this is a strong release, and I like the ‘mineral’ character it offers too. Drink 2027-2034+.
95 points
Gary Walsh - The Wine FrontThe 2023 Lily Pinot Noir leads with cherry and cranberry, moss and tobacco, with layers of damp earth and exotic spice. This is beautiful. In the mouth, the wine is silky, with fine, pliable tannins that shape the course of the fruit across the tongue. The acidity is woven gently throughout and offers a delicacy and laciness that I find highly attractive. This is such a gorgeous wine. 13.6% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2038.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate -
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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% -
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- 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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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 -
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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
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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
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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 -
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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% -
- 94
Storytellers Distillery Volume 1 Australian Dry Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 43%The backbone of this gin is a combination of familiar London Dry botanicals, complexed by native notes from strawberry gum, saltbush, muntries and pepperberry. Powerful aromas, strong on lemon sorbet and finger limes build to piney-juniper, coriander and cardamom. A wonderful gingery vibe makes the palate feel bigger than 43%, filling out with citrus zest and fresh juniper, coriander seed and peppery heat. Hints of cardamom, juniper and herbal teas follow in a dryish, slightly chalky fade. From start to finish, a gin that's nicely integrated, vivacious and cleverly composed. Vegan, celiac and nut-allergy friendly.
Notes from the producers... Volume 1 layers classic gin botanicals with uniquely Australian ingredients to create something both familiar and utterly its own. Juniper, orris and coriander seed form the backbone; whole lemon, green cardamom and just-ripe strawberry lift the aroma. Native wonders - strawberry gum, saltbush, muntries and native pepperberry - add depth, intrigue and a real sense of place. A gin that shine with any mixer, levels-up a martini, and even rewards sipping neat.
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2024 Stonier Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinLight and supple with terrific power and a long moreish finish.
Established in 1978 Stonier Vineyards was one of the pioneers on the Mornington Peninsula and has recently returned to being locally owned and run after a period of corporate ownership. The fruit for Stonier Pinot Noir is derived from a selection of estate and leased vineyards, the majority of which sit on the red volcanic basalt between Merricks and Red Hill. The high elevation (200m+) Red Hill vineyards are the primary component of this wine which provides the lovely lifted red fruit profile.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Displaying a perfumed like intensity aromas of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb are complimented by dried herb, bramble and forest floor and spice notes. Light and supplely textured, the palate possesses a terrific power wave of flavour with red to dark cherry, rhubarb and strawberry fruits to the fore. Notions of brambly cedar, dried herbs, forest floor and spice lend further complexity. Velvet smooth tannins with a long moreish finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews…..
Stonier’s bread and butter range and a good ‘un this vintage. Fruit off grower vineyards but all managed in-house, which gives a level of quality control. This pops and crackles with vitality, good fruit and varietal flavour. Heady aromas are punctuated by red cherries and blood orange doused in exotic spices and fresh herbs. The palate is on the light side of medium bodied with fine tannins and refreshing acidity throughout. A lovely drink. Drink 2032.
94 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
A blend of the grower vineyards, a mix of clones. Approximately 20% whole bunch on the sites that sit on volcanic soils, with everything else destemmed. Aged in 500L puncheons of which 8% was new oak. A fragrant celebration of Mornington Peninsula luminous charm, it’s impossible not to be swept away with the gleaming fruit, compact flavour and middle palate pulp and flesh. Cherry compote, plummy goodness and some Gala apple skin. Clove, nigella seed and dewy potting soil. Tannins are sandy and prop up the fruit, before a wash of fresh acidity. It’s immediately satisfying and a delightful drink without food or if you are after a suggestion may I offer the idea of lamb shanks swimming in butter mash. Drink now or will cellar well for 2-4 years. Drink 2025-2029.
94 points
Shanteh Wale – WinePilot.com -
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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 -
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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 -
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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.com
The 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.
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- 88
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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- 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.
















































