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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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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% -
- 92
- 92
- 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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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% -
- 93
2023 Il Barroccio Nero D’AvolaSicily, ITALY$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSpicy and juicy with ample flesh to the morello and dark cherry fruits.
Aged for 12 months in stainless steel tanks. Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Morello and black cherry aromas intermix with liquorice, earthy incense like notes and cinnamon spice. Juicy and spicy, morello and dark cherry fruits carry ample flesh across the mid weighted palate. Liquorice, earthy incense and dried herb elements also chime in. Gently chewy tannins with a spicy morello and dark cherry finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 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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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
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- 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
JamesSuckling.com -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Virgin Cane Spirit (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%Burdekin started in 2020 as a water bottling company located at the foot of Mt Elliot. The region is known as the heart of Australia’s premier sugar cane country, with a much higher brix than others. Now a fully fledged distillery, Burdekin are proving that it's not only the French islands that produce quality cane juice spirits. They avoid trespassing on the “agricole” moniker, but their products are unmistakably inspired by the freshness of Caribbean equivalents. Partnering with local growers, using fresh pressed cane juice as well as molasses, a Frilli hybrid pot/column still enables them to create pot still styles or run a single pass through the pot and column with reflux. All the distillates are finished with mineral water from their own aquifer. The range includes unaged cane spirit, aged cane and molasses rums, and unique limited editions like the "Wild Child", several with striking labels inspired by the region's rich flora and fauna.
This is Burdekin's entry level expression, named 'Virgin Cane Spirit' because there's a two year wood-ageing rule in Australia in order to label it rum. It's double distilled then rested in stainless steel tanks before bottling . The producers describe the profile as botanical with a hint of fresh cut flowers and a dry finish. 40% Alc./Vol. Zero additives.
Other reviews... Burdekin’s flagship unaged cane spirit is not like other rums. Distilled from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses, this bright, grassy spirit has never seen the inside of a barrel, meaning it technically can’t be called 'rum' in Australia (a stupid rule), but this is a style well respected in other parts of the world, and for good reason. On the nose, minerality and fermented tropical fruit dominate with notes of earthy turmeric and oyster shell. While it may be confronting for those unaccustomed to the style, like the first experience of a peated whisky or a funky mezcal, the rewards of acquiring a taste for this rum are manifold. While still a little rough around the edges, there’s complexity for days and, when mixed in a caipirinha or combined with other rums in classic tropical punches, this uniquely engaging rum really shines. 92 points - Fred Siggins, winecompanion.com.au
Best Cane Spirit 2025 Melbourne Royal Spirit Awards
Best in Show (White Rum/Rhum) 2024 TAG Global Spirit Awards
Double-Gold 2023 & 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Double-Gold 2024 TAG Global Spirit Awards
Gold 2024 Royal Queensland Awards -
- 93
2024 Dr Loosen Bros Dr L Dry RieslingMosel, GERMANY$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinLight and frisky with zingy acidity and a fruity conclusion.
Dr. Loosen has been in the same family for over 200 years, and this is the estate's classic, regional expression of the Riesling grape. Located in far western Germany, the Mosel valley’s steep, south facing slopes create the perfect climate for Riesling, giving the vines ideal exposure to the sun. The cool climate allows the grapes to ripen slowly while retaining bright acidity. This crisp, refreshing Riesling represents the jumping-in point from Dr. Loosen, capturing the elegant and racy characteristics of steep, slate-soil Mosel vineyards.
Brilliant water like core with a greenish tinge around the edges. Lime, red apple and gentle honeysuckle aromas flow from the glass followed by hints of orange blossom and slatey mineral notes. Delicious pear, lime and red apple fruits carry a light, frisky feel across the palate. Zingy acidity with honeysuckle, infusions of orange blossom and flinty mineral elements laid out across the back half. Finishes dry with an energised zip to the fruity conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 95
2024 TarraWarra Estate Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA wonderfully perfumed Yarra Valley Pinot that’s decorated with delicious red to dark fruits.
Semi translucent bright ruby red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Wonderfully perfumed nose with aromas of violet, red to dark cherry and strawberry soaring out of the glass. Anise, fresh herb, subtle forest floor and spice notes ensue. Delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits make a silky entrance with delicate anise, forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar elements decorating the back half. Fresh, vibrant feel with polished tannins and a long red fruited finish that’s both energetic and spicy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
- 93
2023 Silkman ShirazHunter Valley, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich and juicy upon entry with a savoury mid length finish.
Deep black dark red core with a dark red hue. Dark plum and liquorice aromas mix with hints of dried clove, earth, vanillin cedar and pepper. Rich juicy dark plum and liquorice fruits are to the fore with notions of vanillin cedar, earth and subtle peppered clove elements extending across the medium bodied back palate. Fine grained tannins with a savoury mid length finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
A contemporary Hunter Valley shiraz with gorgeous red cherry notes and a touch of fragrant spice. The medium-weight palate is perfectly balanced, with excellent density, clarity, energy and flow. A wine with integrity that opens beautifully with air. Sensational value. Drink by 2028.
93 Points
Toni Paterson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Balgownie Black Label Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinLight, elegant and supple with a savoury red fruited finish.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Pretty aromas of violet, red to dark cherry, subtle anise, rhubarb, bramble and spice are expelled from the glass. Light, elegant and supple, juicy red cherry and strawberry fruits are featured over delicate spicy cedar and forest floor characteristics. Polished tannins with a fresh feel to the savoury red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
2023 Woodstock Brothers Blend GSMMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14.8%Closure: StelvinA rich, juicy GSM with a plump yet sturdy finish that carries plenty of spice.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a dark red hue. Nosing reveals aromas of dark raspberry, liquorice and dark to black cherry followed by some dried herb and subtle peppered earth notes. Rich, juicy dark raspberry, dark cherry and liquorice fruits carry good weight with some vanillin spice, earth and peppered dried herb elements the undercard. Ripe, sturdy tannins finishing plump and spicy.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.8% -
- 95
- 96
2021 Angove Warboys Vineyard GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA deep, powerful Grenache flooded with succulent dark and black fruits.
Dark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Wafting through the nostrils are scents of ripe dark raspberry, liquorice and black cherry trailed by some vanillin confectionary, subtle scorched earth and blackpepper notes. Rich, bold and opulently textured the palate is awash with succulent dark to black raspberry, liquorice and luscious black cherry fruits. Vanillin spice, scorched earth and peppered meat elements the undercard. Deep and powerful it has velvety tannins and a long, sumptuous finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
Half destemmed and crushed on top of the other half as whole bunches; indigenous ferment with hand plunging daily; 16 months in older French oak. This pours pale and exudes charmingly vivid notes in the cranberry, pomegranate, wild raspberry and redcurrant spectrum. It’s a wine built with serious intent, and the transformation with air makes it more sultry, moodily floral, spicy and earthy, while losing none of its upfront seduction. Crushed rose petals, musk, celery salt and pink peppercorns perfume the palate and trail through the finish, the tannins suitably effective, refining but not constricting the supple plushness. Drink by 2030.
96 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- Nick's Import
2014 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Mortlach 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 60.8%The Beast of Dufftown returns! Rattray's first release from this iconic distillery in over a decade is said to be well worth the wait. Refill bourbon wood gives a fascinating insight into the very particular spirit character produced here. “Agricultural” is a description you won’t often find in a whisky’s marketing, however, it rather neatly and vividly summarises the rugged nature of this wonderful dram. With a growing following amongst malt afficionados, this should sell fast! 297 bottled filled at 60.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Lemon gold. Nose: Bergamot orange, steamed Epicure potato and braised cabbage. Palate: Chicken crackling, roast chestnut and sweetcorn fritter. Finish: Earthy Ceylon vanilla, lapsang souchong and a lingering engine oil smoke.
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2021 Nicks Secret TW SR Blewitt Springs GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $59.99$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinMade from 92 year old unirrigated vines located in McLaren Vale’s famed Blewitt Springs sub district, this superb Grenache comes from the same estate as the 2021 Nicks Secret TW Barossa Valley Grenache. Normally selling for around $60, it delivers out of this world value at just $22.99 as a Nicks Secret.
Rich, powerful and muscular in its structure, this is Blewitt Springs Grenache at its very best.
Matured in 500 litre French oak puncheons for a period of 9 months with 15% whole bunch fruit included in the fermentation process. Deep dark red core with black tinged edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant dark raspberry, red liquorice and cherry aromas show ample volume with some crushed rock and peppered fennel notes also chiming in. Boasting magnificent power, concentration and richness yet remarkably light on it’s feet, this sublime expression of Blewitt Springs Grenache bears remarkable resemblance to some of Clarendon Hill’s finest. Dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruits are flayed across the palate with vanillin spice, subtle scorched earth and peppered fennel elements lending further nuance. Juicy yet chiselled feel with fine bony tannins and energetic acidity shaping the exceptionally long and succulent finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
Immensely complex and inviting, the bouquet shows dark berry, thyme, cured meat, and toasted almond characters on the nose, followed by a wonderfully weighted palate offering refined texture and finely infused tannins. It's plush and expansive while remaining structured and robust with a persistent, delectable finish.
96 Points
Sam Kim – Wine OrbitA stylish and exquisitely crafted Grenache from this outstanding sub-region within McLaren Vale. It always produces wine of such finesse and restraint, yet within it is the intensity and drive that is part of this region. Some whole bunches went in here, and it was naturally fermented with only light pressings included. The oak treatment was reasonably subdued in 500-litre French oak and stainless steel punctions for about 9 months, so the oak never intrudes, but it provides that important structural and complexing addition. Perfumed, highly scented aromas and a palate that springs from the glass with its vibrancy and energy. Lots of red fruits, spices, roses, a touch of varietal earthiness and that final lift of raspberry-like cherry character. Terrifically appealing wine. Drink 2025-2033.
94 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.comFrom the brilliant 2021 vintage, this is bargain city. Don’t miss it. They made 200 cases, so put a percent or two of that in your cellar. 92-year-old vines, 15% whole bunches in the fermentation, which was in 500-litre French oak puncheons and stainless steel, followed by nine months maturation.
The colour is a pleasing garnet/maroon. The nose is a delightful jumble of cherries and raspberries, with spices, florals, soft red fruits, cranberries and dried herbs. Simply beautifully fragrant. Well structured, the palate is seamless with impressive length and plenty of tannins, albeit very fine ones. A ten year proposition, longer if desired.
94 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com -
- 94
- 95
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Vintage Cane Spirit (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%Essentially the same product as Burdekin's Blanc, only it's aged for between three months and two years in Pedro Ximénez barrels. A wonderful new addition to the Australian rum scene, achieving a beautiful integration of wine and spirit, at first vibrant and dry, then rich and lingering as the sweet sherry introduces flavours of dried fig, fading with chilli infused dark chocolate and delicate vanillas. Elegant, super pure and stylistically Cuban, best tasted uncut. 40% Alc./Vol. Zero additives.
Other reviews... Burdekin Vintage Cane is a fascinating product that is unlike anything else. Distilled from fresh-pressed cane juice, this bright, grassy and complex spirit has then been matured in Spanish Pedro Ximenex sherry barrels for around 18 months, the combination of that light, dry spirit with juicy, sweet sherry creating something truly unique in the world of rum and certainly a first for Australia. All the rich, dark fruit of PX is immediately present on the nose, along with the powerful funk of fermented tropical fruit. It’s a fun combination and, if not exactly subtle, the two elements match each other’s intensity nicely. There’s also a turpentine note that some will find confronting but as a lover of big, bold rums I don’t mind. On the palate, sweet Vietnamese coffee and rich, dark oak combine to give this by far the most powerful texture and long finish of the Burdekin range. 95 points - Fred Siggins, winecompanion.com.au
Champion Rum 2024 Royal Queensland Awards
Highest Scoring QLD Spirit 2024 Royal Queensland Awards
Best of Category – 2023 ADI International Spirit Awards
Double-Gold 2024 TAG Global Spirit Awards
Double-Gold 2023 & 2024 Singapore World Spirits Competition
Double Gold 2023 ADI International Spirit Awards
Gold 2025 Melbourne Royal Spirit Awards
Gold 2024 Royal Queensland Awards
Gold 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
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- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Burdekin Distillery Premium Aged Rum (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%At the time of writing, this is Burdekin's second molasses-based rum, with a standard two year maturation in x bourbon barrels. Despite that, it remains drier styled, quietly spoken, Cuban in feel, superbly natural and with good weight and mouthfeel for a 40% spirit. The grassy-fresh character of the distillate brings a tang normally associated with agricoles. Light molasses and feather weight vanillas seal the finish. This should work brilliantly in dry Mojitos or any rum cocktail where you want to control the sugars for maximum effect. 40% Alc./Vol. Zero additives.
Notes from the producers... The nose yields vanilla, butterscotch and a hint of smoke. The palate is rich and dry with a long smooth finish.
Best of Category (International Pot Still Rum) 2024 ADI International Spirits Competition
Best of Class (International Sugar Cane Spirit) 2024 ADI International Spirits Competition
Gold 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition -
- 95
- 93
2022 Antinori Villa Antinori Chianti Classico RiservaTuscany, ITALY$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkRich and juicy with muscular tannins firming up the long rustic finish.
Midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Ripe blackcurrant aromas fill the nostrils with some dark to black cherry, liquorice, scorched earth, dried herb, leather and spice notes also evident. Rich juicy blackcurrant and liquorice fruits sit up front with notions of scorched earth, dried herbs and spicy tobacco extending across the back half. Excellent concentration with firm, muscular tannins lending a rustic feel onto the long finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
A youthful wine full of fruit, showing intense fresh roses, black cherries and plums. The generous nose is supported by a lush, supple palate with medium body. Velvety tannins with a chalkier finish and refreshing length. Drink or hold.
93 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 91
2024 La Gioiosa Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCGVeneto, ITALY$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 11%Closure: Diam CorkFruity and airy in it’s feel with a dry tingly finish that’s very refreshing.
A buoyant mousse slowly fades into a very pale straw coloured base that has a stream of delicate bubbles flowing through it. Nosing evokes aromas of citrus, pear and gentle sherbet followed by some red apple and delicate chalky lees like notes. Fruity with an airy mouth feel, delicious red apple and pear flavours are featured over a lemon sherbet and subtle lees back drop. Vivid acidity with a dry tingly finish that’s very refreshing.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 11% -
- 94
- Organic
2025 Blicks Lane Sauvignon BlancMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinFresh, scrumptious and bursting with flavour this is a wonderful entry level Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
Certified organic Blicks Lane is the entry level label of Walnut Block. First planted in 1996 the Blicks Lane vineyard lies in the acclaimed Rapaura sub-region of the Wairau Valley.
Brilliant water like colour with faint tinges of green around the edges. Pungent aromas of passionfruit, ripe gooseberry and lime leap from the glass followed by some subtle green apple and herbaceous grassy notes. Bursting across the palate with terrific intensity are mouth watering passionfruit, lime and gooseberry flavours. Some green apple and delicate herbaceous grassy elements also chime in. Crisp minerally acidity finishing long and scrumptious.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
- Organic
2024 Walnut Block Nutcracker ChardonnayMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.6%Closure: StelvinRich, concentrated and creamy textured with a long beautifully shaped finish.
Walnut Block’s Chardonnay, planted in 1996 with the Mendoza clone, is known for its low yields and ‘hen and chicken’ fruit set which provides a high skin-to-juice ratio, thus resulting in a wine that possesses both depth and concentration of flavour. Maturation takes place in French 500 litre oak puncheons with wild yeasts from the vineyard providing a natural fermentation. The wine is left to develop in barrels for a period of 12 months.
Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Expressive white peach, nectarine, dried honey and cashew scents sail from the glass with ample intensity followed by some biscuity nougat and spice notes. Rich, concentrated and creamy textured, the palate is layered with white peach, nectarine and dried honey flavours. Cashew, biscuity nougat and spice elements are interspersed throughout the back half. Beautifully shaped it finishes long with a lick of underlying freshness.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.6% -
- 95
- Organic
2024 Walnut Block Nutcracker Sauvignon BlancMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13.6%Closure: StelvinA Mouth filling Sauvignon Blanc that showcases Marlborough’s classic intensity and drive.
Walnut Block’s Sauvignon Blanc comes from the estates oldest vines which are trellised on the Scott-Henry canopy system allowing maximum light and exposure. The grapes are all hand picked and grown to a yield of 3.5 tonnes per acre. Fruit is first gently whole bunch pressed and predominantly fermented in stainless steel with cultured yeast. A portion (30%) is fermented with wild yeasts in old French Barriques, which contributes additional layers of complexity and texture.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with a subtle greenish tinge around the edges and a watery hue. A mix of herbaceous gooseberry, passionfruit and lime scents sail out of the glass with some grassy asparagus and delicate spice notes lending further interest. Mouth filling passionfruit, gooseberry and citrus flavours are delivered with terrific intensity and drive. Lime, green apple and herbaceous grassy elements extend across the back half. Crisp acidity with a long, mouth watering finish. Champion Sauvignon Blanc at the New Zealand Organic Wine Awards.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.6% -
- 94
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2024 Domaine Sainte Marie Tradition RoseProvence, FRANCE$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: Synthetic CorkIntensely flavoured, supple and long this is a super moreish Provence Rose.
Domaine Sainte Marie has a history dating back to the 18th century. This Rose is made from a blend of certified organic and biodynamic Cinsault (35%), Grenache (30%), Carignan (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) Syrah (5%) grapes.
Pale salmon pink tinged colour. Captivating the olfactory senses are alluring scents of raspberry, peach, strawberry and subtle musk with a distinct wet stone overlay also evident. Seductive peach, raspberry and strawberry fruits are delivered with terrific intensity over a musk and wet slate back drop. Gorgeously shaped it has refreshing acidity and a long, supple, super moreish finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
- Reduced
2022 Seppelt Chalambar ShirazVictoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $22.99$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinChalambar Shiraz was first crafted in 1953 by Australian winemaking legend Colin Preece. Named after the picturesque Mount Chalambar located in Victoria’s Grampians region, this wine is produced from a blend of Victoria’s two finest terroirs for Shiraz, the Grampians and Heathcote.
Possessing all the hallmarks of Central Victorian Shiraz, this is a sensational value at just $16.99.
Dense pitch black in colour with a very deep dark red black hue. Sailing out of the glass with plenty of intensity are aromas of blackberry, liquorice and black cherry followed by some vanillin cedar, subtle scorched earth and blackpepper notes. Rich and lush, the medium to full bodied palate is swamped with ripe black cherry, liquorice and blackberry fruits which are framed by mildly chewy tannins. Scorched earth, spicy vanillin cedar and blackpepper elements linger through the long, sumptuous finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 96
- 97
- 96
2017 DAOSA Late Disgorged Blanc de BlancsAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$180. 00Bottle$2160.00 DozenABV: 12.9%Closure: CorkDAOSA's new Late Disgorged Blanc de Blancs comes from the Bizot family vineyard in the Piccadilly Valley, a site that has shaped the estate's most celebrated releases. This 2017 edition is a true long-game wine, spending time in barrel before an extraordinary 90 months on lees in bottle, a regimen aimed at building depth and refinement rather than overt power. Released only in tiny quantities, it sits at the top of the DAOSA sparkling range, offering a rare look at extended ageing in Australian sparkling and the kind of detail that has defined the label's recent reputation.
Other Reviews....
From a single site – the Bizot family vineyard. All chardonnay. Barrel maturation employed. A foamy texture belies the detail of fruit, spice, savoury oak seasoning and freshness here. Summer fruits, biscuits and bread, toast and cinnamon and honey and marshmallow and ginger. Intense, saline acidity and bristling, tight and fine bubbles. A little glossiness of intensity even with the freshness. It's rich but lively, coursing with energy and yet shows off the mature fruit and secondary characters so well. A kaleidoscopic experience, per se. Just straight up fantastic, and a world beater. Drink 2025-2035.
96 points
Mike Bennie - James Halliday's Wine CompanionThis is so pure and refined, with remarkable tension and mineral drive. Aromas of oyster shells, sliced lemons, flint, sourdough and white flowers. The palate is tightly wound and poised, with a bright line of acidity and a generous texture cut through by a persistent minerally, saline drive. The freshness is balanced by underlying power, coming from 90 months on tirage before disgorgement in May 2025. Excellent. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.comThe Bizot pedigree is evident in this remarkably youthful and fresh aged sparkling from the Adelaide Hills. The creator, multi-generational Champagne/sparkling maker, Xavier Bizot, has grown and assembled a brilliant, seemingly ageless wine. Chardonnay grown in Piccadilly underwent its first fermentation and ageing on full lees in oak for eight months. Its second fermentation and maturation in bottle on lees was for 90 months. Honeysuckle and jasmine aromas swirl and mix with peach, baked apple, spice and almond biscotti with a drizzle of honey. It’s invitingly fresh and complex at the same time. So, too, a palate led by a fine bead, finely textured and dry with a deeply woven complex citrus, stone fruit intensity and background honeyed spices, peach custard, almond spread and biscuit. Acidity holds true, raising the freshness factor and adding extra spark. Drink 2025-2030.
96 points
Jeni Port - Wine Pilot -
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- 94
Krug 29eme Edition Rose ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$799. 00Bottle$9588.00 DozenClosure: CorkWhile Krug's Rose Edition wines are non-vintage, Krug prefers to call them multi-vintage given they use a large proportion of reserve wines in the blend. This 29eme Edition Rose is a blend of 29 wines from 5 vintages back to 2010, with the base wine hailing from the 2017 vintage. The base wine comprises 67% of the blend, while 33% of reserve wines are used.
Other Reviews....
Krug’s NV Rosé 29ème Édition blends 29 wines from five harvests dating back to 2010, and like the Grande Cuvée, each component is selected by Krug’s tasting committee through blind tastings. Anchored by the 2017 vintage, which comprises 67% of the assemblage, it gains its color, texture and character from the addition of 11% still red wine from Aÿ-Champagne and Mutigny, sourced from the 2016 and 2017 vintages. The wine opens with aromas evocative of grapefruit zest, redcurrant and apple pie, intricately mingled with a subtle trace of Sichuan pepper and a whisper of rosewood oil. On the palate, it presents as medium- to full-bodied, vinous and textural—albeit slightly less chiseled than its white counterpart. A deep core of fruit, tangy acidity and a long, perfumed finish with a delicate phenolic grip complete this new release. Drink 2025-2035.
94 points
Kristaps Karklins - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe NV Rosé 29ème Édition is bright and effusive in the glass. Cranberry, pink grapefruit, white pepper, chalk and mint race out of the glass. In most releases, the Krug Rosé is more austere. This is an especially textured, open-knit Rosé that will drink well right out of the gate. What a delight. Krug ID: 124021. Drink 2025-2040.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousLovely pink color. This is really classy and refined. Quite subtle aromas of peaches, pears and cantaloupe with lavender and heather follow through to a medium body. The tight, focused palate has ultrafine texture and a very long finish. Almost never-ending. Fine bubbles integrate beautifully. Drink or hold.
98 points
JamesSuckling.comThe NV Champagne 29th Edition Rose is a bright salmon orange color. It is expressive and offers a decadent and opulent nose, with notes of toasted brioche, fresh nectarine, white strawberries, cardamom, and saline. The previous three editions of the Rose had a darker red pigment, but this returns to the paler style that preceded them. In 2017, they used two years of reserve, as the year was particularly challenging for red wine. It fills the palate with a rounded feel, refreshing acidity, a pillowing mousse, and a clean, chalky texture. It will be released this fall. Drink 2025-2050.
96 points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.comKrug's 29ème Édition Rosé is expressive, open and spicy on release, and features 67% of the challenging 2017 base year (although some of the red wines hail from the 2016 vintage). Krug relishes the challenge of difficult vintages, however, turning to its reserve library to help bring about a rosé of immediate depth and vinosity. Red plum, dried red berries and roasted spices make a fleshy, open entry, before a tangy, elongating finish is detailed with light herbal and peppery tones. It is relatively forward already, yet seems poised to develop more spicy and roasted savour in the medium term. Drink 2025 - 2030.
94 points
Tom Hewson - Decanter -
- 95
- 99
2023 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage BlancHermitage, Northern Rhone, FRANCE$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkMarc Sorrel's tiny domaine in Tain l'Hermitage has long been regarded as one of the hill's most classical producers, working from exceptionally placed parcels that have earned the estate a reputation alongside the leading names of the appellation. Now in the hands of Marc's son Guillaume, the approach remains firmly traditional, defined by whole-cluster ferments, restrained use of new oak and patient élevage that often stretches to two years. Production is extremely small, making the wines highly sought after, and the focus stays squarely on transparent, site-driven expressions in both Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage, including the flagship Le Gréal and the white wines drawn from old Marsanne and Roussanne.
Other Reviews....
Incredible flinty intensity on the nose, but also ripe apricots, Mirabelle plums and blanched almonds. Then a giant wave of concentration crashes over the palate, but this is so silky and pristine that you beg it to return. The finish is almost perfect. There’s a hint of bitterness from marsanne. A cuvee of marsanne with a small amount of roussanne based on the Greffieres site from relatively young vines. Drink from release.
99 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.comAlmond, brioche and marzipan nose. Full-bodied, very generous, plump and juicy, with quince and pear fruit. Surprisingly ripe, with fairly generous alcohol and only mild acidity but good concentration. Ripe, fresh and powerful. From lieux-dits Les Greffieux (80%) and Les Plantiers (20%); clay and sand soils. Drink 2025-2030.
95 points
Matt Walls - Decanter -
- 97
- 100
2023 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage Blanc Les RocoulesHermitage, Northern Rhone, FRANCE$770. 00Bottle$9240.00 DozenABV: 15%Closure: CorkMarc Sorrel's tiny domaine in Tain l'Hermitage has long been regarded as one of the hill's most classical producers, working from exceptionally placed parcels that have earned the estate a reputation alongside the leading names of the appellation. Now in the hands of Marc's son Guillaume, the approach remains firmly traditional, defined by whole-cluster ferments, restrained use of new oak and patient élevage that often stretches to two years. Production is extremely small, making the wines highly sought after, and the focus stays squarely on transparent, site-driven expressions in both Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage, including the flagship Le Gréal and the white wines drawn from old Marsanne and Roussanne.
Other Reviews....
The ideal marriage of finesse and controlled power, this has a scented nose of preserved lemons, wild herbs, dried peaches, raw almonds and a subtle touch of mild spices. Medium-bodied with a fresh center-palate of perfectly controlled dried-citrus bitterness touching the silky, almost seamless texture. Harmonious, so flavorful and well-composed, it has perfect balance and a long, long, enchanting finish. From vines planted in 1926. Drink or hold.
100 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.comSlightly darker in colour than the domaine's classic Hermitage. Intense quince and pear, very rich and powerful, but has a dry, savoury, edge and a firm, mineral grind, along with dried honey. Real power in this, which balances the richness. Drinkable now, but will age very well thanks to its salinity and extract. Very long. Drink 2025-2039.
97 points
Matt Walls - Decanter -
- 95
- 99
2023 Domaine Marc Sorrel HermitageHermitage, Northern Rhone, FRANCE$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkMarc Sorrel's tiny domaine in Tain l'Hermitage has long been regarded as one of the hill's most classical producers, working from exceptionally placed parcels that have earned the estate a reputation alongside the leading names of the appellation. Now in the hands of Marc's son Guillaume, the approach remains firmly traditional, defined by whole-cluster ferments, restrained use of new oak and patient élevage that often stretches to two years. Production is extremely small, making the wines highly sought after, and the focus stays squarely on transparent, site-driven expressions in both Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage, including the flagship Le Gréal and the white wines drawn from old Marsanne and Roussanne.
Other Reviews....
Highly textural, well-composed and incredibly fresh, this has aromas of cherries, dried violets, peppercorns and baking spices. Medium-bodied, very refined and layered, showing fine-grained tannins. So much control in this vintage with silk to the crunchy fruit. Lively, bright and pristine. It has a mineral, lingering finish. Drink from 2028.
99 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.comThis has some weight, but is relatively juicy, medium-bodied and approachable for a Hermitage. Balanced acidity, good freshness, texture and bite, this needs a little time but not 10 years. Tannic for a 2023. 100% whole bunch, from lieux-dits Les Plantiers and Les Bessards. 10% matured in amphora – new for this vintage. Drink 2030-2039.
95 points
Matt Walls - Decanter -
- 97
- 100
2023 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage Le GrealHermitage, Northern Rhone, FRANCE$770. 00Bottle$9240.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkMarc Sorrel's tiny domaine in Tain l'Hermitage has long been regarded as one of the hill's most classical producers, working from exceptionally placed parcels that have earned the estate a reputation alongside the leading names of the appellation. Now in the hands of Marc's son Guillaume, the approach remains firmly traditional, defined by whole-cluster ferments, restrained use of new oak and patient élevage that often stretches to two years. Production is extremely small, making the wines highly sought after, and the focus stays squarely on transparent, site-driven expressions in both Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage, including the flagship Le Gréal and the white wines drawn from old Marsanne and Roussanne.
Other Reviews....
The floral and wild berry beauty of this wine doesn't lie in its enormous concentration and drive, but in the mind-blowing finesse and incredible silkiness of this great masterpiece of delicacy. Where are abundant alcohol and taninns that this unique expression of Hermitage must have? They are in there somewhere, but the wine feels totally weightless. From vineyards planted in 1926 by the winemaker's grandfather in the Les Greffieux and Le Meal sections of the hill of Hermitage. Drink from release.
100 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.comPowerful, explosive, peppery mulberry fruit. Very smoky in style, with iodine notes and lots of dense, ripe tannin underneath driving fruits. Very fresh and focused, with good acidity, but has that Hermitage size and body, that majestic, impressive attack and grandeur. Very tannic, again with some stalky notes from 100% whole bunch. 8% co-planted white varieties, all planted in 1926, the same date as the Rocoules vineyard. Will be epic when it's ready. Very ageworthy for a 2023. Drink 2035-2049.
97 points
Matt Walls - Decanter -
- 95
- 95
2018 Silkman Blackberry SemillonHunter Valley, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinClassic tense, steely Hunter Semillon with some tertiary characters beginning to shine through.
Brilliant pale straw core with a distinctive green tint to the edges and a watery hue. Elevated lime, lemon butter and green apple aromas are interwoven with hints of bees wax, oily toast like notes and wet steel. Tense and steely in it’s feel the palate features lemon and lime fruits over oily toast like characters, fig, bees wax and steely mineral like elements. Crisp acidity sculpting the long, dry mineral laced finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews…..
Hand-picked fruit from the Blackberry Vineyard is pressed without destemming to allow quick drainage. The wine sees some post-ferment lees ageing to add texture to the mid-palate. This wine shows signs of the vintage with its concentrated mid-palate, gentle, smoky development and ripe pear and honey notes. That said, the palate is still fresh and tight, and of all the 2018s tasted, this is perhaps the least evolved. The palate is beautifully cleansing. Take care not to over-chill. Drink by 2028.
95 Points
Toni Paterson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
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2023 Forest Hill Vineyard Highbury Fields Cabernet SauvignonGreat Southern, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2030-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich blackcurrant fruit with earthy undertones and a tense mid length finish.
Includes a Malbec component. Dense midnight black core with a deep dark red hue. Black currant and mulberry scents infused with black olive intermix with hints of cigar box, earth and bay leaf. Rich blackcurrant fruits carry earthy undertones with some red liquorice, cedary tobacco characters, black olive and bay leaf also apparent. Tightly knit, fine grained tannins and bright acidity with a tense mid length finish.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
A fresh, easy-drinking red of forest berry fruitiness, minty herbal elements, white pepper, some clove and cinnamon spice. Juiciness upfront and whips away to a fine but quickly dusty finish. Some black olive, gingery spice and salted licorice, too. This feels pretty smart for the bucks, a sense of restraint and elegance on hand. Good for it. Drink by 2032.
92 Points
Mike Bennie – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion - 1976 Delord Vieil Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$280. 00Bottle$3360.00 DozenABV: 40%
Another vintage from the well-known Delord estate, distilled in 1976 and bottled in 2025. Incorporating fruit from across the Armagnac appelllation, grape varieties include Baco 22A, Ugni Blanc, Colombard and Folle Blanche. Anticipate deep, rich prune, walnut and brandied fruit flavours. 40% Alc./Vol.
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2023 Coriole ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14.4%Closure: StelvinA rich, youthfully inky Shiraz with a sturdy structure and pepper laced finish.
From vines with an average age of 50 years old with maturation taking place in French oak hogsheads. Dense pitch black heart with a very deep bright dark red black tinged hue. Liquorice, black cherry and blackberry aromas show impressive intensity out of the glass trailed by some spicy vanillin cedar, scorched earth and blackpepper notes. Rich blackberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits have a youthful inkiness to them with spicy vanillin cedar, earth and blackpepper the undercard. Sturdy fine grained tannin structure with a tense yet refined pepper laced finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.4%Other Reviews…..
Mainly from vines around 50 years old, and all estate fruit on terra rossa soils. A little less new oak this year (20%) but same élevage at 18 months. The cooler year has presented a finer, more fragrant offering, with wild red berries and cherries, dried herbs and subtle earthy complexity. It’s a very charming wine, more to medium weight, that bears the current-day Coriole stamp of light-handed making, framing fruit and vintage. Drink by 2030.
92 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
- 96
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2020 Pegasus Bay Prima Donna Pinot NoirWaipara Valley, NEW ZEALAND$145. 00Bottle$1740.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA rich, powerful yet sternly built Pinot.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Intense black cherry, anise and strawberry aromas are interwoven with toasty cedar, earth, spicy dried herb and black olive notes. Rich black cherry, anise and ripe strawberry fruits carry ample weight and volume across the mid weighted palate. Toasty cedar, earth, dried herb and spicy black olive characters lie underneath. Powerful yet sternly built it has muscular tannins and a long firmly structured finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
Freshly sliced ripe strawberry with hints of rose stem, baking spices, and bark follow through to a medium body with integrated tannins and a fine and polished finish. Racy and complex. Classy. Drinkable and appreciable now, but it will deliver so much more in three to five years. Screw cap.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 91
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2023 Muto Touriga NacionalRiverland, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinLight to mid weighted with Morello cherry and plum fruits in the drivers seat and an elegant finish.
100% Touriga Nacional, sourced from the Bassham Family’s Organic and Biodynamic vineyard. One of Portugal’s most revered grapes, Touriga Nacional is famed for its perfume, structure and depth. Destemmed fruit was lightly foot-trodden to release juice for wild fermentation, with the ferment hand-plunged twice daily. After 14 days, the must was basket-pressed into 500L puncheons (10% new oak) for 10 months’ maturation, before blending in tank by gravity.
Deep dark red black tinged core with a dark red hue. A mix of morello and black cherry scents greet the nostrils followed by some scorched earth, leather and spicy dried herb notes. Morello cherry and plum fruits drive the light to mid weighted palate with some liquorice, earth and spicy dried herb elements sitting in the background. Fine grained tannins with traces of leather emerging across the elegant medium length finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Skillogalee Cabernet SauvignonClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon with a firm structure.
A blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Malbec aged for up to 2 years in French oak hogsheads. Dense inky black colour with a deep dark red black hue. Nosing offers up ripe blackcurrant and mulberry scents trailed by some cedary tobacco, earthy black olive and bay leaf notes. Rich blackcurrant, liquorice and ripe mulberry fruits are framed by a firm tannin structure with notions of cigar box, earthy black olive and infusions of bay leaf extending across the back half. Excellent concentration and depth with a long, well fleshed yet robust finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
A fragrant, plush and smooth number. Dark chocolate, ripe cherry, plum, truffle and minty elements on both the palate and bouquet. Oak seasoning seems gentle and settled, a lick of mocha and clove on the palate lending some gentle, additional depth. Very pleasing, easy-drinking style. Drink by 2030.
92 Points
Mike Bennie – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
















































