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Dal Zotto Pucino ProseccoKing Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenCellar: Drink now (2016)ABV: 10.5%Closure: Crown SealPours with a buoyant white mousse. Water like base wine colour with a greenish tinge around the edges. Very fine bead showing excellent persistence. Top notes of apple and pears are followed by some lemon sherbet. The palate has good fruit and a zippy mouthfeel with flavours of pears and baked apples to the fore over some sherbet and citrus. Dry finish with crisp acidity. Aftertaste of pear, baked apples, sherbet and citrus.
Drink now.
Alc 10.5% -
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Havana Club Anejo 7 Year Old Rum (700ml)Havana, CUBA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%Cuba has a long tradition of rum-making dating back to when Christopher Columbus introduced sugar cane to the island. The crop flourished in the favourable climate and fertile soil. Production of sugar soon followed and by 1620 there were 50 sugar refineries in Cuba. By the 1800s, the rum-making process had been refined with the introduction of copper stills and the concept of ageing the spirit in pots buried in the earth and wooden barrels. The second half of the 19th century saw the production of a more delicate rum, aged in white oak casks, developed initially “for the elite” on the instruction of the Spanish Crown.
The Seven remains the pride of the Havana Club portfolio, composed of rums aged for a minimum of seven years, some substantially older. What's so likeable about Havana 7 is its point of difference: This is a relatively dry, "generously light" style offering flavours of muted vanillas, light molasses, dried fruit cake and crisp oak. It's a suave spirit with enough depth and presence to enjoy simply over ice, but its individuality is its forte. Being less sweet lends it to super-refreshing cocktails. Swap it out over white rum in a Mojito with confidence. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... This is a perfect example of Cuban style rum (fitting since it’s actually from Cuba): There’s a huge amount of rich caramel character on the nose, with a light wood backing. Take a sip and you get a rush of heat, then smoothness: Sweet molasses and caramel, cane sugar, and a bit of cinnamon character in the finish. Very light on the wood, it veers into sweet vanilla — but it’s never cloying and never overly sugary. I’m deeply intrigued by the older Havana Clubs, though I can’t much imagine this being significantly improved by any additional time in oak. Best of all is the price, though you’ll have to buy it out of the country until the embargo is overturned. Come on, Obama! - drinkhacker.com
Gold Medal, Dark Rum up to 7yo - 2014 The Rum Masters (The Spirits Business)
... A nicely done expression that captures the depth and complexity that a rum can achieve while still maintaining a freshness and a definite Cuban terroir. - spiritsreview.com
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2016 Domaine de la Pousse d'Or Volnay Caillerets - Clos des 60 Ouvrees Amphore Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$270. 00Bottle$3240.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Healthy dark red. Aromas of purple berries, black cherry and licorice convey a musky quality as well as a subtle liqueur-like aspect. Fat and very ripe but not a sweet style; in fact, this is less expressive and complex than Landanger's other two amphora wines in 2016. Suggestions of black pepper and herbs carry through to the finish, which conveys an impression of thickness but is still quite primary and undeveloped, even a bit pinched. Here I much prefer the "regular" version of 60 Ouvrées.
89-91 points
Stephen Tanzer - VinousOnce again there is a distinctly restrained character to the pure and exuberantly spicy dark currant and raspberry aromas. There is terrific punch and delineation to the classy and refined medium weight flavors that flash plenty of minerality on the ever-so-slightly drying finish that I ascribe to the recent bottling.
94 points
Allen Meadows - Burghound - Bittermens Hellfire Habanero Shrub Bitters (146ml)New York State, UNITED STATES$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenABV: 44%This latest incarnation from the Bittermens stable is best introduced buy the producers who have an obvious preoccupation with all things spicy... "...at Bittermens, habaneros appear in everything from cream sauces to omelets at home. However, we have found that when people try to make spicy cocktails, much of the time the flavor falls short. The problem as we see it isn’t the heat – it’s how the heat is incorporated into the cocktail. Infusing jalapeño peppers into tequila is perfect if you want a tequila drink. However, simply putting commercial hot sauces, sambal or sriracha into a cocktail usually throws off the cocktail’s balance. The way that most hot sauces are made is by blending peppers with vinegar, salt and other spices. Vinegar, eh? That sure sounds like a shrub to us. Shrubs are classically refreshing fruit and vinegar-based syrups that were sweetened and diluted to make a beverage since revolutionary times. Instead of making a berry shrub or an orange shrub, why not make a hot pepper shrub? We’ve fortified the shrub with alcohol (to better extract the flavors from the spices) and made it much more concentrated, so you only need to use drops instead of ounces to get the desired effect… which, in this case, is a good ol’ bit of heat." No tasting notes available.
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2016 Chateau Lafaurie-PeyragueySauternes, Bordeaux, FRANCE$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkSince new owners took over at Chateau Lafaurie-Peyraguey in 2014 it has undergone a complete renovation of the cellars and winemaking facilities, along with a decrease in yields to ensure only the best grapes go into their top label. Their renewed attention to detail is also evident in the new bottle design, introduced from the 2013 vintage and featuring a smart engraved logo. The 41 hectare vineyard is planted on clay over limestone soils, with a varietal mix of 93% Semillon, 6% Sauvignon Blanc and 1% Muscadelle.
Other Reviews....
Pale lemon colored, the 2016 Lafaurie-Peyraguey gives up bold notions of fresh pineapple, green mango, lemon meringue pie and yuzu zest with touches of beeswax, lime blossoms, toasted almonds and cedar chest. The palate is all class with fantastic poise, purity and precision giving the tropical and citrus layers loads of sparkle through the long finish. Drink 2021 - 2049.
95+ points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (Mar 2019)The 2016 Lafaurie-Peyraguey is stunning. Unctuous, layered and supremely beautiful, the 2016 has so much to offer. Baked apple, dried lemon peel, and a host of exotic floral notes all grace this exquisite Sauternes from Silvio Denz. The 2016 is rich and quite deep, and yet retains a striking sense of grace. In a word: gorgeous. Drink 2020-2036.
96 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous (Dec 2018)The breathtaking nose of this Sauternes is like an essence of fresh pineapples with hints of lemon balm and floral honey. Then comes the most extraordinary marriage of creaminess and freshness that gives the palate a fluffy texture. Vibrant acidity makes this taste almost weightless at the very long, brilliant finish. Drink or hold.
98 points
James Suckling (Jan 2019)Vying for the top Sauternes in this report, the 2016 Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey is made by Valérie Lavigne and is 93% Sémillon, 6% Sauvignon, and 1% Muscadelle that was harvested between September 29th and November 4th. Brought up in one-third new oak, it boasts a beautifully honeyed bouquet of orange blossom, brioche, crushed rocks, and flower oil. Thick, opulent, and straight-up sexy on the palate, it has balancing acidity and a great, great finish. Drink this brilliant Sauternes any time over the coming two decades or more. Drink 2019 - 2039.
97 points
Jeb Dunnuck (Feb 2019) -
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The Gospel Straight Australian Rye Whiskey (700ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 45%Where Sazerac, Pikesville and Rittenhouse have become household names in Rye whiskey, you can soon add another. The new project of distilling duo, Ben Bowles and Andrew Fitzgerald of ‘Melbourne Moonshine’ fame has been four years in the making. Simply known as “The Gospel” it’s the country’s first distillery exclusively dedicated to rye. Set in the backstreets of Melbourne’s Brunswick and built around a six-metre-high continuous column still and bespoke copper pot still, The Gospel also have the backing and expertise of industry big guns, including x Starward and Hippocampus senior staff.
Running at five barrels a day, production can be tailored to the team’s exacting standards – which is evident from the first taste. The rye itself is dense and intensely flavoured and comes from a single farm in the Murray Mallee. A precision, temperature controled mash tun and agitator gets the very best out of the grain (a variety known to push distilling skills to the limit). The wash passes through the custom column still in a ‘stripping run’ before being finished in the pot still. All important maturation is two years on-site in 200 litre virgin American oak barrels ranging from #2 - #4 level char.
From the inside out, The Gospel is a whiskey that shows serious attention to detail (who wouldn’t want a bottle that looks this good on their bar?). The bouquet opens oily and grain-focussed; buttered dark rye bread, dustings of cocoa, hints of muddled mint and purring spices build over deeper oak sugars. Crisp on entry with a medium-bodied, creamy-yet-peppery attack. Oily rye glides across wafery vanillas as the spices intensify. Beautifully controlled, and with serious length and staying power. The finish offers hints of apple mint, wood spice and dark chocolate. With or without dilution, it’s an essay in understatement and elegance for the genre – and dangerously drinkable - also a release that firmly places Australia on the rye whiskey world map. 45% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... 'Straight' is an American whisky designation that means a spirit has been matured for at least two years. Those carefully seasoned and toasted American oak casks do most of the talking, offering notes of polished furniture and dried thyme. The higher ABV here is barely perceptible on the nose, but it helps this whisky stand up well to dilution in cocktails and gives this product a much lengthier finish and grippy texture than its younger sibling, Solera. This whisky makes a fantastic premium cocktail, so in that regard, they've nailed the brief and at a reasonable price. 93 points - Fred Siggins (2025), winecompanion.com.au
...Perfumed and wonderfully peppery on the nose, full of pleasing, punchy rye spice aromas with deep liquorice tumbling through. Dry and remarkably layered, with well-defined flavours of cognac, green tea, and menthol adding complexity on the palate. The finish is long, sweet, and satisfying with a refreshing hint of mint complementing indulgent chocolaty tones. Devine! 96 points - Gold - International Wine and Spirits Competition 2024.
...For the price, probably one of the most impressive Australian whiskies to be released in recent years. It's a clinic in balance: the oak and the spirit dance around each other, never collide, and neither tries to dominate. And the rye spirit is, well, something else – totally unique. If you're not accustomed to rye and its bold flavours, this'll be confronting. But intelligent cask management has shaped this into something that's just a joy to drink. Fantastic for mixing, too – bring on the bouldevardiers! - ozwhiskyreview.com.au
Gold - 96 points International Wine and Spirits Competition 2023.
Gold San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2022.
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Bols Corenwyn Genever (1000ml)Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 38%Corenwyn is an alternative spelling of the generic 'kirenwijn', a high-malt Genever specialty. The style, 'corenwyn' translates as 'grain wine', referring to the high proportion of malt wine (at least 51%) used in the blend. Only Bols is permitted to use Corenwyn as a brand name because it was Lucas Bols himself who first created the drink back in 1575. Then, the term was reserved for the very finest distillations of grain. Today the spirit is distilled in copper pot stills in a four-stage process, the last of which has the spirit pass over juniper berries to extract flavour and aroma. Two years ageing in oak casks bestows a pale gold colour and a nutty, slightly fruity characteristic making for a fine aperitif, but also an excellent accompaniment to cold dishes (especially seafood). Corenwyn continues to be sold in traditional handmade stone jars. 38% Alc./Vol. - Deanston 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$220. 00Bottle$2640.00 DozenABV: 46.3%New as of 2015, the unusually long maturation for this Deanston was rounded off by a finishing period in first fill bourbon casks. Non chill filtered and bottled at proper strength: 46.3% ABV. Expect a richer distillery expression, amplified in every way. Extremely limited Australian allocation.
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2018 Yarra Edge Single Vineyard ChardonnayYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2019-2023)ABV: 13.2%Closure: StelvinAged on lees in 20% new barrels for 10 months. Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Delicate citrus and nectarine scents overlay hints of honeysuckle, subtle biscuity nougat and spice notes. Elegant with a fine creamy feel the palate has flavours of white peach and dried honey sitting over cashew, biscuity nougat characters and spice. Clean dry finish with a creamy textured conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.2% -
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Silent Pool Gin (700ml)UNITED KINGDOM$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 43%Established in 2014 as a sustainable project, Silent Pool Distillery is named after a nearby natural spring lake which is also the distillery's water source. Located in the southeast of England in the Surrey Hills countryside and produced entirely on site by Cory Mason, the gin employs 24 botanicals including lavender, chamomile, citrus, kaffir lime, local honey and juniper. Unlike many other gins, Silent Pool is distilled using a column still. Mason comments, "Through precise control over a series of plates and cooling pipes, we are able to separate the exact flavour we want from each botanical that we use. In this way, we can break down the botanical, and capture only the section of it that we want to use in our gin. The operation is run on a reclaimed wood-fired steam boiler from the 1970s, previously used to power a crane on Liverpool docks. Sustainable hardwood is sourced from the local Albury forest and gives the whole operation a very low carbon footprint as well as truly local credentials. Tasting note Medium intense, peppery whiffs building with fresh juniper, lemon/lime peel, lavender and chamomile tea. Very piney on entry, with lemon and lime accented through the middle. Finish is drying, with lively spices and gentle cinnamon warmth. Ends pure, fresh and mildly sappy with pine and lavender lingering in the aftertaste. A well balanced sipper for elegant Martinis. 43% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... 4.5 Stars - www.diffordsguide.com Gold Medal World Spirits Awards 2016 -
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2016 Chateau Malescot Saint-ExuperyMargaux, Bordeaux, FRANCE$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenClosure: CorkThis Margaux third growth property has been bought and sold numerous times over its history, but it was after the purchase in 1955 by the Zuger family that the fortunes of the property took a turn for the good. At the time the property was in poor shape, with only 7 hectares under vine. Now the 23.5 hectares vineyard is planted to 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, and is easily delivering at its classified level and often more. Malescot-St.-Exupery should be on the radar for every lover of rich and expressive Cabernet. And perhaps the reason they aren’t as highly collected is that it’s really been just the last few years they’ve elevated their wines to new levels. The consistency of the wines from 2014-2019 is remarkable, and to date the wines have been extremely well priced.
Other Reviews....
Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Malescot St. Exupery sings of cassis, fragrant earth, tobacco and lilacs with a compelling waft of mocha. Medium to full-bodied and strutting loads of expressive fruit layers at this youthful stage, it's framed by ripe, grainy tannins and oodles of freshness, finishing with great length and depth. Drink 2021-2045.
95 points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Dec 2018)The 2016 Malescot Saint Exupéry has a well-defined bouquet of ample red currant, cranberry and strawberry fruit laced with rose petal and hints of graphite. There is something almost Saint Julien–like about the aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, graphite-infused black fruit, and quite linear and poised, but it conveys a genuine sense of energy and tension toward the classic finish. A magnificent Margaux. Drink 2022-2048.
95 points
Neal Martin - Vinous (Dec 2018)The 2016 Malescot Saint Exupéry is fabulous. Powerful and explosive on the palate, the 2016 offers serious intensity, but it also appears to be holding back quite a bit of its potential. Moreover, what impresses me most is that in 2016, intensity is delivered more with finesse than with the brutish power that is such a signature of Malescot. Deep and resonant, but also remarkably polished, the 2016 Malescot is a winner. Hints of iron, smoke, cedar, tobacco and scorched earth add nuance, but it is the wine's sense of poise that is most remarkable. I loved it. Tasted three times. Drink 2024-2046.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous (Dec 2018)A stunning red with currants, blackberries, roses and violets. Medium to full body, ultra-fine tannins and polish and finesse to the powerful tannins. A real stunner. Better than 2015. Take a serious look at it, beginning 2024.
97 points
James Suckling (Jan 2019)The ruby/plum-colored 2016 Château Malescot Saint-Exupéry comes from vines in the heart of the Margaux appellation and is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It’s a total rock star of wine and has fabulous notes of crème de cassis, barbecue smoke, graphite, and sandalwood that build beautifully with time in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, layered, and seamless, it’s incredibly impressive and I’d wager up with the finest vintages ever from this estate. Give it a few years and enjoy over the following 20-25. Bravo! Drink 2019-2044.
96 points
Jeb Dunnuck (Feb 2019) -
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Lark Distillery Forty Spotted Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%Named after the Forty-spotted Pardalote, the island's rarest bird, and produced at the Lark Distillery, this gin matches traditional gin botanicals with Tasmanian pepperberry. Tasted from a 20ml sample, the nose suggests lemon meringue and lime peel over light juniper and hints at white pepper. It's reflected in a pure, uncomplicated, creamy-textured profile with an attractive lemon / lime accented finish. Use this as an all-purpose mixer or in casual G&Ts. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... This gin is pretty floral and slightly perfumed, think lavender and violet, followed by a whiff of sweet orange, berries and juniper. The palate is spicy, with soft juniper notes. Overall it's pretty clean, but it would've benefited from a little more balance. 78 points - distiller.com
- Barenjager Honey Liqueur (700ml)GERMANY$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 35%
No longer reserved exclusively for bears, Bärenjäger is a traditional German Honey Liqueur made according to the authentic East Prussian “Bear Trap” recipe. Produced and bottled in Germany and made from all natural ingredients, it's best served cold and enjoyed straight. 35% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Delicate, lightly honeyed and not overly sweet scents with a buttery/creamy quality. Palate entry is gooey, concentrated, chewy and numbingly sweet; the midpalate phase heightens the impressions of the entry. Aftertaste is scoop-out-with-spoon thick and tonsil-screamingly sweet. 85-89 points - wineenthusiast.com
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- Packaging may vary
Bokma Jonge Genever (Jenever) (1000ml)Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 35%Closure: Screw CapJonge Genever is one of the more popular distilled spirits in the Netherlands. Its basis is a "Malt wine," distilled from a mixture of wheat, corn, rye, and barley. The production of this malt wine mirrors the production of Scotch whisky through the first distillation, which the Scots call "low wines" and the Dutch call "malt wine." An essential ingredient is juniper berries. Distillers make the final product in several stages, using herbs, neutral spirits, and different quantities of juniper berries according to each distilleries secret recipe.
There are two main types of Genever: ‘Oude’ (Old) and ‘Jonge’ (Young). This is not a matter of aging, but of distilling techniques. Around 1900 the Coffey Still (Patent Still) made it possible to produce an almost neutral tasting high-grade alcohol, independent of the origin of the spirit. A worldwide trend towards lighter tasting spirits as well as lower prices, led to blended whisky in Great Britain, and its counterpart in the Netherlands was 'Jonge Genever'. During the World Wars, lack of imported cereals and hence malt, forced the continued promotion of this Gin. People started using the term ‘Oude’ for the old-style Genever and ‘Jonge’ for the new style, while still employing juniper berries, it contains more grain instead of malt and can even contain plain sugar-based alcohol.
Originally a family operated business, Freerk Klazes Bokma gained the rights to establish a distillery in 1894. Later in 1971 Bokma entered into a joint venture with Heineken enhancing its distribution network which enabled Bokma to become one of the Netherlands most beloved spirits.
An interesting fact when contemplating the use of genever, In 1862 a celebrity bartender by the name of Jerry Thomas produced the world's first cocktail and bartending book titled "The Bar-tenders Guide or How To Mix Drinks". In there appeared recipes based around four basic cocktail spirits being brandy, rum, whisky and not surprisingly, Genever the classic predecessor of London Dry Gin.
Enjoy Jonge Genever straight from the freezer, in a cocktail or traditionally with a cold lager beer as a chaser; referred to as a kopstoot ("headbutt").
Below are a few cocktail recipes to try at home
Recipe: Dutch Trade Winds
60ml of Bokma Jonge Genever
15ml shot of Dutch Curacao
15ml shot of lemon juice
Sugar syrup to tasteShake with crushed ice and serve in a chilled cocktail glass.
Recipe: Amsterdam
In a shaker with ice cubes:
45ml of Bokma Jonge Genever
15ml cocktail glass of triple sec
15ml cocktail glass of orange juiceShake well and serve in a chilled cocktail glass
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Martell XO Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 40%This is Martell’s pride and joy. Every drop is made from rare eaux-de-vie, aged in the Paradis and Purgatoire cellars for 15 years.
Other reviews... The opening whiffs find scents of pears, grapes, and mature oily, buttery, aromas; in the second sniffing round the spirit is pleasantly prickly with loads of character. Palate entry is sweeter and fruitier than the Cordon Bleu; round, luxurious and slightly coffee-like in its bittersweet approach at midpalate. Ends with an inoffensive little numbing sensation. 92 points - wineenthusiast.com
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Emilio Lustau Jarana Light Fino SherryJerez,$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenABV: 15.5%Closure: CorkA powerful, salty fino made from the Palimino grape. Only the most delicate soleras that remain under flor are bottled as fino. Bright deep straw colour with pale gold hue. Magnificent nose with aroma of nuts, flor yeast and salted roast almonds. The palate is a delight with very distinctive flavours that make this sherry a superb aperitif. The taste of salt hits the palate first and is beautifully integrated by background flavours of flor yeast and almonds. Excellent length, followed by a crisp acid finish and a very long salted almond aftertaste.
Drink now. (2002)
Alc./Vol. 15.5%RATING: 96/100
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- Packaging may vary
Herradura Anejo 100% de Agave Tequila (700ml)Jalisco, MEXICO$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 40%Closure: CorkPale straw colour. Attractive aromas of grilled tomato, roast capsicum, pickle and pepper. A warm, glycerous entry unfolds mouth filling flavours of tomato vine, roast nuts, dried herbs, clove and freshly cracked black pepper. Good length. Finishes clean, salty and dry with an exceptionally long white pepper, clove and lanolin aftertaste. A vibrant and complex Anejo in which the oak never overpowers. Great balance. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The bouquet features wonderful aromas of caramel, cream, pastry dough and nutmeg with a background hint of honeyed peanuts. Entry is spicy and full-bodied; the midpalate displays a trace of vanillin that supports the more vibrant flavors of brine, salt, green vegetable and green pepper. Finishes clean, a touch smoky and delicately spiced. A classic añejo Tequila. Delicious. 96-100 points. - wineenthusiast.com
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Tomintoul 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%Tomintoul (pronounced "Tom-in-to'owl") has been owned and operated by Angus Dundee Distillers since 2000. Originally built in the 1940s, by comparison to some of its counterparts in Speyside, this is a very quiet operation with modest exports and low key marketing. These facts combined with some gushing reviews from Jim Murray would suggest that local demand for the product is reasonably strong. In spite of this, up until a few years ago less than 2-3% of Tomintoul's output was bottled as single malt, the rest making its way into blends like Whyte & McKay. Clearly the distillery is capable of some serious whiskies - the 33 year old was chosen as best Speyside whisky of 2010 in the Whiskymag World Whiskies Awards. On another note, the year before, Tomintoul entered the Guinness Book of Records by producing the largest bottle of whisky in the world at 105.3 litres! They also remain one of the few Speyside producers to delve into heavily peated styles. Tasting note: Brilliant bright gold. Muesli then more muesli plus added honey...sultana and yoghurt. Breakfast in a glass whisky. Second pass adds hints of dusty cocoa and cigar box. Light bodied with a fresh, pure, lifted character that's a sheer delight; mid palate features big breakfast cereal notes and soft spices. Finish is crisp, bone dry and aperitif-styled with feather weight spices and honeyed cereals repeated in the aftertaste. Some found this to be the most interesting of the three age statement Tomintouls tasted. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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Mery Melrose Grande Champagne VS Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 40%Distilled from the house's own organically grown grapes and matured in a combination of new and used French oak casks. Tasting note: Very fruity on the nose with accents of ripe peach, apricot, cinnamon and vanilla. Medium bodied fruity mid palate flavours are rounded off by cigar box, pepper and trace vanilla through a brisk, drying aftertaste. Easy drinking with a light, breezy feel. 40% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... Silver Medal, San Francisco Spirits Competition - The Simple Syrup Co. Crawley's Bartender Grenadine Syrup (750ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenIs this the finest Grenadine on the market anywhere in the world? Made from natural pomegranates, the flavour is intensely rich with that famous bitter-sweet battle raging at its heart. In great classic drinks such as the Monkey Gland and quiet achievers like the Pink Lady it floods the background with flavour but makes its presence known in a balanced fashion by being firm, real and direct. Suggested cocktails for inclusion are the Jack Rose, La Florida Cocktail, Monkey Gland and the Peculiar Secret Cocktail.
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The Kurayoshi Pure Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 43%A fairly low profile Japanese whisky brand, Kurayoshi is produced at the Matsui Shuzou facility in the Tottori Prefecture, northwest of Kyoto, founded in 1910. Like several other Japanese blends, they combine malt whisky from Scotland with Japanese whisky. This is not an uncommon practice, and the exact breakdown of the whiskies remains undisclosed. The extent that these really are Japanese is open to argument. Serge at whisky-fun.com notes, “…some friends from over there - whom I trust – declared that all Kurayoshis were actually Scottish.” They do bare resemblances to mellow Highlanders. Tasting note: A three year old whisky matured in a bourbon cask. Deep gold. Strikes a balance between oak and sweet malt on the nose, with gentle fruitiness emerging as well as bready notes and hints of popcorn. There's subtle poached orchard fruit flavours (apple / pear), a splash of vanilla and a thrust of spicy warmth, with a medium dry, oily finish and low key peat. Tasted blind, you'd easily mistake it for a Speysider. 43% Alc./Vol. -
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Heiwa Tsuru-Ume Nigori Umeshu (720ml)Wakayama, JAPAN$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenABV: 10%Closure: Screw CapLocated in the Wakayama prefecture in Japan, Heiwa aim to produce drinks reflective of the climate and landscape where the raw materials are grown. Their Nigori (cloudy) Umeshu is made with local Nanko Ume fruit, and they also add its pulp into the Umeshu liqueur to further heighten the texture representative of the fruit itself.
Tasting Note: Being classified nigori it's no surprise this is very cloudy, displaying a deep peach hue in the glass. Aromatically this is incredibly complex, with red plum present but complemented by a swathe of ripe stone fruit in the form of peaches, nectarines, and dried apricot. Add to this the subtle sweet elements of vanilla and tonka bean and it's an exceptionally pure and inviting nose. On the palate the viscosity is immediately apparent, yet the fresh acidity keeps the notable sugar in perfect balance. Flavours are a near replica of the nose, showing red plum and waves of ripe stone fruit, supported by white chocolate, vanilla bean and creme brulee. Outstanding. 10% alc
Serving suggestion: Drink chilled on the rocks or with soda water, or mix it up in a cocktail like a Spritz. Can be stored in the fridge for at least 8-10 weeks once opened.
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Kreglinger BrutTasmania, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)ABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkA plentiful mousse sits atop a pale straw base that has gold tinged edges and a fine persistent bead. Toasty yeast lees scents are intermeshed with baked bread, citrus, light honeyed notes and traces of nut. The palate is tense and sculptured with racy acidity running through toast, subtly honeyed pear, yeast lees and roasted nut flavours. Dry crisp finish with a long aftertaste that builds a sense of creaminess as it lingers.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12.5% - Laird's Applejack (700ml)Virginia, UNITED STATES$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 43%
Laird's Applejack is a spirit new to Australia, but was first made in 1686 by Scotsman William Laird. Applejack was traditionally produced using 'freeze' distillation. A process that involved putting a barrel of cider outside to allow the bulk of the liquid to freeze, then collecting the unfrozen material. Considering most alcohols freeze at temperatures far lower than water, this process works very well in theory. The unfortunate flaw in the method was the collection fusel oils and alcohols other than ethanol, almost guaranteeing a rotten hangover for the early drinkers of Laird's. Still, this didn't stop George Washington, who himself was a distiller of renown. In fact, he personally requested the recipe after receiving the Laird family, and subsequently introduced Applejack to the rest of the Virginia colony.
Today, Laird's Applejack is made by blending 35% apple brandy with 65% grain neutral spirit. Rest assured, the distilling methods have evolved considerably since the late 1600s, though the immunity from the hangover cannot be guaranteed, especially if Applejack is consumed in the traditional "stonewall" cocktail, one that combines 1 part dark rum, 1 part Applejack and 4 parts hard cider.
- 1968 Delord Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$550. 00Bottle$6600.00 DozenABV: 40%A ’68 Armagnac at a great price for a 50+ year old spirit. Extremely limited. Situated in Bas-Armagnac, Delord's distillery is to be found in the village of Lannepax, the ancestral home of the Delord family. They comment, "Our old Sier Armagnac alambics, that we wouldn't part with for all the gold in the world, produce less than 30 litres of eau-de-vie an hour. Our cellars contain our old treasured vintages and include more than 700 oak barrels that protect and age the Armagnac eau-de-vie dating from the 20th Century to the present day". The exceptionally old expression was made from Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, Baco and Colombard harvested, pressed and vinified separately. 40% Alc./Vol.
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Hine Rare VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 40%The House of Hine stands on the banks of the River Charente, deep in Cognac country. It is one of the oldest houses in Jarnac with over 250 years of history. Their VSOP 'Rare' is produced from over 25 Cognacs from both the Grand Champagne and Petit Champagne regions. In the latter, the slight difference in soils produces Cognacs close in style to Grande Champagne, but without the finesse. When Cognacs from the two appellations are blended, with at least half the Cognac coming from Grande Champagne, the result is permitted to be called "Fine Champagne Cognac".
Tasting note: Brassy gold colour. Mild, attractive scents include honey, ripe apricot and orange rind notes. With further aeration, a suggestion of liquorice bullets emerges. In the mouth, it begins soft, light and medium dry before a gentle spicy wave develops building depth, but an overall sense of lightness is maintained. Dried apricot, orange pith and vanilla flavours are nicely balanced with a refreshing, clean, dry finish. Delicately spiced, dried apricot and vanilla aftertaste. Very pleasant VSOP but lacks the power and persistence you would expect at the price point. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Mild, light aromas of tropical fruit and parchment. Palate entry displays a nut-like opening taste, then at midpalate there’s an expanding profile that includes oaky vanillin, young spirit and pear drop. Concludes austere and thin. 80-84 points Tasted 4/1/2004 - wineenthusiast.comsize>
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1994 Penfolds GrangeSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$999. 00Bottle$11988.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Dense red-purple; the typically rich and powerful bouquet has layers of dark berry fruit and integrated and balanced oak. What makes it unusual is the distinct hint of chocolate, which appears again on the silkily powerful palate. Here there is an array of all of the fruit flavours one could possibly expect, but once again that touch of dark Swiss chocolate adding an intriguing note. The oak balance and integration is better than any five-year-old Grange I can remember, the tannins perfectly balanced into the bargain.
97 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion 2021
A substantial 11% of the 1994 Grange is Cabernet Sauvignon, and it's most clearly apparent on the elegant, leafy, floral nose. On the palate, it's more clearly Grange and Shiraz-like, with plenty of weight and richness along with flavors of dried fruit, roasted meat and mocha, but there's also a sense that it's starting to lighten and become approachable/mature. Drink now or hold up to another 10 years or so.
94 points
Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate 2018 -
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Garden Grown Gin (700ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 42%Note: the title of this product has changed from 'Distillery Botanica' to 'Garden Grown Gin'. It's the same liquid, produced in the same way, to the same recipe, by the same people. Garden Grown Gin is produced at Distillery Botanica and employs a process known as enfleurage, a thousand-year-old technique. Traditionally it applies to flower petals - these are placed on glass trays containing a wax or animal fat called a 'corps'. This corps which is highly purified with no odour or water remaining absorbs the flavour and fragrance from the flowers. Every 24 hours the petals are removed from the tray and replaced with fresh ones. This may be repeated dozens of times per tray. The trays are stacked so that the tray on the top can trap the rising fragrance from the flowers on the tray below. Once saturated with aromatics, the corps is referred to as the "pomade" (the most highly saturated pomade is called "pomade No. 36" because the frames have been charged with fresh flowers 36 times, the maximum during enfleurage). The next step is to break up the pomade in the presence of high strength neutral spirit which takes up the natural flower oils and leaves the spent fat behind. At Garden Grown Gin, the aim is to extract the purest perfume from their chief botanical, Murraya, without the use of heat. This makes the delicate flower come alive with cues of jasmine, honeysuckle and orange blossom. Distiller, Phillip Moore adds, "the gin also includes a rose enfleurage using an old fashioned Tea Rose from our garden. It is known as the Duchess de Brabant. Our garden also supplies Chamomile flowers which when distilled immediately on picking have a delicious apple character with a delightful bitter finish. To carry on the perfume allusion of enfleurage we also use orris root which is used in Chanel No 5. In perfume and gin orris is a fixative which creates harmony and also slows down the evaporation of the more volatile aromas. Orris has its own violet aroma. It enters the palate very sweetly and adds a richness and viscosity all over. On the finish it contributes a high quality bitter and an earthiness which is almost pastry like". Tasting note: Crystal clear, shows good viscosity. Pure and ultra fresh with a juniper and black pepper base overlaid by sweet floral top notes. Aeration offers suggestions of orange blossom, rose petal and muted lavender and later hints of incense candles. Creamy yet vibrant entry with a seamless integration of juniper / herbal / floral / wax-like notes. Concludes tongue tingling, peppery, fresh, long. Delicate and multi-layered. Beautifully composed. 42% Alc./Vol. - Malfy G.Q.D.I. Rose (Sicilian Pink Grapefruit) Gin (700ml)ITALY$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 41%Another gin with a strong citrus accent from Malfy: This gorgeous, rose-coloured specialty incorporates Sicilian pink grapefruit peels infused in grain spirit for 36 hours. There's also a hint of rhubarb and Italian juniper along side five other botanicals including lemon peel and coriander. Expect bright, juicy, fresh grapefruit flavours with a long juniper finish. Enjoy with tonic or use your imagination to create wonderful summer cocktails! 41% Alc./Vol.
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Roger Groult 3 Year Old Calvados Apple Brandy (700ml)Normandy, FRANCE$114. 99Bottle$1379.88 DozenABV: 40%A Pays d’Auge Calvados produced from around twenty varieties of cider apples: sweet, bitter-sweet, bitter and acidulous including Bisquet, Binet Rouge, Noel des Champs and Egyptia. Distilled over a wood fire in three small traditional pot stills, this was initially matured in 300 litre barrels allowing a greater contact of the spirit to wood. Tasting note: Pale gold. The bouquet is fresh, bright and crisp with aromas of cider, baked green apples / pears as well as cinnamon and hints of clove. Follows through in a light to medium bodied Calvados developing with flavours of ripe apple, pear cider and lively acidity. Trails off mildly varnishy, warming, dry, spicy. Medium long. Nice youthful style. Perfect for cooking and long drinks. 40% Alc./Vol. - Beltion 96% Pure Spirit (1000ml)ITALY$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 96%
This extraordinarily strong spirit needs to be treated with respect. Being effectively pure ethyl-alcohol, rather than made for consumption, it's more commonly used in cooking, in the preparation of fruit and herb tinctures, for medicinal purposes or by home perfume makers. One customer recommends it above all else as therapy for arthritic pain, and has been massaging his joints with it for years! 96% Alc/Vol.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS PRODUCT IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR SHIPPING OUTSIDE OF AUSTRALIA.
THIS PRODUCT CANNOT BE SHIPPED USING EXPRESS SHIPPING SERVICES. - The Milk & Honey Distillery Classic Single Malt Israeli Whisky (700ml)ISRAEL$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 46%Milk & Honey is Israel's first single malt distillery, operating since 2014 in the south of Tel Aviv. All of the distillery’s products are Kosher. The Classic is made using the finest ex-bourbon casks and special red-wine STR casks, giving it a light, balanced character. Tasting note: Wizz Fizz confectionary, light cocoa and a little lemon on the nose. A light to medium bodied whisky offering a low-key malty burst followed by hints of dried grass, peppercorns and a spicy, gently bitter finish. The aftertaste is brisk with fresh oak, white pepper and light grassiness. Non chill filtered. 46% Alc./Vol. Notes from the bottler... Nose: Gentle vanilla sweetness, almond nougat, followed by light oak and floral notes. Palate: Light body, vanilla, caramel and honey sweetness, balanced by warm woody notes and light black pepper spiciness. Finish: Clean and delicate. The oak notes lingers in the palate for a while with a nice light spiciness.
- Maxwell Liqueur Mead (375ml)McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenABV: 18%
Mead is a wine made entirely from fermented honey. The Vikings believed it to be an aphrodisiac. The bridegroom would drink mead for a month after his wedding day to ensure virility, and this became known as the HONEY-MONTH which later evolved into the word "HONEY MOON".
Maxwell Wines of McLaren Vale create Liqueur Mead by fortifying the fermenting honey with a spirit, to which a secret blend of herbs & spices are added. This is then matured in oak barrels for several years. This can be enjoyed in a similar way to port. 18% Alc./Vol
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Chartreuse Yellow Liqueur (700ml)FRANCE$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 43%One of the liqueur immortals, Chartreuse is the product of monks from the Carthusian Order who originated the product at their establishment in the French Alps called “Grande Chartreuse”. The Order was banished from France to Spain just after the turn of the century, and at Tarragona they again set up with their secret formula compounded of elixirs from 130 odd and rare herbs, water, sugar and fine spirits. (The production has since returned to France). Green Chartreuse (55% alc./vol.) is most pungent and expensive. Yellow Chartreuse, first produced in 1838, is just as good though milder, sweeter, more approachable and more aromatic. It is not only invaluable as a liqueur with coffee, but is the final decoration for a Gin daisy and other delicate drinks. However, it's probably most often drunk on its own or with ice. Alternatively, it makes a refreshing Summer sipper mixed with tonic.
Other reviews... The sweeter side of Chartreuse. This golden liqueur is bright and sweet with a honeyed character — one that can come across as thick and unctuous when consumed solo. The herbal profile is comparatively restrained, but saffron immediately pops out on both nose and palate. Notes of vanilla, orange peel, and some baking spices pick up from there, though the saffron-infused honey elements ultimately dominate. A gorgeous and versatile cocktail ingredient that lets you add sweetness and nuance without simple syrup. - drinkhacker.com
[40% ABV bottling tasted] ...The nosing passes pick up smells of aniseed, cardamom, licorice, hay, white pepper, floral/viny scents along with coriander, sage, and thyme. The palate entry is sweet, floral, peppery, and viny; the midpalate features fennel, rosemary, allspice, and bark. Ends up herbal sweet. - 92 points - wineenthusiast.com
- Penfolds Club Reserve Tawny PortBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenClosure: Cork
Notes sourced from Southcorp Wines.
A special blend of the finest and oldest Club Port reserve stocks have been matured in small oak casks to produce a unique Australian Tawny.
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2017 Blacatoo Infinity ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkFrom 70 year old vines matured in French and American oak. Spectacular inky black in colour with a very deep bright dark red black hue. Pronounced freshly crushed ripe dark plum, blackberry and liquorice scents are interwoven with clove, fennel, some earthiness and spicy pepper notes. Rich and dense yet with an underlying feeling of freshness the palate is awash with luscious blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits which are underpinned by smoky vanillin oak, earthy fennel elements and spice. Bright youthful acidity with polished yet firm tannins and a long vibrant aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% - 2016 Suntory Yamazaki Limited Edition Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$1799. 00Bottle$21588.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Created by Suntory Chief Master Blender Shinji Fukuyo, this latest Yamazaki bottling blends several single malts from the distillery. Beautifully packaged, the bottle features imagery of Yamazaki’s barrel halls and the kanji characters for Yamazaki in gold. No tasting notes available. - Bakery Hill Peated Malt Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 46%
Bakery Hill is a new Australian venture into the generally exclusive world of Whisky production. We say exclusive, because few distillers outside of Scotland have yet managed to create a whisky that approximates to the quality or style of the Scottish original, or when they have, the whisky has usually relied upon the importation of key ingredients from the ‘homeland’. Bakery Hill’s Single Malts, despite their youth, are very promising initial efforts, and as the spirits spend longer in barrel, one can anticipate some very interesting results.
As with classic malts, Bakery Hill uses only malted barley [from Tasmania], yeast and water to achieve its flavour and aroma. No caramel is added in order to enhance the appearance. Barrelling at Bakery Hill is done using select second fill American Oak Bourbon barrels. French Oak casks are also used for the production of the classic double wood style.This malt is only lightly peated and resembles a full bodied Speyside rather than an Islay.
"Lightly smoked, it is dry at first but gathers sweetness as the oils close in.
46% Alc./Vol. - Source: Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2004. -
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Ardbeg Perpetuum Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 47.4%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
A double whammy for the distillery's 'Ardbeg Day' creation for 2015, which also celebrates its 200th anniversary.
Perpetuum is a vatting of young and old Ardbeg from ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. Absent of much of the superfluous marketing of previous Ardbeg Day releases, Bill Lumsden has instead let the whisky do the talking. Only 12,000 bottles produced worldwide.
Tasting note: Bright, pale straw/gold colour. Lifted bouquet is fresh, assertive and multi-faceted ranging from smokey vanilla cream, choc fudge through to boot polish, damp earth, sea spray, split pine, smoked ham, baked citrus and more. Three or four minutes settles the aroma down as smouldering pine, cocoa and vanilla. Almost endlessly complex. Entry is smokey and mezcal-like. Mid palate is medium dry, intense and captivating; a delicious sooty/oily/salty vanilla-malt combo fans out across the tongue with a slow motion salt and pepper surge. Finish is fresh, salty, lipsmacking, fruity yet keenly dry then ashy and light but prolonged. Fisherman's friend in the fade. Must try Ardbeg. 47.4% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... A rumbustious malt with tar, coal dust, peat smoke and creosote - as you'd expect of Ardbeg, but tamed with honey, pineapple, chocolate and creamy custard 4.5 Stars - www.diffordsguide.com
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- Nicks Import
Glengoyne 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 43%From the southernmost of the Highland distilleries. Glengoyne uses only unpeated malted barley, air dried rather than dried under a peat fire. This 15 year old is aged in both bourbon and first-fill sherry casks. Expect a smooth, malt-focused dram that's completely devoid of smoke. Natural colour. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Matured in first-fill sherry and bourbon casks as well as refill casks. Marvelously rustic on the nose, with aromas of dried forest leaves and bramble, lemon, vanilla, peach, and light sherry soapiness. Honeyed texture and flavor on the palate, pleasantly bright with honey, lemon tea, apricot and peach tart, which continues to a smooth and honeyed finish with notes of cinnamon, marmalade, and sliced orange. Delicious, straightforward, and enjoyable. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
Gold 2013 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Ardbeg Auriverdes Limited Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 49.9%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Feis Ile. The annual Scottish Islay festival, where thousands of locals and tourists gather to celebrate the "The Queen of the Hebrides" with good music and of course, Scotch whisky. Amongst the daily activities on offer, the highlight is reserved for each distillery's Feis Isle bottling. Some of these are so limited in number, they are unavailable to purchase outside of the country - hence the enthusiasm of thousands to secure these cult releases.
For those of who can’t make the lengthy trip, we are thankful for 'Ardbeg Day', celebrated on the final day of the festival each year. First launched in 2012 and now in its third year, 'Ardbeg Day' is now a worldwide celebration with its Feis Isle bottling a sought after release in its own right.
'Auriverdes' marks the 2014 installment. The name is a play on both the motif for Ardbeg and the 2014 Fifa world cup to be held in Brazil early this month. Auri (Gold) and Verdes (Green) are both the colours of the Brazilian flag and national sports teams, as well as the colours of the iconic Ardbeg bottle and golden whisky that lies within.
For us whisky devotees, Gregor Mina, Brand Director of Ardbeg has the details sorted: “The casks are American white oak ex-Bourbon barrels, which were shipped over from the United States as per the norm. The insides of the barrels had therefore been charred in the traditional, Bourbon specification manner. When the casks arrived in Scotland, we had the heads removed, and replaced them with new American oak heads that I had specially made for us, which had been heat treated using a particular (and secret) toasting regime, designed to achieve a special flavour profile, producing in particular flavours of mocha and coffee. These re-worked barrels were then filled with spirit, and ultimately blended together with a proportion of ‘classic’ Ardbeg from 1st and 2nd fill Bourbon barrels.”
- Moet & Chandon Ice Imperial Champagne Demi-SecChampagne, FRANCE$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: Cork
Currently trending and highly sought after, Moet & Chandon Ice Imperial has been released specifically to up market resorts and restaurants around the world.
These stylish white bottles offer luxury summer drinking. The first and only Champagne of its kind, Moet Ice is designed to be enjoyed over ice, perfectly refreshing on warm summer days and balmy nights. Remaining true to the Moet & Chandon house style, there is a bright fruitiness, seductive palate and elegant maturity.
The wine is a "Demi-Sec" and flavours are intentionally bold and deep, and the addition of ice cubes ensures a correct balance on the palate. Components of this blend are 40-50% Pinot Noir, 30-40% Pinot Meunier and 10-20% Chardonnay.
Limited stocks. - Status Original Vodka (700ml)UKRAINE$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenABV: 38%Tasting note: Ideal clarity. Distant scents of vanilla custard, lemon peel and white pepper. Silky and slightly oily with delicate sweetness, faint citrus peel and a minerally, peppery, waxy finish. A quality all-purpose mixer. 38% Alc./Vol.
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Piper-Heidsieck Cuvee Brut ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: Diam CorkA buoyant mousse slowly dissipates to reveal a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold edges. The fine bead showing excellent persistence. Citrusy chalk tinged aromas are complemented by yeast lees, subtle red apple and baked bread. Nicely meshed flavours of pear, citrus and baked bread mix with yeast lees and delicate quince characters. Vivid acidity lends a refreshing feel to the mouth watering conclusion.
Alc. 12%
Other Reviews….
Finely balanced and fresh, with the delicate bead carrying appealing ripe black cherry and green apple fruit, plus a fragrant mix of lime blossom, saffron, toasted almond and ground coffee details. Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Drink now.
92 points
Wine Spectator
Regularly self-selects itself for its quality/price ratio. A 50/30/20% blend of pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay, 30% reserve (a collection of more than 150 wines), on yeast lees for a minimum of 24 months; dosage 8g/l. The bouquet has a spicy edge, the palate long and juicy with citrus and bosc pear.
93 points
James Halliday's Top 100 2023 -
- Nicks Import
Coebergh Kersen Cherry Liqueur (1000ml)Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 20%Closure: Screw CapPrepared according to traditional Dutch recipe originating from 1887. Coebergh Kersen translates to cherry liquer which can be enjoyed straight or as a creative addition to a chosen cocktail recipe.Cocktail Recipe: Dutchie
-30ml Coebergh Kersen
-30ml Creme de Banane-30ml Apricot Brandy
-30ml Advokaat liqueur
-Milk
-Ice cubesPour Creme de banane, Apricot brandy and Cherry brandy into the beer mug. Drop in a few ice cubes, and fill mug 3/4 with milk. Slowly pour the advocaat over the top of the milk covering the surface.
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- Packaging may vary
- Nicks Import
Picon L Orange (Formerly Club) (1000ml)Marseille, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 18%Note: Labelling may show as "A L'Orange" or "Club". These are the same product.
Fans of Picon Biere will be happy to know that Picon club is now available in Australia. While Picon Biere has for long been added to wheat and lager beers, there was a need for a bitter aperitif that would perfectly be suited to wine and wine cocktails, as the original Picon Biere had a tendency to sink to the bottom of a glass when used as an ingredient for the latter. Thus, in 1995 Picon Club was added to the range.
Club is darker and noticeably more intense on the flavour front, displaying a heady combination between empyreumatic (burnt, cooked or smoked notes) and torrefied (roasted wood) characters with heavy orange peel, opening the door for a whole new wave creativity on the cocktail scene with compositions such as Picon Mojito, Picon Punch, Death and Taxes, Amarissimo, and many more. Although Picon club and Picon Biere are now under the umbrella of a spirits giant conglomerate, it is notoriously difficult to source (with bartenders in the US literally having to smuggle it out of Europe) and this distinctive drink is now in higher demand than ever in its history.
- Jack Daniels Tennessee Fire Cinnamon Whiskey Liqueur (700ml)Tennessee, UNITED STATES$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 35%Those already familiar with Fireball may also know that it's been the fastest-growing liquor brand in America, with retail sales doubling from 2013 to 2014. Hot on the trail of its success comes Jack Daniels original red-hot cinnamon liqueur, blended with Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey and cinnamon. Expect a Fireball-like experience but with extra input from the whiskey. 35% Alc./Vol. No tasting notes available.
- Rhum Barbancourt Reserve 15 year old Rum (700ml)Port-au-Prince, HAITI$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 43%Closure: Screw Cap
The Controversial Caribbean
The original definition of Rhum Agricole was of a rum fermented and distilled from pure sugar cane juice. That changed in 1996 when an AOC (Appellation d’Origine Controlee, which translates as "controlled designation of origin") was given to the French island of Martinique. The AOC system is used to maintain the quality of agricultural products via specific guidelines relating to terroir and production. This move was the catalyst for quarrelsome debate between rum lovers around the world. The AOC declares that fermented and distilled sugar cane produced outside the appellation may not adopt the ‘Argicole’ classification, and implies those within the AOC are in some way inherently superior.There is one consistent challenge to the merits of the AOC system as applied to Rhums Agricole - Rhum Babancourt of Haiti.
Established by Dupre Barbancourt in 1862, Barbancourt is produced from pure sugar cane juice and double distilled in a manner similar to that of Cognac. It is often rated as superior to AOC Rhums Agricole by enthusiasts and critics the world over, without the price premium the AOC seems to attract. The debate also questions the effect of terroir on rum in general, which in comparison to products like wine, seems inconsequential. It is argued more influential factors should be taken into account such as the design of the still being used, the point at which the spirit comes off the still, or subsequent oak treatment. With Barbancourt, primary distillation comes off at roughly 70% by volume and secondary 90% by volume. The spirit is then cut to 50% before it is matured in 100% French Limousine oak (as is the finest Cognac) for varying periods depending on the bottling in question - fifteen years in this case.















































