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Willie Smith Classic Apple Brandy (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 42%Head south from Hobart into the Huon Valley, and you'll find where ex-convict, Charles Oates and his family planted the region's first apple trees. Now home to Willie Smith's distillery, Willie came to the Huon Valley in the 1800s as another pioneer descended from convicts. Passionate about farming, he saw the great soil, the bountiful supply of fresh water and the clean air that the Huon Valley offered and he knew this was the place for him. Willie’s wife, Elsie, also inspired the direction of William Smith & Son’s. She was the daughter of Charles Oates, the man who drove a new way of life in the Huon Valley in 1844. This label represents updated packaging from what was previously known as Charles Oates Apple Brandy. The contemporary venture has gone to considerable lengths, even importing the first alembic Charentais copper still into Australia - modelled on the French originals. Their spirits are a nod to the tradition of Calvados in North-West France, but with an Aussie twist: They're aged in 120 litre Australian Muscat, Port and Sherry barrels. Tasted from a 20ml sample, the brandy pours brass gold. Swirling releases subtle scents of apple tart, quince paste and dustings of cinnamon. Orchard fruits vie with spicy oak but the fruity finish wins out in a delicious surge of apple pie, cinnamon stick and vanilla bean. Strikes some resemblance to fruity or sherried Speyside single malt. Try it as a digestif or with mature cheeses. 42% Alc./Vol.
- Paul Giraud Elegance Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 40%
Cognac is a huge earner for France, with exports frequently representing over 90% of total cognac production. Well over 100 million bottles are sent to key markets such as Asia and the U.S. each year. At the same time, more than half of the cognac market continues to be controlled by three major houses: Hennessy, Martell and Remy Martin. In marginal markets like Australia, this has meant the availability of artisan products has been over shadowed by the promotional power of the 'big three'. Unfortunately, big name brand V.S. and V.S.O.P. bottlings, while generally offering pleasant enough drinking, of late have delivered nothing to get particularly enthused by.
The Giraud family have been growing grapes around France since 1650, yet only decided to produce Cognac under their own name in the 1980s. A long time associate of Giraud informed us 'Giraud became frustrated selling his thirty-five year old cognacs to Remy-Martin. His cognac was destined to become a part of the blend, Louis XV [currently selling for around A$2000.] This was a very brave move during such times - he was one of the first to do so, but we are thankful he did, he paved the way for many more to come.'
Produced from Ugni Blanc, Folle Blance and Colombard grapes grown on the Giraud family's vineyards located in the heart of Grande Champagne, Giraud's Elegance Cognac is quite unlike any of the equivalent age offerings from Remy, Martell, Courvoisier and Hennessy. Unlike the commercial houses, Giraud produces exclusively from grapes grown in the Grande Champagne appellation - the finest in Cognac, thus maintaining a regional focus and a degree of elegance, and a bright, fresh character that we have not seen before at this price point.Tasting notes: Pale golden colour with very pale, almost water like hue. Lifted nose of dried flowers, dates, peach, apricot, almond and spice. Lively palate entry, delivering flavours of dried apricot, almond and spice, with subtle hints of honey. Excellent balance. The flavour profile fans out gently over the back palate, finishing spicy with a slight prickle. Warming aftertaste of almond, apricot and spice. Distinguished at this price point. 40% Alc./Vol.
- The Bitter Truth Creole Bitters (200ml)GERMANY$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenABV: 39%Closure: Cork
Founded in 2006 by German bartenders Stephan Berg and Alexander Hauck, The Bitter Truth Company were one of the first to revive a wide range of classic cocktail bitters on the retail market for modern day mixers. Today they produce a range in excess of ten flavourings, along with the occasional special batch release - their 'Dried Fruit Bitters' special release was commissioned to partake in the "World's most expensive cocktail" served in Dubai.
Today the company enjoy worldwide distribution for what was once a hobby craft, and are considered among the best for true flavourings as evidenced by the accolades attributed to them.
The Bitter Truth Creole Bitters is reminiscent of a style of bitters dating back to an era before cocktails even existed. Back then, bitters were made by doctors and apothecaries, primarily for the use in liquid tonics and then eventually as an ingredient in alcoholic beverages. This bitters reflects the Creole way of life with all its beautiful complexity and spiciness. The beautiful metallic red label houses a fiery anise tinged cherry red coloured liquid. Try it in your favorite Manhattan. 39% Alc./Vol.
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Tequila Ocho 100% Agave Plata Tequila (750ml)Jalisco, MEXICO$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 40%Produced by Carlos Camarena, a third generation Tequilero (the man behind legendary brands lik El Tesoro and Tapatio) in conjunction with Tomas Estes,who is credited with bringing the first bottle of Tequila to Europe. Taking a 'terroir' approach, these are reportedly the first tequilas to be 'vintage' dated, noting the year of harvest and location of the Agave plants that the spirit was derived from. The idea is to express the personality of the soil and climate. Each vintage is a limited run. Ocho means “eight” and everything about the brand references the number. Ocho came from the eighth sample created by Carlos for Tomas. The agaves ripen for eight years and it takes eight kg of agave to make a litre of Ocho tequila. Production of Ocho blanco takes eight days. Carlos even has eight brothers and sisters and the family is in their eighth decade of producing tequila! The list goes on...
Note: These are single estate bottlings. Label details may vary from batch to batch. [Puerta Del Aire Estate tasted] Clear. Superb aromatics include salted lime, dill pickle, green peppercorns, mustard seed with air contact adding grilled pineapple, pencil shavings, rosemary and sappy / fruity agave like notes. Fabulous complexity. Medium bodied with a mildly oily entry and a vibrant, salty / beeswax / white pepper and dried herb finish. Ends fresh, juicy-yet-dry, with agave, brine and white pepper in the aftertaste. Leaps out of the glass. Outstanding. 40% Alc./Vol.
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- Nicks Import
Pernod Pastis 51 (700ml)Marseille, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 45%France’s no.3 spirit, Pastis 51 was created in 1951 when the ban on anise-based aperitifs was lifted. It became Pernod Ricard’s leading brand in 1968. Since its inception, 51 has stood out for its refreshingly modern take on anise-based drinks. Its distinctive aroma and flavour is produced from a mix of Chinese star anise, aromatic Provencal plants, fennel, oriental liquorice and African cola nut. Try one part Pastis 51 to five parts water with a few ice cubes. Or try it as '51 Piscine': one part Pastis 51 to seven parts water and load up the ice. 45% Alc./Vol. - Bundaberg Overproof Rum (700ml)Queensland, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 57.7%
The polar bear may seem a curious emblem to originate in Bundaberg, the heart of sunny Queenslands sugar cane country. The designer of the distinctive square Bundaberg bottle believed it was the perfect symbol for a drink that would “ward off the wickedest cold.”
The process followed in the production of Bundy O.P. (and indeed, most rum) is an intersesting one. At the factory in Bundaberg, the sugar cane (a tall, stout, perennial grass, Saccharum officinarum) is cut up and crushed between rollers, and the juice therefrom runs off into tanks. The water in the juice is evaporated and the remainder becomes a syrup which is boiled in a vacuum container. From this operation comes sugar and an uncrystallizable mass of a deep brown colour and treacly appearance, which is molasses. This is fermented and when distilled, rum is the result.At 57.7% alc/vol. Bundy O.P. is indeed perhaps best reserved for medicinal purposes. It delivers a deep, powerful spirit hit that warms the heart and rectifies the throat. Our recommendation: Turn the heater up, wrap yourself in blankets, pour an O.P. and sweat it out!

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- Nicks Import
After Shock Deep Cool (Blue) Liqueur (700ml)SCOTLAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 30%After Shock is a new concept in high strength schnapps style liqueurs from Jim Beam Brands. First marketed in 1999, the drink's popularity spawned several drinking games, the most common being "The Aftershock Challenge", in which participants have to hold a shot of red Aftershock (a spicy version) in their mouths without swallowing for as long as possible. Another challenge is to hold a hand over the top of the shotglass (as to keep the fumes sealed) and then inhale them up the nose; the intended effect is a powerful head rush.
The full bodied cool mint flavour of After Shock Deep Cool has proven incredibly popular since its launch. Its striking colour catches the eye, while its flavour and power are as potent as the original Hot Cinnamon version, with strong mint/citrus flavours dominating. Take it in one, then take a deep breath. Best consumed ice cold and neat from a shot glass. 30% alc./vol.
- Brockmans Gin (700ml)UNITED KINGDOM$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%
"...something truly stunning, albeit not for everyone." - ginobsessions.com
Read random reviews from around the web and you'll quickly work out that Brockman's is one of those disruptive, divisive contemporary gins, far from traditional London Dry. Positive comments are in the majority, but there's another group who don't quite get it. Beyond the obvious allure of the sleek black, textured bottle, the gin inside is produced using a high-quality grain spirit and infused with ten botanicals (Juniper, Coriander, Blackberries, Blueberries, Orris Root, Cassia Bark, Liquorice, Orange & Lemon, Angelica root and Almonds). Arguably, the berries make the strongest contribution. As one taster explains, "The mids are where the notes that make Brockman’s stand out come to life. Raspberry lemon cake, a distinct sweetness, bright and robust. It begins to take on a more dry tone with blackberry and coriander, ripe berry. And then where it all ends up, its remarkably dry...The Gin and Tonic was exquisite, with notes that reminded me strongly of a blackberry bramble." It's also said to be a heavenly match with Ginger Beer!
Other reviews... something truly stunning, albeit not for everyone. I personally love Brockmans Gin, but I am generally (not always) drawn to gins which are less London Dry and have more sweet, floral tones. On the nose there are strong berry tones with a hint of lemon. To taste, there is initial heat followed by warming berries and finishing with a delicious flavour which reminds me of lemon meringue pie…mmmmm. I find this gin incredibly drinkable neat, which is unsurprising as according to the website, “The aim was to create a gin so smooth and sensual, you would want to drink it neat over ice.” It also makes a mean gin and tonic, thirst quenchingly refreshing and dangerously moreish! - ginobsessions.com
...If you’ve already made up your mind about contemporary style gins, this is one I suggest at least trying. The dry finish sets it apart and it may win you back over. For those who already enjoy the contemporary style, this is one that I think stands head and shoulders above the vast majority. It’s bright, fresh, and fruity, without being too over-the-top. I’d recommend this wholeheartedly to anyone who’s looking for an upgrade from their Hendrick’s, or looking for a Nolet’s that’s more cocktail friendly. There’s a lot to like here, and all but the most hardcore juniper-only gin drinkers will find something worthy of their time here. I highly recommend Brockman’s Gin. 4.7 / 5 points - theginisin.com
"Very interesting flavors with very soft finish. Taste of very mellow floral accents. Could drink over ice for sure. Could see this mixed with Fresca soda on a sweltering day and oh my." - distiller.com
Our notes from 2020... Atypical gin aromas of ribena cordial and raspberry jube with little to zero juniper. Berry flavoured until the finish where light coriander seed and pine enter, balancing the sweetness. Like a flavoured vodka. Try it with ginger ale. 40% Alc./Vol.
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
Remy Martin Louis XIII Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$5999. 00Bottle$71988.00 DozenABV: 40%Please note: Due to the cost and status of this product it is company policy that payment be made using either PayPal or via Bank Transfer. Payment by credit card will attract additional security procedures and delay dispatch. This is the famous Cognac house's top-of-the-line offering, a truly stunning Cognac blended from around 1,200 different eaux-de-vie from the Grande Champagne appellation. The youngest material is at least 40 years old, while some of the spirit was distilled more than 100 years ago.“Louis XIII is not a Cognac,” they say at Rémy. “Put simply, it’s a moment.” It is the result of three generations of Cellar Masters, resulting from the combined labour of 10,000 people.
Reputedly, this has been a favourite of Elton John, Christian Dior and Winston Churchill. The latter celebrated his election with it in 1951.
The packaging of Louis XIII shares almost as much history as the Cognac itself. The idea for the glass came from an old bottle found by Emile Rémy Martin on a Jarnac battlefield. Since then, the carafe has evolved into its distinguished shape, manufactured by Baccarat since 1936. A solid gold collar encases the neck, which is adorned by a signature fleur-de-lys crystal stopper.
Other reviews... Amber color. Harmonious, hallmark bouquet of blue cheese-like rancio, truffles, roasted chestnuts and prunes; the aroma stays firm and concentrated through 10 minutes of nosing. Accessible, satiny smooth at palate entry, then at midpalate the flavor profile turns semisweet, profound and pruny. Finishes gracefully, almost like a ghost on the tongue. Lovely. 90-95 points
- wineenthusiast.com (Tasted 2002) - Coco Lopez Cream of Coconut (425g)$11. 99Bottle$143.88 DozenThe original and reigning champ of Cream of Coconut is Coco Lopez, a delicious cream made from the tender meat of sun ripened Caribbean coconuts and blended with the exact portion of natural cane sugar. Ideal for tropical drinks and desserts: Cream of Coconut, pineapple juice and Puerto Rican Rum is probably the most refreshing tropical cocktail you'll ever have!
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G.E. Massenez Liqueur de Mangue (Mango) Liqueur (500ml)Alsace, FRANCE$52. 99Bottle$635.88 DozenABV: 25%Tasting note: Viscous and luxuriously textured without being overly sweet, this gorgeous liqueur hits all the right notes with authentic and intense ripe mango aromatics and flavours of peach nectar, juicy mango and dried coconut at the finish. Use it in cocktails or on a fruit salad or sorbet. 25% alc/vol. -
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Calle 23 Reposado 100% Agave Tequila (700ml)Jalisco, MEXICO$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%Closure: Cork
Calle 23 is the brainchild of French Bio-chemist Sophie Decobecq. Her expertise in her studied field has lead her to experiment with various yeast strains, in turn creating a range of distinguishable tequilas. Agave is grown and produced in Zapotlanejo, the highlands of Jalisco where they are slowly cooked in stainless steel autoclaves for a period 7 hours. The cooked agave is then distilled in stainless steel pot stills to approximately 54%. Reposado and Anejo styles are aged for 8 and 16 months respectively in Jack Daniels and Heaven Hill ex-bourbon casks until being bottled with distillery well water. The Reposado sports a very pale straw colour. Sweet, softly spicy aromatics include green peppercorns, sliced capsicum and sweet smoke combined with candle wax and oily, faintly sappy notes. A hint of eucalypt leaf? Entry is soft, medium bodied and with a slightly oily texture offering green capsicum, green tomato and chilli flavours with a salty, lip smacking tang. Long, dry, gently warming white pepper aftertaste. A soft, easy going Reposado. Try it with green tomato salsa seasoned with lime juice. 40% Alc./Vol.Other reviews... Golden silver color. Aromas of peppercorns and honey nut pastry. Soft and supple with a dry-yet-fruity medium body. Peppery spice, anise, jicama, and talc notes glide on the long, warming finish. International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal, 91 points (Exceptional)
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Maidenii Dry Vermouth (750ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$47. 99Bottle$575.88 DozenABV: 19%This is the latest offering from a collaboration between French wine maker Gilles Lapalus and Australian bartender Shaun Byrne. In the creation of these world class Vermouths, they have sourced leaves, flowers, fruits, herbs, seeds, spices and roots from the gardens of both the old world and the new. The vital components, wormwood and wine, are plucked fresh from Victoria. Other key ingredients include strawberry gum, river mint, sea parsley and wattle seed. The 'Dry' completes a superb triptych of Vermouths and represents their finest effort to date. Tasting note: Pale straw gold colour. Perfumed aromatics open with a fruity / herbaceous burst that includes bay leaf, clove, indian spices and more over a fresh and fruity base wine. The fruitiness comes to the fore after exposure leaning towards stewed apricot / fruit mince pie. Exceptional complexity. The palate is lean, light yet with good depth opening spicy with a dried citrus peel and apricot burst before turning deliciously nutty, spicy and refreshingly acidic towards the finish. Concludes bone dry and delicately bitter as the gentian asserts itself with hints of clove and a medley of flavours reverberating into the lengthy fade. Beautifully composed. A superb drink in its own right, it will take your Martinis to the next level. 19% Alc./Vol. -
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Johnnie Walker Red Label Blended Scotch Whisky (700ml)Kilmarnock, SCOTLAND$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenABV: 40%The world's number one selling blended Scotch and the preferred choice of whisky lovers every where. Johnnie Walker Red Label is a full-flavoured spirit that is a blend of Highland malt and Lowland grain whiskies. Red Label was originally created in 1909 for the new Scotch drinker who was inclined to mix whisky with ice, water, soda or in a variety of cocktails. By widening the range of whiskies used in his father's Old Highland Whisky, Alexander Walker developed Red Label as a smoother and lighter alternative - this was a break from the traditional deeply flavoured, full bodied Scotch whiskies of the past and was considered a more approachable drink. By 1920, Johnnie Walker Red Label had become the first truly global drinks brand, sold in over 120 countries. In 1933, the company was granted a Royal Warrant to supply Scotch to King George V, and the company has remained an official purveyor to the British Royal Household ever since. In 1996, Johnnie Walker Red Label won the Gold Medal at the International Wine and Spirits Competition, having previously picked up Silver Medals over three consecutive years. It has also consistently garnered Gold and Grand Gold Medals at the Monde Selection Awards.
Tasting note: Brilliant, bright gold appearance. Aromas offer a peaty top note hovering over sweet, fat, oily grains. The palate possesses good concentration with the peat laced sweet grains and gentle spices contributing to a fat, rich, oily mouth feel. Aftertaste of vanilla and sweet cereals with the peat re-emerging. Technically faultless and an achievement given how much of this stuff is churned out. But this bottling (and they do vary) is lacking freshness being quite sweet and clunky throughout. In fact, it's almost a little out of balance. Some fresh oak required in the mix? 40% Alc./Vol.
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Moskovskaya Vodka (700ml)Riga, LATVIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 38%Moskovskaya – literally "Muscovite Vodka" - is one of the leading international vodka brands with particular strength in the German, Spanish and Italian markets. It is a traditional Eastern European style made of 100% grain neutral spirits (wheat & rye) and water from artesian wells. The Moskovskaya brand is associated with Russia through its heritage, traditional recipe and vodka making techniques, formulated in Russia in 1894. However, the brand is not owned nor does it have any affiliations with the Russian government or Russian entities. Components are sourced from Poland, the Baltic countries and the packaging is made in the Ukraine.
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2001 Best's Great Western Thomson Family ShirazGreat Western, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkThe Thomson Family Shiraz is produced from Henry Best’s original 1867 Shiraz plantings, and is only produced in exceptional years with yields typically at less than two tonnes per acre.
Retasted 25/07/2013
The colour of this wine is holding up very well displaying a totally opaque black dark red core with a dark red black hue. Both perfumed and alluring the nose reveals scents of blackberry and liquorice followed by some subtle vanillin oak, confectionary and spice. Concentrated yet very refined the palate marries flavour intensity and elegance delivering a seamless experience of liquorice and blackberry over some vanillin confectionary followed by subtle leather and spice. Velvet smooth perfectly integrated tannins. Excellent persistence with long aftertaste of liquorice, blackberry, vanillin oak, confectionary and subtle leather.
Alc 13.5%First Tasted 02/09/2004
Totally opaque black crimson purple colour, with purple hue. Superb nose – a wonderful sniff of violets, cedar and spice followed by liquorice allsorts and blood plum. The palate follows the nose with superb length and structure. Refined flavours of blackberry, spice and liquorice allsorts followed by a very spicy white and black pepper back palate. Fine grained tannins, perfect balance, followed by an aftertaste that lasts for several minutes.
Alc 13.5%
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Bass & Flinders Distillery Monsoon Gin (700ml)Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%An exotic blend of 8 botanicals including lemongrass and coriander. Tasting note: Crystal clear. Frail opening aroma gains intensity after a short breathe to yield an attractive lemongrass and coriander accented bouquet with a delicately peppery edge. An exotic amalgam of lemon grass, lozenge and a late ginger flourish makes for a delightful twist on the palate. Outstanding length. Finishes more ginger beer like. A terrific ingredient for Asian inspired cocktails. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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Macchu Pisco (700ml)PERU$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenMade from 'non-aromatic' Quebranta grapes using a copper pot still. Recommended as the perfect base for a Pisco Sour.
Tasting note: Clear. Musty aromas include notes of raisin bread and candlewax. Light and soft in the mouth with a medium dry, juicy grapey, waxy profile and a delicate pepper, raisin bread fade. Endlessly mixable.
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Bowmore 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$270. 00Bottle$3240.00 DozenABV: 43%This is the standard retail issue of Bowmore 18 Year Old, not to be confused with the Duty Free version that's very similarly presented, subtitled "Deep & Complex".
Other reviews... This replaces the 17 year old in the standard Bowmore portfolio. (The 17 year old will now be Duty Free Only.) The difference is significant. This one is more sherried than the 17 year old, and it wears the sherry well. I know that many of you, like myself, adore the 17 year old. Indeed, I feel that the 17 year old displays the true essence of Bowmore. But this 18 year old integrates the sherry notes with the Bowmore signature to create a richly flavored Islay whisky experience. Thick toffee, ripe fruit, and tar-tinged smoke are accentuated by dark chocolate, cocoa powder, burnt raisin, dates, and sea salt. Long, entertaining finish. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
International Wine & Spirit Competition Gold award 2018
...Still the older livery. An arch-classic Bowmore. Some periods have been difficult (terrible in the early 2010s), but I noticed very recent batches were recovering fast. There’s also a newish ‘deep and complex’ version around, but that should not suggest the regular 18 is neither deep not complex. Well, I suppose, let’s see… Colour: deep gold. Nose: no f**** lavender that I can detect, those years were over when this was distilled. Phew! Smoked oranges, blond tobacco, dried kelp, blood oranges, a little olive brine, and just a little caramel ‘from the pan’. Mouth: do I notice some nods to Lagavulin 16? Same kind of orange-y, leathery, tobacco-ish, salty arrival, then many oranges. This is much peatier than that White Sands, much fuller, and much more assertive, as they say. Finish: rather long, full, on some kind of salty oranges. Comments: full form again, I do confirm. Well, only a personal opinion, as always. And adios lavender, and adios violets.
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23rd Street Distillery Signature Gin (700ml)Renmark, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%Twenty Third Street Distillery is the new incarnation of a century-old landmark at Renmark, in South Australia’s Riverland. Originally built by Chateau Tanunda in 1914 to take advantage of burgeoning local grape harvests, the distillery had a roller-coaster history, surviving a series of takeovers and mergers until it ceased production in 2002. When a pair of disused, South Australian-built copper pot stills were found at Berri Estate, a small team became determined to bring them back to life. The 7,500 litre capacity stills had their own story to tell, being x Hardy’s - at one stage responsible for producing the iconic Black Bottle brandy. Years of hard work running restorations and relocations has found these antiques once again fully operational at the original 23rd St premises producing brandy, whisky and gin. Tasting note: Made using ten botanicals including locally grown mandarines. Dazzling clarity with a brilliant silvery blush. Nosing finds medium-fresh aromas of juniper, lemon gelato, peppercorns and dried herbs. A light bodied, soft-textured gin with brisk flavours of piney-juniper, citrus peel, white pepper, liquorice root and suggestions of lime juice in the aftertaste. Clean but short. Relaxed easy drinking. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Liqueur (700ml)ITALY$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 32%A benchmark elixir from Luxardo, a family owned company founded in 1821. This liqueur is produced by distilling Marasca cherries before maturation in unconventional Finnish ash casks. It pours a viscous water-like colour with tenacious cling to the glass and boasts a spice rack bouquet with penetrating, lifted aromas of cherry juice over secondary notes of fennel, spearmint, anise, sour dough bread and faint glace cherry. The thick, glycerous palate offers decadently rich flavours of sweet ripe cherry above marzipan and a layer of sweet spice. Silky throughout with super texture and a long aftertaste of cherry confectionary and marzipan. It's a world class liqueur. 32.0% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews.... The bouquet is lovely, balanced, properly astringent, ripe and juicy with scents of cherry stone and cherry juice. The palate entry is decadently sweet and textured with vibrant tastes of cherry compote and cherry preserves at midpalate. The finish is svelte, moderately syrupy and downright delicious. An outstanding liqueur: use it in an Aviation Cocktail. - 90-95: Superb/Highly Recommended - wineenthusiast.com
"Clear and bright, this cherry-flavored liqueur has an aroma more reminiscent of an eau de vie than a liqueur. On the palate, however, its texture is creamy and viscous. Its flavor is sugary up front, with an underlying heat, and a vibrant cherry flavor that shines through. While it might prove a bit too thick and sweet to drink on its own, it's obvious why this liqueur plays an essential supporting role in classic cocktails like the Last Word and Aviation." 92 points - distiller.com
- Ricard 45 Pastis de Marseilles Aperitif Anis (700ml)Marseille, FRANCE$61. 99Bottle$743.88 DozenABV: 45%
Created in 1932 by the twenty three year old entrepreneur, Paul Ricard, founder of what is today one of the biggest drink empires in the world – Pernod-Ricard. The Ricard company’s commitment to providing both trade partners and consumers with a consistently high-quality spirit starts with the selection of ingredients. Every year, a team of experts from Ricard travels to southern China where badian or star anis grows. They choose the best fruit during the harvest, carefully following the production process up to the first distillation. That takes place on site, the better to capture the badian’s rich flavour, which is turned into oil of aniseed. Liquorice is the other natural ingredient that brings out the anise flavour. Their search for the best plants often leads Ricard’s flavour specialists to the banks of the Euphrates. It’s vital to choose the plants with the most intense aromas. Only the roots are kept, which are dried in the sun and then cut up into sticks. The oil of aniseed and liquorice sticks are sent to Ricard’s flavour preparation centre in Bessan, a small village near Béziers in south west France. There, the oil of aniseed is purified and the liquorice undergoes a three-stage hot maceration process. The essential oils and blend of natural extracts of liquorice and aromatic Provençal plants are then delivered to the various production centres. The different ingredients are carefully combined using a closely-guarded technique that ensures the consistency of Ricard’s taste and aroma.To fully appreciate the unique blend of anise, liquorice and the herbs of Provence, mix one part Ricard with five parts water and ice.
Other reviews...The first aromatic blast is seductively anise-like, then it mellows, turning softer, more herbal, and plumper. At palate entry the intensely bitter taste of anise both enlivens and cleanses the palate; at midpalate the pleasant sting of alcohol and the zest of rooty/woodsy botanicals make for memorable imbibing. Finishes elegant and smooth. 90-95 points 45% alc./vol. - wineenthusiast.com
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Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne (375ml)Champagne, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkThis blend of 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Meunier is sourced from up to 60 different Crus in order to maximise complexity and is made up of 50% reserve wines, many of them more than 10 years old to provide additional richness. Pours well with a creamy white mousse and pale gold base wine colour. Very fine delicate bead showing excellent persistence. Refined aromas of yeast lees and brioche are overlaid by some toastiness with following notes of baked bread and cashew. Showing both richness and finesse the palate has seamlessly integrated flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and toastiness over some almond and brioche. Clean dry finish with a moderately creamy mouthfeel. Long aftertaste of baked bread, yeast lees, cashew and toasty brioche.
Drink this outstanding Champagne over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews....
Charles Heidsieck might be nicknamed Poor Man’s Krug given the astonishing number of vintages in the reserve wines, their age (10 years in tank), and the seven years the wine spends on lees once blended and bottled. It is an exceptional wine in the mouth, supple, layered, complex and long.
96 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine CompanionVery impressive for a "regular" non-vintage Brut, not only in terms of aromatic complexity - candied citrus, dried peach and fresh mirabelle plus a hint of bread dough - also in terms of texture, the creamy, rich and crisp sides of the wine neatly interlocking. Long, structured finish. A cuvee that's half 2018 and half reserve wines, some of which are a couple of years old, but many of them are five- to 10-years-old, with several over 10-years-old. Drink or hold.
94 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com - Chandon Cuvee RicheYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$41. 99Bottle$503.88 DozenClosure: Cork
Tasting notes sourced from Domaine Chandon
This unique style is modelled on the French Champagne style 'doux'. The Cuvee Riche is unmistakably sweeter, richer and more luscious yet finishes refreshingly crisp.A blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay. The colour is bronze gold with a hint of yellow. The nose displays a complex mix of guava, vanilla, dried apricots, cashew nuts and brioche. The palate has lovely rich, complex fruit characters with lusciousness throughout the whole length of the palate leading to a fresh, clean finish.Cuvee Riche is a surprisingly adaptable wine, it can be enjoyed as a richer aperitif style and it is ideal with food such as foie gris, pate and smoked salmon. As a dessert wine, it best matches desserts of low sweetness such as tarte tatin, quince tart or summer pudding.
- Cadenheads BMC Epris Distillery Cask Strength 14 Year Old Brazilian Rum (700ml)BRAZIL$160. 00Bottle$1920.00 DozenABV: 45.3%The firm of William Cadenhead Ltd, Wine and Spirit Merchants, was founded in 1842 and is Scotland's oldest independent bottler. The company was in the ownership of the same family until taken over by J & A Mitchell & Co.Ltd in 1972, the proprietors of Springbank distillery. Today, Cadenhead is probably the only Company in the world that holds extensive stocks of old matured-in-oak Rum (though they're also legendary for bottling excellent single cask, cask-strength, non-chill-filtered whiskies). The company places particular emphasis on the individuality of each bottling and bottle only a single cask of Rum at one time. A rare first for our spirits collection is this Brazilian rum hailing from the Epris distillery, a large scale and modern operation near São Paolo, where they also distill for Bacardi. Column distilled, in Cadenhead's words expect "Very sweet, aniseed balls, shortcrust pastry and cloves, along with butterscotch and sweet chocolate. Palate: Treacle notes, molasses and then sweet fruity flavours such as mandarins and peaches. Finish: Dark chocolate, lots of liquorice intertwined with cranberries." Natural strength at a surprisingly modest 45.3% Alc./Vol.
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2014 Cullen Diana Madeline Cabernets Museum ReleaseMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$225. 00Bottle$2700.00 DozenCellar: 10 - 12 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA compelling Diana Madeline that’s seamless mesh of refinement, richness, power and structure is something to behold.
A Blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot, 2% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc that has been aged for an average of 18 months in French barriques of which 69% were new. Superb colour pouring a totally opaque black red with a bright dark crimson red black tinged hue. Exquisitely scented aromas of violets, blackcurrants and mulberries are infused with cedary tobacco characters with hints of black olive, spicy cigar box and faint bay leaf also present. Powerful, yet graceful and focused the palate is blessed with a rich core of fruit that includes blackcurrant, red currant and mulberry flavours that are married to complexing secondary nuances of cedary tobacco characters, black olives, cigar box and spice. The vibrant richness of fruit makes this one of the most approachable Diana Madeline’s for quite some time yet lurking underneath is a compact frame of sturdily built refined tannins. Outstanding length with a very long blackcurrant, mulberry, cedary tobacco, cigar box and spice aftertaste.
Cellar 10-12 years.
Alc 13.5%Other Reviews….
Ripe red cherry, blackcurrant and redcurrant, baking spices, violet and mint perfume, perfect mocha oak in support. Medium bodied, fresh and vibrant, bursting with small berried fruit, a fine spread of pitch perfect graphite tannin, clean acid line, beautiful mouth-perfume, and a savoury tobacco laced finish of soaring length. Pulsating with life and Cabernet purity. A worthy sibling to the monumental 2012 vintage. Drink: 2024–2050
97 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front89% cabernet sauvignon, 4% petit verdot, 3% merlot and 2% each of malbec and cabernet franc blended after fermentation, hand-picked and sorted, destemmed (66% whole berries), wild-fermented in stainless steel, average 23 days on skins, matured in French oak (69% new) for 18 months. Right in the slot of the style established (with some polishing and refining) over the years. The complexity of the texture and structure is second to none, led by the born to rule cabernet, the other varieties obviously of minor importance, but important nonetheless. The might of the tannins is the key to this great wine. Drink 2021-2044.
98 Points
James Halliday - Halliday Wine Companion -
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- Packaging may vary
Cointreau Triple Sec Liqueur (700ml)Angers, FRANCE$68. 99Bottle$827.88 DozenABV: 40%Towards the middle of the 1800's, Edouard Cointreau's son, Edouard fils, discovered a species of wild orange native to the Caribbean. Knowing the fruit could not survive the long ocean voyage back to France, Edouard had a quantity of the oranges peeled and the peel dried and sent on to France. On its arrival, the unusual scent of the peel stirred the imagination of Edouard's father (oranges were not available in Europe at the time) and he began experimenting. He steeped the peel in brandies and through distillation combined the infusion with various local herbs and spices. The final result was an outstanding balance of aromas and flavours with a pleasant tart character.
Now world famous, Cointreau orange liqueur is fantastically versatile. Not only is it amongst the most favoured liqueurs of the world, it is also a vital element in many important cocktails. Oranges used in Cointreau's production are now sourced from several centres: In the Caribbean, the bitter Bigarade (citrus aurentium) is harvested when the orange is still unripe - when it has the greatest aroma. Every process is rigorously controlled - from the separation of the peel from the pulp by hand, to drying in the sun until they turn bronze-green, followed by careful sorting. Peels are similarly processed from sweet Comuna, Cadanera and Salustiana oranges from Spain, and the Pera with its rich essential oils from Brazil. Some of these sweet peels are also used fresh.The peels are shipped to the Cointreau distillery in Angers and inspected again. The fresh, sweet peels are macerated in alcohol for several weeks to bring out the essential aromas.
Distillation takes place in steam heated copper stills which are filled with orange peels, alcohol and water. By precisely fixing the speed of the distillation, the heating temperature and the leveling out of the alcohol, Cointreau's distillers are able to isolate the richest aromas from the 'heart' of the distillation, seperating them from the less valuable 'heads' and 'ends'. A new distillation of the heads and ends follows in order to extract every rich component. These essences are concentrated to retain only the most aromatic elements.
Cointreau's alcoholic content, (40% alcohol by volume), its density, its absolute clarity at room temperature, as well as the temperature at which the liquid becomes opaque are monitored. When cooled, or when poured over ice, Cointreau turns opalescent. This transformation confirms that the correct quantity of essential oils has been achieved. The oils have a solubility directly linked to the alcoholic strength and temperature. On cooling, the oils become insoluble and make the liquid opalescent. Achieving this is a production secret of Cointreau.
Tasting note: Clear, bright silvery appearance is slightly glycerous. Aroma is super pure and perfumed with high pitch orange zest, pith and peel bursting with freshness. The palate is silky, creamy, nicely spiced and a little sweeter than the nose suggests with candied orange dovetailing into fresher, drier pith and peel notes. Gentle spices persisting. Excellent length. Long aftertaste of orange zest with a candied orange fade. Classic and certainly unsurpassed for aromatics in the genre. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... A sophisticated orange pulp bouquet which after aeration turns much more dry peel-like. The palate entry is intensely orange peel-like yet more sweet than bittersweet; the midpalate stage is deeply orangey, sweet and sublimely juicy. Finishes ideally citrusy/tart/astringent, then turns lithe and sweet. The benchmark for all orange flavored liqueurs/triple secs. State of the art. Rating: 96-100 - www.wineenthusiast.comsize>
Classic Cocktail: The Margarita
The Margarita has suffered terribly in modern times. In an effort to make it hip, quick, trendy, and cheap it has been bastardized far worse then any cocktail before it. Whether it is the use of inferior (or just plain wrong) ingredients, or commercially made mixes, the common Margarita these days tastes more like a ‘Limeade’ with a splash of orange juice than it does the delectable cocktail that it once was. A true Margarita is made from three ingredients: Tequila, Cointreau (Triple Sec), and fresh squeezed Lime Juice. Like any cocktail, the true art comes in arriving at the proper ratio of the ingredients in order to present a balance of the flavours. Arguably the best ratio for a Margarita is 3:2:1. Three parts Tequila, 2 parts Cointreau, and 1 part freshly squeezed lime juice.60ml Tequila - preferably a Silver Tequila
40ml Cointreau or other Triple Sec Liqueur
20ml Lime Juice
Method: Shake with ice. Strain into a cocktail glass. Optional: You can prepare the cocktail glasss by miostening the rim with lime juice, and then dipping it into coarse salt.
- notes partially sourced from www.drinkboy.com -
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McHenry Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 42%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Bill McHenry became a whisky producer in 2013, bottling his earliest batch as a two year old. These days the malt spends around five years in x Maker's Mark bourbon barrels before a finishing period in Apera (x sherry) casks or French Oak Port barrels.Some tasters have compared the distillery's "feminine sweetness" to Clynelish. McHenry comments, "It has the classic vanilla, bourbon spiciness but also the plummy note from the sherry cask finish. It's on the sweet end, floral. Because we've got a relatively tall still, we are able to collect some more of the delicate, lighter notes than some of the more robust Tasmanian whiskies."
Tasting note: Deep copper. Soft, semi sweet aromas entice with vanilla fudge, honey, pepper and cocoa - some sherry too with suggestions of figs or dates? Dryish entry develops intensity and succulence; mid palate finds a fine tuned astringency balancing the sweet malt and bush honey flavours. Late milk chocolate and vanilla fudge crescendos then melts away with the finish. Hints of bourbon soaked oak in the aftertaste. Delicious. 42% Alc./Vol.
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Autonomy Myrtle Amaro (700ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 30%Note: Formerly known as Autonomy Australian Amaro. Same product, new name.
Tasting note: [30ml sample] Handcrafted in batches of 100 bottles, Autonomy focus on native Australian botanicals including cinnamon myrtle, lemon myrtle, mountain pepper-berry and lemon scented gum. Smelling like a herb garden, this copper coloured amaro presents with aromas of thyme, lemon oregano, hints of crushed eucalyptus leaves and delicate bitter peel. It's silky and semi-sweet ending in a complex, bittersweet burst of mint, mixed herbs and citrus. Try it neat with a twist of orange. 30% Alc./Vol. -
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Heiwa Tsuru-Ume Yuzushu (720ml)Wakayama, JAPAN$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 7.5%Closure: Screw CapYuzushu can be likened to a Japanese version of limoncello, substituting lemon for the local Yuzu fruit, and combining the juice with Sake. Heiwa produce their Yuzushu with a high 1:1 ratio of one year old Sake and Yuzu juice. The Yuzu fruit is sourced from Wakayama, and is juiced with the peel ensuring all the sweet, sour, and bitter flavours of the fruit are retained.
Tasting Note: While it's a touch cloudy in the glass, this still presents as an incredibly vibrant medium lemon colour. The aromatics are very lifted, with pure yuzu and citrus zest, along with faint hints of lime and herbal grassiness. On the palate the flavours are equally expressive and pure, only hinting at the quality sake base on the finish. Having such a high ratio of yuzu juice there was a risk this would be too sour, and while it's definitely salivating, the acidity is more than matched by the freshness and intensity of flavour. Length on the finish is also a stand out. 7.5% alc
Serving suggestion: Enjoy chilled and served on the rocks, or as a long drink with soda water. Incredibly refreshing on hot summer days. With such purity and intensity of flavour it's easy to see why so many bartenders have taken this on as a cocktail mixer as well, leading to drinks with slightly more savoury citrus tones. Can be stored in the fridge for at least 8-10 weeks once opened.
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Kavalan Distillery Select No.1 Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)TAIWAN$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%A new Kavalan that showcases the distillery's signature fruity sweetness. If you're used to the cask strength bottlings, think of this as Kavalan 'Light'. Tasting note: Deep copper colour. The aroma pretty much matches the flavours, evoking tropical fruits, bush honey, toasted sponge cake and a gingery warmth. Medium bodied and made for casual drinking, the finish buzzes with cinnamon and all-spice, followed by a touch of orange zest and cocoa. The result comes across like Sherry-meets-European oak-meets-Bourbon combined with Kavalan's own unique fruity spirit - an arrangement that should find broad appeal. 40% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... With two distilleries now on-site, the new Kavalan has a nose of apple and cinnamon pie, loaves of bread, new hardback books, flashes of lemon peel, and mild spices that flatter the baked fruits. A lighter structure, with pleasant green apple and pear notes, a tingle of pepper and allspice, becoming creamier with the flavor of sherbet flying-saucer candy. More active spices on the finish amid fading fruits.
86 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Winter 2018) Notes from Kavalan... Nose: Aroma of ripe tropical fruits, floral notes, and warm vanilla. Palate: Sweet, mellow and smooth in the mouth, the balanced taste is the perfect blending of barrel craft workmanship. -
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Few Straight Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)Evanston, Illinois, UNITED STATES$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 46.5%Paul Hletko, who launched 'Few Spirits' in 2011 is a man in pursuit of flavour. Hence, his new micro distillery is perhaps best defined by what it doesn't make - vodka. His delicious White Whiskey, which we tasted in 2014, was a positive sign of things to come. His barrel aged whiskeys (Bourbon and Rye) hit the Australian market soon after, and just got better and better. In the 2021 Bourbon you can smell and taste the impact of extra age and experience. Flavours are more integrated and confidently defined, the texture creamier and richer, particularly at the finish where lashings of vanilla malt and dark chocolate coat the tongue. High quality American oak adds a fine astringency to the finish as minor grains peek through, though rye is most salient. Combining length, balance, body and persistence, it's no stretch to say this is a step up from many a Kentuckian. 46.5 Alc./Vol. From a mash bill of 70% Corn, 20% Northern Rye and 10% 2-row malt.
Other reviews... This distillery has moved a long way in a relatively short space of time. A real force for quality now on the US whiskey scene. 95 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...There is a freshness to the wood on the nose, laced with caramel and delicate minty notes. The palate pours pleasantly chewy with molten butterscotch and offers a pleasant jolt of cinnamon and clove that suggests rye at work, before settling on bitter orange peel, salted caramel, and cocoa, leading to a drying leathery and warm spice finish. Nicely done. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jeffery Lindenmuth 2017
First tasted 2015: Produced from a three grain mash of majority corn, as well as rye and a small proportion of malt. Deep gold. Subdued aromatics reveal soft notes of shellac, American oak, pop corn then boiled confectionary. Delivery is puppy-dog soft and atypically dry by Bourbon standards. Gets more robust at mid palate with a velvet gloved Bourbon punch that’s all American oak, dried corn and what tastes like a whack of rye to finish. Ends firm, confident, spicy and long leaving its best till last. Distinctive and contemporary styled. 46.5% Alc./Vol. 92 points
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2019 Chateau Grand MayneSaint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews....
This estate's proprietor, Jean-Antoine Nony, is a passionate wine lover with a fine palate, so when he asked me to revisit the 2019 Grand Mayne, I was happy to oblige his request. Offering up notions of sweet black fruits and blueberry preserve framed by a generous application of creamy, spicy new oak, the wine is full-bodied, rich and textural, with a lavish core of ripe fruit, impressively lively acids and a long, vanillin-laden finish where powdery tannins assert themselves much more gently than was the case six months ago. While it is indeed somewhat less extracted than I had perceived, it remains somewhat jammy and creamy, and even if it's a well-made effort in this style, I can't help but think that the site could deliver more. Drink 2022 - 2045.
91 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Aug 2022)The 2019 Grand Mayne has a beautifully defined, pure bouquet of black cherry, blueberry, crushed violet and mineral aromas. The harmonious palate is medium-bodied with fine definition, crisp acidity and touches of dark chocolate toward the finish, which displays both power and elegance. This is a superb Grand Mayne courtesy of Jean-Antoine Nony. Drink 2024-2050.
95 points
Neal Martin - VinousThe 2019 Château Grand Mayne showed brilliantly. Very much in the more elegant, classic style of the vintage, it's medium to full-bodied and straight and focused on the palate, yet brings plenty of mid-palate depth as well as ripe, polished tannins. Black cherries, new leather, dried herbs, and Asian spice notes all define the bouquet, and this is going to benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and keep for two decades. Drink 2025 - 2047.
94 points
Jeb DunnuckIntense and full of character on the nose. Excellent energy here - the fruit is bright and upfront though gets a little overwhelmed by the supple tannins that come in almost straight away. You can feel the liquorice and dark chocolate edges to the black fruit which give the overall frame texture and depth and it has freshness throughout. Just needs time to soften. Drink 2024 - 2038.
92 points
Georgina Hindle - DecanterFloral, earthy, smoky, and racy, the wine exudes class and charm with its layers of medium-bodied, soft, fresh, pure, silky, vibrant, mineralistic, red berries. Vibrant and refined, with length and complexity, this is so good now and it is only going to get better with age. This is a clear contender for the best vintage of Grand Mayne ever produced! Drink from 2024-2042.
94 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider -
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2016 Eagle Rare 17 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$2999. 00Bottle$35988.00 DozenABV: 45%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such may have some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Other reviews... Often overlooked by collectors because it’s not as high in alcohol as most of its siblings, it’s superior to last year’s release, which I felt brandished more oak on the finish than needed. Caramel, rhum agricole, golden raisin, and dried citrus segue into polished oak, along with a wisp of honey and cinnamon on the finish. Well rounded and subtly complex. An exceptional bourbon.
93 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: John Hansell (Winter 2016)... an eagle with a slightly different plumage, this one really determined to display its tannin - though never at the cost of compromising its excellent complexity.
95 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2018 - Kirin Fuji Sanroku 18 Year Old Small Batch 2016 Release Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$1199. 00Bottle$14388.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
A winner at the World Whisky Awards in 2017 and 2018, these annual 'small batch' releases from Kirin have become the pride of the distillery and are now quite sought after. For the 2016 bottling the composition isn't stated, however around 10% of the malt content is reported to be at least twenty years old. One only to sell. 43% Alc./Vol. -
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Balvenie Port Wood Finish 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$450. 00Bottle$5400.00 DozenABV: 40%Spurred by the success of his original distillery venture, Glenfiddich, William Grant set about expanding his business empire with the purchase of Balvenie New House in 1892. The Balvenie distillery has now been owned and managed by William Grant and Sons as a staunchly independent and family owned operation for over five generations. Nowhere else will you find a distillery that still grows its own barley, still malts in its own traditional floor maltings and still employs coopers to tend the casks and a coppersmith to maintain the stills (although some would argue this is all solely show for the tourist value it offers). Regardless, successive generations of skill on the malting floor, in the tun room and the still house, in the cooperage and the warehouses do seem to have preserved a consistency and remarkably high quality of The Balvenie down the years.It's been over a decade since we've revisited the Balvenie range. From the 12 Year Old, right up to the venerable 30 year old expression, the house style emerges as one of the lightest and most delicate to be found from Speyside with almost no peat evident. Following the success of the limited edition Port Wood 1989, David Stewart, Balvenie's Malt Master has continued to select a number of traditional whisky casks of Balvenie considered perfect for further maturation in Port Pipes. It is for many critics and drinkers the quintessential Balvenie expression, winning numerous Gold Medals and the trophy for Best Whisky in Class at the 2009 International Wine and Spirits Competition.
Tasting note: Bright gold appearance. A gorgeous, lifted bouquet features a cherry-chocolate top note over deeper scents of vanilla and oak. Cherry-chocolate remains the signature note even after extended exposure. Like the 15 Year Old, this is a light to medium bodied, seamlessly integrated Speyside dram, with a graceful mouthfeel. The Port Wood adds suggestions of dark chocolate and hints of marzipan. Spices pulse delicately at the finish before the drying cocoa aftertaste. A wood finish executed with a soft touch. 40% Alc./Vol.
'Some of these finishes can be overdone and the whisky spoiled by an unsubtle use of the second wood, but this was created by the hand of a master. Delicate port wine flavours dance around the inherent spirit quality in a mesmerising and quite beguiling fashion...this is a stellar achievement.' - Ian Buxton, 101 Whiskies to Try Before you Die.
Other reviews…. The Balvenie Aged 21 Years Port Wood (88.5) t22 Salivating and on the money malt wise with the juicy chewiness a lot fresher than the nose would have you believe; f22.5 busy, multi layered with some lovely praline amid the soft grape; b22 beautiful subtle malt… Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2011 -
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Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin (700ml)Yarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 41.8%One of Australia's latest distilling ventures is located in the Yarra Valley. Their first spirit is a modern Australian Gin; possessing an equal mix of local and exotic botanicals including Juniper Berries, Coriander Seeds, Cardamom Pods, Tasmanian Pepperberry Leaf, Cinnamon, Lavender, Angelica, Star Anise, Lemon Myrtle and Fresh Oranges.
The distiller's state, "In terms of our ambition for our first gin, we didn't want a London Dry Gin but we couldn't ignore juniper. The way we have approached it is that the juniper is the canvas and the other botanicals paint the picture. The Tassie pepper is brilliant on the palate, giving us warmth rather than heat. Lemon myrtle is a beautiful, complex and unique alternative to lemon peel. Perhaps most interesting is our use of whole oranges. It’s unusual to use fresh produce in gin but Australian citrus is highly aromatic and supports the spicier botanicals like coriander, cardamom and star anise.Tasting notes: [BATCH No.2 tasted] Clear. Vibrant, lifted aroma is citrus focussed with its distinct lemon peel top note hovering over peppery, woody, piney, juniper notes. Second pass sees the aroma turn creamy and more lemon-meringue like. Hints of eucalyptus emerge in the final inspection to round off a very appealing gin bouquet. An unassuming entry leads into a concentrated, creamy yet spicy, medium dry profile featuring citrus peel, juniper and pepper. Excellent balance. Lemon / lime / spice aftertaste concludes with a dry, chalky fade. Consider adding this to your Gin repertoire over summer. Recommended. 41.8% Alc./Vol.
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2019 Chateau Leoville PoyferreSaint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE$275. 00Bottle$3300.00 DozenClosure: CorkChateau Leoville Poyferre is part of the trio of properties formed when the large 200 hectare Leoville estate was divided in 1840. Seen as the most plush and exotic of the group, Leoville Poyferre has also been the most consistent since 2000. While much of the plantings are intermixed with those of Leoville Las Cases, the Grand Vin comes from a total of 60 hectares, and is planted to 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. The estate also produces a second wine, Pavillon de Leoville Poyferre, along with the previously unofficial second wine Moulin Riche which comes from a dedicated 21 hectare plot.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Léoville Poyferré is showing very well in bottle, wafting from the glass with aromas of crème de cassis and wild berries mingled with notions of licorice, loamy soil, cigar wrapper and smoke. Full-bodied, velvety and polished, it's broad and enveloping, with an ample core of fruit, ripe tannins and succulent acids, concluding with a long, precise finish. Invariably the most sumptuous of the three Léovilles, featuring some 35% Merlot, the 2019 is a terrific effort that will offer a wide drinking window. Drink 2027-2057.
96 points
William Kelley - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)The 2019 Léoville-Poyferré has the quintessential "LP" bouquet of perfumed blackberry, black plum, perhaps less tobacco than last year but still those hints of desiccated orange peel. It opens beautifully in the glass. The palate has a satin-like texture, a fine bead of acidity and fine pixelation. It is perhaps less luxuriant than I found this last year from barrel and has become slightly more linear, displaying a touch more breeding and precision. It fans out wonderfully on the finish, completing a fabulous Saint-Julien with huge potential. 14.18% alcohol. Drink 2026-2065.
97 points
Neal Martin - Vinous (Dec 2021)The 2019 Léoville-Poyferré is creamy, racy and voluptuous to the core. Bright red cherry/plum fruit, blood orange, mint, spice and menthol fill out the layers with effortless grace. In some tastings, the 2019 has come across as quite powerful, while in other moments it shows greater finesse. Either way, the 2019 is positively stunning. I very much admire its energy and persistence. Tasted three times. Drink 2029-2049.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous (Jan 2022)Blackcurrant, wet-earth with fresh black-mushroom aromas. Some chocolate, too. Full-bodied with layers of beautiful, ripe fruit and creamy tannins. It’s chewy and focused. Impressive balance. Try after 2025.
95 points
James Suckling (Dec 2021)The flagship 2019 Château Léoville Poyferré is based on 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot. It's one of the bigger, richer wines in the vintage and has a gorgeous, thrilling, full-bodied style as well as notes of crème de cassis, tobacco leaf, violets, and chocolate. While many estates seem to be playing it safe and focusing on so-called elegance and balance, I love that Poyferré continues to make a ripe, sexy, beautifully textured wine that always offers more opulence and sexiness than most in the vintage. Ranking with the crème de la crème of the vintage, this gorgeous Poyferré can be enjoyed any time over the coming 40-50 years. Bravo! Drink 2022-2072.
98 points
Jeb Dunnuck (Apr 2022)So aromatic with real complexity of notes on the nose, perfume and black fruits. Quite tannic on the palate, broad-shouldered and carefully detailed with a core of liquorice-edged black fruit, dark chocolate and slate giving it quite a serious, gourmet and savoury feel right now. Lovely poise though - that St-Julien class shining through with mouthwatering freshness. Feels well made with energy and elegance. A standout wine with absolute distinction and plenty on offer. 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot. Harvest 22 September-11 October. Drink 2027-2045.
97 points
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2015 Chateau Doisy-Vedrines (375ml)Barsac, Bordeaux, FRANCE$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenClosure: CorkOnce part of the large Doisy estate founded in 1704, Chateau Doisy-Vedrines was named after one of the early owners of the estate after Doisy was separated into three properties in 1851. Chateau Doisy-Vedrines is now owned by the Casteja family who also own Chateau Trotte Vieille in Saint-Emilion and Chateau Batailley in Pauillac among their portfolio. The vineyard is planted to 80% Semillon, 15% Sauvignon Blanc and 5% Muscadelle, and along with their grand vin they produce a second wine under the Chateau Petit Vedrines label. Interestingly they choose to label their wines as Sauternes, rather than Barsac as with the two other Doisy properties.
Other Reviews....
The 2015 Daisy-Védrines has a "sunny" bouquet with finely delineated wild honey, dried peach and saffron aromas emerging with time. The palate is well balanced, tensile and linear, with pure botrytized fruit and a vibrant, honeyed finish that delivers just the right amount of tension. The 2015 is excellent. Tasted blind at the 2015 Bordeaux Ten-Year-On tasting at Farr Vintners. Drink 2025-2045.
94 points
Neal Martin - Vinous (Feb 2025)A prototypical Sauternes with tons of marzipan and candied-orange character. A great balance of that with full sweetness, well-judged oak and enough acidity to give a clean, long finish. Drink or hold.
93 points
James Suckling (Jan 2018)Rich sunflower yellow in colour. This is excellent; it has a swish of stone and bright lime, real intensity of flavour, and good persistency. Drink 2020-2040.
95 points
Jane Anson - Decanter (Dec 2017) - Hardys Black Bottle X.O. Brandy (700ml)Riverland, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 39.1%
The Hardy's XO label now been changed to Black Bottle XO Brandy. From what we know, this is the same product with an altered name and subtle label change.
Brandy actually has a long association with many of Australia’s pioneering family wineries and older bottlings remain one of the Australian Wine Industry’s true hidden gems - if you can find them. This extraordinary example is the product of over 150 years of winemaking experience at Hardy’s. Since 1853 when Thomas Hardy first established his wine company on the banks of the River Torrens in Adelaide, South Australia, the pursuit of refined excellence has been a consuming passion. In addition to the production of the renowned pot still 'Black Bottle Brandy', Hardy's have also earned the enviable reputation of producing one of the nation’s finest aged brandies.
Produced from warm climate Doradilla, Palomino & Sultana grapes, these varieties are most suited to brandy production because when picked at around 10-11 degrees Baume they produce a neutral, clean wine with high acid. As in Cognac, the wine is immediately transferred to pot stills for double distillation. Eighteen year old spirit forms the foundation of this brandy while further material in excess of thirty years old has been added to develop the desired levels of complexity, flavour and richness. Prolonged maturation takes place in premium Limousin oak casks from the forests near Cognac, France. Testament to this spirit’s pedigree is the fact that it has been awarded some 20 trophies and 21 gold medals since first being produced in 1996. Packaged in an exquisite decanter and satin lined box, the excitement and anticipation begins long before the cork is popped! This is an ideal gift, personal or corporate, guaranteeing unprecedented 'wows'.
Tasting Note: [Hardy's XO 8/03/2005] Wonderful deep golden brown colour with pale golden hue - Indicitatve of the Brandy's age. Abundant, rich aromas of plum pudding, vanilla, fine chocolate and sultana. Smooth, sweet and silky entry into a gently warming palate which is laden with mouthfilling flavours of spicy plum pudding, vanilla, chocolate, with a touch of cedar and leather, terrific texture, impeccably balanced. Spice and dark chocolate dominate the back palate. The finish is remarkable. Like Malcolm Blight's 1976 torpedo after the siren, incredibly long and straight, precision and power harmoniously combined. A distinguished spirit of the very finest quality, worthy of prominent place in any serious bar. 39% Alc/Vol.
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Torres Jaime I Brandy (700ml)Barcelona, SPAIN$185. 00Bottle$2220.00 DozenABV: 38%Spain's Venerable National Treasure to Rival Cognac. In the last century Cognac has marketed its way to the top of the brandy hierarchy. Some Cognac houses have even entered the pantheon of popular culture. If other lengthy distilling traditions appear in a state of obscurity compared, it only affirms the success of Cognac’s campaign and its ubiquity as the brandy of 'preference'.
Australia and South Africa are two to be left in the wake of the French. Spain is another. Due credit must be given to Cognac, but the world’s other great grape based spirit discoveries can be made elsewhere. Readers are reminded that Australia still produces some stunning XO brandies, and a single estate South African bottling from KWV was honored as “Best Brandy in the World’ at the London International Spirits Competition in 2010.
Spain remains a major player in the brandy field, and is second only to Cognac in production. It’s no surprise when one considers that thanks to their absorption of Arab culture around the early 8th century, Spaniards were amongst the first Europeans to learn the art of distillation. For a long time most of their output was sold off to the Dutch as raw spirit, until phylloxera hit Cognac in the early 1880s. At that point in history, Spanish brandy hit a golden age, if only briefly it became a desirable and readily available alternative to Cognac.
In present day Spain there are two regions with Denominacion Origin (DO) controlled brandy production and the spirit must be aged in the Jerez region in Andalucía, or the Penedès region in Catalonia to qualify for certification. For the former, most of the grapes grown are Airen and Palomino and distillation actually takes place in La Mancha, after which the distillate is transported via tanker trucks for maturation in Jerez.
Brandy from Jerez is a national favourite and anyone visiting Spain is bound to come across it. Here the Sherry bodegas mature the lions share of it which makes sense, as they already own the barrels to do it. Ageing usually takes place in 500 litre American oak casks, previously having contained any type of Sherry wine for at least three years.
Just like Scotch Whisky production which traditionally favoured maturation in x Sherry casks, these barrels also make a significant flavour contribution to the ageing process of brandy. Thus, Fino casks will produce brandy which is paler, typically featuring vanilla, fresh fruits and grilled nut characteristics; oloroso casks may lend aromas of walnut, plum, and figs; Pedro Ximenez casks will infuse sweet dried fruit notes and impart a darker colour, and so on. Solera systems are the norm. (More on this below).
While nine out of ten bottles of Brandy sold in Spain contain Brandy des Jerez, the contents of the tenth bottle is the result of those taking the road less traveled.
Brandies from Penedès are amongst those differentiated from the brandies of Jerez - both geographically and stylistically. Here in Catalonia, in the northeast corner of Spain near Barcelona you’ll find an approach that's more aligned with the classic model of Cognac. Regional grapes are used but so is locally-grown Ugni Blanc, the variety that constitutes about 98% of Cognac plantings. Distillation takes place in pot stills and maturation follows in French Limousin oak.
Despite this apparent Francophilia, one Penedes producer has not entirely departed from local traditions. This is Torres. This large family run company set up a distillery here in 1928 and has made the decision to retain their soleras, although they do employ French Limousin oak rather than American oak.
The solera system of aging wines or spirits to maintain a uniform quality will be familiar to sherry enthusiasts. To illustrate this briefly, imagine a pyramid collection of casks arranged with each layer containing brandies of different average age.The rows above the bottom layer are called the criaderas, and contain younger and younger spirit as you ascend. The bottom row is called the solera. It’s here that the brandy is drawn from when required for bottling, after which the casks are replenished with the same volume from the tier above and so on back through the system. Depending on the producer, this process can occur every 4-5 months, or 1-2 years. Because not more than 33% of the volume of each cask can be removed at any one time, this means that there's always a portion of brandy which never leaves the solera.
Intuition might suggest that adding the younger brandies would dominate the older material. In fact, the opposite happens and the younger stock takes on some of the character of the older one. Rather quaintly, the Spanish put it that the older brandy "teaches" the younger.
While Torres is a large concern, they clearly have not lost their artisan touch.
The flavour profile and mouthfeel are not the same as great Cognac, but then, nor should they be. This is not Cognac. Having said that there are resemblances. Overall Torres' style tends towards heavier tones - dessert fruits, Christmas cake in combination with a seductive overlay that comes across like ultra aged Rutherglen muscat, but with the sweetness kept in check. In short, this grandfather of the brandy family should find favour with any one who has enjoyed the finest Australian expressions, but may equally appeal to those who are finding many Cognacs from the larger houses now overly sweet.
Finally, those who have memories of Barcelona may recognise the bottle as a homage to Gaudí, suitably designed by the architect Tanaka to complete the package.
Tasting note: Very deep polished mahogany appearance with some particles floating in the glass, however, it should be noted that the sample on offer was a near empty bottle, so some natural sediment would be expected. It issues a profound perfume of dried apricot and fig, clove and cigar box as well as hints of muscat; Several minutes later hints of candied orange peel and vanilla emerge. A soft, svelte like entry leads into a creamy textured mid palate featuring Christmas cake, sweet tobacco and muscat notes, the latter accentuating towards the finish. Perfect balance. Concludes long and mildly tannic as the wood and dried fruit notes interchange into the prolonged aftertaste. Superb. 38% Alc./Vol.
- Dolin Bitter de Chambery Bitters (750ml)Chambery, FRANCE$31. 99Bottle$383.88 DozenABV: 16%Closure: Cork
Dolin is among the few remaining independent producers of Vermouth and the last producing Vermouth de Chambéry, still made according to the principles which earned Chambéry France's only A.O.
Their bitters is the result of an infusion of herbs, aromatic plants and fruit in neutral alcohol and wine. Think of it as a slightly lighter, less bitter version of Campari without the price tag. Enjoy Bitter de Chambery chilled, with a twist of orange. 16% Alc./Vol.
No tasting notes available.
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- Nicks Import
2018 Chateau Lafite RothschildPauillac, Bordeaux, FRANCE$2499. 00Bottle$29988.00 DozenClosure: CorkOften seen as the most elegant of the First Growth wines, Chateau Lafite Rothschild has long been considered one of the greatest wines from not only Bordeaux, but from anywhere in the world. Prices too reflect its status as the most collectable wine in Bordeaux, spurred on since 2008 when it ruled the Chinese fine wine market.
While the vineyards are planted to 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, each year the proportions vary according to the vintage, normally with Cabernet Sauvignon accounting for 80-90% of the blend.
Other Reviews....
The 2018 Lafite Rothschild is blended of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.5% Merlot and 0.5% Petit Verdot and has 13.3% alcohol. Deep purple-black in color, it needs a fair bit of swirling to unlock intoxicating scents of blackcurrant cordial, baked plums and black cherry compote with an undercurrent of dark chocolate, licorice, cast-iron pan, cedar chest and fertile loam, plus a waft of pencil lead. The delicately crafted, medium-bodied palate is dripping with class, featuring layers of mineral-laced black fruits and exquisitely ripe, singularly Lafite tannins, finishing with epic length and depth. This simply stunning, delicately crafted expression of 2018 with its singularly evocative imprint of Lafite will require a good 7-8 years in bottle, then should continue to inspire awe over the following 40+ years. Drink 2028 - 2068.
100 points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (Apr 2021)The 2018 Lafite-Rothschild is a stunning wine. Silky and floral, the 2018 offers all the signatures of the Grand Vin, but amplified by the radiance of the year. In the glass, Lafite is rich and exotic, yet it also retains tremendous vibrancy. The interplay of Merlot picked early and Cabernet Sauvignon harvested late makes for wine of extraordinary dimension, complexity and class. Graphite, dark red fruit, spice and leather linger on the huge finish. Magnificent! Drink 2028-2068.
98 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous (Mar 2021)Wow. The aromas are so intense and refined at the same time, offering gorgeous blackcurrant, lead-pencil and orchid character. Such purity of fruit. Sleek and finely polished with a fine cut to the tannins that provide such grace and glamor. Yet, it’s got the power and structure to age for decades. On and on. Try after 2029.
99 points
James Suckling (Jan 2021)Checking in as a blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.5% Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot, the 2018 Château Lafite-Rothschild is one of those magical Lafites that offers an already up-front, complex, nuanced style yet has the class and balance to evolve for 40-50 years. As always, this wine is never about sheer power, and the 2018 offers a full-bodied, incredibly elegant and weightless style that carries textbook blackcurrant fruits, lead pencil shavings, green tobacco, cedarwood, and camphor aromas and flavors. I compared this wine to a more elegant version of the 2016 from barrel and I think that comparison still holds. Incredibly up-front and charming, and already drinkable with sweet tannins, it will unquestionably pick up more complexity and nuance over the coming 4-6 years. It should hit maturity around age 10 and evolve for 75 years or more given its perfect balance. This is a beautiful, quintessential Lafite that exudes elegance and charm. Drink 2027 - 2102.
98 points
Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2021)This stood out during en primeur, not just for itself but also in comparison to so many estates around it. While several properties had an unusual vintage, where their personalities were subverted by the weather conditions, Lafite just continued being Lafite, a true mark of its character and its terroir. This is still of course extremely young, keeping its cards close to its chest; the power for now is hidden, waiting, and will slowly unveil. This is going to be a beautiful Lafite in the future, a brilliant wine with bilberry, slate and pencil lead character, and a eucalyptus mint wash. 3.75pH. A yield of 40hl/ha. 40% of the production went into the grand vin. 74IPT. Drink 2028 - 2050.
98 points
Jane Anson - Decanter (Nov 2020) -
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H by Hine VSOP Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%A blend of 20 Cognacs aged for a minimum of 4 years, from grapes grown in the Grande Champagne and the Petite Champagne regions of Cognac. 'H' was developed by Hine in response to bartender's requests for an inexpensive but highly aromatic Cognac for use in cocktails. To this end they've succeeded.
Tasting note: Burnished brassy / copper appearance. Straightforward bouquet with good intensity, offering scents of sweet leather, dried apricot and vanilla. A soft, light to medium bodied entry level VSOP with low-key dried apricot, vanillan oak and creme caramel flavours, remaining on the drier side. Ends light, thin, short. Reserve for cocktails.
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2006 Rockford Basket Press ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
The brown glass, high-shouldered proprietary bottle gives the right message: this is a classic, gently understated Barossa Shiraz that will sail on for decades if the dubiously short cork permits. Drinking it sooner would not be a capital offence.
95 points
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Ambra Triple Sec Orange Liqueur (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 25%Tasting note: [Formerly labelled 'Agrumello']. Made from a family recipe with specially grown citrus. Viscous, deep amber-orange. Aromatic mandarin peel and notes of fresh-sliced oranges. Straight up, it's pure and oily, the finish slightly candied with excellent length and delicate acidity lifting the aftertaste. Mix it with sparkling wine, tonic or soda. 25% Alc./Vol. - Fee Brothers Lemon Bitters (150ml)Rochester, New York, UNITED STATES$25. 99Bottle$311.88 DozenABV: 45.9%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.
A Fee Brothers original, Lemon Bitters is prepared from selected lemon oils, augmented with lemongrass to lend a snappy citrus taste to drinks. 45.9% Alc./Vol.

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2015 Bruno Giacosa AA Falletto Barolo FallettoPiedmont, ITALY$499. 00Bottle$5988.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Superb aromas of ripe fruit, such as plums and berries with peaches and tar. Very intense. Full body, great depth and density. Incredible richness and power with superb length and persistence. One of the most dense and vertical Falletos I have tasted. Try in 2025.
98 Points
Jamessuckling.comDense and firmly structured, this red features a distinctive saltiness underlying the floral, cherry, mineral and tobacco flavors. A bit standoffish now, but all the components are in the right proportions. Best from 2023 through 2048.
94 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator
















































