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- 2023 Domaine Bruno Colin Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$335. 00Bottle$4020.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Bruno Colin established his own domaine in 2003, inheriting prime vineyard parcels when the Colin-Deléger estate was divided. Today he farms about 9 hectares across Chassagne-Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet and Saint-Aubin. His wines are known for their precision and detail, combining ripe, expressive fruit with finely judged oak. Bruno's work in the cellar highlights the character of each cru while maintaining a consistently refined style.
Morgeot is a broad premier cru with varied soils, and Bruno's parcel produces a wine of depth and structure, typically on the more powerful side of Chassagne.
Other Reviews....
A more floral-infused nose also reflects a whiff of the exotic though here it's more subtle, on the aromas of poached pear and discreet wood. The sleek and unusually refined middle weight flavor possess both good volume and focused power that seems to build on the seductive and sappy if punchy finale. This too is quite good and worth a look if you enjoy generously proportioned whites. Drink through 2030+.
92 points
Allen Meadows - Burghound - 2023 Domaine Bruno Colin Chassagne-Montrachet En Remilly Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$440. 00Bottle$5280.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Bruno Colin established his own domaine in 2003, inheriting prime vineyard parcels when the Colin-Deléger estate was divided. Today he farms about 9 hectares across Chassagne-Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet and Saint-Aubin. His wines are known for their precision and detail, combining ripe, expressive fruit with finely judged oak. Bruno's work in the cellar highlights the character of each cru while maintaining a consistently refined style.
Bordering Puligny and Saint-Aubin, En Remilly sits high on the slope with thin, rocky soils that yield taut, mineral-driven wines of great purity.
Other Reviews....
Smoky reduction completely dominates the underlying fruit at present so be sure to decant this if you're going to try a bottle young. The refined and strikingly textured medium weight flavors possess excellent mid-palate concentration before terminating in a highly persistent, impeccably well-balanced and markedly dry, but not really austere, finale. This is a big and powerful wine, particularly by the usual standards of En Remilly and one that should age effortlessly. Well worth investigating. Drink through 2033+.
93 points
Allen Meadows - Burghound - 2023 Domaine Bruno Colin Puligny-Montrachet La Truffiere Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$550. 00Bottle$6600.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Bruno Colin established his own domaine in 2003, inheriting prime vineyard parcels when the Colin-Deléger estate was divided. Today he farms about 9 hectares across Chassagne-Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet and Saint-Aubin. His wines are known for their precision and detail, combining ripe, expressive fruit with finely judged oak. Bruno's work in the cellar highlights the character of each cru while maintaining a consistently refined style.
Perched at the top of Puligny, La Truffiere's poor, stony soils give particularly fine and linear wines. Bruno’s bottling shows notable clarity and length, with a distinctly Puligny profile.
Other Reviews....
This is also markedly floral in character with its nose of the essence of spiced pear and exotic tea aromas that are trimmed in moderate wood influence. The palate impression of the middle weight flavors is not nearly as dense or powerful but it is markedly finer and more mineral-driven as well before terminating in an almost delicate yet punchy, long and beautifully well-balanced finale. This is a Truffière of finesse in 2023 but one that should also amply repay extended keeping. Drink through 2033+.
93 points
Allen Meadows - Burghound -
- 94
2023 Domaine Ballot Millot Meursault Charmes Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$470. 00Bottle$5640.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkDomaine Ballot-Millot, run today by Charles Ballot, dates back to the late 17th century and holds 10 hectares in Meursault and surrounding villages. The estate has a reputation for meticulous viticulture, low yields, and restrained winemaking. New oak is used sparingly, and fermentations are slow and natural, producing wines with a strong sense of place and remarkable balance. Ballot-Millot has become one of Meursault's most respected addresses.
Charmes is among the most generous and approachable of Meursault's premiers crus, with deeper soils yielding a wine of breadth and supple texture.
Other Reviews....
A slightly ripe nose offers up an array of white orchard fruit, especially pear, acacia, petrol and a hint of tangerine peel. There is again very good density to the beautifully textured and succulent medium-bodied flavors that aren't quite as refined as those of the Bouchères but do offer more volume as well as just a bit better depth on the balanced and saline-infused finale. Good stuff here. Drink through 2033+.
91-93 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Meursault Charmes 1er Cru has an intense nose of dried honey, walnut and crushed stone—clean and precise, quintessentially Charmes. The oak is neatly subsumed. The palate is wonderful: slightly honeyed in texture, rounded and weighty, not as mineral-driven as the Perrières but the sheer presence of this Meursault is captivating. An outstanding wine from Charles Ballot. Drink 2026-2044.
94 points
Neal Martin - VinousPale lemon colour, with an excellent bouquet that speaks well of Charmes. This has flesh, white fruit, some oak, a sense of grip, still very muscular. Very youthful but with all the right ingredients to make a fine Charmes for at least medium term keeping. Drink from 2029-2034.
92-94 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 95
2023 Domaine Ballot Millot Meursault Perrieres Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$599. 00Bottle$7188.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkDomaine Ballot-Millot, run today by Charles Ballot, dates back to the late 17th century and holds 10 hectares in Meursault and surrounding villages. The estate has a reputation for meticulous viticulture, low yields, and restrained winemaking. New oak is used sparingly, and fermentations are slow and natural, producing wines with a strong sense of place and remarkable balance. Ballot-Millot has become one of Meursault's most respected addresses.
Perrieres is the most esteemed vineyard in Meursault, producing wines of precision and mineral tension. Ballot-Millot's rendition is tightly coiled and built for long ageing.
Other Reviews....
Prominent mineral reduction nuances are present on the overtly floral-suffused aromas of spice, citrus and green apple. The super-sleek and almost painfully intense medium weight flavors brim with a borderline aggressive stoniness that is like rolling a tiny pebble around the mouth before terminating in a lingering finish shaped by lemon-tinged acidity. This is also terrific. Drink through 2033+.
91-94 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Meursault Les Perrières 1er Cru, which I tasted as part of a masterclass in London with Charles Ballot, has an intense nose with crushed stone alongside hints of white peach and white chocolate. But it is the mineralité that drives this along. The palate is tensile from the start, showcasing razor-sharp tannins and killer mineralité with a very persistent and prolonged finish. Another outstanding Meursault. Drink 2027-2046.
95 points
Neal Martin - VinousPale lemon and lime. Very intense bouquet while keeping cool. This is the best balanced of the three Meursault 1ers crus, the structure can easily take the sunshine and there is a beautiful backbone. All that this vineyard should be, with superb persistence and all the stones one could want. Drink from 2030-2036.
94-96 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy - 2023 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Vosne-RomaneeBurgundy, FRANCE$320. 00Bottle$3840.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret farms an impressive 75 acres of vineyards across much of the Cote d'Or in Burgundy, covering 35 separate appellations. While this leads to many different styles of wines to be produced, their house style leans towards rich and supple wines, with impressive concentration that show well in their youth yet age with ease. Other than a portion of their Richebourg, all grapes are fully destemmed before a cool soak of 4-5 days prior to alcoholic fermentation. As a guide no more than 50% new oak is used in their premier cru wines, while up to 70% is used in their top grand cru plots. The wines are bottled after 18-22 months with no filtration.
The village wine comes from several parcels across Vosne, offering a textbook introduction to the appellation's perfumed aromatics and supple texture.
- 2023 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Vosne-Romanee En Orveaux Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$540. 00Bottle$6480.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret farms an impressive 75 acres of vineyards across much of the Cote d'Or in Burgundy, covering 35 separate appellations. While this leads to many different styles of wines to be produced, their house style leans towards rich and supple wines, with impressive concentration that show well in their youth yet age with ease. Other than a portion of their Richebourg, all grapes are fully destemmed before a cool soak of 4-5 days prior to alcoholic fermentation. As a guide no more than 50% new oak is used in their premier cru wines, while up to 70% is used in their top grand cru plots. The wines are bottled after 18-22 months with no filtration.
En Orveaux is a distinctive Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru nestled in a cooler, secluded area near the border with Flagey-Echezeaux. Unlike the more opulent and full-bodied expressions of Les Suchots or Les Petits Monts, En Orveaux's location imparts a subtler elegance with refined tannins and bright, floral notes. This site’s unique microclimate and elevation contribute to wines that are delicate yet nuanced, showcasing a more ethereal side of Vosne-Romanee.
- 2023 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Vosne-Romanee Les Suchots Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$540. 00Bottle$6480.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret farms an impressive 75 acres of vineyards across much of the Cote d'Or in Burgundy, covering 35 separate appellations. While this leads to many different styles of wines to be produced, their house style leans towards rich and supple wines, with impressive concentration that show well in their youth yet age with ease. Other than a portion of their Richebourg, all grapes are fully destemmed before a cool soak of 4-5 days prior to alcoholic fermentation. As a guide no more than 50% new oak is used in their premier cru wines, while up to 70% is used in their top grand cru plots. The wines are bottled after 18-22 months with no filtration.
Les Suchots is the largest premier cru in Vosne-Romanee, situated between the grand crus of Echezeaux on one side, and Romanee-Saint-Vivant and Richebourg on the other. Soils here are richer than the other premier cru plots further up the slope, and produces wines with excellent perfume and character.
- 2023 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Vosne-Romanee Les Petits Monts Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$540. 00Bottle$6480.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret farms an impressive 75 acres of vineyards across much of the Cote d'Or in Burgundy, covering 35 separate appellations. While this leads to many different styles of wines to be produced, their house style leans towards rich and supple wines, with impressive concentration that show well in their youth yet age with ease. Other than a portion of their Richebourg, all grapes are fully destemmed before a cool soak of 4-5 days prior to alcoholic fermentation. As a guide no more than 50% new oak is used in their premier cru wines, while up to 70% is used in their top grand cru plots. The wines are bottled after 18-22 months with no filtration.
As the name suggests, Les Petits Monts is situated on a small hill above the Richebourg grand cru. Vines in Mongeard-Mugneret’s plot are over 50 years old, and produces one of their finest and most elegant expressions from Vosne-Romanee.
- 2020 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Vosne-RomaneeBurgundy, FRANCE$320. 00Bottle$3840.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret farms an impressive 75 acres of vineyards across much of the Cote d'Or in Burgundy, covering 35 separate appellations. While this leads to many different styles of wines to be produced, their house style leans towards rich and supple wines, with impressive concentration that show well in their youth yet age with ease. Other than a portion of their Richebourg, all grapes are fully destemmed before a cool soak of 4-5 days prior to alcoholic fermentation. As a guide no more than 50% new oak is used in their premier cru wines, while up to 70% is used in their top grand cru plots. The wines are bottled after 18-22 months with no filtration.
The village wine comes from several parcels across Vosne, offering a textbook introduction to the appellation's perfumed aromatics and supple texture.
-
- 95
- 94
2021 Balgownie Estate Bendigo Cabernet SauvignonBendigo, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.6%Closure: StelvinRefined and medium bodied with a gentle chalky feel to the long, elegant finish.
Midnight black in colour with a dark red hue. Lifted blackcurrant and choc mint aromas are interwoven with vanillin cedar, tobacco, dried herb and spicy earth notes. Refined and medium bodied, the palate features rich blackcurrant and mulberry fruits over a dusty earth, vanillin cedar, tobacco and spicy dried herb back drop. Slightly dryish fine grained tannins with a gentle chalky feel to the long, elegant finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.6%Other Reviews…..
Open vat fermentation, 21 days on skins, aged in French oak (20% new) for 18 months. Hand-picked from the '69 and '70 blocks and offering a real taste of Victorian wine history. With some swishes of air it opens up a treat, highlighting impressive fruit concentration and deep flavour replete in black fruits, plum, cassis, bay leaf, acacia and dark chocolate, with a gentle leafy complexity. Even tannins and plenty of length. Drink by 2031.
94 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
2019 Woodfield Estate Cabernet ShirazYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinElegant and medium bodied with some tertiary elements coming through on the refined finish.
Matured for 16 months in new French oak barrels. Deep dark red black tinged colour with a very dark red hue. Nosing offers up aromas of mulberry, red currant and red liquorice which are interwoven with vanillin cedar, delicate earthy tobacco and spice notes. The elegant medium bodied palate features red currant and mulberry fruits on the front half with tertiary elements of earth, subtle tobacco, dried herbs and spicy vanillin cedar lying underneath. Polished feel with fine grained tannins. Some delicate leather elements emerge through the refined medium to long finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years
Alc. 13.5% -
- 96
2024 Freycinet Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.9%Closure: StelvinPowerful and expansive with juicy dark to black fruits.
Matured in French oak barriques (25% new) for a period of 10 months. Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a vibrant purple red hue. Pronounced dark cherry, strawberry and more subtle anise aromas set sail from the glass followed by some violet, fresh herb, earth and delicate spicy cedar notes. Juicy dark to black cherry, wild strawberry and anise flavours flood the mouth with spicy cedar, earth and infusions of fresh herbs sitting in the background. Powerful and expansive, it has grainy tannins which lend a structured feel across the long expressive finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.9% -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Mike Press Single Vineyard MerlotAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinMedium bodied with slightly dryish tannins and an elegant finish.
Matured in American and French oak for over 12 months. Deep dark red black tinged core with a dark red hue. Aromas of blackcurrant and ripe mulberry intermix with cedary tobacco, earth and dried herb notes. Medium bodied, the palate features mulberry and blackcurrant fruits over a spicy cedar, tobacco and earthy dried herb back drop. Slightly dryish fine grained tannins with an elegant finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
- 95
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Duke’s Magpie Hill Reserve RieslingPorongurup, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinZesty lemon, lime and crunchy green apple fruits with a long, tense finish.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Elevated lemon, lime juice and green apple scents are trailed by chalk and steely mineral notes. Zesty lemon, lime and crunchy green apple fruits are delivered with clarity and focus. Crisp underlying acidity with chalky mineral and wet steel elements extending across the back half. Finishes dry, long and tense.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
The distinctive lime edge of this vineyard emerges immediately on the nose with other notes of limestone and sea spray. The palate is deeply intense with a degree of Riesling tension. The light oyster shell minerality adds another dimension with a crunchy acidity bringing a racy lip-smacking palate feel. Drink 2024-2036.
95 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com -
- 94
- 92
2024 Parish Vineyards Sauvignon BlancTasmania, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinMouth watering Tassie Sauvignon Blanc that carries impressive intensity.
Brilliant water like colour with a greenish tinge running around the outskirts. Pungent aromas of herbaceous gooseberries and passionfruit jump out of the glass followed by some lime, subtle grassy asparagus and mineral notes. Scrumptious gooseberry, passionfruit and lime fruits carry impressive intensity across the mouth watering palate. Herbaceous grassy characters, asparagus and mineral elements lie underneath. Crisp acidity with a long zesty finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews……
Sauvignon Blanc from a warmer part of Tasmania – the cooler regions might just make the variety a little too lean and mean – which works well. A gleaming pale green/gold, this is a Savvy of intensity throughout. The aromas are a pleasing mix of the herbal and the tropical, giving us a medley of passionfruit and cut grass – sounds odd but it works. There is acidity tending to paper cut levels, but as the tropicals take over on the palate, this is neatly balanced. Good length here, and the wine should drink well for the next couple of years. You could do a lot worse than match it with some fresh Tassie scallops. Drink 2024-2026.
92 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com -
- 92
2025 Duke’s Single Vineyard Dry RosePorongurup, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12.8%Closure: StelvinA juicy, fruit driven Rose.
Made from Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Riesling also included. Vibrant damask pink tinged colour. Delightful cherry, raspberry and strawberry scents stream from the glass with plenty of intensity followed by some musk stick and light spice notes. Delicious ripe cherry, strawberry and raspberry fruits cast a supple flow across the palate with some musk and pomegranate elements in the background. Crisp acidity with a juicy, fruit driven finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.8% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Fratin Brothers Vineyard Grampians ShirazGrampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinMedium bodied with good flesh and peppered earth characters lingering through the finish.
Dense inky black heart with a dark red hue. Spicy dark plum and liquorice aromas intermingle with scorched earth, black olive, dried herb and blackpepper notes. Juicy dark cherry and liquorice fruits carry medium body weight and good flesh across the palate. Scorched earth and peppered dried herb elements sit underneath. Slightly grainy tannins with peppered earth elements lingering through the aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 95
2023 Forest Hill Vineyard ShirazMount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDense and rich with chewy tannins and a long peppery finish.
Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Intense inky blackberry, liquorice and black cherry aromas jump out of the glass followed by vanillin cedar, earthy fennel and peppered meat notes. Rich fleshy blackberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits swamp the mouth with vanillin cedar, inky earth, subtle fennel and peppered meat elements lining the back half. Outstanding concentration, density and power with a sturdy tannin framework imparting a chewy feel. The long peppery conclusion lush yet robust.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Whistling Eagle Vineyard BomberHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinBright and slightly chalky with a muscular finish.
A blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Malbec and Grenache. Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of blackberry, liquorice and blackcurrant flow from the glass with hints of blueberry, earth and spicy herbs also evident. Rich liquorice and blackberry fruits overlay a blueberry, dried herb, earth and spicy tobacco back drop. Very bright acidity with slightly chalky tannins lending a grippy feel onto the muscular finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 94
- 92
2023 Turkey Flat Butcher’s Block Grenache Shiraz MataroBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinPlump and juicy with a long seductive finish.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Drifting from the glass with plenty of authority are aromas of dark raspberry, liquorice and dark plum trailed by subtle earthy dark chocolate and vanillin spice notes. Plump and juicy the palate is filled with dark raspberry, liquorice, ripe plum and dark chocolate flavours. Subtle earth and vanillin spice elements linger underneath. Velvet smooth tannins with a long seductive finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
$27 is extremely reasonable for a wine of this quality. More power to Turkey Flat for keeping it real.
It’s a solid red wine, bright enough, accessible and engaging, and with just enough creaminess to qualify it as smooth, or a frisky version thereof. It tastes of raspberries, vanilla, pools of plum, anise and sweet, earthen spice notes. It’s mouth filling in lively kind of way. It’s very tidy drinking.
Drink 2025-2029+
92 Points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Fratin Brothers Vineyard MerlotGrampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinMedium bodied with firmish tannins imparting a chalky feel to what is a slightly bitter mid length finish.
Deep black dark red heart with a brick red tinged hue. Blackcurrant and stewed plum aromas emerge followed by cedary tobacco, dried herb, scorched earth and vanillin spice notes. Medium bodied, blackcurrant and stewed plum flavours meld into an earthy back drop of spicy vanillin cedar, mulberry, tobacco and dried herbs. Firmish tannins with a chalky feel to what is a slightly bitter mid length finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
- Biodynamic
2020 Weingut Steintal Klingenberg Spatburgunder Alte RebenGERMANY$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12%Closure: CorkLight and energetic with a savoury sour to red fruit flavour profile.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red tinged hue. Sour to red cherry, dried herb, winter strawberry and earth notes greet the nostrils followed by some stalk and spice notes. Light and fresh with sour to red cherry, rhubarb and winter strawberry fruits dancing across the energetic palate. Lively acidity with dried herb, earth, stalk and spice elements sitting in the background. Elegant and savoury it finishes with good length.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 95
- 97
2024 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc Magnum (1500ml)Heathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 15%Closure: CorkOther Reviews…..
One of the enduring, great heroines of the Heathcote wine region; a wine significant in history and beautifully defining the concept of terroir. Inky dark purple and dense in hue – a Heathcote trademark. Taut and focused, far more than its '24 sibling; Emily isn't going anywhere too soon. Rather, it's got time on its vinous mind. Boasts a core of tightly coiled black and blue fruits, blackstrap licorice, vanilla pod, dusty cacao, allspice, crushed fennel seeds and red earth. There's an energy brewing – you can feel it. Tannins are ripe, in control and all set. All it needs now is time. Drink by 2042.
95 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
Complex and layered, with aromas of black and blue fruits, spices, flowers, cured meats, graphite and licorice. The palate is vibrant and textural, with a firmly framed yet silken structure and a fine backbone of acidity. This wine, alongside the Georgia’s Paddock bottling, is outstanding and among the best I’ve tasted in recent times. Having tried every vintage back to 1988, this stands as one of the very best. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Solum Wines ChardonnayMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinMid weighted with a subtle creaminess counterpointed by lively acidity.
Wild fermented with maturation taking place in French oak, (20% new) for a period of 11 months. Approximately 40% of the wine went through malolactic fermentation. Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Expressive ripe peach, honeycomb and biscuity nougat aromas fill the nostrils with some crème brulee, cashew and spice notes also chiming in. Mid weighted the palate features white peach and bright citrus fruits over a crème brulee, biscuity oak, dried honey and spice back drop. Lively acidity is counterpointed by a subtle creaminess through the energetic finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Greywacke Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2030-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinAn elegant, tightly structured and savoury Pinot Noir.
Matured in French oak barriques, 30% new. Dark red in colour with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Spicy dark cherry and rhubarb scents drift through the nostrils trailed by some dried herb, stalk and earthy graphite like notes. Elegant, tightly structured and savoury, the palate features spicy rhubarb and cherry flavours over a dried herb, stalky cedar and forest floor back drop. Grainy tannins lending a slightly chalky feel across the fresh, elegant finish which has a tense feel to it.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- 96
- Organic
2013 O’Leary Walker Polish Hill River Riesling Museum ReleaseClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinLime and lemon fruits complimented by tertiary elements with crisp acidity and a gentle waxy feel.
Brilliant yellow straw colour with a watery hue. Lime, lemon oil and toast scents drift from the glass with plenty of intensity trailed by some bees wax, kerosene and spice notes. Lime and lemon fruits are complimented by toast, bees wax, kerosene and wet steel elements. Crisp acidity lends tension. Finishes dry and fresh with a gentle waxy feel emerging.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
Bright, gleaming green-straw; has that extra degree of precision that Polish Hill River seems to always confer, and an intensity that is light on its feet; the slatey acidity is yet another marker that comes through strongly in this lime and lemon-accented wine thanks to extremely low pH.
96 Points
James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 94
2024 Triennes RoseMediterranee, FRANCE$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA gorgeous, slippery textured Rose, that finishes long, fresh and supple.
Triennes is a joint venture between Jacques Seysses of Domaine Dujac and Aubert de Villaine from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti and is located in the Var, to the East of Aix en Provence. It has farmed organically since 2008. Made principally with Cinsault, it also has some Grenache, Syrah and Merlot thrown into the blend.
Pale salmon pink colour. Alluring peach, raspberry and strawberry aromas drift through the nostrils with plenty of intensity followed by whiffs of musk, pomegranate and wet stone. Gorgeous slippery textural feel with delicious raspberry, peach and strawberry fruits featured over a subtle pomegranate, light musk and stony mineral back drop. Brisk acidity lends freshness to the long, supple finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
- 97
2024 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet FrancHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenABV: 15%Closure: CorkOther Reviews…..
One of the enduring, great heroines of the Heathcote wine region; a wine significant in history and beautifully defining the concept of terroir. Inky dark purple and dense in hue – a Heathcote trademark. Taut and focused, far more than its '24 sibling; Emily isn't going anywhere too soon. Rather, it's got time on its vinous mind. Boasts a core of tightly coiled black and blue fruits, blackstrap licorice, vanilla pod, dusty cacao, allspice, crushed fennel seeds and red earth. There's an energy brewing – you can feel it. Tannins are ripe, in control and all set. All it needs now is time. Drink by 2042.
95 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
Complex and layered, with aromas of black and blue fruits, spices, flowers, cured meats, graphite and licorice. The palate is vibrant and textural, with a firmly framed yet silken structure and a fine backbone of acidity. This wine, alongside the Georgia’s Paddock bottling, is outstanding and among the best I’ve tasted in recent times. Having tried every vintage back to 1988, this stands as one of the very best. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
- 92
- 92
2021 Torres Pago del Cielo Celeste CrianzaRibera del Duero, SPAIN$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkRich, fleshy black fruit with slightly chewy tannins firming up the generous yet rustic finish.
Pitch black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Black cherry, liquorice, scorched earth and spicy leather elements sail out of the glass. Rich black cherry and liquorice fruits carry good flesh as they merge into old cedar, scorched earth and spicy leather characters across the back half. Slightly chewy tannins firm up the generous yet rustic finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
A juicy and well-balanced wine showing aromas of fresh red fruit, spiced plums, berries and touches of warm bread, white pepper and hibiscus. Crunchy and fruit-expressive, with a medium body and firm tannins. Excellent balance, and there is nothing overdone. It shows elegance and drinkability. Already approachable. Drinkable now, but can hold.
92 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2021 Tinto Fino Celeste Crianza from Ribera del Duero was aged for 12 months in 300-liter French (55%) and American (45%) oak barrels, 17% new. Garnet in color, it offers aromas of cherry and sour cherry with marked barrel influence, including a hint of vanilla. Fine tannins and a chalky, plush texture carry through to a polished red fruit finish. Drink 2025-2035.
92 Points
Joaquín Hidalgo - Vinous -
- 92
2022 Mike Press ShirazAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich and well fleshed with velvety tannins and a generously endowed conclusion.
Matured for 18 months in older French oak. Deep midnight black heart with a dark red hue. Lifted ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas mix with vanillin oak, earthy dark chocolate and spice notes. Rich, fleshy liquorice, dark chocolate and dark plum fruits are intermeshed with spicy vanillin oak and earthy mocha characters. Velvety tannins with a generously endowed mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Gill Estate Gentle Giant Cabernet SauvignonVictoria, AUSTRALIA$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13.8%Closure: StelvinMedium bodied with well fleshed red fruits and a savoury finish.
Deep dark red black tinged core with a red to dark red hue. Aromas of mulberry and red currant mix with tobacco leaf, dried herb and spice notes. Fleshy ripe red currant and mulberry fruits carry medium body weight with dried herb, tobacco leaf and spicy earth elements sitting underneath. Fine grained tannins with a savoury conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.8% -
- 94
2023 Rogues Lane The Rogue Heathcote ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich and weighty with ripe chewy tannins and a long peppery finish.
From vines planted in 1995 with maturation taking place in French oak for a period of 9 months. Pitch black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Aniseed and black cherry aromas mix with scorched earth and peppered dried meat notes. Rich, lush blackberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits carry an opulent feel and ample weight across the palate. Scorched earth, fennel and peppered dried meat ensue. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins lend firmness to the long peppery finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 93
- Reduced
2010 Ada River Cabernet SauvignonHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $29.99$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 14.4%Closure: StelvinMid weighted and fleshy with a firmish finish drying out a touch.
Midnight black core with a dark brick red black tinged hue. Scents of blackcurrant and earth mix with ripe mulberry, vanillin cedar, dried herb, subtle black olive and spicy leather. Mid weighted with a fleshy feel, blackcurrant, stewed plum and mulberry fruits meld into an earthy tobacco, vanillin cedar, dried herb and spicy leather back drop. Grainy tannins with the firmish finish drying out a touch.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 14.4% -
- 94
- Reduced
2015 Ada River Pinot NoirGippsland, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $29.99$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA nicely aged Pinot that’s silky and savoury.
Semi translucent bright red colour with a light brick red tinged hue. Spicy rhubarb, cherry and strawberry scents show ample fragrance out of the glass followed by forest floor, dried herb and bramble notes. Delicious cherry and strawberry fruits make a silken entrance with notions of rhubarb, dried herbs, forest floor and spicy bramble highlighted across the back half. Nicely powered it has polished tannins and a long supple finish that shows some spice.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
- 97
- 99
- Reduced
2024 Jasper Hill Georgia's Paddock ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $95.00$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)ABV: 15.5%Closure: CorkBold, rich and sumptuous with classic Jasper Hill structure and a long energetic finish.
Georgia’s Paddock contains twelve hectares of Shiraz resulting in an average yield of about three tonnes per hectare. Planted on its own roots in 1975/76 on basaltic rock from the Cambrian period at an altitude of 320 meters. The dry-grown vines here have to rely on natural rainfall only, producing fruit with the immense concentration that the winery is known for.
Magnificent depth of colour featuring a saturated inky black heart along with a near equally deep black dark red hue. Wafting through the nostrils with great authority are aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum followed by spicy vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth notes. Bold, rich and sumptuous, the sizeable palate manages to retain remarkable underlying freshness. Opulent blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and ripe blueberry fruits engage every corner of the mouth, showing outstanding concentration and drive. Spicy vanillin cedar, subtle scorched earth, fennel and pepper elements the undercard. Firmly built yet perfectly integrated tannin structure. Concludes exceptionally long and energetic with lashings of ripe fruit.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 15.5%Other Reviews…..
Here is a first-rate lesson on soils and what they contribute to wine. Georgia hails from red, iron-oxide–rich, ancient Cambrian soils that have brought the most astonishing natural balance in '24. The boldness we associate with Georgia is there, but so too a well-delivered fineness of expression that seems to belie the 15.5% abv. The fruit is black and ripe, the spices soar, the oak is well integrated and a ferrous minerality adds a brightness and spark to everything. The tannins are firm but still welcoming, and it just gels so beautifully, so resoundingly. Drink by 2042.
97 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThis is a great bottling of this famed central Victorian icon. Layers of black and blue fruits intertwine with a mineral-edged undertone, showing aromas of graphite, ferric earth, spices, violets, blackberries and licorice. The palate is seamlessly integrated, with a fine backbone of acidity and almost silken tannins. An excellent wine that balances fruit, earth and vineyard character, all pulled together with a high level of polish. Excellent. Drink or hold.
99 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 90
2023 Lignier-Michelot Gevrey-Chambertin Cuvee BertinBurgundy, FRANCE$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village, along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Virgile makes his Gevrey villages cuvee mostly from a parcel of .53 ha of vines planted in 1969 in Les Seuvrees which borders on to grand cru Charmes Chambertin close to the Morey St Denis border.
Other Reviews....
An overtly floral-suffused nose features ripe and dark fruit aromas cut with earth and humus wisps. Once again the mouthfeel of the medium-bodied flavors is super-sleek thanks mainly to the fine-grained tannins shaping the energetic and solidly complex finale. This isn't particularly dense but the balance is impeccable. Drink through 2031+.
89-92 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Gevrey-Chambertin Cuvée Bertin is 100% whole cluster this year. The stems are neatly assimilated on the nose with traces of black pepper and freshly tilled loam. The palate is medium-bodied, lively and quite assertive with striking black peppery notes on the entry. It has gentle grip and stems that define the finish, but there is sufficient fruit to soak them up with age. This will be intriguing to watch mature in bottle. Drink 2026-2042.
90-92 points
Neal Martin - VinousFrom Creux Brouillards, Seuvrées and Murots with 100% whole bunch vinification. A crimson edge to the purple colour. The nose is most welcoming, with rich strawberry fruit, evident on the nose, and following through almost decadently on the palate until the whole bunch spice restores some discipline. A lovely wine to enjoy in the relatively near future. Drink from 2028-2032.
90-91 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 90
2023 Lignier-Michelot Morey-Saint-Denis en la rue de VergyBurgundy, FRANCE$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village, along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
This tiny vineyard of en la rue de Vergy is just over three hectares in size and borders directly on to three grand cru vineyards of Bonnes Mares, Clos de Tart and Clos des Lambrays. Virgile owns 1.9 ha of vines planted 1975 situated quite high on the slope just above Clos de Tart where the limestone is quite close to the surface, similar to the highest vineyards in Chambolle Musigny which it borders on the southern side.
Other Reviews....
Once again there is a vaguely liqueur-like character to the aromas of dark currant, spice and abundant floral elements, especially violet and lilac. The mouthfeel of the lighter weight flavors is also super-sleek and beautifully detailed with more evident minerality suffusing the balanced and impressively long finale. Lovely. Drink through 2031+.
89-91 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Morey-Saint-Denis en la Rue de Vergy has a more introspective nose than last year and demands coaxing, reluctantly revealing black plum and raspberry scents, hints of Earl Grey and a light marine influence. The palate is beautifully balanced with impressive red cherry and wild strawberry notes, gentle grip and a judicious touch of pepper on the finish. This is a level-up from the previous vintage. Drink 2026-2039.
90-92 points
Neal Martin - VinousFrom 55-year-old vines. Crimson ruby in colour, while the use of 70% whole bunches adds to a volatile lift on the nose. A deep red berry fruit with a saline, hillside finish, limestone and whole bunches working in harness. Drink from 2029-2034.
90-91 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 89
2023 Lignier-Michelot Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles VignesBurgundy, FRANCE$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village, along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Lignier's Chambolle-Musigny hails from two parcels in Les Drazey and Les Gamaires below Bonnes Mares that were planted in the 1950’s and 1960’s and total 1.48 hectares.
Other Reviews....
Liqueur-like aromas of spicy red berries display a top note of violet. The super-sleek, delicious and vibrant middle weight flavors exude an appealing minerality on the balanced, dusty and youthfully austere finale. This needs to develop more depth but that should reasonably occur if given a chance. Drink through 2030+.
88-91 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes comes from two lieux-dits on clay and more limestone soils. This is quite open and generous on the lightly extracted and finely delineated nose with red berries, touches of incense and sous-bois. The palate is medium-bodied and quite elegant in style with fine tannins and a fleshy, smooth, lightly spiced finish. It's delightful, even if outshone by Lignier's range of Morey Premier Crus. Drink 2026-2038.
89-91 points
Neal Martin - Vinous80% whole bunches. Mid purple, not the deepest. It was necessary to be very careful in the vinification to avoid the wine showing too much Morey character, I am told. The bouquet is light, within the context of Virgile’s wines, quite floral, and with certainly a pleasing finesse across the palate, adequate acidity and very good length. A very accomplished Chambolle. Drink from 2029-2034.
91-92 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 88
2023 Lignier-Michelot Savigny-les-BeauneBurgundy, FRANCE$190. 00Bottle$2280.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village, along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
From a parcel in Savigny-les-Beaune named Les Guettotes, this cuvee broadens the domaine's range beyond its Cotes de Nuits stronghold. The vines sit on well-draining soils that contribute to a wine of accessibility while retaining the structure that characterises Virgile's style.
Other Reviews....
A cooler and less expressive nose derives from the dark side of the fruit spectrum while adding subtle spice and floral elements. The supple and vibrant, if not especially dense, flavors exude evident minerality on the bright, delicious and equally refreshing finish that is slightly firmer. Drink through 2027+.
87-89 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Guettotes comes from purchased fruit. This has a refined, well-defined and focused bouquet with vivid red cherry and crushed strawberry scents. The palate is medium-bodied, clean and fresh, with light tannins and just a touch of white pepper toward the finish. Elegant in style, drink this puppy over the next five or six years. Drink 2026-2033.
88-90 points
Neal Martin - VinousThe second vintage – Virgile destemmed the first year, but used 30% stems this time. Rich purple, a bouquet full of dark red fruit energy, with good tension behind, and the peppery end note from the stems. An attractive village level Savigny, slightly less ripe in this cooler site. Drink from 2028-2032.
89-90 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 97
- 96
- 96
- 96
2024 Elanto Vineyard ChardonnayMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkRich and enveloping with a long, expansive finish that displays a Burgundian like refinement.
Elanto Vineyard is fast becoming one of the most compelling projects on the Mornington Peninsula. Established in 2018 by Elizabeth and Tony Todaro with Sandro Mosele at the helm, the 10.6-hectare Balnarring site is planted at an extraordinary density over 11,000 vines per hectare, four times the regional norm. Yields are kept to just 300-500g per vine, resulting in small, concentrated bunches that carry the depth and power Sandro has long championed. Volcanic red soils, southeast exposure, and the cooling influence of Western Port Bay provide the setting, while meticulous organic farming and uncompromising vineyard detail push the wines into rare territory.
The three Chardonnay vineyards, Verge, Buckshot, and Seawinds, span 4 hectares on the lower slopes, where silt over clay transitions to lighter, gravelly soils rich in buckshot. The cool southerly airflow and soil profile preserve natural acidity and enhance mineral notes. Each vineyard was harvested and vinified separately, with hand-sorted fruit whole-bunch pressed directly into a mix of new and older French oak barriques for natural fermentation. After 10 months in barrel, the wine spent an additional two months in large concrete vats before bottling.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green highlights around the outskirts and a watery hue. Intense white peach, pear, ripe nectarine and dried honey aromas engulf the olfactory senses. Notions of crème brulee, citrusy nougat, cashew, subtle bacon fat and spice then chime in for additional complexity. Rich, concentrated and enveloping, a creamy textural feel is perfectly counterpointed by fresh acidity with mouthfilling white peach, fleshy pear and nectarine fruits melding into a creme brulee, citrusy nougat, delicate cashew and spice back drop. Boasting outstanding power and depth, it has a long expansive finish that displays a Burgundian like refinement.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
A terrific follow up to the inaugural release, coming out with more weight and body. Mid-straw gold and bright. Floral and waxy with lemon, spiced stone fruit, brown spices and honeycomb – lots within yet definitely in the savoury spectrum. Fuller bodied, rich, almost al dente with its phenolics and layers of texture via creamy, nutty lees. It’s detailed yet supple, with a succulence thanks to the all-important uplifting acidity. Moreish and compelling. Drink by 2034.
96 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe Elanto vineyard – at Balnarring on the Mornington Peninsula – is 10.6 hectares of 11,111 vines each hectare, which equates to a vineyard made up of 117, 777 individual vines. This is the second release of a chardonnay from this remarkable vineyard. It’s made by Sandro Mosele. 85% of this release went through malo where very little of the 2023 release did.
This is seriously good. The intensity of fruit is the thing, and the associated length, though there’s a keen textural element and just plenty of wow factor besides. Yellow peach, citrus, nougat, honeycomb and lemon blossom notes charge thoughout. There’s a lot of fruit, a deal of acidity, and a sizeable serve of oak, but all work together and all feel commanding. Drink 2027-2032+
96 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine FrontThe 2024 Balnarring Chardonnay is tighter, brighter and more primary than the 2023 tasted alongside. In the mouth, the wine is svelte and textural, and it shows all the sophistication of the site. The elevated malolactic percentage here contributes to the elevated sense of creaminess in the mouth. It's an excellent wine and will be even better in time. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under Diam. The fruit is handpicked into 10-kilogram baskets. The winery and vineyard are adjacent, and once in the winery, the fruit goes over a sorting table with rollers at the end of the elevator. The fruit is pressed direct to barriques—all French, mainly Sirugue (from the Forêt de Tronçais, in central France)—and fermented wild, with wild malolactic fermentation (5% to 10%). The 2023 Chardonnay wouldn't go through wild malolactic fermentation, but the red eventually did. The wine is taken out of barrel at Christmastime, after which it spends two months in concrete, and then goes to stainless for a further four months. Drink 2025-2039.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate -
- 97
- 97
- 96
- 95
2024 Elanto Vineyard Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam CorkRich, supple and expansive with a long peacock’s tail like finish.
Elanto Vineyard is fast becoming one of the most compelling projects on the Mornington Peninsula. Established in 2018 by Elizabeth and Tony Todaro with Sandro Mosele at the helm, the 10.6-hectare Balnarring site is planted at an extraordinary density over 11,000 vines per hectare, four times the regional norm. Yields are kept to just 300-500g per vine, resulting in small, concentrated bunches that carry the depth and power Sandro has long championed. Volcanic red soils, southeast exposure, and the cooling influence of Western Port Bay provide the setting, while meticulous organic farming and uncompromising vineyard detail push the wines into rare territory.
The five Pinot Noir vineyards, Vertex, Ironstone, Chicory, Kilnside, and Basalt, span 6.7 hectares on the upper slopes with basalt-rich soils. The red volcanic soils transition to shallower, stonier terrain mid-slope, producing lower yields, concentrated flavors, and a distinct tannin profile. Each vineyard was harvested and vinified separately, with chilled, destemmed fruit (3-5% whole bunches) undergoing cold soak and natural fermentation in concrete vats. After 25-30 days on skins, the wine was pressed and aged in a mix of new and older French oak barriques for 11 months before blending and bottling.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Perfumed aromas of violet, dark cherry, strawberry and anise soar from the glass trailed by some spicy cedar, forest floor, subtle dried herb and brambly rhubarb like notes. Rich, supplely textured dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours expand across the palate with a peacock’s tail like power wave. Spicy cedar, rhubarb, forest floor, delicate infusions of dried herbs and bramble are spread across the back half. Seamlessly integrated, velvet smooth tannins and fresh underlying acidity. Finishes super seductive and very long.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews……
What a beguiling wine – only the second release and showing complexity far beyond its years. It’s certainly youthful and pretty with heady aromas of florals and autumn leaves with flavours of wild strawberries, dark cherries and pips, chinotto, Middle Eastern spices and some poached rhubarb, too. The medium-bodied palate is evenly poised, laden with filigree tannins (lots of them) and energising acidity; oak (25% new) completely integrated. This has depth, some grip, a little amaro bitterness on the finish and, of utmost importance, it will age but it’s oh-so pleasing to drink today. Drink by 2036.
97 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe intensity of fruit here is fantastic, as is the length of the finish, as is the tannin profile. This wine is out of the ordinary on these matters alone. It tastes of stewed red and black cherries, peppercorns, cedar and undergrowth, the dry crackle of the finish – yet sluiced with fruit – one for the ages. The slightest degree of warmth is my only hesitation; in all other respects this is superb. Drink 2026-2033+
95 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine FrontThe 2024 Balnarring Pinot Noir is perfumed and fragrant and quite different in character compared to the 2023 tasted alongside. Where the former was powerful, structural and condensed, this is floral, perfumed and fresh. I love the way this wine performs. There is levity here and minerality too. The tannins are structural and chalky through the long finish. This is very good. It doesn't break stride at any point. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2039.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate -
- 95
- 94
2023 Dalrymple Single Site Pipers River Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich and impressively concentrated with a supple flow across the mid weighted palate.
Dark red heart with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Violet, anise and strawberry scents sail out of the glass with a perfumed like intensity followed by some fragrant herb, black cherry, earth and spicy cedar notes. Rich dark to black cherry, strawberry and anise flavours are delivered with impressive concentration, carrying a supple flow across the mid weighted palate. Spicy cedar, dried herb and earth elements sit underneath. Polished tannins with a dash of tangy acidity lingering through the long fleshy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
A single-vineyard pinot noir from Pipers River showing plenty of wild strawberry, dark cherry and plum fruits with hints of medina spice, char siu, mountain herbs, dried citrus rind, citrus blossom, pomegranate, dried cranberries, dried meats and turned earth. A little more concentration this release; fruits a shade darker in the swatch book but still nicely composed, with a swoop of sour cherry, powdery tannins and a vivid briny cadence on the back end. Drink by 2035.
94 Points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
2024 XO Wine Co Small Batch Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinAmply powered and expansive with delicious red to dark fruits and a supple feel.
Fruit was sourced from three vineyards in the Southern Adelaide Hills with a varying portion of whole bunch ferments for each parcel. Maturation took place in French oak (15% new) for a period of 7 months.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a vibrant red hue. Sailing from the glass with a perfumed like intensity are aromas of violets, dark cherries, strawberries, anise and clove. Some brambly cedar, forest floor and spice notes also chime in. Delicious red to dark cherry, strawberry and more subtle anise flavours flood the palate. Smoky dried clove, brambly forest floor and spice elements ensue. Amply powered and expansive, it carries a supple feel and possesses polished tannins. There’s a lick of freshness across the long, moreish finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
- 98
- 98
2023 Mount Pleasant Maurice O’Shea ShirazHunter Valley, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$280. 00Bottle$3360.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 20 Years (2025-2045)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA superbly finessed and beautifully poised Hunter Valley Shiraz.
Fruit was sourced from the Old Hill vineyard planted in 1880, the Old Paddock vineyard planted in 1921 and Rosehill vineyard in 1946. Totally opaque black dark red heart with a bright red to dark red hue. Refined yet intense, the nose is flooded with red liquorice, plum and dark cherry scents which are complimented by earth, vanillin cedar, violet and peppered herb notes. Rich yet understated, the superbly finessed palate carries a supple flow of red liquorice, red plum and ripe cherry fruits which meld into a vanillin cedar, subtlety scorched earth, dried herb, gentle clove and pepper back drop. Beautifully poised, light on it’s feet and supple, it possesses a Pinot like power wave and fresh underlying acidity. Very fine yet grainy like tannins with an exceptionally long red fruited finish that combines savouriness with elegance.
Drink over the next 10-20 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Maurice O'Shea is the flagship blend of the best parcels from the finest vineyards of the Mount Pleasant estate. For this vintage, the vineyards included the 1880 vines of Old Hill and the Rosehill 1946 vines, with all grapes hand picked, destemmed and sorted, leaving the whole berries to soak before fermentation. The result is a stylish, medium-weight shiraz with incredible flavour intensity and an inherent lightness and energy. Beautifully supple, it bursts with warm strawberry fruit, enhanced by nuanced, fragrant oak. The mid-palate has impressive weight, while the intense, succulent flavours on the finish are captivating and memorable. Though it will cellar for decades, its remarkable approachability makes it hard to resist opening now. Drink by 2043.
98 Points
Toni Paterson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionWow, just wow. You know the blending bench has had tireless hours of tasting and conversation for this wine. The icon, the flagship, the cumulation of vintage and pedigree. It is a work of art, in every sense, and captures the magic of Mount Pleasant. Waves and curls of raspberry puree, rosehip and Alpine strawberry. A hint of Kirsch and bilberry. An undeniable sandy clay earthiness is tangible in each sip followed by white pepper, billy tea tannins and carried by eloquent and effortless acidity. It’s seamless to be quite frank and hard to imagine how the $ figure covers it. This will make you proud to be living in the state of New South Wales let alone the continent. At an early pre release this is drinking stonkingly well and will continue to evolve in ways the mind can only imagine. A magical mystical vintage of Maurice O’Shea!
98 Points
Shanteh Wale – WinePilot.com -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Aloft Pinot GrisAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinFleshy pear and red apple fruits with a very dry, refreshing finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour with apricot tinged edges and a watery hue. Expressive ripe pear and red apple scents are drawn in by the nostrils followed by whiffs of musk and wet stone. Fleshy pear and red apple fruits meld into a citrus, delicate musk and wet stone back drop. Very dry finish with brisk acidity and a refreshing aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Alpha Box & Dice Very Special Clare Valley RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 11.7%Closure: StelvinRacy lime and lemon fruits with crisp acidity and a tense steely finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a subtle greenish tinge to the edges and a watery hue. Lime juice and green to red apple aromas mix with lemon, orange rind and mineral notes. Racy lime and lemon fruits drive the palate with some green apple skin and flinty mineral elements lying underneath. Crisp acidity with some steeliness coming through on the tense finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 11.7% -
- 93
2022 Moppity Lock & Key Freedom ShirazHilltops, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, plush medium to full bodied Hilltops Shiraz.
Deep midnight black core with a dark red hue. Dark plum and liquorice aromas mix with some subtle earth and peppered dried herb notes. Rich and plush, the medium to full bodied palate is decorated with dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits. Subtle dried herb, fennel and peppered earth elements sit in background. Velvet smooth tannins finishing long and fleshy.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%














































