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- Nicks Import
Bouvet Saphir Saumur Brut (375ml)Saumur, Loire Valley, FRANCE$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkAfter many years of ownership by Champagne Taittinger, Bouvet Ladubay is once again fully owned by the Monmousseau family who have continuously run the business since their purchase in 1932. Bouvet Ladubay employs precisely the same wine making process as Grand Marque Champagne, delivering French sophistication at an everyday price. The new vintage of our best selling sparkling pours well with a creamy white mousse that dissipates to reveal a pale straw coloured base wine with a very fine bead that shows excellent persistence. On the nose top notes of pear and baked apple are followed by some toastiness and subtle lees characters. Vibrant and fresh the palate has flavours of baked apple and pear followed by some toasty lees like characters and citrus on the clean crisp dry finish. Aftertaste of pear, citrus and some toasty lees.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc 12.5%![12301801515_1.jpg]()
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Knob Creek 100 Proof Small Batch 9 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 50%Other reviews... Knob was one of the first bourbons I had when I started taking whiskey seriously, and it’s still a kicker. No-nonsense, flint-hard nose: slickly-polished oak furniture, cinnamon stick, cracked rye, wet cornmeal, hard candies. Bang! A lean whiskey that gets in your mouth and explodes with rye spice and cinnamon candy, a sharp wedge that opens you right up. The finish echoes: oak, a dying fire, clean and almost crisp. Emphatic, bright, and swift. Value Pick.
90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Lew Bryson (Fall 2014) Delicious but fiery, this nine-year-old small-batch Bourbon offers deep toffee aromatics and bold flavor. On the palate, look for relatively dry flavors: leather, cedar, dried orange peel. A splash of water softens the profile to bring out more vanilla, honey, even a touch of chocolate. 92 points - wineenthusiast.com89 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
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Reyka Vodka (700ml)$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenABV: 40%A new vodka from Iceland. Distilled from grain and filtered through ancient arctic lava rocks. Other reviews... Clear with a platinum cast. Nuanced aromas of anise cookie, tarragon, and pink peppercorn with a silky, dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and citrus jelly and mineral notes on the long warming finish. A delicious, zesty vodka that will sparkle in cocktails. International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
RATING: 93 points (Exceptional) - www.tastings.com ...Overall, this is a clean and neutral vodka that’s smooth and nicely balanced. It’s muscular enough for chilled martinis, but is laced with subtle, delicate notes of candied lemon peel and coriander. 93 points - www.wineenthusiast.com![43567896654_1.jpg]()
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Eden Mill Oak Gin (500ml)SCOTLAND$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 42%A gin infused with juniper berries, angelica, coriander and aged on oak chips in old beer casks. Tasting note: Brilliant gold. Low key aromas of fresh-sawn American oak, balsa wood and light vanilla. Better integrated on the palate with the sweet oak notes enhanced by hints of coriander and piney-juniper. Ends mildly astringent, medium fresh, delicately herbal. 42% Alc./Vol.![1026349_1.jpg]()
Hayman's London Dry Gin (700ml)London, UNITED KINGDOM$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 40%Christopher Hayman joined James Burrough Limited in 1969 and was responsible for the distillation and production of Beefeater until 1987. He believes Hayman's showcases the careful and consistent balance of juniper, coriander, orange and lemon peel which is vital to create the traditional style of London Dry Gin. Distilled to a recipe of 10 botanicals.
Other reviews... Clear. Sweet candied citrus, nutmeg custard, and piney juniper aromas follow through on a smooth, vibrant entry to a glycerous dry-yet-fruity with great depth, smoothness, and vibrancy. Finishes with a long honeyed citrus, lemongrass, and herbal juniper fade. A fantastic gin that will cover all bases. 40% Alc./Vol.
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
RATING: 93 points (Exceptional) - www.tastings.comsize>![26554091851_1.jpg]()
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The Farmer's Wife Autumn Dry Gin (700ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 48%Distilled with 13 botanicals, rather than four or five which is more typical, this wonderful new Australian gin includes natives such as lemon and anise myrtle, sage and pepperberry, while the citrus profile is derived from kaffir lime and ruby red grapefruit, which distiller and owner, Kylie Sepos says is a lot softer than using lemon or lime citrus. The signature botanical is native bee sugar bag honey. Kylie has developed cocktail recipes for the gin but her personal favourite is the negroni. “It stands up really well with the Campari,” she says “which can be quite overbearing with a lot of gins, so I wanted to make sure my gin had enough botanical presence that it can stand up to that Campari, which I am really happy to say that it does.” Tasting note: [Batch 10] Fresh juniper and pepperberry aromas over hints of anise, lemon sorbet, grapefruit and white pepper. Vivacious , full bodied and deliciously textural with a superb medley of herbal / citrus / pepperberry and piney juniper flavours. Ends creamy yet vibrant with lime juice, hints of anise, beeswax and pine buds in a lingering, fresh, tangy aftertaste. Great new gin. 48% Alc./Vol.![15616561065_1.jpg]()
Chopin Dorda Sea Salt Caramel Liqueur (700ml)POLAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 18%A sublime combination of sweet caramel and vanilla extract plus a dash of Maldon sea salt flakes mixed with Chopin's famous Rye Vodka. The result is irresistible. Enjoy it neat, on ice, with coffee, or mixed in your favourite cocktail recipe - the variations are endless! 18% Alc./Vol.![5601540111_1.jpg]()
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Spring Bay Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 46%Established in 2015 on Tassie's East coast by Cam and Suzy Brett. Their gin is triple distilled in a 1200 litre locally made copper pot still and employs coastal rainwater which is both soft and sweet. Notable in the eleven botanical mix are three indigenous ingredients: Native Bush Pepper, Lemon Myrtle and Tasmanian Wattleseed.
Tasting note: Creamy yet fresh aromas and flavours of lemon thyme, pepper, vanilla, anise / liquorice root and a touch of smokey cardamom. An elegant, light to medium bodied gin offering delicate pepper warmth and a refreshing juniper / anise accented finish. Pure, textural and engaging with a distinctive botanical range. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Encompassing a traditional gin profile, with the addition of a few local botanicals, this gin sings with juniper. Offering woodier, stemmy pine on the nose, bolstered by wattleseed, which tends to this woody aroma with slight bitter coffee and dry spice. The palate offers riches of oily juniper and resin, encapsulating the botanical and keeping it at the forefront of flavours in full abundance. Other botanicals offer support and help bounce the juniper around. Notes of preserved lemon and hints of spice keep the spirit interesting. Using rainwater is an intriguing choice to cut the gin to the desired alcohol percentage; it is done by distilleries around the world using a variety of spirits. Rainwater is incredibly low in minerals; the process of water becoming rainwater is not dissimilar from vapour distillation. Distillers in areas of low pollution may choose to use rainwater to create softness within their spirit. The finish brings in subtle hues of mint and heavier use of licorice creates a lasting, creamy finish. 96 points - Jess Clayfield, winecompanion.com.au
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Bacardi Reserva Ocho 8 Year Old Rum (700ml)PUERTO RICO$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 40%This aged rum, we are told, was historically reserved for Don Facundo & the Bacardi family. It is a blend of Bacardi’s finest Caribbean rums, is aged at least eight years in carefully selected, small, mature oak casks , then masterfully blended to develop the rounded complexity of that only the finest aged rums attain to. Mixing Bacardi 8 year old is strictly taboo!
Other reviews... Rich copper color. Sweet toffee, roasted nuts, and brown spice aromas are very sophisticated and deep. A vibrant entry leads to a supple, glycerous and lightly sweet full-bodied palate of chocolate, warm caramel, toasted nuts, and rich spices with a touch of cigar box and lacquer for complexity. Finishes with a long, smoky caramel and spice fade. Fantastic and a must for cigars.
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal - 90 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com![30000276_1.jpg]()
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2014 Inglenook RubiconCalifornia, UNITED STATES$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 14.2%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
The proprietary red, the 2014 Rubicon (96% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot) has a saturated black/purple color and a nose of blackberry and cassis with some camphor and charcoal. Chewy, rich and full-bodied, with exceptional precision and personality, this is a stunningly delicious and complex wine with a good 25-30 years of further potential. It is the antithesis of the rustic, somewhat coarse reds that were made under the Rubicon moniker when Francis Ford Coppola first acquired the Inglenook estate. Kudos to him for making dramatic improvements. Approachable already, this wine won’t hit its stride for another decade and will last 30 or more years.
95+ points
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate #228 (Dec 2016)Inglenook's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Rubicon is dark and quite potent. Inky blue/purplish fruit, spice, chocolate, menthol, licorice and plum give the wine its deep, unctuous personality. Stylistically, the Rubicon is darker, inkier and more voluptuous than the straight Cabernet. Soft tannins and silky contours add to the wine's considerable appeal.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousAromas of blackcurrants, dark chocolate and dried flowers. Very aromatic. Full body, velvety tannins and impressive intensity and richness. Opulent fruit, yet this is still lightly austere and velvety. A beauty every sense of the word. Harmonious, classic wine. Drink in 2019.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com![516070177_1.jpg]()
Gran Centenario Anejo Tequila (700ml)Jalisco, MEXICO$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 38%The latest addition to the Gran Centenario range is distilled from carefully selected ten year old blue agaves and matured for 18 months in American oak. Other reviews... Pale amber color. Beeswax, buttery caramel apple, spicy pickles, talc, and nougat aromas follow through on soft, round entry to a dryish medium-full body with prominent suede, fig, dried pineapple, caramel, and mineral accents. Finishes with an even pleasing fade. A very classy and refined añejo for sipping. 94 points
- www.tastings.com![500800453_1.jpg]()
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2015 Domaine Heresztyn-Mazzini Clos Saint Denis Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$550. 00Bottle$6600.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: ArdeasealOther Reviews....
The 2015 Clos Saint Denis Grand Cru includes 55% whole bunch fruit with 50% new oak. It has a composed bouquet with fine delineation, crushed rose petal and cold wet limestone permeating through the black and red fruit. It conveys the imperious personality I like from my Clos Saint-Denis. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe tannin, black fruit stained with orange rind and white pepper, conveying the structure and slight aloofness I appreciate in young Clos Saint-Denis, reassuring that this will age over 15-20 years. This is lip-smackingly delicious and just utterly superb.
94-96 points
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate #228 (Dec 2016)Wood toast and a top note of menthol presently compete somewhat with the wonderfully fresh, elegant and complex nose of cool red currant, spice and an abundance of floral nuances. I very much like the mouth feel of the intense and sleekly muscular flavors that possess excellent drive that also characterizes the subtly stony, balanced and strikingly persistent finish. The underlying material appears to be present such that this should eat its wood and overall this is very classy juice.
92-94 points
Allen Meadows - Burghound![That Spirited Lot House Pour Gin (700ml)]()
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That Spirited Lot House Pour Gin (700ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$68. 99Bottle$827.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: [Batch 001] Column distilled from a grape base. Very lifted with peppery warmth, pine shoots, lemon peel and hints of coriander. A soft, well-rounded, citrus-forward style developing creamy juniper towards the finish. Ends gingery, lemony and medium long. Solid mixer with appealing freshness. Obvious match for tonic. 40% Alc./Vol.![1545646548_1.jpg]()
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Michter's US*1 Small Batch Original Sour Mash Whiskey (700ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 43%During the 1970s and 1980s, Michter’s Original Sour Mash was the distillery’s single most popular product. While the “Sour Mash” moniker originated from the whiskey production process of the same name – whereby some previously fermented mash is used as the starter for the new mash to be fermented, much like making sourdough bread – Michter’s Sour Mash earned distinction for its taste, combined with its unique grain selection. In fact, it can't really be categorised as a rye or a bourbon. After disappearing from the market in 1989, this old-school favourite made a triumphant return in 2012 as part of Michter's entry level US*1 range. Our tasting of batch L14B90 tasted found moderate aromas of blackpepper cracker biscuit, dried apple and charry vanillan oak. Mid weighted, fairly lean and dry in delivery with subtle vanilla, dried apple and sweet spice flavours (cinnamon, clove) the finish adds hints of peppermint tea, menthol tobacco and ryvita biscuit in the fade with some late sugars adding length. If you had to classify it, call this a 'Bou-rye' style. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Resurrected after 23 years, this smooth, buttery American whiskey is worth the wait. It has mellow vanilla and oak flavors, with a faint cherry essence on the long finish that seems to urge, “stir up a few Manhattans already.” 93 points - wineenthusiast.com
One of the weaker Michter's by strength, but lacks nothing in subtlety. 92 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
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Scrappy's Chocolate Bitters (148ml)Washington State, UNITED STATES$33. 99Bottle$407.88 DozenABV: 48.5%Organic-toasted cacao nibs bring this bitters blend to life and with just a hint of spice and oak, it'll impart the essence of chocolate into any drink. A necessity in any well- stocked bar. 48.5% Alc./Vol.![194086916518_1.jpg]()
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Stanton & Killeen Rutherglen Muscat (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenABV: 17.5%With an average age of 2-4 years, the 'Rutherglen' classification denotes the youngest and freshest regional style. A value wine for its rich and sweet ‘muscaty’ and raisin flavours, its lightness and freshness mean it's perfect poured over ice.
17.5% Alc./Vol.Other Reviews....
Bright tawny-red colour; a high quality young muscat with rich raisin and singed toffee nuances threaded through the intense, raisined fruit; fresh finish. 500ml.
93 Points
James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion (July 2015)![30000145_1.jpg]()
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Georges Laval Garennes Extra Brut ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenABV: 11.5%Closure: CorkWhile the Laval family has been growing vines for four generations, it was not until 1971 that Georges Laval began producing estate-bottled Champagne. Now under the direction of George's son Vincent, this is one of the great under the radar properties in the region. Laval’s vineyard holdings comprise just 2.5 hectares, most in the premier cru village of Cumières. Across the seven parcels the average vine age is over 30 years, with the oldest vines of the estate over 70 years of age. Organic viticulture has been practiced since 1971, and despite the challenges of this approach in Champagne, they are now certified by Ecocert. Laval’s wines are harvested ripe and almost never chaptalized, and fermentation takes place in barrel, with indigenous yeasts. The wines are bottled late, usually about ten months after the harvest, and they are neither fined, filtered nor cold-stabilized.
Please note: Disgorgement dates can vary. Please contact the store if you would like to check which disgorgement is currently available.
Other Reviews....
The NV Extra-Brut Garennes is rich, ample and inviting, with all of the textural intensity that is the signature of Vincent Laval’s wines. Readers should expect a rich, boisterous Champagne laced with generous Meunier intensity. Dried pear, hazelnut and crushed flowers are some of the many notes that develop with a bit of air. The Garennes bottling continues to gain in complexity. This is the best edition yet. This release is based on 2016, with 40% reserve wines from 2015, 2014 and 2013. The blend is 90% Meunier with 5% each Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink 2020-2028.
90 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous![1325_1.jpg]()
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Kavalan Concertmaster Port Cask Finish Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)TAIWAN$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: [20ml sample] Deep polished copper colour. Aromatically, a curious mix of roasted nuts, aniseed infused honey, ginger biscuit and a pantry full of sweet spices, in particular, vanilla, clove and cinnamon. Soft entry builds into a beautifully harmonised, light to middle-weight whisky offering delicate mince fruit pie flavours and gentle heat. Subtle vanilla and manuka honey aftertaste...Good wine vs whisky balance. More interesting with every sip. 40% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... the elegant restraint of this whisky should certainly be admired. 92.5 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2021 ...Here Jim Swan has taken the bold step of double maturing an already quick maturing spirit, but it works. Blueberries and rich oak are to the fore, while Kavalan's cherry accents act as the link between spirit and Port. Think rosehips and creme de mures. Thick and liquorous. 90 points - maltadvocate.com (Vol. 19, #4) Reviewed by: Dave Broom![5000267168623_1.jpg]()
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Year of the Dog Australia Limited Edition Blended Scotch Whisky (750ml)SCOTLAND$599. 00Bottle$7188.00 DozenABV: 40%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
The limited-edition lunar New Year Johnnie Walker, made to celebrate the Year Of The Dog (16.02.2018 - 04-02-2019). Created in collaboration with Taiwanese artist, Page Tsou and inspired by the Dog as a symbol of prosperity, the specially-crafted bottle depicts Johnnie Walker and a canine companion travelling the world and bringing good fortune to all. 40% Alc./Vol.Very limited stocks.
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Delord VSOP Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 40%Bas Armagnac, lying to the sandier west of the Armagnac region, is where the Armagnacs are fuller but more supple with a scent of prunes or plums when a little of the spirit is rubbed in the hands. It is named for its lower altitude, rather than lower quality. In the Western part, Sablo-Limoneux is mostly sand, and makes acidic wine. Sablo-Fauves is rich in ferrous minerals that contribute to both colour and flavour in the wines. The Eastern part of Bas-Armagnac has boulbène, a heavy topsoil that covers subsoil of clay and sand. Bas Armagnac is one of the very few places where sandy soil is considered desirable. In fact, Armagnac from the Bas region is considered to have the most finesse, also tending to yield spirits that are very supple in their youth. Here is a case in point. The plump bouquet offers notes of toffee apple, dates, liquorice all-sorts, vanilla and cocoa, while the silky entry builds into a semi sweet, softly spiced, medium bodied brandy that’s very raisiny and fruit cake-like; a little broad at mid palate, though pleasantly spicy and balanced, it finishes with a long vanilla, raisin and cinnamon aftertaste. At 4-5 years old, fruity, youthful styles like this lend themselves to cocktails as well as offering the perfect introduction to Armagnac on a budget. 40% Alc./Vol.
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The Tottori Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 43%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Tasting note: Bright gold. A light fragrance of citrus blossom with hints of vanilla wafer; feels grain heavy. Air contact draws out an attractive fruity edge. Quite flavoursome, with a nice burst of vanilla and toasted cereals at the finish – some dried fruits too. Ends crisp, balanced. This is rounder and softer with less alcohol flare compared to the Bourbon barrel bottling. Drinks like a solid Scottish blend. 43% Alc./Vol.![1022950_1.jpg]()
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Balgownie Premium Cuvee BrutYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkThis sparkling pours well delivering a white creamy mousse that shows good hold. Very fine and persistent bead with a pale straw base wine colour. The nose displays fruity aromas of grapefruit, baked apple and citrus. Clean crisp refreshing palate with relatively straight forward flavours of grapefruit citrus and some lees characters. Clean crisp finish with aftertaste of grapefruit and citrus.
Drink now (2011).
Alc 12.5%![1027672_1.jpg]()
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Francois Voyer Terres de Grande Champagne Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 40%The Cognac of Francois Voyer is produced on the Voyer family's estate, planted to just 28 hectares, located inbetween Verrières and Ambleville, in Cognac's most prestigious appellation, Grande Champagne. This is a generous, spicy 5 year old Cognac.
First tasted 26/06/2009: Gold with pale straw hue. Dusty, dried flower top note, then heavier aromas of stewed apricots, clove, honey and creamy vanilla. The medium to full bodied palate offers dried fruits, creme caramel and sweet vanillan oak before building into a big, spicy oak finish. Excellent balance. Subtle, drying tannins balance the palate flavours, followed by a subtle aftertaste of liquorice allsorts, vanilla and tumeric. 40% Alc./Vol. 91 points
Retasted 02/02/2011: Deep gold colour. Attractive aromas of stewed apricot, clove and vanilla. The palate is medium bodied, entry is soft and round with ripe dried stone fruit and spice balanced by drying oak. Average length. A touch of cinnamon emerges into the drying after taste. Sound entry level VSOP but fails to thrill. 88 points
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Friesengeist Liqueur (500ml)$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 56%A traditional German liqueur best served in a warm glass after dinner.
Tasting note: Clear. Medium fresh with intense, peppery-anise and cool mint aromas; follows through with a creamy, sweet spearmint / cool mint confectionery delivery and a fleeting, tingly, mouth warming finish. Carries the alcohol well. 56% Alc./Vol.
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Admiral Rodney HMS Royal Oak St. Lucia Rum (700ml)Castries, SAINT LUCIA$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 40%St Lucia Distillers Group of Companies is a small rum distillery situated in the scenically beautiful and agriculturally rich valley of Roseau on the Caribbean island of St Lucia. A passionate team of distillers and blenders work together to produce a range of over 25 rum and rum-related products, many of which have won honours at international competitions.A 100% column distilled spirit , this is matured in American oak casks (x Jim Beam, Jack Daniels and Buffalo Trace) and blended from material aged 10-12 years. Named after Lord George Rodney, the man responsible for vanquishing the French fleet at the battle of Saints on April the 12th 1782 .
Tasting note: Bright copper colour gleams in the glass. Some minor sediment evident. Evokes aromas of café-crème, molasses-drizzled pancakes, dried mango, cinnamon and vanilla. Silky and graceful on the palate; a delicious harmony of honey and grated chocolate flavours delivered with a flourish of cinnamon warmth. Finishes gently spicy, vanilla-heavy yet not overly sweet. Classic lighter bodied rum for easy drinking and all-purpose mixing. 40% Alc./Vol.![14829100_1.jpg]()
Bluecoat Barrel Reserve American Dry Gin (700ml)Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 47%A very popular addition to our Gin shelf last year was Bluecoat, named after the Bluecoat militia that fought the American War of Independence. Botanicals include organic juniper berries, American citrus peels, coriander and angelica root distilled with third-party sourced grain neutral spirit in a copper pot still made in Scotland by Forsyths of Rothes. This latest expression is finished in charred American oak barrels for a minimum of three months providing a unique, well rounded and complex spirit without compromising the latent botanical notes. Beautifully packaged in a cobalt blue bottle, this will be a great gin alternative to classic cocktails such as the Negroni, Martinez and Old Fashioned. 47% Alc./Vol.![QuiQuiRiQui Madrecuishe Mezcal (700ml)]()
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QuiQuiRiQui Madrecuishe Mezcal (700ml)Oaxaca, MEXICO$179. 99Bottle$2159.88 DozenABV: 47%The Madrecuishe agave is part of the Karwinskii family, which also includes agave Cuishe, Cirial, and Tobasiche. Harvested between 14-16 years old, it grows mostly in the drier climates of Oaxaca, and typically takes a tall, cylindrical form. Due to the agave's dense core and low water content, mezcal made from Madrecuishe typically has high minerality and freshness with vegetal and floral notes. QQRQ's Madrecuishe is made by Maestro Mezcalero Natalio Vazquez at his palenque in El Palmar. Agaves are sourced from both wild and semi-wild plantations in Sitio El Palmar, San Luis Amatlán and Miahuatlán. Semi-wild means that wild seeds are sowed in community or private fields and when transplanted, left to grow, as in the wild. True wild agaves are increasingly scarce and Symonds feels replanting wild seeds represents a more responsible way to enjoy these rarer types of agave. To this end QQRQ re-sow ten times as many seeds as agaves used in their Mezcals. Tasting note: Clear. Oily and dense with a briney / fruity / waxy / dried herb opening sniff. Drifts lazily from the glass. Air contact loses no definition or intensity adding hints of menthol tobacco, white pepper, char grilled pineapple and dried fruits. A medium sweet, light to medium bodied mezcal with Islay-esque flavours of grilled citrus, tyre tube, wood smoke and a brisk, minerally finish. Elegant and remarkably balanced. The bouquet is first class. 47% Alc./Vol.![456123879_1.jpg]()
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Luxardo Alkermes Liqueur (500ml)Padova, ITALY$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenABV: 27%A classic Luxardo recipe, Alkermes contains cinnamon, vanilla, cardamom, cloves, cochineal and rose water. Brilliant red in colour, its gently spicy and rich aroma is traditionally used to enhance puddings and other desserts. Sought after by Italian foodies looking for that 'authentic' touch. Tasting note: Eye catching, bright strawberry red. Very gently bittersweet with cherry juice, marzipan, herb and sweet spice aromas evident. Creamy texture shows little spirit backbone and is borderline cloying with a broad, flabby, middle weighted profile featuring marzipan, clove and vanilla flavours. Turns almost imperceptibly bitter to finish - not enough to redeem the mid palate stage which is simply overly confected. 27%Alc./Vol.![1028669_1.jpg]()
Passoa Passionfruit Liqueur (700ml)FRANCE$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenABV: 17%The Passion fruit was first discovered in South America, during the colonisation by Spanish missionaries in the 1500s. They first noticed the amazing flowers of the fruit in the jungle. Nobody knows exactly why it became known as the Passion fruit. Was it because the crown-like flower reminded people of the thorn bush of Christ's Passion? Or because of its supposed qualities as an aphrodisiac?
Today in the heart of Cointreau country, near Angers in North West France, the Passion Fruit is being used to create an original liqueur - Passoã. Passoã was first launched in 1986 in the Benelux region and internationally in 1994. Today it is enjoyed worldwide and distributed in more than 42 markets. Passoã is the number 1 liqueur brand in Puerto-Rico, number two in the Netherlands, and number three in Belgium. This versatile liqueur is an exotic, light weight mixer primarily designed to be drunk with chilled tropical fruit juices. Try a Passoa Orange: One third Passoa with two thirds orange juice. Or an Exotic Passion:
3/10 Passoa
2/10 Vodka
1/10 Fraise des bois (Strawberry liqueur)
1/10 pineapple juice
3/10 grapefruit juice
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into an ice-filled glass
Garnish : Split strawberry![4567891255_1.jpg]()
Chopin Wheat Vodka (700ml)POLAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%Chopin Wheat is the third of three premium vodka's now produced at the Podlaska Wytwórnia Wódek Polmos distillery in Poland, which also include Potato and Rye. Each release aims to showcase the unique textures and flavours found through production of each primary ingredient, as opposed to total neutrality. This edition is crafted from 100% Polish wheat. Other reviews... Clear. Lovely delicate aromas of anise, citrus and orange blossoms with a silky, off-dry medium body and a smooth, grain, wax, powdered sugar and mineral accented finish.
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
91 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com![Four Pillars Navy Strength Gin (700ml)]()
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- Packaging may vary
Four Pillars Navy Strength Gin (700ml)Yarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 58.8%One of Australia's latest distilling ventures is located in the Yarra Valley and it's going gangbusters. Regular readers will remember the standard ABV release from several months back. This limited edition ups the ante in an extraordinary way. It's also recently being awarded a prestigious double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. 92 gins were assessed this year, with only nine scoring the double gold award. Here's the distiller explaining how they pulled it off:
"After experimenting with some exclusive batches for the Gin Palace (a Melbournian Gin institution) we decided to add fresh Byron Bay finger limes to the distillation, along with our beautiful organic oranges. This means we undertake a frenzy of distilling when these beauties are in season, and release just one edition of the Navy Strength each year.
The finger limes highlight the Asian spices like coriander and star anise, and are complemented by the addition of fresh ginger. Finally, fresh turmeric adds a fresh but earthy quality.
The resulting gin has lifted aromatics of lime curd, pine needles, and fragrant spices with a vanilla character which pulls the spices together. The palate is intense - sweet and juicy - but it is still very clean. The turmeric has added weight and earthiness to the palate with a freshness not unlike dill or cucumber." - Notes sourced from Four PIllars.
Tasting note: Brilliant rainwater clear with a bright silvery blush. Sensational intensity with lifted lemon verbena / lime cough lozenge notes in the opening pass. Further air contact shifts the accent towards juniper and orange peel over suggestions of turmeric, dried curry leaf and white pepper. A crisp, dry, juniper focussed entry preludes a powerful yet poised, creamy textured mid-palate attack with juicy orange / lime zest and vibrant peppers. Finish features lemon meringue, lime gelato and a drying turmeric-like texture followed by a medley of citrus flavours, all carried by the lively spices in a finale that seemingly never ends. Super long and immensely satisfying. Best Aussie Gin to date? 58.8% Alc./Vol.
![Glen Grant 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)]()
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Glen Grant 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 43%Jim Murray's Scotch Whisky of the Year for 2017, 2019 and 2020.
Introduced in 2016, and much sought after since it left Jim Murray drooling, awarding it Second Finest Whisky in the World, as well as his Scotch Whisky of the Year in his 2017 Whisky Bible. The praise continued in 2019 and 2020 with Murray again declaring Glen Grant 18 'Single Malt Scotch Whisky of the Year.'Given the age statement and price, at well under $200, it seems an incredible buy for such amazing liquid. Grab some before collector mania sets in.
Other reviews... The hardest decision to make here: full marks or not. Actually, no: an even harder decision is trying to work out the leading forces behind this extraordinary nose. This is so in tune and well balanced it is impossible to nail exactly what leads and which follows...The most crystalline, technically sublime Speysider I have tasted in a very long time...I didn't expect to find a better distillery bottled Glen Grant than their superlative 10-year-old. I was wrong...Another Glen Grant knocking on the door of perfection.
97 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2019![454001447_1.jpg]()
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Bass & Flinders Distillery Ochre Fine Aged Brandy (700ml)Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$220. 00Bottle$2640.00 DozenABV: 45%A first of its kind in Australia, Ochre is double distilled in a copper Alembic still on the Mornington Peninsula from Victorian Chardonnay grapes. Maturation takes place in 330-litre and 110-litre French oak barrels have been previously used to store cognac for up to 25 years in France.
Bass & Flinders aspired to produce a world-class aged spirit when establishing their distillery in 2009. A spirit that could not only match its international counterparts but also capture the essence of the ‘Australian spirit’ in a bottle. Early in the piece Bass & Flinders looked to France for inspiration on their production methods of fine brandies to guide the way they made this product. The result is a beautifully handcrafted Australian style aged spirit. Enclosed in a leather wrap, it makes for an exquisite gift. Please note: ABV may vary from batch to batch.
Other reviews... 100% chardonnay. Ochre is Bass & Flinders’ flagship aged brandy, aimed squarely at the luxury market with a serious price tag and a hand-stitched leather label. I certainly wouldn’t turn my nose up if this showed up under the Christmas tree, and while Australian brandy is generally very high quality, this one is right up there near the top. Far less fruit than its younger sibling on the nose, instead offering sandalwood and roasted stone fruit, that lovely apricot note is still present along with dried rose petals. It’s definitely less lush on the nose, more in line with what you would expect from a well-aged Cognac; refined and a little austere like an expensive cologne. The quality and complexity reveal themselves on the palate with fine cigar tobacco, restrained sweetness and excellent length without ever going over the top on tannin. 96 points - Fred Siggins, James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion
Notes from the producers... With a light amber honey colour the spirit's bouquet includes initial notes of riped pink lady, orange peel and cherry blossom which mature into deeper layers of raisins, caramel and vanilla. It's palate is an immediate blend of spices: cinnamon and cloves on the front palate, followed by subtle hints of almond and apple peel rounded out with a smooth vanilla mouthfeel for depth and length.Serve at slightly above room temperature, warming through the glass in your hand to allow the aromas and flavours to open up. 40% Alc./Vol
Earlier batch tasted 2015... Ideal clarity to the bright pure gold colour. Nosing yields rich, soft and pure aromas of apricot tart, prune, followed by fruit’n’nut chocolate, with later passes accenting fruit cake and clove. Entry is soft, medium dry; mid palate ups the intensity and is more grappa-like offering rich fruit cake, dried apricot and sweet spices to finish. Excellent length. Ends pleasantly warming, mildly tannic, waxy and lively. Vibrant, complex and different.
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The Bitter Truth Orange Bitters (200ml)GERMANY$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenABV: 39%Closure: CorkFounded in 2006 by German bartenders Stephan Berg and Alexander Hauck, The Bitter Truth Company were one of the first to revive a wide range of classic cocktail bitters on the retail market for modern day mixers. Today they produce a range in excess of ten flavourings, along with the occasional special batch release - their 'Dried Fruit Bitters' special release was commissioned to partake in the "World's most expensive cocktail" served in Dubai.
Today the company enjoy worldwide distribution for what was once a hobby craft, and are considered among the best for true flavourings as evidenced by the accolades attributed to them:
-Gold medal & Best in Class
 -Los Angeles International Spirits Competition for their 'Jerry Thomas Decanter Bitters'.
-Silver Medal & Best New Product
 -Tales of the Cocktail New Orleans 2010 for their Creole and Celery Bitters.Orange bitters date back as far as the 1880s. Pre-prohibition, they were the focus in literally hundreds of cocktails such as the ‘Bronx’, and are still an essential ingredient for the preparation of a Classic Martini Cocktail.
The Bitter Truth Orange Bitters are a combination of bitter orange peel and several herbs and spices, macerated in alcohol for near thirty days. They have been described as one of the spicier (cardamom, cinnamon, coriander) offerings on the market whilst still retaining its orange essence. Add a splash to zest up your G&T, or combine with other spirits such as Whisk(e)y, Rum and Vodka.
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Seven Seasons Green Ant Gin (700ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 42%Traditionally sourced for their protein and medicinal benefits, Green Ants display vibrant flavours of Lime and Coriander. This unique bush tucker is hand harvested in the Northern Territory by the Motlop family of the Larrakia people. Other botanicals include Boobiala (Native Juniper), Finger Lime, Strawberry Gum, Lemon Myrtle and Pepper Berry Tasting note: Crystal clear. Lemonade gelato and lime juice over piney juniper. Air contact adds hints of white pepper and coriander. Soft, fluffy delivery is almost oily. Bright lemon-lime gelato flavours, mint leaf and warming spices to finish. 42% Alc./Vol.![Galliano Espresso Coffee Liqueur (500ml)]()
Galliano Espresso Coffee Liqueur (500ml)ITALY$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenABV: 30%Unmistakable in its unique long tapered bottle, Galliano liqueur is named after Major Giuseppe Galliano, a member of the Italian Expeditionary Corps in the Italian-Abyssinian conflict of 1895-6, as a tribute to his heroic stand at the fort of Enda Jesus where he held out for forty four days before being ordered to surrender.
Galliano was traditionally made at Salara, fifteen miles north of Milan. Forty herbs, roots, flowers and other botanicals, including key ingredients like vanilla and anise comprise the recipe. Seven infusions, seven distillations, two blending stages and a six month marrying period are involved in the production. The taste of Galliano liqueur is set to change following a fine-tuning of the unique recipe and the creation of this coffee-flavoured version – Galliano Espresso. 30% Alc./Vol.
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Darroze Les Grands Assemblages 50 Year Old Bas-Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$620. 00Bottle$7440.00 DozenABV: 42%One of the oldest wood aged spirits available in Australia today - at a reasonable asking price- can be found in this majestic 50 year old Bas Armagnac (the age statement here refers to the youngest Armagnac in the blend). The diversity in crus, vintages, grape varieties and styles has allowed Marc Darroze to work on his "Les Grands Assemblages" (The Great Blends), chosen for their complementary characteristics, the selected armagnacs in each bottling are of different ages. Distilled from Ugni blanc, Folle Blanche, Colombard and Baco 22 grapes, five decades in 400 litre barrels promises a multi layered brandy with chocolate, leather and roasted notes characteristic of exceptionally old eaux de vie.
Very limited stocks. 42% Alc./Vol.![1016029_1.jpg]()
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- Discontinued
The Macallan Fine Oak 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 40%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Long discontinued.
"Malts rarely come as understated or as clever as this." - Jim Murray.Introduced in 2004, the Macallan fine oak range was brought to the Australian whisky scene to offer a fruitier style of Macallan with less sherry influence. It soon gained a steady following with the best-selling Macallan 12yo Fine Oak immersed on the palates of many a whisky enthusiast. The Macallan 10yo Fine Oak has stylistically followed suit with this delicate expression, comfortably priced alongside benchmarks such as Highland Park 12 and Glenmorangie 10.
Matured in a combination of three woods: x Bourbon, x Sherry American oak and x Sherry European oak casks.
Tasting note: Bright gold. The nose offers an attractive balance between the Sherry and the Bourbon oak that combines well with the biscuity malt and touches of honey. Light to medium bodied, with good concentration, the palate delivers a deft touch of both Bourbon and Sherry influences being mildly fruity with the toasty, biscuity flavours repeating. Gently warming spirit. Subtle yet persistent spicy / malt aftertaste. Overall on the drier side, not particularly profound, but beautifully balanced for a youngster and possibly just enough Sherry here to lure back old school Macallan fans. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... "Malts rarely come as understated or as clever as this." 90 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2019
Medium golden color. Sweet caramel, banana nut bread, and spice aromas. A round entry leads to a smooth, fruity sweet medium-to full-bodied palate with toffee, layer cake, peppery spice, and a touch of straw-like tannin. Finishes with a nice heather, pepper, and caramel fade.
International Review of Spirits Award: Silver Medal
88 points (Highly Recommended) - tastings.com![1028174_1.jpg]()
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Philippe de Bourgogne Creme de Cassis Blackcurrant Liqueur (700ml)Burgundy, FRANCE$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 20%Cassis is the French word for blackcurrant. The blackcurrant itself is of Nordic origin. It was only towards the beginning of the eighteenth century that Europe embraced it, both as a garden plant and for its medicinal qualities which earnt it the description of “elixir de vie.” However, as far back as the sixteenth century monks from the famous Dijon region of France are recorded to have been growing blackcurrant bushes. The drink they made from it was offered as a universal cure-all for everything from snake bite to depression. While this is stretching the truth, it is common knowledge that black currants are rich in vitamin C and the liqueurs made from them are enjoyable and healthy digestifs.
Tasting note: Pours a glycerous, opaque black / cherry red with a deep crimson hue. Appealing aromas include blackcurrant cordial and super ripe raspberry, followed by cranberry juice and a hint of pomegranate. Entry is thick, creamy, silky and just plain sensuous. Flavours are initially more like cranberry or slightly unripe raspberries, being concentrated and sweet but also nicely balanced by refreshing acidity. Creamy texture. Finishes clean and perfectly tart with a ripe blackcurrant / blackberry aftertaste. Possesses a fruit/acid balance that’s absent from too many fruit liqueurs nowadays. Nicely done.
20% Alc./Vol.![4890165180_1.jpg]()
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Applewood Distillery Unico Caffe Coffee Liqueur (500ml)Adelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenABV: 20%Social and ecologically sustainable coffee beans are sourced from Mexico, Brazil & Papua New Guinea. They are freshly roasted in the Adelaide Hills by Johnny Scott from Mighty Mighty Coffee. Distilled spirit derived from local winemaking experiments gone awry is cold-dripped through the beans over 24 hours, and a cold-brew is then used to cut it back to a lower strength. Tasting note: [tasted from a half-full bottle.] Translucent raw umber with gold edges. Delicately bitter-sweet aromas of mocha and cocoa are fresh and true to style. Super-viscous, dense, oily consistency in the mouth with sweet mocha, vanilla and roasted coffee bean flavours. Good balance given the intensity of the mid-palate sugars with trace acidity creeping into the aftertaste. The texture is a delight - so thick you could pour it over ice cream. 25% Alc./Vol.![1014077_1.jpg]()
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Patron 100% Agave Anejo Tequila (700ml)Jalisco, MEXICO$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 40%Closure: CorkIn 1989 two visionaries, John Paul DeJoria and entrepreneur Martin Crowley formed The Patrón Spirits Company with the singular goal of producing “the best tequila in the world”. Under the stewardship of DeJoria and former Seagram executive Ed Brown, a new distilling factory was built in Jalisco. With the guidance of the renown master distiller Francisco Alcarez, the new factory was designed as a state-of-the-art complex but with a core steeped in tradition. Patrón Tequila has since become the world’s number one ultra premium tequila, outselling it’s nearest competitor by eight times in the United States alone. In 2004 Patrón Tequila was recognized with the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences Five Star Diamond Award. Patrón is the first spirits brand ever to receive this prestigious honor. The Company’s headquarters are in Las Vegas Nevada.
Jalisco, Mexico is considered the most ideal region for the production of the Blue Agave plant. The climate is warm and the soil is clayey with high ferrous oxide content, resulting in Agaves of higher "honey" or sugar content. Patrón tequilas are made from premium selected Weaber Tequilana Blue Agave plants. The trimmed heart of a premium agave plant resembles a large "pineapple" and takes eight to nine years to reach maturity. There are certain "bitter" sprouts which must be carefully removed from the "pineapple" before steam baking. Few distilleries still take the care and time to remove these sprouts as Patron does. After harvesting the Agave’s, the next step in Patron’s production is the slow vapour steam baking in masonry ovens. This steam baking takes approximately thirty six hours (most tequila factories fast cook the pineapples caramelizing the outside and leaving much of the inside under cooked, bitter and starchy.) The cooked agave is then carefully torn and placed in a shallow stone milling pit and slowly macerated by large stone milling wheels. Crushing in this fashion leaves the sweet juice freely absorbed in the mescal fibers. The juice filled fiber is then placed in wooden fermentation vats. Once in the fermentation vats the juice is naturally adjusted and yeast added to encourage fermentation. This fermentation lasts for sixty to seventy two hours. The "must" is then submitted to a double distillation in copper pot sills. The tequila is then balanced to 80 proof (40% Alcohol by volume) and fine filtered. Finally, like Patron’s extraordinary commitment to quality, the Patrón bottle is also unique. Each beautifully designed glass bottle is hand made and individually numbered making every one a collectable.
Patrón Añejo is a delicate blend of uniquely aged tequilas. All the tequilas are aged in small white oak barrels for a minimum of twelve months. As in many premium red wines, the blends must be adjusted for each vintage.
Tasting note: Pale straw colour with a water-like hue. Subdued with subtle notes of charry vanillan oak, liquorice, old tobacco and clay. Medium to full bodied; exceptionally smooth delivery includes flavours of sweet spice, baked citrus and hints of peppermint. Ends fleeting, dry. The aftertaste suggests liquorice, light spice and cedary. 40% Alc./Vol.
![Seppeltsfield Para 10 Year Old Grand Tawny]()
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Seppeltsfield Para 10 Year Old Grand TawnyBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenABV: 19%Closure: Screw CapBlended from base material with an average age of 10 years. Sienna brown colour with onion brown hue and olive green edges. Rancio top note, followed by nut, almond and hazelnut, showing aged tawny character. Rancio and spice palate flavours with honey, toffee and caramel evident. Clean spirit. Warm aftertaste, with excellent balance. Aftertaste of rancio, raisins and honey.
Drink (2008)
Alc/Vol: 19%![2088408_1.jpg]()
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Dassai 23 Junmai Daiginjo Sake (720ml)Yamaguchi, JAPAN$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 16%Closure: Plastic StopperDassai, brewed by Asahi Shuzo in Yamaguchi Prefecture, is dedicated exclusively to Junmai Daiginjo sake made with the highest level of rice polishing for purity and elegance. Using only Yamada Nishiki, the most prized sake rice, Dassai embraces a supremely modern approach, blending tradition with innovation. Unlike most breweries that follow a seasonal brewing cycle, Dassai operates year-round, refining their techniques to achieve precision and consistency. The result is a range of exceptionally smooth, fragrant, and expressive sake that has gained a global following.
Crafted with meticulous precision, Dassai 23 represents the ultimate pursuit of refinement, with an exceptionally high rice polishing ratio. Its ultra-smooth texture and purity make it a benchmark for modern Junmai Daiginjo.
Tasting Note: Pours a pale, water white colour in the glass. Supremely elegant on the nose, showing honeysuckle, white strawberry, watermelon rind, along with subtle cream and nougat. Likewise the palate is equally elegant and pure, with green melon and white strawberry sitting alongside pastry, nougat, panna cotta, and vanilla notes. Extremely refined, and with more than a passing resemblance to a crisp white wine, serve this sake chilled on its own or along with fresh dishes such as squid or red snapper sashimi.
Alc 16%
Rice Polishing: 23%Other Reviews....
The medium dry Asahi Shuzo NV Dassai 23 Junmai Daiginjo should be one of the lowest Seimaibuai (23%) sakes in Japan. It is pure and clean, with light but complex scents of white flowers, cherry, strawberry, banana and fresh rice. On the palate it is broad and smooth with a clean spicy finish. Rice: Yamada Nishiki. Alcohol: 16%.
93 points
Liwen Hao - Wine Advocate (Nov 2017)From Japan’s far west beyond Hiroshima, Dassai produces only junmai daiginjo in three main styles; 23, 39 and 50, reflecting their respective polishing ratios. This lovely aromatic daiginjo displays plenty of intense, fragrant floral and melon notes, fresh without the unpasteurised zing of nama sake. It is smooth and richly flavoured with melon, pear, peach and touches of coconut and cinnamon. There is a lovely rich texture and elegant, long dry finish.
94 points
Anthony Rose - Decanter![1028292_1.jpg]()
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Chairman's Reserve Original Rum (700ml)Castries, SAINT LUCIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%St Lucia Distillers Group of Companies is a small rum distillery situated in the scenically beautiful and agriculturally rich valley of Roseau on the Caribbean island of St Lucia. A passionate team of distillers and blenders work together to produce a range of over 25 rum and rum-related products, many of which have won honours at international competitions.
Tasting Notes: Pale gold colour. Generous aromas of raisin toast, polished boards, pine cone, nutmeg and cocoa. Follows with medium bodied, lengthy, off-dry flavours of spicy plum pudding, cocoa, raisin and spice. Excellent balance & persistence. Ends dry and long with dried fruits and hints of varnish through the aftertaste. 40% Alc./Vol.
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Cester Camillo Rose Cuvee Extra DryITALY$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now (2018)ABV: 11%Closure: CorkA fine mousse quickly dissipates revealing a pale salmon coloured base that has a delicate stream of bubbles. Subdued nose with subtle peach and apple aromas melding into some toast. Fruity peach, ripe apple, strawberry and mango flavours intermix with a dash of citrus. Finishes dry with vibrant acidity. Aftertaste of peaches, strawberries, mango and subtle toast. A simple, fruity sparkling.
Drink now.
Alc. 11%![1028636_1.jpg]()
Drambuie Liqueur (700ml)Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%The isle of Skye is rich in its own individual Scottish history, legends, myth and magic - none more so than the romantic tale of Bonnie Prince Charlie, the rebel with a cause, whose life was protected by the young Flora Macdonald, the young lady who rowed him to safety, immortalised in the Skye Boat song. Members of the MacKinnon clan too were to be part of the story in helping the Prince escape government soldiers in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden. His gift in gratitude of their support was a precious recipe which has been passed down through several generations of the MacKinnon family and today this honey-sweet golden drink is still enjoyed by millions across the world.
Drambuie is gaelic for the "drink that satisfies". Descendants of Mackinnon began commercial production in 1906 making twelve bottles a fortnight. It seems Prince Charles' gift paid off eventually - Drambuie now being served at Buckingham Palace, Parliament, the QE2 and on the Concorde & Orient Express.
Like Glayva or Lochan Ora, Drambuie uses fine mature malt whiskies as its base blending them with heather honey, herbs & spices. It goes well as an after dinner drink but is also pleasant in coffee. 40% alc/vol Try also the “Rusty Nail”:- Drambuie & Scotch, or simply pour Drambuie straight over ice.
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Manly Spirits Coastal Citrus Gin (700ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$86. 99Bottle$1043.88 DozenABV: 43%A collaboration with Kurtis Bosley of Public House Management Group that takes its inspiration from Australian coastal botanicals. Earthy citrus notes from Lemon Aspen partner with exotic Myer lemon to give a punchy citrus hit which is offset by the delicate savoury flavours from local Sea Parsley and fresh Coriander. All of which is rounded out with the classic juniper back bone. Tasting note: Clear. Rock pools, sea spray and hints of shell fish. Second pass suggests brine, lemon peel, piney juniper, touches of white pepper and coriander. A creamy entry followed by flavours of lemon peel, juniper, fresh coriander and cool-mint confectionary. Crescendos at the finish which is peppery, tongue tingling, salty, wonderfully vibrant and prolonged. Lingering coriander and juniper aftertaste. Great stuff. 43% Alc./Vol.![15601981051_1.jpg]()
Fee Brothers Boker's Style Cardamom Bitters (150ml)Rochester, New York, UNITED STATES$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenReferencing a now defunct bitters brand, "Boker's" style Cardamom Bitters is an essential ingredient for many Pre-Prohibition vintage cocktails. This uses a glycerin base instead of a whiskey base. Fees are not the only company making a Boker’s style, but they are the only ones creating a non-alcoholic version. Try it in a Martinez.
