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- Fee Brothers Mint Bitters (150ml)Rochester, New York, UNITED STATES$25. 99Bottle$311.88 DozenABV: 35.75%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.
This edition offers the fresh taste of mint when you don’t have mint leaves handy. Great in a Mint Julep or a Mojito.
35.75% Alc/Vol. -
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Michter's US*1 Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey (700ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 42.4%"...a highly distinctive rye that refuses to keep to the script." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
On a short list the most desirable, super-premium American whiskeys, Pappy Van Winkle is usually near the top – if you can find it. But there’s another name in town: “Michter’s”, with roots going back to the 18th century. For scarcity, reputation and market value, Michter’s is now outdoing Van Winkle on every score. The ultra-aged releases are periodic and therefore actually far rarer than Pappy’s which are annual. Many consider older Michter's superior to the equivalent Van Winkles, especially if you prefer your whiskey to not be overly oaky. To top it off, a Michter’s 25 Year Old Rye has reached $8000 / bottle. Or there’s a 25 Year old for US $10,000 at Wally’s Liquor in the States. Take your pick. That’s the direction this brand is headed.
The modern Michter’s was created in the 1950s (then owner, Lou Forman combined his son’s names – Michael & Peter). Later in 1989, the company declared bankruptcy, abandoning the original Pennsylvania operation. In the 1990s, two entrepreneurs filed for the Michter’s trademark and relocated the brand in Louisville, Kentucky. The “New” Michter’s whiskeys come with a swag of 5 Star / Highest Recommendations from respected critics that’s confirmed by a strong following amongst bartenders (now number two in top-trending American whiskey brands globally). There are four tiers in the range - which is a little confusing at first. The "US*1" expressions are the entry level, so named to honour Michter’s heritage, harkening back to America’s first whiskey company in 1753. Then come the limited releases (toasted barrel finishes and cask strength), then the age statements, and finally, there's a selection of ultra-aged 25 year old+ super limited bottlings.
Master Distiller, Pam Heilmann, has extensive experience including time as manager at Booker Noe Distillery in Boston and 15 years with Beam Global. She’s helped out by Andrea Wilson, whose role is Master of Maturation. These ladies are very specific about the seasoning and toasting regimes of the wood they employ. They toast barrels before charring, which helps to make the wood’s sugars more accessible. They insist on barreling at a lower proof (103 instead of the standard 125), a practise which is claimed to get the sugars in oak to dissolve more readily into the distillate as it cycles in and out of the wood. Chill filtration is undertaken but customised to each whiskey's style. All Michter’s whiskeys are either ‘single barrel’ or ‘small batch’. Because “Small batch” is not a legally defined term in US whiskey regulation, many respected “small batch” brands are actually composed from hundreds or thousands of barrels, which helps to ‘lose’ sub-quality barrels in the blend. At Michter’s, the maximum “small batch” size is twenty full barrels. It explains why Heilmann and Wilson are more than a little fanatical about quality control, and you can sense it in the taste. Our sample was Lot L146456. The complex bouquet is peppery and true to style with lovely whiffs of dark rye bread; further air contact adding wax, dried apple, cinnamon and vanilla, even suggestions of herbal tea (think peppermint and chamomile). A somewhat hollow entry leads into a powerful, peppery rye attack with ryvita biscuit, dried apple and peppermint tea flavours carried by vibrant spices. Hints of vanilla and toffee apple in the drying fade. All up, a solid expression and a noteworthy addition to the category. 42.4% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... quite a vanilla-rich flourish to this. The grain keeps itself surprisingly low key... sharp, almost eyewateringly so... The sugars expected are replaced by an almost puckering fruitiness to the rye - very unusual...indeed, intriguing. A little cocoa by the mid point; dry and spicy, the rye has now almost vanished altogether... Follows no usual set pattern and insists on following its own singular route. 89.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
...The opening nosing passes detect soft scents of spicy rye; aeration adds notes of black pepper, marmalade and plum preserves. The oily palate entry makes the tongue tingle pleasantly; at midpalate this whiskey’s youth is accentuated by racy tastes of alcohol, spicy grain and light caramel. Finishes as sprightly and carefree as it starts. A straight rye with attitude. 90-95 points [tasted 2004] - wineenthusiast.com
...Aged 36 months-plus in new oak; otherwise no mashbill information is offered. Clear, spicy rye notes on the nose, with a dusting of sawdust. As the body develops, you get lots of caramel apple, more intense wood, and some bitter chocolate notes. While the nose offers tons of promise, frankly I was hoping for more on the palate. What comes across is a rather straightforward whiskey that masks its more interesting elements in lumber. Drinkable and mixable, but short on character. - drinkhacker.com
- Adelphi Kincardine 7 Year Old Cask Strength Blended Malt Whisky (700ml)$290. 00Bottle$3480.00 DozenABV: 52.9%Continuing what started with last year’s ‘Glover’ release (an uber expensive Japanese and Scotch 'fusion'), Kincardine is another ambitious cross-country blending exercise, this time the result of marrying whisky from Scotland and India. The regime included refill ex-Bourbon casks from India's already famous Amrut Distillery and Glen Elgin Distillery, Speyside, Scotland, plus refill Spanish oak ex -Sherry from Macallan. 796 bottles are on offer. Extremely limited Australian allocation and obviously quite collectable. 52.9% Alc./Vol. Notes from Adelphi... Aroma: initially spicy, fruity and floral with notes of ripe bananas, freshly opened jar of Dundee marmalade, green apple skin and lemon curd. White chocolate and coconut ice cream in the development with lychees, melon balls and citrus brullée. Taste: almost chilli-hot spices from the High Ranges of Kerala, tempered by fresh coconut, sweetening to Tunnock’s Snowballs with black cherry cola. Finish: Black Forest Gâteau, ground pepper and a hint of mustard seed.
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Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)UNITED STATES$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 54.15%One of Whisky Advocate's Top 20 Whiskies of 2018.
Belle Meade taste every barrel in their inventory, reserving the ones that are good enough to be a single barrel but don't maintain a high enough proof. They then batch these barrels with others to raise the overall proof and accentuate the flavours. The aim is to create a product that's greater than the sum of its parts. The Reserve is a high rye content whiskey around 7-11 years old. These are genuinely small runs of just seven barrels per batch. Alcohols may vary from batch to batch. Our tasting found a full-bodied Bourbon with lots of fleshy ripe peach and grilled corn character on top of your usual heavy vanilla, caramel fudge and sweet oak notes. Most surprising is just how little rye character comes through - also how well this balances out at high proof. The delivery packs in a lot of weight without being aggressive or hot, and while complexity isn't a strong point, lovers of buxom, corn-heavy styles should find this rich, expressive Bourbon a simple joy.
The Belle Meade brand is the work of Charles and W.A. Nelson, great-great-great-grandsons of Charles Nelson, a pre-Prohibition legend who, reportedly, made the first Tennessee whiskey in Robertson County. He was a German immigrant grocer son of a soap and candlemaker. Charlie adds, “Stories are what propagate cultures, and this is in my mind the American story,” he says. “I just love so many aspects of it. The things that he was involved with were at the core of human culture” — soap, candles, meat, coffee, whiskey — “the basic things that are also the great things.”
Other reviews... Oak, corn sweetness, and tropical fruit collide in this powerful bourbon that suggests grilled pineapple and charred corn on the cob. It handles the proof well, but be prepared for a no-holds-barred tongue lashing of licorice, bitter citrus pith, and oak, before a heaping spoonful of butterscotch pudding quells the heat. Reveals even more flavor with water—blueberry muffin, clove-studded orange, and cedar shingle. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com
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Martell VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%Other reviews... A lively, fruity and well-balanced Cognac with bright pops of cinnamon and cardamom winding into a long toffee finish. Light amber color, sweet and toasty vanilla and orange aromas.
94 points - wineenthusiast.com - Mozart Strawberry White Chocolate Cream Liqueur (500ml)AUSTRIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 15%The fresh and fruity taste of this liqueur is the combination of sugar with the natural aroma of fresh strawberries and bourbon vanilla blended with a high quality distillate, fresh cream and cocoa butter. 15% Alc./Vol.
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2007 Boll & Cie Rose de Saignee ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$160. 00Bottle$1920.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2020-2024)ABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkMade from 100% Pinot Noir using the Saignee method and aged for 11 years on lees.
Re-tasted on 17/01/2020
A rich, toasty Rose made from 100% Pinot Noir. A fine satiny mousse dissipates to reveal a rose gold coloured base that has a steady stream of delicate bubbles flowing through it. Powerful aromatics of baked bread, yeast lees, strawberry and blood orange marry into roasted almond notes. Rich mouthfilling flavours of baked bread, subtle dried orange and yeast lees show superb concentration overlaying a back drop of toast and dried almonds. Finishes dry and slightly oily with crisp acidity and a lingering nuttiness on the long aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Medium to full rose-gold colour. Rich bouquet of spiced honey, roasted nuts, smoked charcuterie and autumnal 'forest floor' nuances; hints of boronia. The same panoply of flavours reappears in the mouth where it is full-bodied, rich and generous, long-lasting and ultra-satisfying. The texture is creamily lovely. Marvellous wine. (100% pinot noir)
96 points
Huon Hooke - Cape Grim 666 Pure Tasmanian Vodka (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$66. 99Bottle$803.88 DozenABV: 40%Closure: Screw Cap
Vodka production is not a foreign concept in Tasmania, with almost all current whisky distilleries producing the adaptable sprit in order to maintain cash flow while their whisky matures. Many with great success. And why not? Tasmania boasts some of the cleanest air and purest water in world, the latter being an essential item for any successful vodka. Add some of the best brewing barley to the mix and it will become no surprise why 666 Vodka was concieved.
The spirit is created from 100% Tasmanian barley, triple distilled in copper pot stills, charcoal filtered to rid of any impurities, and finally cut down to 40% ABV with rainwater collected from Cape Grim.
Gold medal winner at the 2010 San Francisco world spirits competition. The first Australian Vodka to win this award.
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2014 Chateau Brown BlancPessac Leognan, Bordeaux, FRANCE$62. 99Bottle$755.88 DozenOther Reviews...
The Château Brown Blanc 2014 has an attractive lime cordial and gooseberry-scented bouquet that is very well defined, peachy notes emerging with aeration. The palate is crisp and fresh, that lime cordial note continuing with well-judged acidity and a vibrant finish. This is a Brown Blanc with breeding and it should be delicious straight from the off, once bottled. Drink 2017 - 2025.
90-92 points
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate # 218 (Apr 2015)
Has a friendly feel, with a kiss of brioche giving way to shortbread, lemon curd and chamomile notes. Shows creamy texture but persistent length.
89-92 points
J.M. - Wine Spectator
Not as successful as the red perhaps in this vintage, but still plenty of enjoy - vibrant, soft creamy citrus, gentle toasting, good persistency.
16.75/20pts (89/100pts)
Decanter -
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Arras Brut Elite SparklingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkA bountiful creamy white mousse sits over a pale straw coloured base that has flecks of pale gold to the edges. Very fine and persistent bead. Nosing reveals pear and baked bread aromas which intermingle with hints of honeyed toast like notes and yeast lees. Tightly knit the palate possesses mouth watering acidity and finishes very dry with a moderate creaminess to the finish. Flavours of pear and toast interact with baked bread, citrus and yeast lees characters. Concludes with good tension and an aftertaste of lightly honeyed pear, toast, baked bread, traces of almond and yeast lees.
Alc. 12.5% - Habitation St Etienne Rhum Blanc Agricole Rum (700ml) - 50%MARTINIQUE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 50%
Rhum Agricole is both a distinctive production methodology and, more recently, an AOC (Appellation of Origin) protected product when produced according to strict criteria in the French protectorates of Martinique and Guadalupe. Primarily the distinction is the use of fresh cane juice instead of molasses or other refined sugar products and column distillation. The results are generally dryer and more aromatic Rums of elegance and refinement.
HSE's blanco is reputedly the only rhum/rum in the world which is progressively reduced from the 70% distillate down to 50% alcohol over a period of two years, partly via evaporation. Others typically reduce immediately after distillation, and then bottle shortly after or within a few months. The former technique allows the rhum to 'rest' and develop far longer than any other white rum, preserving the delicate aroma and mouth-feel.
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2018 Chateau Joanin BecotCotes de Castillon, Bordeaux, FRANCE$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews....
The 2018 Joanin Becot is blended of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, with the Merlot harvested September 24-27 and the Cabernet Franc picked on October 11. Yields were 46 hectoliters per hectare, and aging is set to occur in 50% new barriques, 25% in vats, 15% in amphorae and 10% in one-year-old barrels. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it opens with opulent, open-knit scents of exotic spices—star anise, fenugreek and cumin seed—over a core of plum preserves, baked cherries and blueberry compote with touches of bouquet garni, tilled soil and dark chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers loads of rich, plushly textured black and blue fruit with an array of spicy sparks and a long finish.
90-92+ points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine AdvocateA fresh and pure style, with a gentle kiss of tobacco leaf sitting atop black cherry and dark plum purée flavors. A dash of cedar holds the finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2023. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 4,750 cases made.
88 points
James Molesworth - Wine SpectatorA very pretty, subtle red with berry, meat and chocolate aromas that follow through to a medium body with round, creamy tannins and a delicious finish. 30% amphora. Very fine and drinkable now.
92 points
James SucklingEmerging from the team of Beau-Séjour Bécot, the 2018 Château Joanin Bécot is based on 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc coming from the limestone soils of the Côtes de Castillon region. Lots of black cherry and redcurrant fruit as well as leafy herbs, dried flowers, chalky minerality, and camphor emerge on the nose. This carries to a medium-bodied, seamless 2018 with terrific overall balance, ripe yet present tannins, and outstanding length on the finish. Tasting like a topflight Saint-Emilion, it will benefit from a year or so in the cellar and impress for at least a decade. Readers looking for a brilliant Right Bank wine to put in the cellar should jump on this beauty.
93 points
Jeb DunnuckThe 2018 Joanin Bécot is a very pretty wine marked by strong Cabernet Franc aromatics. Crushed red berry, mint, raspberry, sage and dried flowers all grace a mid-weight, silky Côtes de Castillon that is more about savory nuance than power. Drink it over the next decade or so.
90 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous -
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Roger Groult Whisky Cask Finish 9 Year Old Calvados Apple Brandy (700ml)Normandy, FRANCE$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenABV: 46%New as of 2017, another of Groult's experiments in brandy maturation is this whisky cask finish. Suitably, the barrels were sourced from a distillery in Brittany, France with the finishing period lasting just a few months. Tasting note: Deep gold. Orchard fruits are evident, but the aroma seems smothered rather than enhanced by the finishing. Extra vanilla? Possibly a touch of smoke? On the palate it's more typical, with baked apple and late hints of cider, but pulls up short. 46% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... "It is spicy, iodized but creamy, almost buttery in the mouth."
- M. Hervé Lalau (Wine & spirits journalist) -
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Le Birlou Apple & Chestnut Liqueur (700ml)Vienezes, FRANCE$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 18%Like many success stories, great ideas start in small places. Henri Monier was no exception, starting his drinks venture at the back of his bar in the Cantal region, one of the last bastions of rural France. In many parts of the country, beer is often mixed with liqueurs, cordials or bitters and Monier would serve his customers his own recipe made from local chestnuts with a dash of apple flavouring. The resulting success of the liqueur prompted Monier to refine his recipe with the help of a local distiller. He named the drink by combining the word for beer (biere) with the local word "pelou", which refers the husk of the chestnut. By the year 2000 he finally applied for a distribution license, declaring Birlou the "Drink of the new millenium".
We were impressed with this product prior to any research, but came to learn of its International success with accolades such as a Silver Medal at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, in Luxembourg, two gold medalis in the International Spirits awards in 2008 and 2010 and Silver Medal (Best in Class, "Best in Class") at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2010.
In addition to its ability to contribute an extra dimension to beer, it favours the culinary world as a unique addition to chicken or sweets such as crepes, and the French have even turned it into a sorbet!.
Tasting note: [OLD 20% ABV batch tasted] Pours a glycerous, burnished copper colour. A stunning perfume offers a merry go round of aromas from stewed apples, cinnamon, nutmeg to roast chestnut. The creamy entry leads into a sweet, concentrated profile; flavours of stewed apple, cinnamon and chestnut are delivered with an exceptionally soft, silky, very gently warming mouth feel. Finish is clean and with appropriate acidity to avoid being overly sweet. The aftertaste powers on for 20 seconds plus, concluding with hints of cinnamon and apple pie followed by a roast chestnut fade. A remarkable liqueur that deserves a much wider audience.
Click here to learn more about Liqueurs
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The Whistler Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish Blended Irish Whiskey (700ml)IRELAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 43%Tasting note: While Boann are busy getting their distillery up and running, they've sourced liquid and have been experimenting with various finishes. The latest in the range is this blend of sherry and bourbon matured grain and malt whiskeys. Deep amber gold, it's more restrained than Whistler's 'Blue Note', opening with peel freshness followed by richer scents of orange spice cake, peach nectar and glace cherries. The silky entry glazes the tongue with softly spoken dried fruit flavours; Oak enters early, drying the mouthfeel, while sherry picks up the finish as light fruit cake and vanilla.
Non chill filtered. 43% Alc./Vol. -
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Arran Quarter Cask The Bothy Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Isle of Arran, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 56.2%Matured in first-fill ex-Bourbon barrels for seven years before being transferred to smaller 125 litre Quarter casks for a further two years. The process amplifies the impact of the wood. Fumey alcohol gives way to hints of dried coconut, raisin chocolate, pine needles and a vaguely cider-like fruitiness. It's a big, chewy malt with a fabulous fanning flavour rush and impressive control. Summer pudding and vanilla come through on the finish before the aftertaste ends crisp and pleasingly astringent. Delicious. 56.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Initially matured in bourbon casks for 7 years, this spends another 2 years in quarter casks, taking on aromas of vanilla, shortbread, canned pineapple chunks, wax, and cinnamon, all buffeted by the bright saltiness of fresh sea air. A hefty deep palate is unencumbered by the cask and instead trumpets its clean sweet flavors: lemon, orange, pineapple, fresh ginger, blueberry, cinnamon, shortbread, and saline. Full-flavored to the last, this whisky is muscular, but never aggressive. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com
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Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkPours with a creamy white mousse that holds well eventually dissipating to reveal a base wine colour of pale straw with pale gold edges. Very fine and profuse bead. Good aromatics with baked bread melding into yeast lees characters and hints of toast followed by citrus and brioche notes. Flavours of freshly baked bread intermingle with oily toast like characters and yeast less underpinned by subtle cashew and citrus nuances. A dry creamy like finish is counterpointed by good crisp acidity. Long oily baked bread, toast, yeast lees and subtle cashew aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc 12%Tasting Notes sourced from Moet & Chandon:
The Moet & Chandon Non Vintage is a blend of wines from a specific year, with the addition of different reserve wines from earlier years (the precise proportions vary from year to year) in order to achieve consistent quality and character. Moet & Chandon sources grapes from nearly all the different classified vineyards of Champagne which greatly assists to achieve this consistent quality.A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot and Pinot Meunier. Pale yellow colour with a tinge of green. The nose is delicately vinous, with an initial aroma of both lime and vine blossom. The palate shows predominantly Pinot characteristics. Light, persistent sparkle. Very ample in the mouth, with a discreet finish. Essentially an aperitif, but is also a good accompaniment to fish. -
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Bianca Vigna ProseccoSan Pietro di Feletto, ITALY$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesABV: 11%Closure: CorkThis Prosecco pours with a good white frothy mousse showing good hold. Very pale straw base wine colour with exceptionally fine bead showing good persistence. Aromas of citrus are followed by some pear and very light toast notes. On the palate flavours of pear and citrus with some brioche on the back palate. Clean crisp dry finish. Aftertaste of pear, citrus and brioche.
Drink now.
Alc 11% -
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Cocchi Dopo Teatro Amaro Vermouth (750ml)Cocconato d'Asti, ITALY$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 16%This wine based Amaro is flavoured with wormwood, rhubarb and quassia wood amongst other ingredients, plus a double infusion of quina. "Dopo Teatro" means 'after theatre' and references the Piedmont tradition of concluding the evening with a chilled Amaro. Tasting note: Deep sienna brown with a gold ochre hue. Captivates from the first pass which yields quinine over herbal tea, green wood and hints of sarsaparilla. Carries through in the mouth with svelte like texture and flavours including cinnamon, ginger bread and hints of herbal tea. More clove and old tawny-port like to finish. Gently bitter accents at the fade. Perfect balance. Make a place for this in your next Negroni. 16% Alc./Vol. -
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Yalumba Antique Muscat (375ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenABV: 18%Closure: CorkA while ago, the astute folks at Yalumba realised that Rutherglen produced Australia's best Muscats. Barrels of old Muscat were purchased, further aged and blended. This lost gem has been on the market but off the radar since 2001 when the price was set at $20. Grab a bargain before the price goes up. Deep sienna brown colour, with green olive edges. Wonderful aroma of honey, raisins and fine old brandy. Rich luscious palate. Flavours of raisins, honey and marmalade superbly married to very fine brandy spirit. Clean finish, with exceptionally long aftertaste. (375ml bottle).
Other Reviews...
The non-vintage Museum Reserve Muscat is exotic, full-bodied, rich, and sweet. It spent 7 years in wood, and was bottled from a solera system. This amber-hued, rich, unctuously-textured effort boasts luscious aromas and flavors of marmalade, figs, chocolate, melted caramel, toffee, and prunes. Once again, Australia proves this country is hard to beat when it comes to their fortified after-dinner wines, which still sell for a song.
98 Points
Robert Parker - The Wine Advocate # 161 (Oct 2005) - Mr Pickwick's Particular PortBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenClosure: Cork
Notes sourced from Southern Cross Wines.
Mr Pickwick's Port is widely regarded as Australia's definitive tawny port. Its average age of over 21 years makes it unique amongst fortified wines consistently available on a commercial basis. Mr Pickwick's Port has the softness and mellow spirit that can only come from great age, premium base material and the very best in fortifying spirit - in this case, old brandy.The colour is pale amber brown, suggesting great age and complexity, while on the nose there are complex fruit and rancio qualities. The concentrated, mature nose has a freshness and lift belying an average of more than 25 years. On the palate the wine is intense and concentrated and quite luscious, with a great richness, texture and mouthfilling flavour. Its excellent and mature spirit add to the depth and intrigue presented by such old, rare port. 19.0% alcohol volume.
- Disaronno Amaretto Liqueur (700ml)Saronno, ITALY$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 20%
Created by a “beautiful young woman”, this ancient amber coloured Italian Liqueur dates back to 1525. It was gifted to the artist ‘Bernardino Luini’, a member of the Leonardo da Vinci School. The said “beautiful woman” was subsequently immortalised by Luini in a renowned fresco in Saronno (although, the true source of Luini’s inspiration remains a matter of some speculation.) Commercial production of the recipe was begun in the 18th Century by the Reina family in their apothecary shop in Saronno. There are seventeen ingredients in all.
The nose displays spirity almond and spice aromas. DiSarrono's natural apricot fruit sweetness is subtly countered by the addition of crushed almonds. Beautifully balanced, the lush, full-bodied palate explodes in flavour on the mid palate finishing with fantastic persistence. A liqueur with universal appeal, enjoyable in coffee, on the rocks or in a range of cocktails. 20% Alc./Vol.
Further notes... Deep amber. Rich marzipan and vanilla nose. A rich attack leads a supple, velvety palate with lightly sweet almond and caramel flavors. Finishes for a mile with waves of complex, nutty flavor. An elegant classic. 92 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com
Try a “Splash”: 1/3 DiSarrono;
2/3 Orange Juice; garnish with an orange slice or lime wedge and serve over ice. -
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Michter's US*1 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 45.7%"A deceptively weighty Bourbon which is an essay in genteel understatement." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
The Michter's "US 1" bottlings are so named to honour Michter’s heritage. The brand was established in 1753 as America’s first whiskey company. Washington and his troops drank Michter’s while they were hunkered down in Valley Forge. The US*1 Bourbon is made from a mash bill that features the highest quality American corn, however the complete recipe remains undisclosed. It's matured to the peak of perfection, with barrels often aging in excess of eight years. Truly “small batch,” each release is typically composed of no more than two dozen barrels, leaving no margin for “blending out” imperfection and thus necessitating excellence from every barrel. This deep copper-coloured whiskey presents dryish aromas with subtle notes of corn chip, vanilla, cinnamon and smouldering oak in the first pass; hints of caramel develop in the second phase. Remains a tad subdued through to the final inspection where choc-peppermint, rye-like aromas and fresh sawn oak feature. A lively delivery offers nicely balanced flavours of charry oak, grilled corn and vanilla slice; drying towards the finish where spicy rye-like notes kick in. Fine tannins trail off into hints of cracker biscuit and old liquorice strap. Vibrant and youthful. 45.7% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... A deceptively weighty Bourbon which is an essay in genteel understatement. Complex and fascinating, especially in the many guises the cocoa creates. 92 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
[notes from 2005] The bouquet has a dry, grainy aroma which is accented by peppery/spicy scents. The palate entry is surprisingly sweet and corny, considering how dry the aroma is; the midpalate point is deep, corny sweet, sap-like and a bit syrupy. Ends up well and balanced, with a backnote of dried red fruit (raisins, prunes). 90-95 points - wineenthusiast.com
...Aged in new oak for an indeterminate time. A bold and aggressive whiskey. Intensity from the get-go on the nose: Butterscotch, over-ripe banana, creme brulee, and cinnamon. The body takes all that and runs with it, adding brisk oak elements, apple pie notes, dried figs, and a touch of red hot candies. That bit of heat doesn’t last. The finish is seductive and supple, offering a wonderful balance between dusty wood and brown sugar sweetness. An excellent buy, the dearth of data on the spirit notwithstanding. - drinkhacker.com
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Applewood Distillery Unico Cello Limoncello Liqueur (500ml)Adelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$38. 99Bottle$467.88 DozenABV: 20%Applewood take their Limoncello perhaps a tad seriously. Made from a safely guarded recipe - it employs two different types of lemons from South Australia's oldest citrus plantation in Lennane Orchards, Montacute Valley, Adelaide Hills - believed to be planted 150 years ago! ”Why is our Limoncello important?” Applewood explain, "The lemons are what one might call "UGLY". Yes, they are different sizes and kind of weird looking. Unfortunately, that meant that supermarkets did not want to buy them. So, after trying to sell these ugly little lemons for years, the growers decided to remove the 150 year old trees. To help preserve this historic orchard, Applewood Distillery put up our hands and promised to buy all whole crop to make our delicious Limoncello. It is our labour of love. Literally! We spend 12 hours hand peeling lemons from the orchard to produce this delicious drop. In fact, we have a family ritual of taking turns to peel a couple of buckets a day. Everyone chips in!" Tasting note: Slightly cloudy pale lime-green. Issues a fabulously pure, lifted citrus bouquet of lemon pith / peel with marginal loss in intensity after 2-3 minutes air contact. A superb 'creme-de-lemon' in the mouth with a sweet, unctuous, toothcoating texture and delicate acidity. Lemon meringue and citrus oils through the lengthy aftertaste. Outstanding. 20% Alc./Vol. Serving suggestion: Store in your freezer. Drink after a bowl of pasta. Mix with soda, ice and fresh lemon. Layer with thickened cream. -
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Chateau de Laubade Intemporel 12 Year Old Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 40%A Baco dominant Armagnac filled out with Ugni Blanc, Colombard and Folle Blanche, blended with material up to 20 years old. The beautiful honey-topaz colour is reminscent of autumn leaves. Opening whiffs are gently peppery, fruity, full and nicely balanced: Ripe plums, fruit cake and delicate vanilla aromas develop, with 1-2 minutes of air-time drying the nose-feel. A medium to full bodied Armagnac with controlled sweet-dry flavours, richening up towards the finish in a slow surge of dried fruits, honey and sticky date. Cigar box, cold tea and hints of orchard fruits weave through the aftertaste. A step up from the somewhat woody and lean VSOP, this shows better definition and steady presence. 40% Alc./Vol.
91 points Gold Medal, World Spirits Awards, Austria
- Bialy Bocian Organic Vodka (500ml)POLAND$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: Produced from Polish cereals. Aromas of cracked pepper and vanilla bean followed by meringue / icing sugar and muted citrus. A viscous and delicately peppery vodka with a fresh, vibrant finish and a lingering, creamy, near-neutral aftertaste. 40% Alc./Vol. Certified organic.
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H.Deniset Jeune Absinther Pontalier Absinthe (500ml)FRANCE$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 56%Tasting note: Intense anise aroma has a mildy peppery edge with aeration drawing out subtle bitter herbal qualities. Concentrated with a tongue nipping, liquorice root and peppermint profile. Ends clean, warming, satisfying. Peppermint aftertaste. 56% Alc./Vol. - Les Fils d'Emile Pernot Authentique Absinthe (700ml)Pontarlier, FRANCE$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 65%Les fils d'Emile Pernot distillery was founded in 1890 and is located in Pontarlier, France, the birthplace of French absinthe. It has been family run from father to son continuously up until 2005. In addition to their recently developed absinthes and their premium pastis, the classic Vieux Pontarlier distilled anise, the distillery produces a large range of local liqueurs and eaux de vie, including Wild Strawberry liqueur; 'Pontiane', a gentiane-root aperitif similar but superior to Suze and 'Un Sapin', a forest-scented pine-bud liqueur. Their magnificent century-old copper alembics were specially designed for Absinthe production by the famous firm of Egrot in the early 1900’s. Reputedly the only stills of their kind in operation anywhere in the world, they are considered a key factor in Pernot's ongoing quality. This edition, created by Dominique Rousselet, is a classic Pontarlier absinthe with a powerful bouquet of wormwood complementing the anise and fennel perfectly.
Extremely limited stocks. Other reviews... Awarded Gold in the category 'Verte' at the Absinthiades in 2012 No tasting notes available. - Scrappy's Seville Orange Bitters (148ml)UNITED STATES$43. 99Bottle$527.88 DozenABV: 43%Seville Oranges are a classic Northern Hemisphere winter citrus. With more depth and complexity than a traditional orange, Scrappy's Seville Orange Bitters is reminiscent of marmalade and comforting winter spices, with subtle floral notes. Made from fresh Seville orange peel, this bitters is hyper-seasonal, only available in the Northern Hemisphere winter, and is the perfect bitters for your Christmas holiday food & beverage applications. 43% Alc./Vol.
- Malfy G.Q.D.I. Con Limone Gin (700ml)ITALY$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenABV: 41%Produced by the Vergano family on the Amalfi Coast in Italy's east, a region known for its food and citrus - in particular, lemons - hence the label statement "Con Limone". Not surprisingly, this is not your typical London Dry. Expect a contemporary, lemon-heavy style. Other reviews... Tasted neat, the lemon is overwhelming and bordering on a sherberty limoncello. That said, add water or more importantly – vermouth / tonic / mixer and the core gin botanicals (juniper, coriander seed) come back into contention. Malfy Gin was always going to be a lemon forward gin – Con Limone – kind of gives that away… but there is a gin under there and while progressive, it would still appeal to any classic gin fans. The finish has a lovely depth too, with more piney wood-floor notes coming through. 41% Alc./Vol. - www.ginfoundry.com
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2015 Chateau Langoa BartonSaint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenOther Reviews....
The 2015 Langoa Barton has a classy bouquet with cedar- and tobacco-infused black fruit along with a little sous-bois that emerges with time. The palate is medium-bodied, taut and crisp, with pliant tannins and plenty of graphite toward the finish that is endowed with fine density and satisfying length. The 2015 is excellent. Tasted blind at the 2015 Bordeaux Ten-Year-On tasting at Farr Vintners. Drink 2027-2050.
94 points
Neal Martin - Vinous (Feb 2025)Layered and juicy 2015 with currants, light chocolate and cedar character. It’s full-bodied, round-textured and very pretty. Extremely long and flavorful. So friendly and bright. Drink or hold.
94 points
James Suckling (Feb 2018)A wine that overdelivers in the appellation is the 2015 Château Langoa Barton which is largely Cabernet Sauvignon yet includes 38% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. Brought up in 60% new oak, it boasts a deep purple color and smokin’ good notes of caramelized cherries, crème de cassis, toasty oak, and graphite. Big, full-bodied, concentrated, and structured, with awesome purity of fruit as well as notable elegance, it needs 3-4 years of bottle age and will keep for two to three decades. Bravo! Drink 2021-2051.
94 points
Jeb Dunnuck (Nov 2017) -
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2019 Chateau Joanin BecotCotes de Castillon, Bordeaux, FRANCE$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews....
The 2019 Joanin Bécot is terrific. Classy and polished, the 2019 shows off terrific purity of fruit and expressive aromatics to match its mid-weight personality. As always, the Franc lends notable distinction. Drink 2024-2034.
90 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA perfumed nose of cherries, currants, plums, violets, clay and baking spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Fruity and balanced with a fresh, supple finish. 75% merlot and 25% cabernet franc. Drink from 2023.
91 points
James SucklingMulberries, ripe cherries, tobacco leaf, and chalky mineral notes all emerge from the 2019 Château Joanin Bécot, another pure, incredibly elegant, balanced beauty from this family. Readers who love vibrant, elegant, yet still concentrated and impeccably made Bordeaux will love this medium-bodied, seamless 2019 that can be drunk any time over the coming 10-15. Drink 2022 - 2037.
92 points
Jeb DunnuckEvident freshness from the first moment, plenty of body to the savoury red fruits. Everything is in balance and you get both juice, deepening gourmet touches of chocolate shavings and salinity as it builds to the finish. Great stuff, and low SO2 additions. Drink 2023 - 2036.
92 points
Jane Anson - DecanterThe nose opens with flowers, espresso, cocoa, licorice and plums. The wine is soft, silky, fresh and polished on the palate allowing all of its sweet, ripe, black raspberries, plums, cherries coffee and licorice to shine through. The wine was made from a blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc. Drink from 2023-2034.
92 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider -
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Olave Rojo Vermouth (750ml)SPAIN$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenABV: 16%A classic red vermouth from Spain prepared following traditional methods by blending wines with up to 80 different herbs and botanicals that have been macerated for more than 2 months. A further 3 months in oak casks adds another layer of flavour.
Tasting note: Translucent sienna brown with ochre edges. Lifted and fresh bouquet offers a medley of pink grapefruit, cola, clove, cardamom, liquorice root and quinine. Medium bodied, svelte textured with mildly bitter flavours of dried herb, cola and dried apricot. Finishes gently acidic, fresh and grapefruit-like with the bitter herbal qualities echoed in the aftertaste. 16% Alc./Vol.
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Pierre Gimonnet & Fils Cuvee Cuis 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkSince 1750 the Gimonnet family have been vine growers in the village of Cuis, supplying some of the great Champagne houses with fruit. It wasn’t until the 1930's recession when sales of grapes fell that Monsieur Pierre Gimonnet finally decided to take up the challenge of producing Champagne under his own label. It was a great struggle at first, establishing a clientele who were not, at that time, accustomed to "blanc de blancs" Champagnes, not least from a new small independent producer. The effort finally paid off and today the name Pierre Gimonnet et Fils is a highly respected name in Champagne. The estate is now run by Pierre's sons, Michel and Didier, who share the fanaticism of their father for the Gimonnet Champagnes.
A very flavoursome Blanc de Blancs Champagne.
Pours with an exuberant mousse that holds well over a pale straw gold tinged core. Fine and persistent bead. Gorgeous aromatics of baked bread, yeast lees and cashew fill the nostrils complimented by some brioche, citrus and subtle ginger notes. Racy and chalky in in its feel the mouth watering palate is layered with baked bread, citrus and yeast lees flavours which meld into a cream tinged back drop of cashew and delicate ginger. Sculptured acidity with a long, dry and crisp finish that has a slightly chalky feel to it.
Alc. 12.5%
Previously tasted May 2016. Pours with a frothy white mousse that shows very good hold. Pale straw base wine colour with a very fine bead that shows excellent persistence. Rich, powerful nose with aromas of baked bread, yeast lees and some toastiness to the fore. Subtle roasted almond and citrusy dried honey notes follow on. Quite full and rich the palate possesses mouthfilling flavours of baked bread, oily toast like characters and yeast lees with infusions of roasted nuts and traces of citrus fruits freshening things up. Creamy textural feel with a dry oily finish. Superb richness and length with a long toasty aftertaste of bready yeast lees characters and roasted nuts.
Alc 12.5%
96 points
Other Reviews....
There's a subtle succulence to this graceful Champagne, framing flavors of peach skin, ripe pear, Marcona almond and orchard blossoms. The fine, detailed mousse is raw silk–like in texture. Finishes with minerally fleur de sel and oyster shell notes. Disgorged December 2023. Drink now through 2029.
93 points
Wine Spectator -
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Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label ChampagneChampagne,$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2017-2021)ABV: 12%Closure: CorkPours with a frothy white mousse which once dissipated reveals a pale straw base wine colour with a very fine and persistent bead. The nose exhibits aromatics of baked bread, creamy cashew and yeast lees with light toast and citrus end notes. The palate is quite toasty and has a faint creaminess to it with a refreshing dry finish. Citrus, toast and yeast lees overlay some subtle roasted almond characters. Aftertaste of citrus, toast, yeast lees and roasted almonds.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc 12%Retasted May 2011: Good, white, creamy mousse that quickly dissipates with pale straw gold base wine colour. Very fine and persistent bead. Lifted aromas of baked bread and yeast lees are followed by some cashew and light toast notes. The palate is quite refined but also possesses good richness with flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and light roasted almonds, with some toast end notes. Clean, crisp, dry finish with an almost creamy like texture. Aftertaste of toasty baked bread, almonds and yeast lees.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
93 pointsFirst tasted November 2000: An excellent example of non vintage Champagne. Brilliant, pale straw colour. Fine, persistent bead. The nose is impressive, with a pronounced yeast autolysis aroma over a biscuit background. Creamy texture, with a remarkable degree of finesse and concentration of flavour. Perfect balance, with long biscuit yeast lees aftertaste.
94 Points
Notes from the House of Veuve Clicquot:
Fine and persisting sparkle; complex and intense nose (apple, citrus fruit and caramel); dry full flavour balanced with elegance, crispness and a lingering spicy aftertaste. Veuve Clicquot's famous "Yellow Label" is a classic champagne representative of the Veuve Clicquot style. It is excellent with food and as an aperitif. -
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Generous Organic Gin (700ml)FRANCE$114. 99Bottle$1379.88 DozenABV: 44%Tasting note: Made from certified organic botanicals. Clear. Aromas of coriander, white pepper, lime peel and pine-fresh juniper. Creamy entry leading into a lean, light-to-medium bodied, warming delivery; coriander seed, citrus and juniper followed by a peppercorn accented finish. Tangy mandarin and lingering spice aftertaste. As sleek and elegant as the bottle suggests. 44% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... Silver Medal, International Wine & Spirits Competition 2018 -
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Fratelli Giannandrea 1885 Barricata Stravecchia Grappa (700ml)ITALY$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 42%Tasting note: Bright gold appearance. A hefty bouquet inlcudes raisin apricot compote, mango sorbet and beeswax. A light entry quickly builds into a round, fruity yet dry, medium bodied profile that includes praline cookie, dried apricot and olive bread. Finish is pleasantly spicy, clean and fresh. Excellent balance. Aftertaste is moreish as cinnamon and nutmeg play out into a subtle fruit and nut chocolate fade. Generously styled and very expressive. 42% Alc./Vol. - Agwa Liqueur (700ml)Didam, NETHERLANDS$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenABV: 30%Distilled and produced in Holland, AGWA de Bolivia is an "Alco-Jolt" made from the Bolivian coca leaf and contains Guarana and ginseng.
In 1820 the first Bolivian coca leaf liqueur was manufactured by the De Medici in Bologna, Italy and sold throughout Europe. Rudyard Kipling said the powerful elixir as being made "from the clippings and shavings of angels wings". The product was removed from the market with the banning of cocaine as rudimentary distilling did not remove cocaine. Today bales of Bolivian Coca leaf are shipped under armed guard to Amsterdam where they are distilled and an exact maceration and herbal extraction technique guarantee the removal of the cocaine to standards acceptable to European and US authorities. An extremely distinctive peppery herbal base is then blended with other herbs like guarana & ginseng to balance the taste and augment the effect.
For over 4000 years among the native Andean population the coca leaf has been used for ancient rituals and for everyday gift giving. Today it is drunk as a tea and chewed for hours by farmers and miners. The result is similar to a prolonged caffeine or tobacco buzz. But it's more than that. It improves stamina, is a sacred symbol central to community life and provides essential nutrients. 100 grams of coca would more than satisfy the daily-recommended allowance of calcium, iron, phosphorous, vitamin A and riboflavin. The World Health Organisation and the UN's Inter Regional Crime and Justice research institutes cocaine project maintains that coca users show none of the classic signs of addiction. In fact coca is not a major component of cocaine as only 0.5% of the alkaloid cocaine is found in coca and 41 chemicals are needed to extract cocaine from the coca leaf.Guarana is the extract from the seeds of the common Amazonian climber Paullina Cupana. The South American Guarani Indians make a paste from the crushed seeds, cassava flour and water. The paste is rolled into cylinders and dried. The residue is then grated and the shavings are dissolved in hot sweet water. Typically the resultant brew contains about 5% caffeine; British tea contains 0.03% and coffee up to 0.08%. Caffeine is an alkaloid. An alkaloid is defined as any of various nitrogen containing organic bases obtained from plants. Caffeine is one of three types of alkaloids, the others being thophyliine and theobromine. Caffeine has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, heart, blood vessels and kidneys. The positive effects that have been described in people who use caffeine include motor performance, decreased fatigue, enhanced sensory activity and increased alertness. However, caffeine intake may also produce such negative effects as irritability, nervousness or anxiety, headaches and insomnia. Caffeine acts rapidly. About100mg of caffeine starts to affect you in about 10 minutes, reaches its peak in an hour and lingers in your system for at least 3 hours.
True Ginseng is the source of a stimulant and supposed aphrodisiac that is extracted from the roots. It is native to China although closely related species, American Ginseng, occurs in Eastern North America and is sometimes substituted for the Chinese variety. Ginseng has a sweetly aromatic flavour. The basis of Ginseng's action is believed to be due to certain chemical agents in it that increase the brains adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) activity without involving the adrenal glands. A generalised mental arousal is thereby effected.
Leading authorities for Mayan and Inca studies have challenged Agwa's claim to be the world's first "Psycho-Active" spirit drink. Neither the claims nor the effect are disputed but a leading Mayan Foundation contends that, "Herbal based beverages were at the centre of practices by Mayan elders. Among their people these elders were great men and visionaries. The visions gave direction to the tribe and were the result of taking a spirit fermented from herbs and then flavoured with honey." This may indeed be a precursor to Agwa, however, the Mayan elders didn't actually drink the spirit. They filled a funnel shaped gourd with the liquid and inserted it where the sun doesn't shine. This is not among the recommended ways to use Agwa...
- Notes sourced from www.agwabuzz.comTasting Note: Translucent emerald green color. Men's cologne-like aromas of herbs and sweet fruits in the nose. A thick, supple entry leads to sweet medium-to full-bodied palate with candied lime and green tea elements meshed with ginger and light herbal notes. Finishes with a sweet, citrus fruit glide and a noticeable, caffeine-like "head rush" a moment later. 30% Alc./Vol.International Review of Spirits Award: Silver Medal
88 points (Highly Recommended) -www.tastings.comServing Suggestions for Agwa
Agwa can be enjoyed in a huge number of combinations, or simply on ice by itself. Try experimenting with these:
Cocarana - A measure of AGWA and bottle of coke mixed over Ice with a lemon slice.
Cocarita - Supercharge a margherita with Agwa instead of triple sec / cointreau.
Lightning - AGWA and Tonic.
Mick Martian Martini - AGWA, Milk and dash of Malibu shaken & served as a martini.
Piranha - Bitter Lemon & Agwa & slice of lemon. -
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2017 Chateau Doisy Daene (375ml)Barsac, Bordeaux, FRANCE$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenClosure: CorkOnce part of the original Doisy estate founded in 1704, Chateau Doisy Daene takes its name from Jacques Emmanuel Daane, an owner in the late nineteenth century who combined his surname with that of Doisy following the estate's division. After changing hands several times, the property was acquired in 1924 by the Dubourdieu family and gradually rebuilt and expanded to its current 18.2 hectares. The Barsac vineyard, located close to Chateau Climens, is planted predominantly to Semillon with a smaller proportion of Sauvignon Blanc, on red sand, clay and limestone soils. Alongside its Sauternes, the estate is notable for producing one of the appellation's earliest dry white wines, bottled as Doisy Daene Grand Vin Sec, as well as the rare and highly selective l’Extravagance de Doisy Daene in exceptional vintages.
Other Reviews....
The 2017 Doisy Daëne comes strutting out of the glass with flamboyant notes of tropical fruits—pineapple tart and green mango—plus lemon meringue pie and peach preserves with candied peel, spice cake and musk perfume in the background. The satiny-textured palate has wonderful poise and freshness with and an ethereal lightness of being and mineral-tinged finish. Drink 2022-2047.
94 points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Mar 2020)The 2017 Doisy-Daëne is so compelling. Rich and ample in the glass, the 2017 just blossoms with a bit of time. Candied apricot, exotic white flowers, mint, hazelnut and chamomile notes confer richness. The 2017 is deep, powerful and wonderfully resonant from start to finish. Moreover, it has very few peers in this vintage, one of them being the top-of-the line L'Extravagant. Drink 2022-2037.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous (Dec 2019)As with its next door neighbour, this benefits from limestone soils in what is a late-onset botrytis vintage for the sweet wines of Bordeaux. It means it has some fresh, fine, blooming acids, just scraping through the mid-palate and balanced by gorgeous notes of candied ginger, white flowers, honeysuckle, jasmine and a seam of freshness. It really grows on me, and has great persistency. Drink 2020-2036.
94 points
Jane Anson - Decanter (Apr 2018) -
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That Spirited Lot Ninch Dry Gin (700ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 43%One-shot pot distilled. Dense and creamy opening aromas of dried grass and cheesecake(?) followed by earthy juniper, dried pine needles and lemon peel. Creamy, relaxed mouthfeel with juniper in spades, nicely balanced in a sustained, vibrant, tangy finish. Hints of lemonade gelato through the aftertaste. Recommended with soda, garnished with pink grapefruit. 43% Alc./Vol. Batch 2 tasted.
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Warrabilla Grand Muscat (500ml)Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now (2016)ABV: 18.5%Closure: StelvinAfter 20 plus years in the making Warrabilla have finally been able produce a Grand Muscat, the fortified that Rutherglen is famous for. Together with his assistant winemaker, daughter Amy, Andrew Sutherland Smith has crafted an outstanding Grand Muscat that is a fitting tribute to his family heritage. With an average age of 18 years, the only bad news is that production is tiny with only 200 bottles scheduled to be released each year.
Very deep sienna brown colour with a distinctive olive green hue. Heady aromatics of honeyed raisins, Christmas cake and rancio characters overlay hints of marmalade, toffee and marzipan with perfectly integrated spirit. Magnificently rich and concentrated with a viscous textural feel akin to motor oil the palate is layered with luscious Christmas cake, honey, dried raisins, marmalade infusions, rancio characters and marzipan. The wine is fortifed on skins which extracts a bit more tannin and tends to dry out the finish so it doesn’t end with a cloying sweetness. Excellent integration of spirit with a long powerful conclusion of honeyed raisins, Christmas cake, marmalade, marzipan and subtle nutty rancio characters. Very limited stocks.
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2016 Chateau Lafon RochetSaint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE$145. 00Bottle$1740.00 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews....
The 2016 Lafon-Rochet is very intense on the nose. A mixture of red and black fruit, crushed violet, wild mint and crushed stone unfolds with aeration. It's perhaps a little Barolo in style. The palate is beautifully balanced with supple tannins, very velvety smooth with lovely acidity and sensuality on the finish. Gorgeous. A high point for the estate. Tasted at the Lafon-Rochet vertical at the property. Drink 2022-2050.
95 points
Neal Martin - Vinous (June 2021)Aromas of smoke, incense, black currants and expressive dark fruit. Assertive yet sleek tannins. This will age well over the coming years. Drink or hold. 10 Years On retrospective.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com (Feb 2026)A St-Estèphe fourth growth with a bright future, Château Lafon-Rochet has been going through a quiet renaissance under the Tesseron family and, since 2021, the Lorenzetti family, which also owns Lilian Ladouys (St-Estèphe) and Pédesclaux (Pauillac 5GCC). The vineyard covers 45ha of gravel and clay, planted mainly to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The 2016 is a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, vinified in both concrete and stainless steel vats, and aged for 12 months in oak barrels, 50% new. Georgie Hindle: Blackcurrant and plum, fleshy and focused. Less demonstrative than some, but has definition and persistence. Juicy strawberries, cranberries and raspberries, tannic but not too dry, with sweetly spiced oak on the finish. Vincenzo Arnese: Fresh and young. A bit shy, but the palate is rich with good intensity. A powerful style, showing good integration of oak and a pleasant finish. Robert Mathias MW: Spice, incense and nutmeg aromas. Dark cherry and cassis fruit is very focused. Gravelly mineral core and bright acidity. Real balance and tension here. Drink 2025-2042.
95 points
Panel tasting - Decanter (Apr 2025) -
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Bauchet Contraste Blanc de Pinot Noir Extra Brut ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkMade from 100% Pinot Noir this is a racy, sculptured Champagne.
Made with a low dosage from 100% Pinot Noir, 20% being reserve wines, Contraste sees a minimum of 24 months ageing before being disgorged and is sourced from vineyards in the Côte des Bars and the Montagne de Reims.
Good foamy mousse with a pale straw, pale gold coloured base finely threaded by a very persistent bead. Rich, toasty yeast lees aromas merge into baked bread notes with subtle winter strawberry, citrus and brioche also evident. Slightly tighter and leaner as well as drier than the Origine, the palate features a complex flavour profile of oily baked bread, yeast lees, citrus, subtle toasty characters and pear within an elegant airy mouthfeel. Very dry, racy and tightly knit finish with a sculptured medium to long aftertaste.
Alc. 12.5% -
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- Packaging may vary
Compagnie des Indes Jamaica 5 Year Old Navy Strength Rum (700ml) - 57%JAMAICA$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 57%Made from rums sourced from four different Jamaican distilleries. Opens with powerful aromas of creamy soda, fried banana, dried mango, fruit bread and white pepper. Second pass finds raw sugar, hints of white chocolate and banana cake added to the mix. Concentrated yet remarkably smooth and poised given the ABV; gentle bittersweetness at midpalate with banana peel, fruit loaf, white pepper, grassy/pineapple freshness and warming sweet spices lingering at length. Complex and never too sweet. Beautifully done. 57% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The Rum Masters 2016 | gold, Rhumfest Paris 2015 | gold.
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Parker's Heritage Original Batch Cask Strength 13 Year Old Wheat Whiskey (750ml) - Eighth ReleaseKentucky, UNITED STATES$2299. 00Bottle$27588.00 DozenABV: 63.4%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
From the United States’ largest independent family-owned spirits producer and marketer, Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., Parker's Heritage Collection is a limited annual series of rare, aged American Whiskies that pays tribute to 6th Generation Master Distiller, Parker Beam's 45+ years of service.This unusual release was produced from soft Winter wheat paired with corn and malted barley. Bottled at natural cask strength without chill filtration, this showcases wheat whiskey at its very, very best. Super limited.
Other reviews... ...a rock hard, brittle bourbon softened only by background oil and a manuka honey-cocoa mix;... So, so delicious.
95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2016 -
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2018 Yarra Edge Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2019-2025)ABV: 13.6%Closure: StelvinTwenty percent whole bunch inclusion, aged in French oak, 30% new, for 10 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light crimson red hue. Fragrant aromatics of dark cherries and strawberries tinged with violets are followed by traces of anise, forest floor and spice. Delicious ripe cherry and strawberry flavours are wrapped up in a supple feel with a touch of anise, subtle game and spicy cedar characters also present. Velvet smooth tannins. Excellent power wave with a long savoury aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
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- 92
Belgrove Distillery Peated Rye Whisky (500ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 50%Those new to Peter's Bignell's exploits will be aware that he has taken the path less traveled; opting to steer away from many the commercial constraints faced with conventional distilling. Peter built and operates the world's only Biodiesel powered still (as of 2014), fuelled from local fish and chip oil collected from takeaway shops in Hobart. The still is direct fired, also used to run his tractors and heat his house - notably these skills were put to task in restoring the historic Nant Water Mill. Grains are grown on a nearby site, with the aim is to keep things self-sufficient and sustainable. The rye grain he uses is also from the family's Bothwell property, originally planted by Peter at the tender age of fifteen to feed the property's livestock, the same field now feeds his still.
This is a grain to glass model with the obvious benefit that all aspects are under his control. Previous releases have shown a great promise and a steady progression toward sheer brilliance. Have we seen the best of this man? We think not, but there's no doubting the intrigue and excitement that comes with every glass.
Peter elaborates further: "I love peated whiskies and I hadn't heard of any peated rye so I decided to make a barrel of it to see how it turned out. I dug some peat from the Central Highlands (Brown Marsh Bog) dried it then burnt it in my malting drum enclosure. The smoke infused into the wet grain and then the heat eventually dried it out. Only 20% of the grain was peat smoked, but it was heavily peated. (no idea of the ppm) The malt was then processed in the usual way by adding 80% unmalted rye grist to the mash. I will have to find a spare day very soon to go and dig some more peat to make a few more barrels. Then 3 years away there might be some more peated rye."
As mentioned, only one barrel of each release has been produced, with the next not due for another 3 years! Inaugural releases are always sought after so take advantage of this world whisky rarity while it lasts.
First release tasted October 2014... Bright straw gold. Initial inhalations reveal powerful scents of sour dough rye followed by cough lozenge. Shifts towards grain store, haystack and chicken shed in a fascinating farmyard twist. Middle-weighted, cough lozenge, granita biscuit and dried grass profile followed by a peppery surge. Dries with light rye bread and dilute vanilla flavours. Less peaty than the nose advertises. Idiosyncratic and unique. 92 points
- Old Rip Van Winkle 15 Year Old 107 Proof Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) - Squat BottleKentucky, UNITED STATES$8999. 00Bottle$107988.00 DozenABV: 53.5%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
A quasi-mythical bottling of the legendary wheated Bourbon that stems from the brand's earliest days - hence it was distilled at Stitzel-Weller. It was superseded by the Pappy Van Winkle 15 year old in 2004 / 2005, so stocks have been off the market for over a decade. Of all the wheated Bourbons out there, including Weller, Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, Old Fitzgerald et al, the Van Winkle label is the most famous and sought after today. 53.5% Alc./Vol.
















































