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2024 Josef Chromy Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.3%Closure: StelvinRich and supple yet light in its feet with an expansive flavour profile.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Gorgeous nose with perfumed aromas of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise surging out of the glass. Some forest floor, fresh herb and spicy cedar notes follow on. Richly fruited and supple in it’s flow yet light on it’s feet, the palate features expansive flavours of red to dark cherry and wild strawberry over an anise, fresh herb, forest floor and spicy cedar back drop. Excellent power with polished tannins and ample freshness to the long juicy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.3% -
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Foursquare Mandamus Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXIX 16 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 57%"Excellent...If you’re a fan of heavily sherried or ported scotches, then you’ll feel right at home with this rum." - whiskyadvocate.com
The twenty ninth edition in the ECS series reaches the considerable age of 16 years, pushing beyond the 12-14 year mark of most previous releases. Time in oak was broken down to ten years in ex-Bourbon casks followed by six more years of aging in ex-Port barrels. In line with its predecessors, this is a blend of pot and column still rums. Richard Seale seems to have a never-ending repertoire of names up his sleeve, with "Mandamus" taken to refer to "an order from a court to an inferior government official ordering the government official to properly fulfill their official duties or correct an abuse of discretion." The rum is bottled at 57% without chill filtration.
Other reviews... While the port cask’s role in the whisky world is well-known, some drinkers would be surprised to find that they’re also popular in aged rum. Here, like in whisky, they’re often used for finishing to impart darker fruit notes, typically following a longer maturation in bourbon barrels... Mandamus, explores the power of port with a notably long secondary maturation. If you’re a fan of heavily sherried or ported scotches, then you’ll feel right at home with this rum. It’s darkly sweet and alluring on the nose, with black cherry, stewed fruits, marzipan, cinnamon sugar, plum, chocolate, and vanilla—getting even sweeter with a few drops of water. The palate is full and complex, bearing wine-soaked fruits, cherry pie, soft baking spices, molasses, overripe fruits, and pipe tobacco. Plum returns for an intense and seemingly eternal finish, joined by blackberry, marzipan, toasted coconut, and a kiss of oak. In a word, it’s excellent. - whiskyadvocate.com
...The Mandamus is a rum of great generosity and character. The longer aging seems to bring out more vanillic sweetness and honeyed tones, while the port continues to contribute those jammy, stewed fruit dimensions that sit more comfortably in the more aged blend (as compared to older port-influenced ECS expressions). What I mean is that while the port cask lends more tannic grip and oak spice than a pureplay ex-bourbon ECS, the density generated by the longer period of ex-bourbon aging seems to incorporate it better and keep things balanced while some tannins and spice add structure and liveliness. This line is famous for its consistency, and the Mandamus is no exception in terms of its DNA, yet you can clearly taste the rewards of an extended 16-year aging: richer caramel, brown sugar and vanilla depth, with port influences well integrated. For me, this is probably the most layered of the ex-port cask aged Foursquare ECS so far. To take two points of reference, this feels a little rounder and more confectionary-influenced than the Covenant (which stands at 18 years, 100% ex-bourbon), and its port integration seems more seamless and complete compared to younger port-aged expressions like the Détente (10 years, of which 6 were spent in ex-port casks). - 88bamboo.com
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Foursquare Convocation Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXVIII 14 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 62%"...fans of aggressive and out-there rums should seek this one out." - drinkhacker.com
Convocation is release number twenty eight in Foursquare's long-running Exceptional Cask Selection Series. A blend of two distinct 14-year-old single blended molasses rums coming from the double-retort pot still and twin column Coffey - one was aged in bourbon barrels, and the other in ex-Madeira casks. As usual, apart from the consistently high quality, what we like about all these rums is that there are no additives, including sugar or colouring, coupled with the fact that they're bottled at blazing strengths - yet you often wouldn't know it to taste. Having said that, this one's said to be more intense than most! 62% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... rich, intense and quite sweet (not sweetened!)... In terms of this I think Foursquare Convocation is pretty much at its peak in terms of ageing... The mid palate gives you an array of flavours with the dark fruits allowing more of the peppery notes to come through alongside some light vanilla ice cream and some papaya notes. The finish as you would expect from a 62% spirit is long and very, very good. It reminds of the everlasting gobstopper scene in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory….theres just so much going on and it never seems to completely fade. The fruity notes continue through the finish alongside more oak and some leather, a hint of toffee, vanillla the list goes on and on and on… This is (from memory) one of my most favourite ECS releases thus far. I really like this. Top, top drawer stuff. 5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
...The involvement of Madeira casks had me nervous with this rum, and the nose indicates more than a little involvement from that divisive wine style. While there’s plenty of rummy vanilla and baking spice and a lacquering of molasses, it’s the oxidized wine that makes the biggest aromatic impact. Those notes of heavily extracted plum and cherries, put through a balsamic wringer, are impossible to miss, and they settle inside the nostrils for the long haul. The palate continues to see the sweet wine theme moving ahead full force, the palate veering quickly into a blend of maple, vanilla candies, and reduced sherry, together creating a decadent dessert sauce-like quality. Citrusy and rich, the rum is unabashed and in-your-face, pouring on that unmistakable Madeira quality, so rich it gets between your teeth. Elements of coconut nectar, peach melba, completely brown banana, and a thick swirl of molasses dosed with cloves make this one of the sweetest and most decadent rums I’ve ever tasted. A tiny dose goes a long way, and the finish sits with you: Caramelized brown sugar, some tropical notes, and more baking spice. It’s hardly tiki material, but fans of aggressive and out-there rums should seek this one out. - drinkhacker.com
...Wow! Very potent. One of the funkiest Foursquares I’ve tried. Smell seems like any other Foursquare, Doorlys, etc. Hits hard up front, in a good way. Sharp on the tongue. One sip lasts a long time. Only way to describe it is an uppercut of Foursquare rums to all your senses. This one is an experience and not for the faint of heart. I’d give it a 10 if I could understand it better. I’m working on it. - rumratings.com
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Foursquare Equidem Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXVII 14 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 61%"No recent release gets close to this." - rumrevalations.com
Equidem (meaning “Truly” or "indeed") is the twenty-seventh release in the acclaimed Exceptional Cask Selection (ECS) series from Foursquare. Distilled via a copper double-retort pot still and a continuous twin column Coffey still, it saw a double maturation that includes five years in ex-Bourbon barrels and nine years in ex-Black Muscat fortified wine casks, making for one of the darkest Foursquare rums we’ve ever seen. Master Distiller and Blender, Richard Seale explains "I was looking for some Spanish Moscatel casks, a popular fortified wine that is made from one of the many types of muscat grapes. These are mostly white grapes. Only a few producers work with black Muscat grapes and make fortified wine from them, so it’s very rare. I was offered these casks by a French producer. It’s a very robust dark wine. Not commonly used as it’s tricky to get it right, thanks to the wine being very powerful and tannin-rich”. Considered a standout in the ECS series, some tasters have summed up Equidem as one of the most exciting Exceptional Casks to date. Entirely tropical aged, it arrives bottled at 61% ABV, non-chill filtered and with no sugar or additives.
Other reviews... Foursquare Equidem nods towards some of the Velier Foursquare releases – Tryptych in terms of oak/woodiness and has a much thicker and richer mouthfeel than some of the “lighter” earlier ECS releases such as Premise and Détente. Finish wise Foursquare Equidem is long – very long in fact. It’s full of the rich dark fruits and a touch of peppery spice. This gives way to a slow burn of oak and spices. The red wine influence on this one is quite large. Fortunately it doesn’t become too tannic or bitter. So even if you aren’t a Red Wine fan don’t let this put you off. This truly is a “sipping rum” you really should take your time with this and appreciate it. It’s not a rum that I would look to mix (use Doorly’s XO if you want a more “Premium” mixer). I feel that this release is offering something a little different to the previous ECS releases. Highly recommended. 5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
...I was so impressed by this rum that I pulled Foursquare Criterion, Triptych and Absolutio out of my cabinet to compare. Surely Equidem can’t be as good as these three. What a great exercise this was! After sipping Criterion and going back to Equidem, I got that cane juice feel again. Equidem is more complex, more powerful and has a longer finish. However, Criterion is so brilliant in its simplicity. Perfect balance, wonderful flavour profile. I instantly said OMG! when I took the first sip. So sweet and thick…..it’s rum heaven. That age and abv seem to be ideal. I need to increase its score. Equidem is different, but on the same enjoyment level for me. It’s insane. Like sucking on sweet wood that’s been marinating with leather, tobacco and a drop of cane juice. Impossible of course, but I hope you know what I mean. No recent release gets close to this. - rumrevelations.com
Wow, wow. Insanely complex, powerful Foursquare. The finish in the Black Muscat barrel fits like a glove on the Foursquare eye. This combination is really amazing. I'm not really a sweet person, but the sweetness of a summer jam is just perfect here. This creamy complexity is second to none. For me, this is the best Foursquare I've had in a glass so far, a touch ahead of the Absolutio. Alcohol perfectly integrated. Stands out from the standard Foursquare mash. Doesn't have to hide behind the Velier bottlings. - rum-x.com
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2025 Water Wheel ViognierBendigo, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.9%Closure: StelvinA rich, full and texturally luscious Viognier.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Ripe peach and apricot aromas leap out of the glass followed by some honeysuckle, vanillin spice and delicate ginger notes. Rich, full and texturally luscious the palate is filled with ripe peach, apricot and honeysuckle flavours which are complimented by some butterscotch and ginger spice characters. Round and soft it has mild acidity and a long viscous finish that shows plenty of spice.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.9% -
- 96
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2025 Best's Great Western RieslingGreat Western, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinRiesling vines were first planted as part of Henry Best’s ‘Nursery Block’ vineyard in the 1860s. Subsequent plantings followed in 1944 (since removed), 1978 and 1998. Always very flavoursome and very age worthy, the Best’s Great Western Rieslings are renown for their beautiful balance, texture and aromatics.
An Outstanding Great Western Riesling that boasts terrific drive, zest and concentration.
Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Intensely aromatic, the nose features lime, red apple and citrus scents which mix with whiffs of orange blossom, faint honeysuckle and slatey mineral notes. Boasting terrific drive, zest and concentration, mouth watering lime, citrus and green to red apple fruits are underscored by racy, slatey mineral infused acidity. Delicate mandarin and honeysuckle flavours also make an appearance. The finish is long, dry and zippy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews….
Grampians riesling at its very best. It defines varietal intensity but so too a fine and utterly delicious delicacy of touch. Aromatic, spicy, apple and lime scented with a lemon-lime essence quality, almost crystalline, that impresses and resonates deep. The palate brings an airy, powdery expression that runs deep and long and intense in lemon-lime citrus, grapefruit pith, apple and gingery spice married to a pure and lively acidity. Runs long, stays bright and will age and keep on going.
Drink by 2040.
97 points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion2025 Canberra International Riesling Challenge Elite/Gold award and the Trophy for:
• Best Australian Riesling
• Best Dry Riesling
• Best Wine of the Challenge
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2025 Garagiste Le Stagiaire ChardonnayMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinThe 2025 Le Stagiaire Chardonnay draws on fruit from Merricks (35%), Balnarring (25%), Merricks North (30%) and Tuerong (10%). Sorted in the vineyard and winery before being pressed as whole bunches to 500-litre puncheons, this wine is wild fermented with no temperature control, followed by seven months on lees to slowly enrich the texture. A couple of barrels went through malolactic, and the nicely integrated new oak component stands at 10%.
A rich, generously flavoured Mornington Peninsula Chardonnay with a beautifully rounded feel.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Elevated aromas of white peach, nectarine and dried honey are complimented by some cashew, biscuity nougat and spice notes. Mid weighted, the palate features ample richness and a mildly creamy textural feel with fleshy white peach and nectarine fruits to the fore. Cashew, subtle dried honey, biscuity nougat and spice elements sit underneath. Fresh and balanced it finishes long and generous with a beautifully rounded feel.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
I always chase Barney Flanders for his wines, which I think he quite likes. This is Merricks (35%), Balnarring (25%), Merricks North (30%) and Tuerong (10%). 500L puncheons, 10% new.
This is juicy and flavoursome. Nectarine, pink grapefruit, a lightly salty and spicy preserved lemon thing. It has a pulpy citrus flavour mixed with stone fruit, a little creamy and nutty, some flinty bits, with a seaside saline and citrus finish of excellent length. It’s such a tasty Chardonnay. Everything is in the right place. Drink 2025-2032.
94 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front -
- 94
2024 Ninth Island Sauvignon BlancTasmania, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinZippy acidity with a dry, herbaceous finish.
Brilliant water like colour with a delicate greenish tint to the edges. Leaping from the glass are herbaceous gooseberry scents accompanied by some passionfruit and distinct grassy asparagus notes. Mouth watering herbaceous gooseberry, passionfruit, lime and grassy asparagus flavours line the palate underscored by zippy acidity. Long, dry, herbaceous finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 12.5% -
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Artis Single Vineyard Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.4%Closure: StelvinLight and elegant with modest length to the finish.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Pretty violet, red cherry and red liquorice aromas drift out of the glass followed by some fresh herb and delicate spicy earth notes. Light and elegant the palate features juicy red cherry and cranberry fruits which meld into subtle spicy cedar and forest floor elements. Fine grained tannins and fresh acidity with modest length to the finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.4% - Le Pere Jules Cidre de Normandie Brut (Dry Apple Cider 750ml)Normandy, FRANCE$25. 99Bottle$311.88 DozenABV: 5%Closure: Cork
Jules Desfrièches (aka "Le Pere Jules" or "Father Jules") began producing Calvados in Saint Desir, just outside Lisieux in the early 20th century. Before then, he had learned the art of cider-making from his grandparents. When he returned from the war in 1919, he pressed and sold his first bottle of cider, a sideline which has since grown to over 100,000 bottles per year. Nowadays, Jules' great-grandson, Guillaume runs the cidrerie, working exclusively with estate-grown fruit. Out of 250 acres, 100 are planted with apple trees and 25 with pears. The farm follows organic principles, and cows roam freely on the property, providing natural fertiliser.
For the 'Cidre de Normandie', twenty different types of apple are employed, achieving a balance between sweet, bitter and acidic varieties. An extended fermentation results in a “brut” style, finished by a light filtration. After bottling the cider naturally develops the fine bubbles that it's become famous for, while retaining aromas of Granny Smith apple and hints of nutmeg, and slightly riper flavours - think crisp Johnathan apple, spice and a touch of apple crumble. The acidity makes for an extremely refreshing drink, but don't over chill it or you'll lose some of its character.
Norman gastronomes have long known cider works brilliantly with a surprising variety of dishes. Consider the classic match of roast pork with crackling and apple sauce, braised pork or rabbit deglazed with cider or roast duck served with red cabbage and apples. Goats cheeses, especially chevre styles work particularly well. Slightly sweeter styles of cider, such as those produced from pears will accompany desserts like apple pie, tarte tartin, or quince flavoured ice cream.
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2024 Milton Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.8%Closure: StelvinRich and silky with close to medium body weight and a long moreish finish.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Intense dark to black cherry, anise and strawberry scents engulf the nostrils trailed by some dark plum, fresh herb and spicy cedar notes. Brimming with ripe dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours the moreish palate has a rich, silky flow and carries near medium body weight. Excellent concentration and power with subtle notions of dried herbs, spicy cedar and forest floor detailed across the back half. Concludes long, supple and juicy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.8% -
- 95
2025 Garagiste Merricks Pinot GrisMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA rich, textural Pinot Gris that’s terrifically concentrated and boasts a long voluminous finish.
The fruit for this excellent fuller styled Pinot Gris is sourced from 28-year-old, northeast-facing vines rooted in the signature grey loam and red ferrosols soils of Merricks. The majority of the fruit is pressed as bunches to old puncheons with full solids and kept on lees, while a small portion of the blend (10%) ferments carbonically for three weeks.
Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Pronounced aromas of ripe pear, baked apple and honeycomb are trailed by some quince and cinnamon notes. Rich and textural, the palate is engulfed with mouth filling ripe pear, baked apple, quince, honeycomb, musk and cinnamon spice flavours. Boasting terrific concentration, it has a line of fresh underlying acidity and a long voluminous finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
- Organic
2024 Terre del Buontalenti ChiantiTuscany, ITALY$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinLight, elegant and red fruited with a savoury finish.
Red to dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Scents of red currant, red liquorice and red cherry drift out of the glass followed by some dried herb, tobacco and spicy earth notes. Light and elegant, the palate features red currant and red liquorice fruits over dried herb, earth and spice elements. Fine grained tannins with a savoury finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 91
Glenmorangie The Original 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Gift Pack with 2 GlassesHighlands, SCOTLAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%Comes with two branded Glenmorangie whisky tumblers. A gift made for sharing!
In the last decade, no-age-statement (NAS) whisky has been championed, and age statements have tumbled. In an unusual move for the Scotch Whisky Industry, Glenmorangie are putting age statements up instead of down, starting with their newly presented core releases.
Other reviews... The new Original, changed from 10 to 12 years old, stands tall with fresh ripe orange and peach fruitiness on the nose, then honey, vanilla cream, wood spice, and exotic flora notes. The palate revolves around lemon, vanilla, apricot, peach, and orange, plus cinnamon and banana bread. The ripeness of the fruit and the creaminess stand out above the floral and vanilla elements of the old 10 year old. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
There used to be the modest but likeable 10 year old ‘The Original’, which we last tried in 2023 (WF 81) but it’s since been replaced by this 12 year old, the house having added two extra years of maturation. A refreshing change from the recent global trend of reducing ages by heading toward NAS territory, you know whisky's way of doing shrinkflation. Colour: gold. Nose: the 40% do make themselves felt, or rather not felt, if you see what I mean, but the American oak casks do lend their usual creamy and vanilla-forward touch, alongside ripe apples, banana, soft oak (with a whisper of fresh sawdust), and a fairly prominent note of Earl Grey tea. Also some fresh barley, which makes the whole thing rather pleasant. Mouth: we find the nose again on the palate, though it leans a little more towards oranges this time, and thus a little less towards the rest. A hint of bitterness follows, then green tea, a touch of ginseng and a suggestion of peach skin. It’s light but not weak. Finish: a little short, yet once again, fair enough. Green tea with a drop of honey and a discreet grassy side. Comments: I quite like this charming little dram, nicely put together. 82 points - whiskyfun.com
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 22 Degrees Halo Kaleidoscope of MayhemSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, generously weighted red with firmish tannins and bright acidity.
Fruit was sourced from Riverland and Coonawarra. Black as night in colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Nosing offers up aromas of blackcurrant, liquorice and leather followed by some subtle earthy tobacco and spice notes. Rich, generously weighted ripe blackcurrant and dark plum fruits dominate the medium to full bodied palate. Some liquorice, earthy leather and infusions of spicy garden herbs lie in the background. Firmish tannins with a ripe chewy finish underpinned by bright acidity.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 92
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Taltarni Estate Cabernet SauvignonPyrenees, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinAn elegant, mid weighted Pyrenees Cabernet with a savoury conclusion.
Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of red currant and red liquorice are complimented by some spicy vanillin cedar, earth and subtle black olive notes. Much softer than the tannic Taltarni beasts of yesteryear, the elegant mid weighted palate features red currant and red liquorice fruits over a dried herb, cedary tobacco, earth and spice back drop. Fine grained tannins with a savoury conclusion of medium length.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Graceful, elegant and refined, displaying impressive purity and brightness. Admirable redcurrant juiciness on the mid-palate, with good lightness and energy. The wine is gently supple, with fine, integrated tannins providing just the right amount of structural support. A well-made cabernet with broad appeal, reflective of its cool-climate origins. Approachable now, yet destined to age beautifully. Drink by 2032.
93 Points
Toni Paterson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Chalk Hill Luna ChardonnayPadthaway, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA juicy, fruit driven Chardonnay that’s concentrated and beautifully fleshed.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with green highlighted edges and a watery hue. Ripe peach, tropical fruit and melon scents fill the nostrils followed by some delicate vanillin spice notes. Juicy ripe peach, tropical fruit and melon flavours are delivered with excellent concentration, carrying with them a beautifully fleshed textural feel. Fresh acidity with some subtle citrus and spice characters rounding out the long fruit driven finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
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2025 Coriole PiquepoulMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinDelicious pear, red apple, mandarin and peach fruits carry ample shape with stony mineral elements lingering through the finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green toned edges and a watery hue. Pear, green to red apple skin and lime aromas mix with peach, fragrant wild herb and subtle quince notes. Delicious pear, red apple, mandarin and peach fruits carry ample shape with delicate quince and spice elements sitting in the background. Brisk acidity with some stony mineral elements lingering through the lengthy finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
The synergy between McLaren Vale and this grape variety is clear. Even in a more torrid vintage it keeps its form.
Lemon pulp, white nectarine, white flowers, green banana and a little mint. It has a sappy sort of crunch to it, perhaps a little more waxy this vintage, but still fresh and lively, a lightly pulpy lemon pith bitterness, but also perfumed with it, and the length is good, closing stony and tight. Saline and delicious. Drink 2025-2029.
94 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front
A straight bat on making here, as usual, with a cool tank ferment using cultured yeast. Picpoul (or piquepoul, if you prefer) is becoming McLaren Vale’s answer to riesling. Well, almost. It has the same vibrancy and brisk appeal in a warmer climate, if somewhat less aromatic. That’s no loss, though. Green apple, lemon pith, some brininess, lightly textured, a little pithy, invigorating. Yes. Drink by 2028.
93 points
Marcus Ellis - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Fat Bastard Pinot NoirPays d'Oc, FRANCE$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinJuicy and supple entry level Pinot with a dryish finish.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a bright red hue. Ripe raspberry and strawberry aromas fill the nostrils with whiffs of anise, dried herbs and spice also evident. Juicy cherry, red raspberry and strawberry fruits cast a light supple flow across the palate with some earthy anise and spicy dried herb elements sitting in the background. Dryish finish with mildly chalky tannins and a savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Taltarni Victoria Cabernet SauvignonVictoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSpicy and generously endowed with a refined conclusion.
Deep black dark red colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Blackcurrant, black olive and cigar box aromas rise out of the glass followed by some dried herb and spice notes. Rich, fleshy blackcurrant fruits are interwoven with cedary tobacco, black olive, dried herb and spice characters. Nicely integrated, fine grained tannins. Spicy and generously endowed, it nonetheless has a refined conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2024 Bellvale Pinot NoirGippsland, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSupplely textured, savoury and spicy.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a rustic red hue. Nosing offers up spicy aromas of red to dark cherry, rhubarb, bramble and dried herbs. Supplely textured, savoury and spicy, the palate features red cherry and rhubarb fruits over a dried herb, clove and bramble back drop. Polished tannins with lively acidity well concealed by the wines pillowy feel. Spicy bramble and dried herb infused finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2025 Vasse Felix Filius Sauvignon BlancMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA mouth watering Sauvignon Blanc that shows terrific intensity and has a long snappy finish.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with a subtle greenish tinge to the edges and a watery hue. Citrus, green apple and lime aromas are joined by some herbaceous grassy notes and minerals. Bursting across the palate with terrific intensity are mouth watering passionfruit, gooseberry, green apple, herbaceous grassy characters and flinty mineral elements. Crisp acidity with a long snappy finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
2025 Tim McNeil Wines Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA Riesling of superb intensity and textural volume with a long finish that shows plenty of zing.
Brilliant water like colour with a faint tinge of green around the outskirts. Lemon and lime scents leap from the glass followed by some Granny Smith apple, orange rind, talc and chalky mineral notes. Possessing superb intensity and plenty of textural volume, the mouth watering palate is decorated with lime, lemon and green apple fruits. Chalky talc and steely mineral elements the undercard. Fresh crunchy acidity with a long scrumptious finish that shows plenty of zing.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Donna Lucilla Roma RossoITALY$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA medium bodied blend with morello cherry and plum fruit and dry, chewy tannins.
A blend of Montepulciano, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Deep midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Nosing offers up a mix of dark and morello cherry as well as liquorice aromas with some scorched earth and spicy dried herb aromas also evident. Medium bodied the palate features morello cherry and plum fruit over an earth, dried herb and spice back drop. Dry chewy tannins with a savoury conclusion.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
2023 Chalk Hill Luna Cabernet SauvignonMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich red to black fruits combine with cedary tobacco, black olive characters to complete a savoury finish.
Very deep midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. A mix of red to black currant and mulberry aromas intertwined with cedary tobacco, tomato leaf and spicy black olives greet the nostrils. Rich red to black currant and mulberry fruits drive the mid weighted palate with notions of cedary tobacco characters, black olive and slightly bitter tomato leaf extending across the back half. Fine grained tannins with a savoury mid length finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
- Organic
2024 Icardi Barbera d’Asti TabarenPiedmont, ITALY$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkBright and juicy with lively acidity and slightly chalky tannins.
Deep midnight black colour with a vibrant purple dark red hue. Freshly crushed blackberry and liquorice aromas combine with plum, ink, scorched earth and dried herb notes. The bright mid weighted palate features juicy dark cherry, blackberry and liquorice fruits over inky earth, dried herbs and spice. Lively acidity with slightly chalky tannins and an energetic dark fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 94
2023 Joseph Faiveley Bourgogne Pinot NoirBurgundy, FRANCE$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkAn excellent rendition of village level Burgundy that has a long savoury finish.
Domaine Faiveley is one of the biggest domaines in Burgundy with the fruit for this Bourgogne being sourced mainly from plots situated in Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune and Côte Chalonnaise.
Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant red cherry and winter strawberry scents infused with fresh herbs and violets sail through the nostrils complimented by some earth and spicy cedar notes. Delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits are layered across the palate with ample power. Notions of red liquorice, dried herbs, earth and spicy cedar also chime in to lend further interest. Good freshness with finely integrated tannins and a long savoury finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
- 92
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Stella Bella Cabernet MerlotMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2030-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinAn energetic, mid weighted Cabernet Merlot with red fruits framed by bright acidity and slightly chalky tannins.
A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot. Dense midnight black heart with a vibrant purple red hue. Sailing through the nostrils with ample intensity are youthful ripe red currant and mulberry scents followed by some vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and bay leaf notes. The energetic mid weighted palate features juicy red currant and mulberry fruits framed by bright acidity and slightly chalky, fine grained tannins. Cedary tobacco, spicy dried herb and dusty earth elements lie underneath. Dryish yet well fruited conclusion.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
A streamlined, linear Cabernet Merlot that hails from the southern end of Margaret River and offers some pretty sharp value for money. That’s one penetrating aroma, all spearmint, dried herbs, rosemary, jalapeño and baking spices married to the ripest blackberries. What starts off well-structured and a little closed doesn’t take too long to open up. After a few swishes of air, it’s more upfront with a middle palate of sweet ripe fruits in blackberry and dark plum, black cherry bright with graphite, pencil lead oak. This is one Cabernet Merlot fully dedicated to black fruits, dried herbs and an earthiness that speaks of the region’s Aussie bush environment. Tannins are well-built, ensuring more time in bottle should you wish. Drink 2025-2029.
92 Points
Jeni Port – WinePilot.comIf you’re looking for a wine of both structural integrity and flavour, at a better-than-fair price, then look no further. This is excellent buying. It tastes of blackcurrant, chocolate, gum leaf and licorice, and once it’s had a chance to breathe it feels both buoyant with fruit and decidedly sturdy. This is a very good release of Stella Bella Cabernet Merlot. Drink 2025-2031+
92 Points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front -
- 93
2024 JC’s Own Straturn ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkA bright, juicy mid weighted Shiraz.
Aged in cement tanks for 10 months. Deep black dark purple colour with a bright dark purple hue. Elevated aromas of fresh dark plum, liquorice and blueberry escape the glass followed by some gentle earth and peppered fresh herb notes. Juicy ripe plum, liquorice and blueberry fruits meld into a scorched earth, vanillin spice and peppered herb back drop. Fresh underlying acidity with polished tannins and a finish that’s both energetic and succulent.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 93
2023 Momento Barossa ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich black plum and liquorice fruits with a plump feel.
Totally opaque black dark red core with a dark red hue. Elevated black plum and aniseed aromas are trailed by some smoky vanillin oak, earthy fennel and pepper notes. Rich black plum and liquorice fruits carry a plump textural feel across the medium to full bodied palate with notions of fennel, scorched earth and pepper the undercard. Silky smooth tannins concluding medium to long and velvety.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Soul Growers Hoffmann Single Vineyard ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$140. 00Bottle$1680.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRipe and fleshy textured with a sweet plum and toasty vanillin oak dominate conclusion.
Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Dark plum, liquorice and vanillin oak aromas waft through the nostrils followed by some earthy mocha and spice notes. Ripe and fleshy textured, the full bodied palate is awash with plush dark plum, liquorice, vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice flavours. Velvet smooth tannins with a sweet plum and toasty vanillin oak dominate conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 92
2024 Masso Antico PrimitivoSalento, ITALY$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA lusciously fruited medium bodied Primitivo.
Matured in French oak barrels for approximately 6 months, this Primitivo is crafted from bush vines and made in ancient tradition of Apulian winemaking, known as Alberello Pugliese which concentrates the flavours in the grapes.
Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. A mix of dark plum, liquorice and morello cherry aromas greet the nostrils trailed by some vanillin spice and gentle earthy dried herb notes. Juicy morello cherry, liquorice and dark to black plum fruits overlay a vanillin spice and dried herb back drop. Ripe, faintly chewy tannins with a lusciously fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 94
2025 Pooley Pinot GrigioTasmania, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinSlippery textured with delicious fleshy pear and red apple fruits.
Brilliant pale straw core with straw tinged edges and a watery hue. Aromas of pear and red apple drift from the glass followed by some rosewater, faint honeysuckle and musk notes. Slippery textured, the palate is decorated with delicious fleshy pear and red apple fruits which meld into a musk, subtle quince and wet stone back drop. Brisk acidity with a fresh yet shapely finish of ample length.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
- Reduced
2021 Nicks Secret PLL Barossa ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $32.99$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThis latest Nicks Secret Shiraz comes from a relatively new Barossa producer that has hit hard times and needs some fast cash. Made from the spectacular 2021 vintage, fruit was sourced from a number of different growers with maturation taking place in a mixture of French, Hungarian and American oak barrels for a period of 9 months.
Rich, plush Barossa Shiraz selling for a song.
Pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Engulfing the nostrils is a heady wave of liquorice, ripe black cherry and dark plum aromatics which are followed up by some gently smoked vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth notes. Rich, plush and concentrated, the weighty palate is seductively layered with a coating of liquorice, ripe black cherry and dark plum fruits. Smoky vanillin cedar, earth and peppered fennel elements the undercard. Velvety textured it has a silky smooth tannins and a long opulent finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 91
- Nick's Import
Old Pulteney Harbour Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%"...super good, certainly a worthy candidate for the Bang-For-Your-Buck title..." - whiskyfun.com
Pulteney's Master Blender has risen to the challenge of capturing the distillery's coastal character in a NAS bottling, and has done so with aplomb. Few malts at this entry level price and ABV match it for substance and style. Prepare to be surprised! 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... A small NAS probably rather kind-hearted, matured in first and second fill bourbon casks. If it doesn’t lean too heavily on vanilla cream, this could be quite good indeed… Colour: white wine. Nose: no, this is fine, quite the opposite in fact, it’s fresh, the sea is clearly perceptible too, with touches of salted candied lemon, grapefruit, and streusel. Nice coastal tension, just what one expects from Pulteney. Mouth: slightly softer on the palate but the balance has been especially well crafted, there’s none of that vanilla-and-sawdust overload one might have found in similar bottlings ten years ago. Grapefruit returns, along with passion fruit, seaweed, our friends the oysters, and a white pepper that does its job without being over the top. Finish: fairly long given the strength, a bit ‘old-Ardbeg-ten-long’, we’re talking early 80s to early 90s batches. Comments: I find this super good, certainly a worthy candidate for the Bang-For-Your-Buck title this August. 86 points - whiskyfun.com
...Overall I think this is a great entry to Old Pulteney. It carries the distillery DNA plus it was in my opinion matured in good quality casks because there are lots of added flavours to the whisky. Yes it's 40% but it doesn't feel thin due to Old Pulteney's style of whisky and probably, most probably due to the wormtubs... you can't go wrong with this. It's a great beginners malt and a great daily sipper to anyone who likes salty whisky. I'll award this whisky with 85 / 100. Great stuff. - whiskybase.com
- Luxardo Bitter Bianco Liqueur (700ml)ITALY$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 30%
"A brilliant cocktail ingredient." - diffordsguide.com
Luxardo Bitter Bianco shares the same herbs, aromatic plants and citrus fruits as its orange-coloured sibling, Luxardo Bitter. Before the blending process, however, most of the infusions are distilled, a process which turns its appearance transparent and slightly changes the flavour profile. Roman Absinth (Wormwood), added to the end product enhances its bitter taste. Pitched to twist classic cocktails such as Negronis (making a Negroni Bianco), a Paloma into a Paloma Bianco, etc., it can also be enjoyed neat or over ice as a classic aperitif. 30% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Bittersweet. Ripe pear, zesty orange, lemon and rooty bitterness, rosemary-led herbal complexity and white pepper-led spice. Overall: Bittersweet with herbal complexity. A brilliant cocktail ingredient. 5+ Stars - diffordsguide.com
Gold Medal / 95 points - International Wine & Spirits Competition 2024
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- Nick's Import
Glenfarclas Private Reserve Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 48%Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 48%A 48% bottling for the French market, released in 2024. There have been a series of these labels, some bottled at 45% and 46% ABV. Sort of a private selection bottling, the outturn of these editions is usually around 10,000 bottles, however this one's limited to 6000 only. Compared with the relatively genteel character of the 17YO, 18YO, or even 21YO, this contemporary expression promises a bolder, more spicy character that conversely, lends itself to being consumed with a dash of water.
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- 90
- 95
- Nick's Import
Cutty Sark 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky (700ml)SCOTLAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%"...this is one very elegant classic." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024
Other reviews... Returning this stalwart, the first new Cutty Sark since La Martiniquaise took charge of the ship, seemed a safe bet, but they've done it so well. Apricot, golden sultana, caramel, honeydew melon, honey, and vanilla meet cumin, cardamom, Parma violets, and orange jelly bean aromas. Richly flavored but lightly textured, there's lemon bonbon, sugar-dusted churro, vanilla custard, cinder toffee, hazelnut, and sharp apple acidity. It's like sunshine rippling on the ocean.Best Values - 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...It seems that this baby’s recently been repackaged. I have to say I like the new packaging, but it’s what’s inside that counts. Colour: gold. Nose: it’s having a little trouble after the previous ones, with more sour notes (sour apples) and more raw oak, with a dusty side. On the other hand, there’s a rather complex fruitiness behind that, with even touches of mangos. Mangos always work in whisky! Also violets that I had already found in earlier expressions. Mouth: the oak feels, the attack is a bit tannic and drying (strong black tea) but once again, a complex fruitiness emerges after two seconds in your month, with marmalade, raisins and quince jelly. Love quince jelly. Quite some vanilla too. Finish: medium length. Honeyed and jammy. Comments: I think Cutty 12 improved a lot since four or five years. It’s got much more oomph than before, maybe thanks to more newish American oak. Feels like it. 78 points - whiskyfun.com
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- Nick's Import
Aberfeldy 15 Year Old Bolgheri Tuscan Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 46%Matured for 15 years in re-fill and hogshead casks, this limited edition Aberfeldy is then finished in Bolgheri red wine casks from Tuscany, Italy, adding an extra layer of rich, cherry and dark chocolate flavours. 46% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Red wine casks can overpower, but here the balance is perfect. Finished for 2 years in Italian red wine casks from Tuscany, the nose brims with blackberry, black cherry, ripe Victoria plum, dark chocolate, peppercorn, licorice, and black tea. Aberfeldy’s honeyed core shines through layers of chocolate, black cherry, clove, nutmeg, plum pudding, and gentle oak. A beautifully poised malt with a long, indulgent finish of chocolate-dipped dark fruits. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...Now then, Bolgheri is the very place where those super-Tuscan Bordeaux-style blends hail from, which, truth be told, we rather struggle to finish (Sassicaia, Ornellaia and suchlike) The worst of Italy, really, despite their having so many other absolute marvels elsewhere. Imagine gleefully planting Sangiovese or Nebbiolo in France! Madness. Colour: gold. No rosé hue, thankfully. Nose: naturally it’s all right, it doesn’t reek of raw stave or new planks, but there’s a duo of pepper and green capsicum, along with blackcurrant bud, which always tends to set the nerves slightly on edge. It’s a layered nose, one might say, with a delayed and restrained arrival of raspberries and cherries. Mouth: decent, though not terribly charming, with a rather awkward and somewhat Janus-like split personality. Raspberry liqueur-filled chocolates, green pepper and cardamom, with cherry and black pepper stepping in a little later to help steady the ship. Finish: fairly long, though rather leafy. Comments: definitely an improvement over other, previous red-wined ones. 77 points - whiskyfun.com
- Sheridan's Coffee Layered Liqueur (700ml)Dublin, IRELAND$52. 99Bottle$635.88 DozenABV: 15.5%
Sheridan’s is an exciting blend of dark, rich coffee liqueur, layered with a cool, smooth vanilla cream liqueur. Experience it at its best served on ice of with coffee. Consume within six months of opening. 15.5% Alc./Vol.
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- Nick's Import
Crown Royal Blackberry Flavoured Canadian Whisky (750ml)CANADA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 35%A new limited-edition flavour infused with juicy fresh blackberries! Boasting all the smoothness you expect from Crown Royal with a sweetness that turns to a blackberries at the finish, it's enjoyable neat or in cocktails. Not complex, but do they all have to be? 35% Alc./Vol.
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- Nick's Import
Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$179. 99Bottle$2159.88 DozenABV: 50%Bruichladdich have introduced a new travel retail exclusive in collaboration with Lotte Duty Free Singapore. Distilled using organic barley grown and harvested at Mid Coul Farm, Inverness, Scotland, the raw ingredient is farmed without the use of artificial fertilisers or pesticides. Not only does this promote healthy soils but it also creates a cereal-forward single malt, with notes of tropical fruits and smooth vanilla cream, showcasing the purest form of its 'terroir.' 50% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... A really lovely bottling, wonderfully fruity and with a distinct Laddie DNA. I like it! - whiskybase.com
...Overall, it is a cereal-forward dram with a creamy texture, lifted by tropical fruit notes. The precision and clarity of these flavors make it a remarkable pour. As it is a bourbon cask, it has refreshing elements which beckon me to have another dram. Indeed, this is dangerously addictive. - 88bamboo.co
...This is a whisky that trades wackiness for warmth, sweetness, and maturity. Not the most complex Bruichladdich ever bottled—but an undeniably tasty one. And for fans of organic whisky, or anyone curious about grain-led distillation, it’s absolutely worth seeking out. And while you do, don’t mind me pouring myself another dram, because it is that good! - dram1.com
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- Nick's Import
Bulleit 10 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 45.6%Bulleit Bourbon, "Frontier Whiskey" was originally distilled in 1830. Over the years the brand has moved from one company to another and one distillery to another. In 1997 Bulleit became a Seagrams product, made at their Lawrenceburg distillery in Kentucky. Now a Diageo brand, the age and provenance remain undisclosed. We do know that it's produced with a higher proportion of rye than most other Bourbons, creating a drier more complex spirit (the mash bill is 68% Corn, 28% Rye and 4% Malted Barley). It's said to be distilled in small batches, aged for no less than ten years with some 11 and 12 year old blended in as well. Barrels are stored in a single-story warehouse (reducing inconsistencies in the maturation process). It was awarded a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition - beating more expensive and better known premium bourbons such as Knob Creek, Maker's Mark and Jim Beam Black.
Other reviews... The new, elder sibling to the standard Bulleit. It shows the Bulleit personality, but it’s deeper and drier on the nose and palate (as would be expected), with more oak, dried orchard fruit, and dark berried fruit, along with a hint of barrel char, leather, vanilla powder, and a dusting of cinnamon. I’d save this as a postprandial bourbon, and opt for the standard Bulleit as an aperitif. 86 points- - whiskyadvocate.com (Vol. 22, #2) Reviewed by: John Hansell
... Bulleit 10 Year continues with the spicy kick the the brand is known for, but its additional depth and slight refinement still doesn’t quite hit the mark other bourbons in this price range do. The extra age seems to have done little to drastically improve the 10 Year over the NAS version. There is some refinement and additional layers of depth that makes it a better sipper, but that’s to be expected. - breakingbourbon.com
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- Reduced
2023 Nicks Secret CUTS Adelaide Hills Single Vineyard ShirazAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $24.99$12. 99Bottle$155.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSourced from a single vineyard located at Woodside in the Adelaide Hills at relatively low elevation (350 metres), this Nicks Secret Shiraz is a flavour packed bargain at just $12.99. The fruit was fermented in two batches, one batch incorporating whole bunches with the two parcels then matured separately in French oak barriques (35% new). Only the best barrels make the final blend.
Flavour packed yet refined and fresh, this superb Adelaide Hills Shiraz delivers remarkable value.
Dense inky black colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Elevated red to dark plum and liquorice aromas are interwoven with hints of clove, scorched earth and peppered meats. Rich and intensely flavoured yet refined and fresh, the medium to full bodied palate is awash with juicy red to dark plum and liquorice fruits. Notions of spicy clove, scorched earth, dried meats and pepper extend across the back half to lend further interest. Fleshy textured, sturdy fine grained tannins provide structure. Finishes long and succulent with a flurry of pepper and spice.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Shiraz can be expressed in so many ways depending on all its elements of source, site, regional and specific climatic influences, of vintage weather variations, and of course winemaking techniques. In other words, it’s not all one and the same. This has a definite cool climate, colder season stamp, with a wonderful, bright-eyed character, aromatics of summer berry pudding, crushed grape flesh, and dark mint. An exuberance as well: perhaps whole cluster and whole berry components. A tasting sensation that lifts upwards rather than buries the fruit under timber, earth and heavy spice. A swirl of crimson and black cherry and berry with gossamer tannins. A joyous wine to taste then drink again – its natural purity is all that’s needed.
96 Points
Tony Love – WinePilot.com -
- 95
W.L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) - Whiskey Hunt Australia SelectionKentucky, UNITED STATES$375. 00Bottle$4500.00 DozenABV: 57%"...a worthy addition to the Weller brand, offering a rich and flavorful pour at a spot-on proof." - breakingbourbon.com
Buffalo Trace's “Wheated” mashbill is absent of rye, instead it includes corn, wheat and malted barley. Ratios are not disclosed. The fact that this forgoes chill filtration to preserve all the naturally occurring residual oils makes it something a little special from the get go. The nose possesses a depth and weight not often encountered in young Bourbon, matched by a mouth filling attack. Cherry chocolate, cola and pepper are underscored by a superb thread of caramel and vanilla. As the heat and oak ramp up, 'harmonious' isn't a descriptor that comes to mind. Nevertheless, this slightly disjointed, high octane whiskey will satisfy those who get a thrill out of incendiary styles. With water, the aroma shifts to oak shavings, pecans and hints of maple syrup, the palate accenting hazelnuts and milk chocolate, while hints of peppermint add freshness to the finish. It's an intimidating Bourbon experience, with non chill filtration clearly benefiting the overall persistence, richness and amplified texture, but also one that needs time to evolve in the glass. 192 bottles produced. 57% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Tasted from a 30ml sample.
Notes from the importers... Having a nose of vanilla, dark cherries and caramel. On the palate, there is a balance of caramel and toasted oak. The finish is said to be long, with notes of crème brûlée and chocolate.
- Grasovka Bison Grass Flavoured Vodka (700ml)POLAND$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenABV: 38%
A traditional Polish spirit flavoured with fragrant bison grass (hierochloe odorata) from the Białowieża Forest, giving it notes of vanilla, almond, hay, and herbs, with a smooth, slightly sweet, and earthy profile. It comes bottled with a blade of grass for authenticity. Enjoy it neat, chilled, or in cocktails like the "Tatanka" (with apple juice).
Other reviews... Grassy and herbal with faint sweetness cut by a light peppery bite Faint notes of lavender and jasmine tea... Aftertaste is grassy with jasmine and light white pepper spice. 5+ stars - diffordsguide.com
- 1998 Carn Mor "Celebration of the Cask" Glen Keith 26 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$550. 00Bottle$6600.00 DozenABV: 55.8%
Tucked away in the heart of Speyside, Glen Keith was built around 1960 on the site of a corn mill by Chivas Brothers, who also owned the existing Strathisla distillery nearby. Mothballed in 1999, then purchased and reinvigorated by Pernod Ricard with production recommencing in 2013, the distillery only recently began marketing its own brand again. This edition is from reputable independent, Carn Mor. It's described by tasters as a delightful whisky offering what's best in long ex-bourbon maturation - sweet, but not too sweet, with a lot of fruitiness, a bit of spice in the form of oak, and the alcohol integrated and pleasantly warming. In short, very typical of the house style. 160 bottles were drawn from a single cask in late 2024. 55.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Rich, multi-layered, intense. It offers what long maturation in ex-bourbon barrels can possibly give. The taste of sweet apples, freshly baked bread covered in wildflower honey, complemented by sweet and mild spices, dried herbs, delicate touch of wood, beeswax. - whiskybase.com
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2023 Pierro Nunc Tempus Est CheninMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA light and energetically fresh Chenin Blanc.
Brilliant pale straw colour with distinct highlights of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Green to red apple, pear and quince scents are trailed by delicate honeysuckle and spicy cinnamon notes. Light and energetically fresh, the palate is elegantly detailed with pear, green apple and quince fruits. Crisp minerally acidity with some delicate honeysuckle and cinnamon characters lingering across the back half. Dry with a brisk feel to the tense finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
The 2023 Chenin Nunc Tempus Est leads with a varietal nose of green apple (stewed and sweet), white flowers, beeswax and silex. In the mouth, the wine is firm and structured, with intense flavor and gentle grippy phenolics through the finish. This Chenin Blanc is possessed of that typical fruity/bitter note that declares its varietal origin and a saline, mineral aspect that speaks of the place in which it was grown. This is very good. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2026-2038.
94 Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate50% was matured in old oak for two months, the other 50% seeing stainless steel only.
This is a wine of presence and detail but it finishes taut, which makes me think that its best days are a while ahead. Green apple, lots of spice and gravel characters, thistles, citrus, woodsmoke and green mango. It’s a powerful wine, sure-footed, textural and charismatic. It’s enough to turn you onto chenin. Indeed, it’s enough to make you want to cellar it. This is a wine of clear excellence. Drink 2027-2031+
94+ Points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine FrontThis is a chenin that lets the guys in the Swan Valley know they don’t have it all their way with this variety. The season was kind, and it’s resulted in a thoroughly beautiful example. It doesn’t have the obvious tropical fruits of some chenins, but it still shows fine citrus, light melon and apple characters that capture the variety perfectly. There’s almost a delicacy about this, which is as much about the season as it is about the grape. It’s a cracking wine and thoroughly enjoyable.
95 Points
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