Availability:
What's New
We boast Australia's fastest growing online selection of wines, spirits and liqueurs added to weekly. If you can't find what you're looking for, call us on 1800 069 295 and we'll try to track it down.
-
- 96
- 93
- 96
- Nicks Import
2016 Chateau Langoa BartonSaint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE$155. 00Bottle$1860.00 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews....
Owned by the Barton family since 1821, Langoa Barton is a third growth St-Julien estate known for its traditional approach and consistent quality. The 20ha of vines average 35 years in age and are planted on deep gravel soils. The 2016 blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc was vinified in temperature-controlled wooden vats and aged 18 months in French oak barrels (60% new). Georgie Hindle: Ripe, concentrated, evocative nose: sweet florals, toasted tobacco and clove. Linear and a touch strict, wet stone and graphite, toasted cedar on the finish. Great classicism and ageing potential. Vincenzo Arnese: Fresh, lifted and nicely leafy. Palate shows good freshness and structure. Very elegant with a moderate finish. Robert Mathias MW: Violets, cassis, pencil shavings and warm gravel: all the hallmarks of a classic St-Julien. Iodine and oyster shell, accents of cocoa and cedar. Drink 2025-2040.
96 points
Panel tasting - Decanter (Apr 2025)Beautiful aromas of flowers and berries, intermingled in fresh and brambly mode with a cedary edge. This is very fresh. The tannins carve an exceptionally deep, long line through the dark berries and cassis and deliver a very powerful, unwavering finish. This is in great form. Very powerful and focused. Try from 2024.
96 points
James Suckling (Jan 2019)The 2016 Langoa Barton is succulent, racy and inviting, with striking textural richness and depth. Ripe dark plum, tobacco, cedar, licorice and spice are all generous in this racy, pliant Saint-Julien. The 2016 is an especially fine edition of Langoa-Barton and one of the sleepers of the vintage. Drink 2022-2036.
93 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous (Dec 2018) - Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky (750ml) - Circa 2000 BottlingSCOTLAND$350. 00Bottle$4200.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Is this the Holy Grail of blended Scotch Whisky? The Blue Label blend echoes early pioneering days when Johnnie Walker would select a small number of whiskies in his own local grocery shop in order to create an outstanding blend for the specific tastes of a highly valued customer. John Walker and his son Alexander began their earliest blending experiments using a limited range of whiskies, drawn mainly from the islands, the western and northern Highlands and a few distilleries in Speyside. After rejecting whiskies that didn't meet their standards, they found that the very best were strictly limited in supply. Following their lead, the Johnnie Walker master-blender developed Blue Label as a celebration of the founder's unremitting standards for only the highest quality whisky.The blend is similar to the taste and character of some of the earliest whisky blends created in the 19th century, possessing a traditionally rich peaty taste combined with an exceptionally smooth, deep, distinctly malty flavour. - Dubonnet Rouge Aperitif Liqueur (750ml)FRANCE$33. 99Bottle$407.88 DozenABV: 14.8%
In an attempt to discover a way for soldiers in North Africa to consume quinine to prevent malaria, the Parisian chemist, Joseph Dubonnet created this lightly fortified herb wine which is sometimes simply called “the cat.” The story behind the cat which appears on the label is far from clear, however one report has it that it is testimony to the many nights Dr. Dubonnet spent researching his creation, leaving his wife to the sole company of her feline. Dubonnet is produced by fortifying both red and white wines from the Rousillon region of France and blending them with local herbs and spices, then aging the product for three years. Key ingredients are quinine, orange peel, coffee beans, cinnamon and camomile. Best served on ice with a slice of lemon. 14.8% Alc./Vol.
Tasting notes: Tawny color like an old Burgundy. Bouquet is vinegary and tart, with nuances of pine, underripe grapes and fruit stone. Fresh and clean on palate; thin flavor displays tastes of tart cranberry. Try it with some club soda and a slice of orange.
Rating: 80-84 - tasting note sourced from www.wineenthusiast.com
One of history's greatest cocktail creators, Frank Meier, used Dubonnet to make his B.V.D.:In a mixing glass: one third of each of the following;
Bacardi Rum
Noilly Prat Dry
Dubonnet; stir well and serve.
- The Simple Syrup Co. Crawley's Bartender Simple Sugar Syrup (750ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenClosure: Screw Cap
Made in Australia from Organic Paraguayan Sugar, this sugar (aka simple) syrup takes all of the hard work out of cocktail preparation, so you can focus on drinking and enjoying them! Sugar syrup is an essential ingredient in many classic and contemporary cocktails, however it can be fiddly and time consuming to prepare. Use instead of sugar in a Sazerac, Manhattan, Mojito, Caipirinha or a Blanton's Punch.
Once opened keep refrigerated and consume within two months for best flavour. -
- 90
Audemus Spirits Umami Gin (500ml)Cognac, FRANCE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 42%A gin named after the fifth basic taste, ('umami' is also known as 'savoury'). The concept is to provide the perfect base spirit for a Martini. Produced using hand picked Sicilian capers, parmesan and two other savoury ingredients combined with neutral wheat spirit, then briefly barrel aged, it's wonderfully scented with a keynote of fresh capers, plus hints of white pepper and green capsicum, ending on a spicy note of fresh-sliced chillies. Evocative and unique. Experiment with dry, savoury cocktails. 42% Alc./Vol.
Throws a natural sediment. This is not a production fault. -
- 89
- Packaging may vary
Johnnie Walker Double Black Blended Scotch Whisky (700ml)Edinburgh, SCOTLAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%A new addition to the Johnnie Walker family. The whisky was created taking Black Label as a blueprint and adding heavily-peated malts, some aged in deeply charred oak casks. Memories of our last tasting of the original Johnnie Walker Black about one year ago (the blend varies) recollect an all round richer, sweeter, oilier whisky whereas rather than doubling the experience, this seems to have halved it. For those who enjoy lighter Islays this is akin to a young Caol Ila. It would make a pleasant food whisky.
Tasting note: Deep gold colour. Moderate aromas of sweet cereals, fruit cake and clove are interwoven with peat that has a salty, kippery edge. Entry is light and silky to the point of being water like. Mid palate is light to medium bodied, with soft spices adding depth. Mild flavours of toffee apple and fruit cake seamlessly combine with sweet grains and delicate peat followed by a subtle, drying aftertaste of fruit cake and peat. This is exceptionally smooth - if that’s what’s most important to you - but the overall delivery is a little thin, especially with regard to the finish and aftertaste. 40% Alc./Vol.
- Fernet Branca Digestif Liqueur (700ml)ITALY$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 39%
Fernet Branca has been produced according to a secret family prescription at the Fratelli Branca Distillery in Milan since 1845. Over forty aromatic herbs, blossoms and spices such as enzian, safron, myrrh and camomile are used in its production. Although Fernet goes well over ice or with gin, it's often prescribed as a drink to prevent hangovers. According to Esquire's Handbook for Hosts from 1949, when mixed with rye, a few dashes of Pernod, and a lump of ice, Fernet Branca makes for an ideal pick-me-up. The health-enhancing properties of Fernet have made it the favoured "digestivo" at dinner tables across the world; traditionally served straight up at the end of a meal, it aids in digestion and cleanses the palate. This versatile liqueur can also be used to spike espresso to make the famous "caffè corretto" (literally, "spiked coffee") which is served all over the world. In recent years, as a new generation has discovered this invigorating liqueur, many have begun to serve it with cola, fruit juice, Grenadine, Energy drinks and even beer!
Tasting Notes: Dark brown with an orange cast. Fresh peppermint aromas are very distinctive. A huge blast of menthol assaults the palate with a drying, bitter herb finish. Very dry and concentrated. 40%Alc./Vol.RATED: 91 points (Exceptional)
- Tasting note sourced from www.tastings.com -
- Nicks Import
Coebergh Classic Bessen Liqueur (1000ml)Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 20%Closure: Screw CapPrepared according to a traditional Dutch recipe originating from 1887 and recently sub-titled as 'Wilde', Coebergh Classic is a blackberry derived liqueur which can be enjoyed straight or as a creative addition to a chosen cocktail recipe.
Cocktail Recipe: Coebergh Rosso. Glass: Old-fashioned
Coebergh
Vermouth
Soda
IceMethod: Mix 1/4 Coebergh and 1/4 Vermouth over ice. Top with Soda.
- The Bitter Truth Original Celery Bitters (200ml)GERMANY$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenABV: 44%Closure: Cork
A lost ingredient. Defunct for decades. Now revived to please the most discriminating palate. The Bitter Truth Celery Bitters is the first celery bitters to be offered commercially in decades. This cocktail ingredient, which had already existed in the 19th century, enriches cocktails with unusual flavors. It’s ideal for traditional corpse-reviver cocktails such as the Bloody Mary, Bullshot and Prairie Oyster, as well as Martini Cocktails and the Gin & Tonic.
Very complex and exotic. The initial flavor of celery is dominant, leading into a complex palate with aromas of lemongrass, orange peel and ginger. Take your Bloody Marys to the next level.
Other reviews... The vegetal quality these bitters add to cocktails is quite unique. I’ve found its union with tequila to be nearly perfect. They’re another shining example of cocktail’s past molding its future. - Brian Miller, Death & Company NYC
-
- 89
Johnnie Walker Blender's Batch Bourbon Cask & Rye Finish Blended Scotch Whisky (1000ml)SCOTLAND$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenABV: 40%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Number two in Johnnie Walker's collectable "Blender's Batch" series comes with an American twist: Composed from five distilleries including grain whisky from the now-closed Port Dundas, this was aged in first-fill Bourbon barrels before a six month finishing in former American rye whiskey casks. Its inspiration stems from Jim Beveridge's time spent blending Bourbons and ryes in Kentucky in the 1990s. Normally a travel retail exclusive, we've sneaked a small volume into out latest shipment!Other reviews... Try this in your next Manhattan. Heather honey sweetness, Belgian waffles, cinnamon, rye spices, creamy vanilla, peppercorn, and dried porcini emerge after the 6-month rye cask finishing period. Sweet caramel oozes over the tongue, Highland toffee and Orkney fudge hold the spices in check. Banana candy and deep citrus acknowledge the Dufftown single malt component. The most accomplished Blender’s Batch to date. Emma Walker has nailed it.
92 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Fall 2017)Other reviews... great to see someone have the good sense to try to make the most of rye...If they can tame the caramels the results will be better still.
89.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2018 -
- 94
Warrabilla Classic Muscat (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenABV: 18.5%Closure: StelvinMade from fresher, younger material than the Grand Muscat the Classic has an average age of 10 years. Deep sienna brown colour with a green olive hue. The nose exhibits honey, raisin and marmalade top notes followed by some toffee apple and spicy brandy spirit. A thick viscous textural feel coats the palate with rich concentrated flavours of honeyed raisins, Christmas cake, some toffee infusions and spicy well integrated brandy spirit. Excellent depth with a long luscious aftertaste of honeyed raisins, Christmas cake, toffee and fine spicy brandy spirit.
Alc 18.5% -
- Nicks Import
1964 Glenfarclas The Family Casks Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$9999. 00Bottle$119988.00 DozenABV: 48.3%A massive age statement arrives as part of the lengendary Family Casks series. Distilled in 1964 and drawn from single cask #4730 before being bottled in 2014, this edition had a miserly outturn of just 165 bottles. It goes without saying that this is an investment option: You are looking at a fifty year old malt that will only increase in value. Like the rest of the Family Casks, this is bottled at cask strength diluted only by the angels. 48.3% Alc./Vol. The Family Cask prices have been steadily increasing over the last few years, especially in emerging Asian markets. Word has it that demand has been so strong that Glenfarclas have even stopped issuing tasting notes for the various casks. Instead, they literally reserve every last drop for the whisky trade. Several vintages are increasingly rare even in the distillery’s warehouses and may represent their final stocks. Note: 750ml bottle, so there's an added bonus! - Distilleria Negroni Prugna Liqueur (700ml)ITALY$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 35%
Founded in 1919 by Cavaliere Guglilmo Negroni, the distillery reached immediate fame with its homonymous aperitif and the excellent quality of its grappa. Today the tradition of quality is carried on under the direction of the Azienda Agricola Conte Loredan Gasparini. With its hundred hectares of vineyards, the estate is a direct and privileged supplier of high quality grape-marc, which is collected in sealed plastic containers and sent directly to the distillery when it is still warm. In this way it is possible to maintain all grape-marc's characteristics, obtaining distillates which embody the typical peculiarities of each vine or fruit variety. 35% Alc./Vol.
-
- 91
Lillet Rose Aperitif (750ml)Podensac, Bordeaux, FRANCE$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 17%Closure: CorkLillet (pronounced lee-lay) is an aperitif wine, a type of drink traditionally enjoyed before a meal. It originated in 1887 in the Bordeaux region of France, by the Lillet brothers, Paul and Raymond, distillers and merchants of spirits, soda, and candies. It was one of the first tonic wines, and became increasingly popular around the turn of the 20th century when tonic drinks were touted as good for the health. The ban against absinthe in 1915 also contributed to the popularity of the drink. In the 1950s and 60s, the golden age of cocktails, Lillet became the centerpiece of a number of drinks served in the fashionable bars and restaurants of New York City, where it was sometimes served flambé. It was also popularly served with gin in England.
Lillet Rosé is the latest addition to the existing mix on offer which finds itself in-between the Blanc and Rouge with its fresh floral aroma and its dry fruity flavours. It has so far been awarded the winner of the 2011 Chairman’s Trophy for Apéritif with a mark of 94 out of 100 at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. Garnish with strawberries, oranges and all female related letters of apology.
Tasting note: Pretty pale salmon pink appearance. Enticing aroma includes notes of rose water, plum and ripe cherry / strawberry along side hints of ripe grapefruit. A clean, fresh delivery offers a light to medium bodied palate of plum and cherry flavours supported by soft, cleansing acidity. Cherry glace finish is delightfully fresh and deceptively long as hints of rose petal emerge late in the aftertaste. Know someone who enjoys fuller style Rose wines? Introduce them to this. 17% Alc./Vol.
-
- 95
- 94
Ayala Brut Majeur ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkFound in 1860, Ayala Champagne was purchased by the house of Bollinger in 2005. Investing heavily in the estate they built a new state of the art winery and embarked on a comprehensive modernization program, focusing on quality and precision winemaking. Today both estates continue to run independently of each other maintaining their own identity and style.
Backed by the House of Bollinger, this rich, full yet quite airy Champagne delivers outstanding value.
A blend of 70 different Crus comprised of 55% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 15% Pinot Meunier with 43% Reserve wines included. Aged for a minimum of 3 years on lees.
Pours with a frothy mousse that holds well over a pale straw coloured base that has flashes of gold around the edges and a fine, persistent bead. Engulfing the nostrils are aromas of yeast lees, baked bread and citrus followed by some brioche and delicate cashew notes. Rich and full yet quite airy in it’s flow, the palate features mouth filling flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and subtle brioche. Some citrus and cashew nuances also chime in. Vivid acidity with a long, dry chalk tinged finish.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Complex, fresh, layered and classic, a fascinating bouquet with layers of sweet citrus and a deep centered autolysis, white strawberry and white fleshed stone fruits. A delicious wine on the palate with fine a mousse texture, a whisper of white spice and white stone fruits. The acid line is perfect carrying flavours and highlighting the complexities of autolysis. Delicious and lengthy with best drinking from day of purchase through 2032. Outstanding value!
96 points
CamDouglasMS.comA layered wine with spicy, almost stony, minerality. Salted lemons and oranges. Crisp on the palate with light to medium body and flavors of strawberries and restrained pastry. Chalky mineral aftertaste. Dosage 6 g/L. Disgorged November 2024. Drink or hold.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 95
Carpano Antica Formula 1786 Red Vermouth (1000ml)Torino, ITALY$71. 99Bottle$863.88 DozenABV: 16.5%Closure: CorkDrinks writer, David A.Embury stresses that a cocktail will never be any better than the quality of the cheapest ingredient in it, and hence he proselytizes constantly for the highest quality spirits, liqueurs, cordials, and modifiers (fresh squeezed lemons, etc.) It's a philosophy we completely agree with. At Nicks Wine Merchants, we take great pride in our amazing collection of the best spirits and liqueurs from all corners of the world. However, good quality Sweet Vermouth has remained elusive, that is until we discovered Antica Formula. Bearing the name of the Italian distiller, Antonio Carpano the man most famous for inventing Vermouth, this is arguably the finest example of the style available today - an artisan product, produced in tiny quantities from the very finest ingredients.
To use a frank analogy - to go to the effort of making a great cocktail that requires sweet vermouth, without using Antica Formula is like wearing thongs with a tuxedo. Classic cocktails such as the Manhattan, Negroni, Bronx or Corpse Reviver will be taken to new heights, while its bitter-sweet balance and generous, silky mouthfeel, means it can also be consumed neat as an aperitif or with desserts. A large measure with soda and ice gives a sarsparilla like experience. The only limit is your imagination.
The Vermouth comes beautifully packaged in a one litre, mouth blown, individually numbered glass bottle.Tasting note: Burnt sienna brown colour with gold ochre hue. Inviting nose of liquorice, dried citrus peel, cinnamon, and clove. A sophisticated Sarsaparilla! The palate is a joy. A rich velvety texture delivers initially sweet flavours; aniseed, portello, cinnamon sugar and spicy fruit cake, before the palate turns and takes on a slightly bitter character driven by orange marmalade and warm spice which persists into the very long aftertaste. Retains its freshness throughout and achieves the bitter/sweet balancing act with impeccable poise. A classic. 16.5% Alc./Vol.
-
- 90
- 91
The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey (700ml)IRELAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: Deep topaz. Shy but builds to medium intensity on the nose: Fruit cake, vanilla and honey drizzled weetbix... then a touch of rose water or Turkish delight? Flavourwise, dry and genteel with plum, prune and lady's handbag (potpourri or rose scented talc?) alongside gingerbread and dried fruits. Ends softly tannic, thinning out before the vanillas close. Odd. All malt, but doesn't really taste like it. 40% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... superb, lush delivery with peppers pounding, backed by some excellent tannins. Mocha and gingerbread meet the fruitcake full on in midstream... unmistakably malt from the old Bushmills distillery.
91 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2019 One of the most striking-looking new releases around, this bone-jangling, sepulchral, triple-distilled whiskey was once entombed in oloroso sherry butts. A nose of baked apple and sultana, rolled marzipan, sesame seeds, and roasted spices. Smooth tasting, with dark fleshy fruits, mixed peel, chocolate, walnut; the taut spicy middle section dies back to baked oranges. A dignified finish, with chocolate and nutmeg at the death. Ingest in peace. 40% Alc.Vol. 89 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Spring 2018) -
- 88
Melbourne Moonshine Apple Pie Moonshine (700ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 30%Based on a traditional Southern American recipe, made using Victorian apples blended with triple distilled moonshine and infused with cloves and cinnamon sticks.
Tasting note: [2019 bottling 30.2% Alc./Vol. batch tasted] Bright topaz. Semi-sweet aromas of stewed apple and poached pears. Easy drinking with nicely defined baked apple and sweet fruit nectar flavours, as well as clove and cinnamon. The spicy finish adds body and length.
-
- 91
- 92
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenABV: 40%For over 200 years, Buffalo Trace Distillery has been defined by a dedication to one craft: making fine American whiskey. By honouring tradition and embracing change, it has earned its place of leadership among the legendary spirits producers of the world and is now recognised as the World’s Most Awarded Distillery.
The venture produces a wide range of whiskeys using three different mash bills: one light rye, one heavy rye and a third flavoured with wheat. They've developed different products by aging those three mash bills to meet various grades and price points. At Buffalo Trace, that translates into at least fifteen labels: W. L. Weller, Eagle Rare, George T.Stagg and Old Rip Van Winkle (amongst others), and that's not counting many reserve and limited-release variants.
While the mash bills contribute to the flavour, the more significant differentiation among brands takes place in century-old warehouses. Constructed of massive wood beams and covered by a brick shell, these structures allow the alternating cooling and warming of Kentucky's four distinct seasons to mature the bourbon by nature's timetable. Steam pumped throughout the warehouses during the extreme cold of winter compensates for the dramatic drops in temperature and gives the whiskey additional cycles in and out of the wood. This is said to make for a more balanced bourbon as the liquid is able to take additional advantage of the natural sugars occurring in the charred barrels. The distillery was the first to use this method of aging in 1859 and has been doing so ever since.
The warehouses were built in the 1900s and represent diverse architectural styles. Consequently, their designs and location on the property contribute to the significant differences in the whiskey coming from each. Certain floors within a given warehouse produce better whiskey than others do. For example, the fourth and fifth floors of Warehouse C and the fourth through sixth floors of Warehouses I and K produce the company's best. It's these locations which have been reserved for the maturation of Buffalo Trace.
The brand itself was born only relatively recently. In 1999, visitors to the newly named and renovated distillery asked, “Why isn’t there a bourbon called ‘Buffalo Trace?" In response, Elmer T. Lee ventured into the best floors in the best warehouses to find some of the finest barrels that really matched up with his views on what a full-bodied, robust Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey should taste like. The result was what consumers enjoy today, batched from no more than 40 barrels at a time. There are two ABV variants on offer - one at 45% and this lower proof 40% bottling. The flavour profiles are pretty much identical, but as you would expect, less alcohol means a little less concentration. That said, the difference isn't huge, and what you miss out on is made up for in dollar savings. The style moves away from macho Bourbon, aligning with the feminine elegance of whiskeys like Evan Williams Single Barrel. As an affordable, middle-tier offering, it's also deceptively complex. The rye is evident but balanced by softer, sweeter notes like vanilla wafers, toasted sponge cake, cherry chocolate and just plain old, high-quality American oak. This expression doesn't boast super length, but it is incredibly easy to drink. Our preference is uncut (too much water makes it a little 'peachy' and the more nuanced notes are lost). An ice cube and a comfortable chair by the barbeque is all you need to complete the picture.
Other reviews... The first thing that hit me about this bottling was how the oils and the lingering richer notes were a little duller. So, after nosing, I checked the bottle. And sure enough, the strength had been lowered from 45% to 40%, a whopping drop of 10 proof. That is a significant change and will mean the finishes will never quite linger as they once did due to the oil being broken. However, in the case of this bottling, richness of texture has given way to elegance. 92.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
- Suntory Old Japanese Tradition Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 43%Like other Suntory brands, there are several generations of "Old" dating back to the 1950s, each with minor tweaks to the label, including present day bottlings like this. It's described as "a mid market blend (below Hibiki in Suntory's blended whisky pecking order but above Kakubin." There is a similar Suntory Old sub titled "Rich & Mellow", also bottled at 43% which has received strong praise from the likes of Jim Murray (91 points). This may be a very similar product, as other versions of Old are bottled at 40% ABV. Still packaged in its traditional dark coloured dumpy bottle, the secondary title on this edition reads "The Japanese Tradition".
- Jos. A. Magnus & Co. Joseph Magnus Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 50%
A sourced whiskey (8 to 9-year old bourbon from MGP in Indiana). This aims to recreate the flavour of a bygone brand, recently reestablished in 2015 in Washington DC. Comes packaged in a handsome art deco style bottle containing 'triple cask finished' whiskeys, including x-sherry and cognac. Caron Moonin from thewhiskeywash.com explains how Joseph Magnus came to be re-invigorated:
"According to the Washington City Paper, in 2007, Jimmy Turner found a bottle of bourbon in the closet while cleaning out his parents’ home after his mother died. The bottle was in fact a 100+ year-old bourbon passed down through generations. This discovery got Turner to learn more about his great-grandfather, Joseph A. Magnus. Magnus made bourbon, rye, whiskey, gin, and rum. This then led to more investigation, both in terms of family tree research and whiskey leads, to source some similar in flavor profile to this heirloom liquid treasure.A year-and-a half ago, Jos. A. Magnus & Co., a bourbon and gin distillery, opened in Washington, D.C. The distillery currently offers two whiskies: Joseph Magnus Straight Bourbon and Murray Hill Club Bourbon, both of which are drawn from sourced whiskeys. As with Scotch, sometimes the bottle also tells part of the story. In this case, the distillery has said the design of the custom containers is “nspired by historic Magnus bourbon bottles. The base of this whiskey is supposed to resemble the old bottle found by Turner in the closet. From there, a triple-cask finished spirit was created via “a marriage of bourbon aged in white oak and finished in Oloroso Sherry, Pedro Ximenez Sherry, and Cognac casks." 50% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Water helps to temper the heat and release even more flavors, with currant, chocolate, and drying oak on the finish. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
-
- 93
- Nicks Import
Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia Platino Tequila (700ml)Jalisco, MEXICO$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 40%Closure: Cork"Enduringly subtle, the tequila feels meticulously crafted and deftly balanced, light on its feet but bursting with fresh flavors. Sip it, mix with it, whatever. Just buy it." - drinkhacker.com
Launched in 2007 but relatively new to Australia, the Platino expression from Cuervo's hugely successful "Reserva De La Familia" range of premium Tequilas comes with a strong recommendation from the World Tequila Awards - amongst others. Made using 10-12 year old estate grown agaves, the tequila benefits from a proprietary method which is said to capture the steam during the cooking process, which is then turned back to water to dilute the tequila to a standardised strength. On the nose it's an almost floral blanco with an appealing grilled capsicum, tobacco and white pepper lift that follows through to vibrant flavours suggesting dried pear, light vanilla, white pepper, earthy smokiness and sappy agave. The finish is salty, drying, minerally and pleasantly warm making for a complex standalone sipper that's closer to a Reposado, at least in terms of mouthfeel. Each hand-dipped wax-sealed bottle arrives housed in a presentation box, adding to the premium vibe. Certified organic. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Though it’s a blanco, this tequila is rested in stainless steel for 60 days before bottling, a common practice for higher-end white spirits. It doesn’t take long to see what the fuss is all about: This is instantly an expressive and engaging tequila that quickly becomes hard to put down. A gentle nose expresses notes of white pepper, lime juice, and a touch of coconut husk. Tropical and a little sweet, it’s mild and enveloping from the start. The palate keeps perfectly on message: Light sweetness paired with citrus quickly evokes a note of limeade, then moves into a light sprinkle of baking spice, green herbs, lemongrass, and another grind of white pepper. This is definitely not your father’s Cuervo, and it’s miles away from a brash, alcohol-driven experience. Enduringly subtle, the tequila feels meticulously crafted and deftly balanced, light on its feet but bursting with fresh flavors. Sip it, mix with it, whatever. Just buy it. Bottled Dec 15 2020. - drinkhacker.com
...vegetable notes, fried zucini and unripe pear. Finishes dry with slightly peppered notes and enduring agave flavours. 4.5 stars - diffordsguide.com
Gold Medal - World Tequila Awards 2021
"A benchmark blanco Tequila that tastes and smells exactly how your minds eye envisions one." 88 points - tastings.com (2023)
-
- 94
Veuve Ambal Cremant de Bourgogne Grande Cuvee BrutBurgundy, FRANCE$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: 1 - 2 Years (2020-2021)ABV: 12%Closure: CorkA lacy white mousse sits over a pale straw, light gold tinged base. Exceptionally fine and very persistent bead. Aromas of pear intermix with baked bread, apple, oily toast and yeast lees notes. Good richness and a creamy mouthfeel with generous flavours of baked pear melding into yeasty bread like characters, citrus and traces of oily toast elements. Dry fluffy finish with good refreshing acidity and a medium length aftertaste. Very well made for the price.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12% - Rinquinquin a la Peche Aperitif (750ml)Provence, FRANCE$48. 99Bottle$587.88 DozenABV: 15%Closure: Cork
Rinquiquin is the quintessential Provencal aperitif, made from a maceration of 3 varieties of peaches : Cardinale, Coronet and Junegold, as well as peach leaves harvested just before fall, macerated in a blend of white wine and alcohol.
Like many aperitives in France , Rinquinquin was used for its therapeutic properties well before becoming a staple of the Provencal diet, the name itself is derived from "requinquer" or invigorating in english. Virtually every family had its own recipes, the most sought after being made with the now virtually disappeared "peche de vignes".The resulting infusions of peaches and leaves are always matured and Rinquinquin typically spends 6 months in barrels to harmonise this subtle blend.
Other reviews... Straw-yellow color. Bouquet is dry, fruity and soft, with a trace of peach pit bitterness. On palate, the peach flavor is delicate, yet ripe; by midpalate, the ripe peach taste dominates. Aftertaste is fruity, but carries enough acidity to maintain crispness. Serve slightly chilled at 50°-55°F. Best Buy. 15% Alc./Vol.
85-89 points -www.wineenthusiast.com - Vedrenne Liqueur de Pomme Verte (Green Apple) Liqueur (700ml)Burgundy, FRANCE$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 18%
Green Apple is widely praised by bartenders and home mixologists for its crisp, authentic Granny Smith apple flavour and crystal-clear appearance. At 18% ABV, it offers a perfect balance of tart zestiness and delicate sweetness, making it a highly versatile addition to cocktails.
- Campanario Pisco Sour (700ml)La Serena, CHILE$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenABV: 16%
Campanario Especial Pisco forms the base for this cocktail mixer. Simply add a dash of egg white, shake over ice, pour neat and finish with a few drops of bitters over the egg white foam for a delicious, refreshing Pisco sour. 16% Alc./Vol.
- McWilliams Hanwood Estate 10 Year Old Grand TawnyNew South Wales, AUSTRALIA$31. 99Bottle$383.88 DozenClosure: Screw Cap
Notes sourced from McWilliam's Wines...
Hanwood Port is a smooth, rich and mellow tawny port. The average age of this blend is 10 years as opposed to 5 years for most other ports. These extra years maturing in small oak casks, combined with six generations of port-making skills perfected by the McWilliam family since 1877, are what make Hanwood such a fine old port. Deep red colour with brown hues. The nose displays complex intense aged rancio characters. The palate is filled with rich fruit and aged integrated spirit. Good length with a mellow soft tannin finish. 18.5% alcohol volume.
- Galliano White Sambuca (500ml)ITALY$49. 99Bottle$599.88 Dozen
This sambuca relies on an ingredient from China, Star Anise. Infused for four days, it is then distilled and blended with an extract of Mediterranean Anise. It is this pure and clear combination that gives Sambuca Galliano its distinct soft and round palate. Enjoy neat, over ice or with iced water as a refreshing long drink.
-
- 90
Coriole ProseccoAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenABV: 10.5%Closure: Screw CapExcellent white frothy mousse showing good hold. Very pale straw base wine colour with very fine profuse bead. The nose displays scents of pear, cashew, lees and citrus. Light, clean and crisp, the palate delivers refreshing flavours of citrus, pear and lees. Dry finish with aftertaste of citrus, pear and lees.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc 10.5% -
- 97
- 95
- 95
- 95
- Nicks Import
2016 Chateau SuduirautSauternes, Bordeaux, FRANCE$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 13.8%Closure: CorkChateau Suduiraut are among the leading estates in Sauternes, with a history dating back to the 15th century. Over that time the property has expanded to now encompass 200 hectares with 92 hectares under vine, including prime vineyard parcels in the most elevated area of Sauternes alongside Chateau d'Yquem. The team at Suduiraut are passionate and uncompromising in their commitment to quality, ensuring only the finest grapes are selected over multiple passes in the vineyard, before expert vinification and a strict selection at final blending.
2016 is comprised of a blend of 94% Semillon and 6% Sauvignon Blanc, aged in 50% in new barrels and 50% from one year old barrels for 18 months before bottling.
Other Reviews....
The pale lemon-gold colored 2016 Suduiraut features vibrant lime blossom, candied peel, white peaches, guava and exotic spice notes on the nose with nuances of marzipan and crème brûlée. Rich, layered and powerful in the mouth, it has a gorgeous creamy texture, lovely vibrancy and a long, spicy finish. Drink 2021 - 2049.
95+ points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (Mar 2019)The 2016 Suduiraut is fabulous. Crème brȗlée, passion fruit, tangerine peel and exotic floral notes all race out of the glass. I marvel at how Suduiraut can deliver so much flavor intensity and yet remain so gracious and classy. The 140 grams of residual sugar are very well integrated. This is such a gorgeous wine. Drink 2024-2046.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous (Dec 2018)A very concentrated Sauternes with a cornucopia of dried papaya, pineapple and mango, plus candied orange and tropical flowers that bowl you over. Although it stays in the background, there’s great acidity in this wine that keeps it very straight and clean, in spite of the luscious extravagance. Bright, citrusy finish. Drink or hold.
95 points
James Suckling (Jan 2019)As to the Sauternes, the 2016 Château Suduiraut boasts a medium gold color and a fresh, clean, beautifully perfumed bouquet of orange blossom, honeyed pineapple, and flowers, with notable botrytis, which can be lacking in a number of Sauternes in 2016. With moderate acidity, a fleshy, full-bodied texture, and loads of fruits, it’s geared more toward drinking over the coming 10-15 years than any over-the-top cellaring. Drink 2019 - 2034.
95 points
Jeb Dunnuck (Feb 2019) -
- 94
- 94
Pascal Agrapart Complantee Extra Brut Champagne Grand CruChampagne, FRANCE$245. 00Bottle$2940.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkPlease 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 Grand Cru Complantée emerges from a parcel in Avize interplanted with Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Arbane, Petit Meslier and Chardonnay. Exotic and beguiling in the glass, the Complantée is absolutely gorgeous. Kirsch, red plum, rose petal and spice give the wine striking aromatic intensity and lovely inner perfume. The red grapes seem especially expressive in this release. The Complantée is not an obvious wine, rather it is a Champagne of translucent finesse. This release is a blend of equal parts 2017 and 2016, vinified in neutral oak. Dosage is 5 grams per liter. Disgorged: April, 2020. Drink 2020-2028.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousThis has a pretty nose of white flowers, daffodils, blanched almonds, lemons, white grapefruit and salted peanuts. Bright and full of personality with very fine bubbles. Open and vibrant. Made from a field blend of 6 varieties, co-fermented in barriques. Chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot meunier, arbanne, petit meslier and pinot blanc. 80% 2019 and 20% 2018. 5g/L dosage. 26 months on the lees. Disgorged May 2022. 4,000 bottles made. Drink now.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- 96
- 94
Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne Magnum (1500ml)Champagne, FRANCE$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkThis blend of 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Meunier is sourced from up to 60 different Crus in order to maximise complexity and is made up of 50% reserve wines, many of them more than 10 years old to provide additional richness. Pours well with a creamy white mousse and pale gold base wine colour. Very fine delicate bead showing excellent persistence. Refined aromas of yeast lees and brioche are overlaid by some toastiness with following notes of baked bread and cashew. Showing both richness and finesse the palate has seamlessly integrated flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and toastiness over some almond and brioche. Clean dry finish with a moderately creamy mouthfeel. Long aftertaste of baked bread, yeast lees, cashew and toasty brioche.
Drink this outstanding Champagne over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews....
Charles Heidsieck might be nicknamed Poor Man’s Krug given the astonishing number of vintages in the reserve wines, their age (10 years in tank), and the seven years the wine spends on lees once blended and bottled. It is an exceptional wine in the mouth, supple, layered, complex and long.
96 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine CompanionVery impressive for a "regular" non-vintage Brut, not only in terms of aromatic complexity - candied citrus, dried peach and fresh mirabelle plus a hint of bread dough - also in terms of texture, the creamy, rich and crisp sides of the wine neatly interlocking. Long, structured finish. A cuvee that's half 2018 and half reserve wines, some of which are a couple of years old, but many of them are five- to 10-years-old, with several over 10-years-old. Drink or hold.
94 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 95
Big Tree Elegant Dry Gin (700ml)Macedon, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 42%This is Big Tree's 'traditional' gin created to make a well-rounded G&T. In short, a classic shout out to the London Dry style.
Tasting note: [Batch 2] Superb vibrancy and lift to the aromas of lemon myrtle, middling juniper, cadamom(?) as well as some earthier, root-like undertones. Remarkably full bodied, creamy and spiced-up for the ABV in a seamless delivery that mirrors the fabulous bouquet. Concludes citrusy, warming, vivacious. Great new gin. 42% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Bronze Medal San Francisco World Spirits Competition
-
- 93
- 94
Benromach 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 43%Fabulous - the mouthfeel is a genuine delight. One of the favourites at our recent tastings.
The 15 year old has a similar maturation regime as the 10 year old expressions (9 years in x Bourbon and x Sherry casks), however the final 'finishing' in x Oloroso Sherry barrels is extended to six years instead of just one. The peat input is very discreet in this bottling. Deep polished copper penny colour. Opening notes hint at baklava followed by honey drizzled weet bix, digestif biscuit plus a fruity overlay that suggests tangerine peel and dates. Concentrated, yet beautifully rounded in the mouth; supple malt entry over a background of purring spices. Mid palate delivers a superb juicy flourish of stewed fruits, citrus peel and trace peat. Dries with peel, ginger bread and short bread enlivening the aftertaste. Fabulous - the mouthfeel is a genuine delight. One of the favourites at our recent tastings. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Taste this and tell me if you are being seduced or not. 94.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...A new member of the core range, this has a cinnamon spice nose with wood smoke elements that grow into hickory as it opens. There’s also sandalwood, citrus, and dried fruits. Medium-bodied and juicy, there’s light sherried notes on the tongue, alongside perky acidity, especially with water. The smoke has better integration on the palate, allowing tangerine and sultana to come through. G&M’s aim has always been to make a classic pre-60s Speysider, and that’s achieved here. 85 points
- www.maltadvocate.com (Fall 2015) Reviewed by: Dave BroomBest Speyside Single Malt Scotch at the World Whiskies Awards 2018.
Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020.
- Metropolis Vodka (700ml)POLAND$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 40%
It was not until the 17th century that vodka was established as Poland’s national drink. In this period of time, the Polish also started exporting their production to Northern European countries like Russia. By the 18th century, their techniques had advanced resulting in such practices as triple distillation.
The Metropolis bottle depicts Zygmunt’s column: symbol of the Royal power in the independent Poland. It portrays King Zygmunt III from the Wasa Dynasty (1556-1632) with sword and cross representing him as protector of the country and its religion.
40% Alc./Vol. -
- 93
2017 La Cosette by Yarraloch ChardonnayYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2019-2023)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with a subtle tinge of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Fresh nectarine and white peach aromas mesh with light dried honey and citrusy nougat characters. Medium bodied with good freshness to the fleshy white peach and nectarine fruit, subtle dried honey, biscuity oak and light spice elements also chime in. Lively refreshing finish with an aftertaste of white peaches, nectarine, subtle dried honey, biscuity nougat and spice.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% - The Bitter Truth Jerry Thomas' Own Decanter Bitters (200ml)GERMANY$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenABV: 30%Closure: Cork
The works of 'Professor' Jerry Thomas would be a staple requirement for those in the business of creating cocktails. He has been credited as the first celebrity bartender, pioneering the art of mixology through publications such as The Bar-Tender’s Guide (alternately titled How to Mix Drinks or The Bon-Vivant’s Companion) all back in the late 19th century!
Within this book, arose a unique bitters recipe consisting of raisons, various citrus fruits and spices, designed to be served with Caribbean Rum inside a large decanter (hence its name). These bitters were a sensation in its day, so it's not surprising to learn of its reformulation by the folks at the Bitter Truth Company, who have been busy reviving a swag of other old-time classics.
Experiment with these unique aromatic bitters in a classic old fashioned recipe, or Rum / Whisk(e)y based cocktails
-Gold medal & Best in Class
-Los Angeles International Spirits Competition. - Fee Brothers Grapefruit Bitters (150ml)Rochester, New York, UNITED STATES$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenABV: 17%Closure: Cork
Like adding vinegar to temper the sweetness and round out the flavour of certain dishes, adding bitters to cocktails can provide balance and complexity while increasing aromatics.
Fee Brothers continue to expand their portfolio of unusual bitters. Generally, we've found their products to be more pungent than other bitters on the market, so they offer fantastic value for money by being used sparingly.
Another weapon in the arsenal of the creative bartender. The delicious taste of grapefruit combined with spicy bitters will add an interesting background flavour to any citrus based cocktail. 17.0% Alc./Vol.

Click here for Classic Cocktails.
-
- 93
- 94
- 92
- Nicks Import
2016 Chateau QuintusSaint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE$290. 00Bottle$3480.00 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews....
The 2016 Chateau Quintus, of course under the umbrella of Domaine Clarence Dillon (Haut Brion, La Mission Haut Brion), is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc picked between 3 and 20 October. This is the highest proportion of Cabernet Franc since the debut in 2011. Matured in just under 30% new oak, it has a slightly broody bouquet at first with black fruit and hints of allspice and clove. The palate is nicely structured, with the Cabernet Franc lending this impressive backbone (more than the 2015) and a slightly masculine, grippy finish that suggests it will be a long-term proposition. Excellent.
92-94 points
Neal Martin eRobertParker.com #230 (Apr 2017)A tight and concentrated young Quintus with blackberry, blueberry and salt character. Medium-to full-bodied, firm and lightly chewy. Grows on the finish.
94-95 points
James SucklingRipe and structured, this is a concentrated wine from the Clarence Dillon group. The black currant core and bright acidity of the vintage wonderfully balance the palate concentration. It delights in its exuberant freshness, with a grounding base of tannin.
93-95 points
Wine EnthusiastOne of the real surprises of the vintage, the 2016 Quintus is superb. Creamy and ample on the palate, with striking depth to its dark, fleshy fruit, it possesses exceptional balance. All of the previous vintages have been good, but each of them has lacked something. The 2016 is the first vintage in which I can say Quintus is not missing anything. Now, what remains to be seen is how high this wine can go. The 2016 is exceptionally vivid and nuanced, with seemingly endless layers of fruit that virtually cover the tannins, and a long, sublime finish.
93-96+ points
Vinous -
- 85
Brinley Gold Shipwreck Spiced Rum (750ml)Caribbean,$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 36%Created by father-son team Robert and Zachary Brinley with their distillery based in the beautiful Carribean island of St Kitts, Brinley Shipwrecked Spiced Rum is produced utilizing 4-year old Carribean Rum and spiced with Madagascar vanilla, orange, nutmeg, clove, and other tropical spice flavors. Similar to many spiced Rums on the market, Brinley maintains this is best enjoyed as a mixing Rum, but is smooth enough to be enjoyed over ice.
Tasting note: Presents a pale gold in the glass and opens restrained and not especially spicy at all yielding moderate scents of vanilla custard, creme caramel and iced coffee. A light silky entry leads into a light to medium bodied vanilla / mocha profile that's barely spicy, a little flaccid and short. Concludes with a very delicate warmth. Super smooth but lacks personality. 36% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Deep amber color with an olive gray cast. Vibrant aromas of creamy vanilla, butterscotch, and frosted caramel cake follow through on a round supple entry to a fruity medium-to-full body with pure, nicely integrated cinnamon bark and nutmeg seed spiciness and a long, lightly peppery fade. Very stylish and well made. 36% Alc./Vol
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
RATING: 90 points (Exceptional) - www.tastings.com -
- 97
- 97
- 98
- 98
- Nicks Import
2014 Chateau d'Yquem (375ml)Sauternes, Bordeaux, FRANCE$499. 00Bottle$5988.00 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews...
The 2014 Yquem was picked over four tries from 5 September to 30 October, a nine-week picking with 25% of the crop brought in before 25 September to obtain freshness. It has beautifully defined on the nose with dried honey, white peach, almond and chamomile and saffron emerging with time. The palate is beautifully balanced with fine acidity, lively and energetic, building wonderfully in the mouth with great sapidity on the finish. What a bloomin’ gorgeous Yquem. Tasted at the château. Drink: 2021-2060.
97 points
Neal Martin - VinousVery subtle Yquem on the nose with dried pineapple, lemons, green apples and hints of botrytis. The palate grabs you by the arms and shows you superb concentration of spices, dried fruit, phenolics and incredible energy. Nothing is like this from Sauternes this vintage! Drink whenever you like. Spellbinding.
98 points
James SucklingUtterly great Yquem. A laser beam of acidity (3.6 pH) and lemony botrytis lifts and extends extremely pure aromas and sweet flavours (134 g/L of residual sugar) of tangerine, vanilla, pineapple and minerals. Less rich than the 2001 and ’09, but purer and fresher. I wonder if 25% Sauvignon Blanc isn’t just 5% too much?
97 points
DecanterApricot tones with lively acidity give this rich wine a vein of freshness. Pear and white peach notes offer weight, while a lime backbone brings levity. There is a richness from the botrytis that is lifted by this wines delicious freshness.
98 points
Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast - Buller Wines Calliope Grand Rutherglen Topaque (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 18%Closure: Screw CapNotes from Bullers... Rich honey toffee and cold tea characters balanced with wood aged rancio. The finish is long and complex. 18% Alc./Vol.
- Buller Wines Fine Old TawnyRutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenABV: 18%Closure: Screw CapNotes sourced from Bullers...
Maturation in old oak casks for many years has changed this wine from bright red to the tawny hues it exhibits today. With this slow transformation in colour has come also a change in flavour to the complex, rich and satisfying characters of a mature tawny. This wine is blended from stocks of many vintages held at Bullers Rutherglen cellars. The aim of blending is to provide a balance between the ‘rancio’ characters of an old wine and the freshness of younger wines.
Deep tawny/red colour with red/orange tints. On the nose there are developed toffee/rancio characters. The palate is complex with rich spicy fruit flavours. Hints of toffee. The middle palate is redolent of ripe fruit with chocolate/liquorice notes. 18% alcohol volume.
- Generous Gin (700ml)FRANCE$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 40%A beautifully presented gin from France, made from a combination of juniper, citrus, mandarin, red pepper, jasmine & elder flower. This is the sister product to 'Generous Organic Gin' and is summed up as 'Fresh & aromatic'. 40% Alc./Vol.
-
- 95
- 96
- 94
- 94
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$165. 00Bottle$1980.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkA blend of 40% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 30% Pinot Meunier, Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose is considered the reference point for non vintage Rose Champagne. It consistently outshines other houses in terms of both quality and value for money. Aging takes place on lees for 36 months and the blend includes 40% reserve wines.
A frothy white mousse holds well over a salmon pink coloured base that has a very fine and persistent bead flowing through it. Streaming out of the glass are delightful aromas of peach and strawberry which are followed by hints of brioche, yeast lees and ginger. Racy pear, strawberry and yeast lees flavours meld into subtle baked bread and mineral characters. The satiny textured mid palate counterpointed by crisp nervy acidity on the finish which lends a vividly refreshing effect to the long aftertaste.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews….
The NV Champagne Brut Rose is an attractive pale salmon hue, with a fresh perfume of wild strawberry, ripe peach, white and red flowers, a hint of tropical fruit, and grapefruit. The palate is rounded, with fruit up front and through the mid-palate, and it has a silky and fresh lift. There is a wonderful ease and drinkability to this wine, which delivers balance and finesse. Drink 2022-2037.
94 points
Audrey Frick – JebDunnuck.comBillecart-Salmon is one of my favorite Champagne houses, and their non-vintage Rose (Lot #L85547401905M) is a consistent winner. A delicate pink color is accompanied by gorgeous sweet cherry, strawberry, and mineral-like scents, assertive medium-bodied flavors, a delicate, crisp personality, and surprising depth as well as persistence. A beautiful berry character in the finish adds to this impeccable rose’s captivating style.
94 points
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate #162 (Dec 2005)Composed with 30 per cent from each of pinot noir and pinot meunier, and 40 per cent chardonnay. It has 40 per cent reserve wine, and spends three years on tirage. It is the go-to rosé for wine professionals, with nuances of juicy/poached red berry fruits, yet finishes dry and fresh.
96 points
James Halliday's Top 100 Wines of 2022
Billecart-Salmon has long been at the forefront of the rosé champagne field, their supremely elegant and gloriously fragrant style counting its fans in legions. A beautifully bright rose gold in the glass. Dried strawberries, fading pink petals, ginger and raspberry danish notes. Softy curvy, graceful and elegant through a gently zippy finish. Pink perfection.
95 points
Nick Ryan - Weekend Australian 2024 - The Simple Syrup Co. Crawley's Bartender Vanilla Bean Syrup (750ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenIntense dark vanilla bean hand scrapings suspended in natural caramels make for a wonderful relationship with Mojitos and dark spirit based drinks, not to mention, premium milk shakes, hot chocolate, coffee, homemade lemonade and strawberry ice-cream. Best before 3 months after opening and shake before use. Non alcoholic.
-
- 94
Remy Martin XO Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$340. 00Bottle$4080.00 DozenABV: 40%Composed of over 400 eaux-de-vie and aged up to 35 years, this Fine Champagne Cognac is based on fruit from the region's two best crus: 85% Grande Champagne and 15% Petite Champagne.
Other reviews... With a deep amber hue and mellow vanilla aroma, this lush Cognac opens with cocoa powder, vanilla and dried cherry and fig. Hints of violet and clove dry to a walnut finish. 94 points - wineenthusiast.com
A Fine Champagne par excellence. Colour: Light mahogany. Nose: Candyfloss with marzipan and white chocolate overtones. Palate: There is an immediate pepperiness in this Cognac; early jasmine floral notes transform into cedar, walnut and Christmas pudding flavours with sweet, palm sugar and dates to lead a balanced and harmonious finish. Comment: Enjoy in front of an open fireplace, in a comfortable chair with a cigar. Alc/Vol: 40%
- Franz Scheurer, AGT Wine Magazine, Cognac Tasting 27th May 2005. - Absente 55 Absinthe (700ml)Provence, FRANCE$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 55%Closure: Cork
Absinthe was the trademark drink during the heady days of 19th century Paris. Famous artists, writers and poets like Picasso, Baudelaire, Hemingway, Degas, Manet, Toulouse-Lautrec and Oscar Wilde all heavily indulged in it. Maybe it was the mystical allure of 'The Green Fairy', or maybe it helped inspire their creativity. Absente, or 'Absinthe Refined', is a modern version of the original Absinthe recipe. While it retains the same aromatics and emerald green colour, its difference is that the Wormwood, (the botanical that caused the initial ban), has been replaced with a less bitter cousin called Southern-Wormwood, also known as 'Petite Absinthe'.
FOOD AND WINE MAGAZINE, December 2000 DRINKS HONORS: SPIRITS OF THE YEAR AWARDS.
BEST NEW 'ABSINTHE': 'ABSENTE'.
Other reviews...The nose is predominately anise, but some light floral aromas and a suggestion of citrus zest lurk in the backdrop. The medium body presents a dryish palate that's similar to the nose, but with a sophisticated touch of bitter herbs. 55% Alc./Vol. 94 points - Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
















































