Availability:
What's New
We boast Australia's fastest growing online selection of wines, spirits and liqueurs added to weekly. If you can't find what you're looking for, call us on 1800 069 295 and we'll try to track it down.
-
- 94
- 93
2025 Holm Oak ChardonnayTasmania, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinRich and creamy textured with mid weight and a long, well rounded finish.
Barrel fermented with 20% new oak. Brilliant pale straw colour with green highlighted edges and a watery hue. Elevated white peach, pear and dried honey scents are trailed by some citrusy nougat, subtle crème brulee and spice notes. Rich, creamy textured flavours of peach, pear and dried honey unfold across the mid weighted palate. Notions of crème brulee, nougat and spice also chime in. Finishes long, fleshy and well rounded.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews…..
Light straw with characters of lemon, peach and nectarine, hints of meadow flowers, crème fraîche, citrus zest, shortbread, spiced oatmeal, sea spray and crushed stone. There's a swell of biscuity oak on the palate that meshes nicely with the peach and citrus fruits, an appealing tension and clarity to the interplay between fruit and acidity and a finish that flares and lingers nicely. Drink by 2031.
93+ Points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- Nicks Import
Douglas Laing & Co. Old Particular Single Cask A Secret Orkney 15 Year Old Emporium Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Orkney Islands, SCOTLAND$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 61.7%An Orkney 'mystery' malt from the value-for-money Old Particular series - no doubt Highland Park - and the price is the same as the official release of the same age, only Laing's is cask strength. A single refill cask was bottled at 61.7% ABV, with just 174 bottles making it to market. HPs of this ilk are usually booming coastal whiskies, so probably not for the faint hearted. Non chill filtered,
Notes from the bottlers... This whisky expresses a distinct coastal character with a style that bears the mark of the proximity of the sea. It offers a delicate balance of subtle smoke, balanced spices and full-bodied malty barley. The maritime influence is evident, where the light smokiness merges with spicy nuances and rich malt. The high alcohol strength enhances the intensity of the taste experience, making this dram both powerful and elegant.
-
- Museum Release
2004 Brini Sebastian Shiraz - Museum ReleaseMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Screw CapPlease note: Due to the age of this wine, some bottles may show signs of advanced maturity and we recommend enjoying it sooner rather than further cellaring.
Sebastiano Brini arrived in Australia in 1950, speaking no English, with a suitcase and five pounds to his name. Within three years, he had saved enough money to buy a soldier settlement in Blewitt Springs, a sub-region of McLaren Vale. Two thirds of the property was dedicated to dairy cattle, whilst the final third was planted out to Shiraz vines. Located in close proximty to some of Clarendon Hills top vineyards, the site selected by the original owner may have been due to good fortune rather than science. The vineyard is planted at two hundred metres above sea level and one hundred fifty metres above the McLaren Vale valley floor. The cooler climate, due to the elevation, produces wines of force, elegance and concentration. In the past, fruit from the Brini vineyard was sold off to some of the districts' top producers such as Penfolds & d'Arenberg. Today the Brini vineyard is managed by Sebastiano’s sons, John and Marcello, and reflects the spirit that Australia offers all its citizens: In reward for hard work - success, and the ability to become competitive on a global scale, whilst retaining individuality of character.
“skilled winemaking, coupled with impeccable fruit sources has resulted in a new star in the McLaren Vale firmament.”
Alc/Vol: 14.5% -
- 93
Chateau Arton La Flamme Cask Strength Haut Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$270. 00Bottle$3240.00 DozenABV: 47.6%A single vintage estate-grown brandy aged for 18 months in new oak before resting for 8 to 9 years in used barrels. Expressive on the nose, the aromas and flavours lean into sherried single malt territory offering a melange of dried fruits and plums framed by vanillan oak. Compared to the distillery's 'Reserve' expression, this is spicier, more mouth-filling and more robust. The trade-off is on elegance - so not necessarily 'better', rather, an alternative house style that should appeal to Armagnac traditionalists. 1,350 bottles were produced at a natural strength of 47.6% ABV, reduced solely through evaporation in the estate's humid cellars. Details may vary from vintage to vintage.
Grand Gold - Talents de l'Armagnac 2025/2026
-
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2020 Plantagenet Three Lions ShirazGreat Southern, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich, smoky and peppery with firm chewy tannins and a savoury finish.
Midnight black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Peppered black cherry and liquorice aromas are intertwined with smoked meat and spicy black olive notes. Rich black cherry and liquorice fruits are married to charry cedar, earthy black olive and peppered meat characters. Medium bodied it has firm, chewy tannins and a savoury blackpepper and smoked meat laced finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Pasqua Capitolo 22 Montepulciano d’AbruzzoMontepulciano D'Abruzzo, ITALY$15. 99Bottle$191.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinJuicy and medium bodied with slightly chewy tannins and a fresh feel to the gently rustic finish.
Deep black dark red colour with a vibrant dark red hue. Aromas of morello cherry and liquorice mix with some inky earth and cinnamon notes. Medium bodied, juicy morello cherry and plum fruits overlay an earth, subtle liquorice and cinnamon spice background. Slightly chewy tannins with a fresh feel to the gently rustic finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 94
- 93
2024 Ox Hardy Blewitt Springs GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich and super succulent yet tense and structured.
Includes 15% whole bunches with maturation taking place in seasoned French oak. Red to dark red core with black shaded edges and a red hue. Intense red to dark raspberry, ripe cherry and red liquorice scents flood the olfactory senses with ensuing notes of Provincial herbs, scorched earth and pepper lending further interest. Rich, super succulent dark raspberry, dark cherry and liquorice fruits are contrasted against a crushed rock, dried herb and pepper back drop. Polished yet structured tannins with a long and juicy yet tense finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…….
From the Natale vineyard; 15% whole bunches and eight months in seasoned oak. The tariff is extremely friendly given the fruit source and obvious quality, which the light touch in the winery allows to shine. Pale in the glass, this is redolent of wild red cherries, redcurrant gelée, macerated strawberries and raspberry drops, with a dusting of white-pepper-led spice, hints of bay, iron and woody herbs. Medium-weighted, this is a detailed wine of considerable charm, and, as noted, excellent value. Drink by 2032.
93 Points
Marcus Ellis - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
2025 Masso Antico FianoSalento, ITALY$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA mouth watering Fiano that shows impressive intensity, finishing long and scrumptious.
This delicious Fiano was rated 99 points by Italian wine critic Luca Maroni. Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Inviting aromas of pear, guava and green apple are trailed by some lime, fresh herb and wet stone notes. The mouth watering palate features guava, green apple and lime fruits infused with a mix of fresh herbs and wet stone elements. Showing impressive intensity, it has crisp acidity and a long scrumptious finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Beresford Barrel Select GSMMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2026-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinElegant, medium bodied feel with fleshy dark fruits.
A blend of 84% Grenache, 12% Shiraz and 4% Mataro matured for 8 months in large French oak barrels. Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a red hue. Spicy dark raspberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas mix with scorched earth and vanillin spice notes. Fleshy dark raspberry and liquorice fruits carry an elegant, medium bodied feel across the palate. Refined tannins and good underlying freshness with some dark plum, vanillin cedar and spicy earth elements extending across the finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 96
2021 Haan Estate WilhelmusBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 15%Closure: StelvinA rich, large scaled Cabernet Blend with a long, deeply fleshed and generous finish.
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot matured in a combination of new and used French oak barriques. Impenetrable pitch black heart with a very deep dark red black tinged hue. Wafting through the nostrils are ripe blackcurrant and liquorice scents followed by toasty vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco, earth, spicy dried herb and leather notes. Rich and large scaled, the palate is swamped with ripe blackcurrant, liquorice and toasty vanillin cedar flavours. Bold, powerful and opulent, notions of tobacco, black olive, earthy dark chocolate, dried herbs and spice sit underneath. The tannins are velvety yet solid in their structure with a long, deeply fleshed and generous finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 15% -
- Reduced
2024 Penfolds Max’s ShirazSouth Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $24.99$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinPenfolds Max’s Shiraz is a tribute to former Chief Winemaker Max Schubert 1948-1975, a legend in Penfolds history. Max’s constant pursuit of excellence paved the way for those who followed in his footsteps, allowing the status and heritage of Penfolds to grow. A contemporary offering of South Australian Shiraz, this release provides a fruit-driven wine which is generous in flavour and persistent across the palate.
Alc. 14.5% - Kilchoman Batch Strength Single Malt & Elements of Islay Cask Edit Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Bundle Buy (2 x 700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 Dozen
Buy Kilchoman Batch Strength 57% together with Elements of Islay Cask Edit and save $85!
Notes on Kilchoman Batch Strength...
Kilchoman's first ever core range batch strength release is drawn from a combination of re-charred red wine casks married with Oloroso Sherry butts and Bourbon barrels. The result is a colossal dram combining the natural peat smoke and citrus character of Kilchoman with dark fruits, rich spices and sweet caramel. Technically it's not cask strength but it's not far off. A few drops of distillery spring water were added to bring the ABV down to 57% before bottling without chill filtration. Says Kilchoman's Founder Anthony Wills “Batch Strength is a giant of a dram, it has a raw intensity, that I love. But importantly, that power is balanced by a delicacy and finesse that speaks for the quality of our production processes in the stillhouse, and also the quality of casks used for maturation". If you've been waiting for a release that embodies Kilchoman’s robust, maritime character, in particular a Kilchoman with a strong salty bite, this is it.
Other reviews... Faultlessly made and sympathetically matured. 95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2025-2026
This recipe uses Kilchoman matured in bourbon barrels, oloroso butts, and re-charred red wine casks, and combines the fruit and smoke really well. Red apple, red currant, black raspberry, heather honey, and salted caramel on the nose, with beach bonfire smoke turning peaty as it builds in intensity. Silky texture on the palate, with red apple, smoked plum, raisin, cherry pie, and a long-lasting finish with peppery spices running riot. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
This dram is delicious – the proof’s in the pudding, or to put it more plainly, in the remaining liquid level in the bottle, which is dropping at an alarming rate. So much so that I’d hedge my bets that when it’s finished, I’ll be planning to replace it fairly quickly, if the price is right. And price is the slight kicker here – there has to be at least one right? Retailing at around £75, it is rather higher priced than I’d have hoped, particularly taking into account that it is not in fact officially a cask strength bottling, although to all intents and purposes it drinks like one. Neither is it age-stated. So I’ll be keeping a close eye on any offers when it comes to replacing mine. Score wise I should be docking a point and giving this a 7 out of 10 Dramface rating based on the slightly high suggested retail price. However, I need to recognise how quickly I’m tearing through it. I’m loving this. It’s an 8. Would I recommend it? Yes wholeheartedly. I recognise how easy it is to reach for of an evening, and know it is in the great drams category. - dramface.com
Notes on Elements of Islay Cask Edit...
A 49% / 51% split of Laphroaig and Caol Ila.
"...I’m having a hard time putting this bottle down and I would wager that you would as well." - dramface.comElements of Islay Cask Edit is part of the new core range trilogy alongside Sherry Cask and Bourbon Cask. It's a composition of refill, bourbon and sherry casks bottled at 46% for the perfect balance of drinkability and personality. Two big names are involved - Laphroaig and Caol Ila with liquid aged from seven to twelve years old. The combination of rich, smoky single malt from Islay’s south coast married together with a fresher, fruitier style from the north makes for perfect winter dramming.
Other reviews... The 46% ABV strength is perfect for an easy-drinking but richly flavoured experience. The sherry casks are not over-bearing, providing some delicate nuances under these well-matured bourbon malts. I’m having a hard time putting this bottle down and I would wager that you would as well. If you like peated whiskies, and balanced ones at that, then this should be sitting on your shelf. I’m very much intrigued to get my hands on the Bourbon cask and Sherry cask releases from Elements of Islay now. Well played Elements of Islay team.... If this is priced below other Islay malts in your market, it’s a steal and get it on your shelf ASAP. If it’s in the same price range as Ardbeg 10, Port Charlotte 10, Ardbeg Corrie/Oogie/An Oa, then use your discretion. However, depending on your preferences, this blended malt can stand toe-to-toe with any of these single malts. - dramface.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: The aromatic notes of freshly brewed coffee, tempered with hot milk. Sugared almonds and white chocolate truffles are misted with light peat smoke. A fresh fruit basket brings balance. Palate: Sweet, with mineral qualities. Vanilla smoke and wood spice permeate through freshly baked butter croissants and hot, milky coffee. Finish: The finish is lightly smoked and sweet, with gentle notes of fruit salad.
-
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Cloudbreak Noveau Collection ChardonnayAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA fleshy, fruit driven style of Chardonnay.
Brilliant pale straw colour with subtle flecks of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Aromas of nectarine, pear and peach intermingle with whiffs of bees wax and spice. Fleshy textured peach and pear fruits meld into a subtle dried honey, biscuit and spice back drop. Fresh underlying acidity with a fruit dominate mid length finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Beresford Estate Blewitt Springs ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich and polished yet sturdy with a plush, deeply fruited finish.
Matured for 14-16 months in a mix of new, one and two year old French and American oak hogsheads. Pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced blackberry, liquorice and dark chocolate aromas flood the olfactory senses followed by some vanillin oak, mocha and spice notes. Rich blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits carry an opulent feel across the medium to full bodied palate. Vanillin oak, fennel and subtle peppered earth elements lie underneath. Polished yet sturdy tannin structure with a plush, deeply fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
Waubs Harbour Salt Marsh Ed. 2 Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 47.8%The greatly anticipated sequel to the highly popular 'Salt Marsh Edition One' has finally arrived. This is Waubs' maritime Tasmanian take on a classic sherry matured peated whisky, made by lightly smoking Tasmanian barley with local salt marsh peat, dug by hand not far from the distillery, on a custom smoker made in-house by Head Distiller. The new Salt Marsh edition two was matured in second fill ex-Apera Sherry casks, chosen to enable the light nutty, salty peat to shine through, beautifully complemented by the lovely fruits & dark sugars. This is no ashtray - it’s juicy, sweet and lip-smackingly coastal with the smoked component extending the length. 690 bottles make up the entire release. 47.8% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Nose: Dried Pear, vanilla and mineral notes, smoke at the bottom. Palate: Dried pear with a sweet, nutty, subtle brown sugared peat influence. Finish: Nutty, earthy, herbaceous, brown sugared peat smoke with cream and dried pear.
-
- 91
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Williams Crossing by Curly Flat ChardonnayMacedon Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2026-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinFleshy nectarine, peach, Jonathan apple and quince fruits with a slatey gun flint like back drop.
Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinged edges and a watery hue. Aromas of nectarine and peach skin mix with some quince and gun flint like notes. Fleshy nectarine, peach, Jonathan apple and quince fruits meld their way into a slatey gun flint like back drop. Fresh acidity with a generously fruited mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews……
It opens with secondary aromas, those derived from winemaking, in this case from lees contact and oak maturation. Think of cinnamon and vanilla curd. These are followed by spicy nashi pear, peaches, preserved peach, pineapple, Granny Smith apple. Although the secondary characters initially take centre stage, they soon integrate with the fruit profile. The palate is textural yet crisp and vibrant, very much a medium-bodied style at 12.5% alcohol. The acidity is both inviting and essential, preventing the secondary characters from overwhelming the palate. Fortunately, that never happens. It ends with a discreet fruit profile alongside plenty of creaminess. Overall, this is an excellent everyday Chardonnay that ticks all the boxes.
94 Points
Lisa Cardelli – WinePilot.com -
- 94
- 93
2025 Rob Hall ChardonnayYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 13.3%Closure: StelvinA beautifully fleshed and refined mid weighted Yarra Valley Chardonnay.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with green highlighted edges and a watery hue. Drifting through the nostrils are attractive scents of white peach, nectarine and dried honey which mix with biscuity nougat, faint cashew and spice notes. Beautifully fleshed and refined, layered across the mid weighted palate with ample intensity are white peach, pear and dried honey flavours. Also chiming in are biscuity nougat and delicate spicy cashew nuances. Finishes long with a balanced freshness and gently creamed textural feel.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.3%Other Reviews……
A lively green gold. An attractive bouquet of white peach, pear and a little ginger spice. While the light- to medium-bodied palate is still quite tightly wound, this will begin to open up over the next six months and will still be looking good three to five years from now. Drink by 2031.
93 Points
Philip Rich - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- Museum Release
2012 Reillys R Shiraz - Museum ReleaseClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinPlease note: Due to the age of this wine, some bottles may show signs of advanced maturity and we recommend enjoying it sooner rather than further cellaring.
Reilly's started from humble beginnings in 1993 when the first vintage was processed on the front porch of a historical cottage on the property. Over the years, production has steadily grown, outstripping the capacity of the cottage, and now moved to a state-of-the-art facility in nearby Leasingham. Having resisted the temptation to increase prices, Reillys have quickly established a tradition of generosity with their wines. As a result, they've earned a strong base of followers, especially for their 'R' series reds, with some previous vintages selling out in a matter of months. This is up there with the very best.
The fruit is sourced from Reillys Dry Land Shiraz vineyard (planted in 1964) along with the best parcels fruit off their new St Clare property (planted in 2000) which was previously sold off to bigger labels. Cropping levels averaging a meagre 2.2 Tonnes per acre account for the wines remarkable concentration and maturation took place in French and American oak barrels for 18 months.
Alc 14.5% -
- 96
2023 Sons of Eden Remus Old Vine ShirazEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkA rich, sumptuous Eden Valley Shiraz that boasts superb power and a long sleek yet savoury finish.
Sourced from three different vineyards in the Eden Valley region with vines 80 plus years old. Included in the fermentation process were up to 15% whole bunch clusters with maturation taking place in French oak hogsheads (60% new) for a period of 18 months.
Dense inky black colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Potent spicy dark plum, liquorice and dark to black cherry scents are interwoven with fennel, smoky vanillin cedar, earth and peppered meat notes. Rich, sumptuous and plush the palate is draped with plum, liquorice and dark cherry fruits which meld into a smoky vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered earth back drop. Boasting superb power it has velvet smooth tannins and a long sleek yet savoury finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- Museum Release
2012 Mount Langi Ghiran Cliff Edge Shiraz - Museum ReleaseGrampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinThe original Mount Langi vineyard was established in the 1870’s when European immigrants travelled to Western Victoria to discover gold. By the turn of last century, early vineyards were replaced by sheep farming and it was not until 1963 that the Italian born Fratin brothers re-established the Shiraz vineyard with a Swiss clone.
In 1978, the brothers appointed Trevor Mast as consultant winemaker. Inspired by the potential of the vineyard and keen to develop it further, Trevor and Sandra Mast purchased the property in 1987. In late 2002 the property was sold to the Rathbone family. Trevor stayed on as head winemaker, with Dan Buckle joining the team. Dan took the reins from Trevor in 2003 and continued on until 2012. New winemaker Kate Petering has produced a fantastic first up effort with the 2012 Cliff Edge Shiraz.(Tasted in 2014) Matured in 228 litre French oak barriques for 15 months. Opaque black dark crimson red colour with dark crimson hue. Showing very good intensity liquorice, cloves and dark cherry aromas open the account on the nose followed by some meatiness and blackpepper end notes. Medium to full bodied with excellent richness the palate features a sumptuous flavour profile of blackberries and liquorice intermixed with some clove and toasty oak like characters followed by some meatiness and blackpepper. Excellent length with velvet smooth tannins and long liquorice, blackberry, toasty clove and pepper aftertaste.
Alc 14%
-
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Poonawatta Four Corners of Eden Valley Cabernet SauvignonEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich and well fleshed with a sturdy tannin structure lending firmness across the finish.
Dense inky black colour with a deep very dark red black tinged hue. Nosing reveals aromas of blackcurrant and mulberry infused with black olive and cigar box. Some tomato leaf, dried herb and spice notes are also evident. Rich blackcurrant and mulberry fruits are married to cigar box, dried herb, earthy black olive and subtle spicy tomato leaf like characters. Fleshy mid palate feel with a sturdy tannin structure lending firmness across the finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 3 Drops RieslingGreat Southern, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinZippy and taut with a long driving finish.
Brilliant water like colour with green tinted edges. Pronounced lemon and lime aromas are trailed by wet steel and chalky mineral like notes. Zippy lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple fruits cast a racy feel across the palate. Crisp laser like acidity with wet steel and chalky mineral elements lingering through the long, driving yet taut finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
As I shoved my generously framed nose into this glass of 3 Drops Riesling, a smile arose from deep inside. It. Smells. Delicious. Lemon sorbet, grapefruit juice and musk sticks. The concentration of fruit and perfumed florals scream plump cheeks, cheekiness and reckless confidence. In the mouth, there’s a great line of acid and vibrancy, cocooned in a pithy texture. The flavour is packed in: lime sherbet, pomelo and all the pith. There’s even a surprising pickled radish note to the finish. Germany comes to mind. It will put a spring in your step. Drink with a hot-girl dinner of carbs and laughs. Drink 2026-2034.
93 Points
Cyndal Petty – WinePilot.comThe spicy lemon rind aromatics are immediately striking in this positively exquisite riesling from the Great Southern. Three Drops has emerged as one of the best producers of this variety, and in a good season like this, it has really excelled. It’s fine and crisp, with a typically linear line carrying through to a very long finish. Crunchy, spicy minerality on the palate with a nice lick of acid to close. Super wine.
95 Points
RayJordanWine.com.au -
- 94
2024 Mollydooker The Boxer ShirazSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 15.5%Closure: StelvinRich, dense and thick with a long decadent, liqueur like finish.
Sourced from McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek the flamboyant Boxer Shiraz is famed for it’s massive fruit weight, voluptuous texture and decadent richness. Maturation took place in 100% American oak of which 40% was new and the rest one year old.
Impenetrable inky black colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Heady dark to black plum and ripe blackberry scents waft from the glass followed by some vanillin oak, dark chocolate and subtle mint notes. Rich, dense and thick, the voluptuous palate is doused in dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits. Toasty vanillin oak, subtle earthy dark chocolate and fennel elements lurk underneath. Concentrated and powerful it has velvet smooth tannins and a long decadent, liqueur like finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 15.5% -
- 96
- 94
- 94
2023 Tenuta Tignanello Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico RiservaTuscany, ITALY$95. 00Bottle$1140.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkA rich, expansive Chianti with a firm, muscular tannin structure and long robust finish.
Midnight black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Intense blackcurrant, black cherry and liquorice aromas flood the nostrils with sweeping end notes of spicy vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth, dried herbs and spice. Rich, expansive and concentrated, blackcurrant, liquorice and dark to black cherry fruits engulf the medium to full bodied palate that shows ample flesh. A firm, muscular tannin structure imparts some gentle grip. Sitting in the background are notions of vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco characters and spicy dried herbs. Deeply fruited it has a long robust finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews……
A classic Chianti with exquisite aromas of vibrant black cherries, licorice, bark, earth and violets. Medium-bodied, firm and velvety, with sweet grainy tannins, crisp and exuberant acidity and savory, spicy length. Drinkable now, but best over the next decade.
94 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2023 Chianti Classico Riserva pours a deep, youthful red hue and is pure and expressive, with aromas of black cherry, pine, pressed violet, mocha, and forest earth. Medium to full-bodied, it delivers strong concentration in this vintage, with a fresh, vertical profile supported by vibrant acidity and well-defined tannins. Notes of Amarena cherry carry through the palate, with a warm touch of cedar spice on the finish. This is a particularly strong vintage for this wine, offering both immediate appeal and the structure to evolve over the coming 10-15 years. It’s composed of 92% Sangiovese and the rest Cabernet and Merlot. Drink 2026-2040.
94+ Points
Audrey Frick – JebDunnuck.com -
- 94
- 95
- 95
2025 Brokenwood SemillonHunter Valley, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 11%Closure: StelvinTense and racy with zesty lime, green apple and citrus fruits.
Brilliant water like colour with a distinctive greenish tint around the edges. Pronounced green apple skin, lime and wet slate aromas are trailed by some delicate oily steel like notes and fresh herbs. Zesty lime, green apple and citrus fruits are delivered with impressive intensity across the crunchy palate. Infusions of fresh herbs and steely mineral elements extend across the back half. Tense and racy it has zippy acidity and a long, refreshing mineral laced finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 11%Other Reviews…..
A pitch-perfect, classic style with pure lemon and scented quince nestled within a gently expansive palate. Bright and refreshing, it has excellent flavour and flow with a strong presence through to the finish. A highly satisfying wine from this ever-dependable label. Drink by 2030.
95 Points
Toni Paterson - James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionAn expressive new release in a very condensed vintage. Finger lime pulp, green apples and a fan of elderflower blossoms leaps from the glass. This has the crunch of nashi pears, followed by zesty driving acidity that is well intertwined into the body and swell of the wine. This is singing right now for its clarity and precision and will continue to age well, slowly but developing in complexity over the next five years. For its very good value price point, drink it now with fried school prawns and kewpie mayo.
95 Points
Shanteh Wale – WinePilot.com -
- 93
2024 50° by Schloss Johannisberg Riesling TrockenRheingau, GERMANY$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA dry, racy, animatedly fruity Riesling.
From the Schloss Johannisberg team in the Rheingau, this dry Riesling is sourced from select plots near the 50th parallel.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with flashes of green to the edges and a watery hue. Lime, red apple and orange blossom scents sail out of the glass followed by some delicate honeysuckle and slatey mineral notes. Delicious lime, pear and red apple fruits meld into a subtle honeysuckle, orange blossom and mineral slate back drop. Racy acidity with a long, dry animatedly fruity finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 97
2021 Mr Riggs The Chap Shiraz Cabernet SauvignonSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2026-2041)ABV: 14.5%Closure: Diam CorkA rich, powerful blend that maintains a sense of refinement and structure.
Personally tailored by Mr Riggs this high end offering comes appropriately dressed in a dark blue bound presentation box that even smells like a new suit! Fruit is sourced from Ben’s own Piebald Gully vineyard in McLaren Vale whilst the Coonawarra Cabernet component comes from Ey vineyards. A blend of 55% Shiraz and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon maturation took place in a mixture of French (80%) and American (20%) oak, of which 35% was new, for a period of 22 months.
Magnificent colour featuring a dense inky black heart and a very deep dark red black hue. Potent aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice and blackcurrant waft through the nostrils complimented by some earthy dark chocolate, vanillin cedar, tobacco and spice notes. Concentrated yet refined, layered across the expansive palate are rich blackberry, liquorice and blackcurrant fruits. Plush yet dusty feel with spicy vanillin cedar, subtle earthy dark chocolate, tobacco and mint characters forming the undercard. Displaying outstanding power, sturdily built tannins provide solid structure across the long, deeply fruited yet quite elegant finish.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…….
This is both powerful and graceful, showcasing a rich array of dark fruits, smoked game, assorted nuts, and mocha notes on the nose. On the palate, it offers a superbly weighted experience with seductive complexity and a velvety texture. The finish is impressively long and satisfying. Wonderfully harmonious and seamless, with outstanding depth and opulence. A blend of grapes from McLaren Vale & Coonawarra. At its best: now to 2041.
97 Points
Sam KimDeep garnet in colour with a dense crimson core. The nose is layered and expressive, opening with blackcurrant, dark plum and blackberry, interwoven with cedar, bay leaf and subtle dark chocolate. Fine oak integration adds polish without overshadowing the fruit.
Medium to full-bodied, the palate reveals a seamless marriage of ripe McLaren Vale fruit and the structural finesse of Coonawarra Cabernet. Cassis and black cherry are framed by fine, firm tannins and balanced acidity. A gentle herbaceous lift and subtle spice carry through to a long, structured finish with impressive persistence.
A classic Australian blend showing regional harmony, confident structure and varietal integrity.
98 Points
Vino Masters -
- 97
- 96
- Reduced
2020 Nicks Secret TCWR MA Barossa ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $89.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkNamed after the estate’s family matriarch, this Nicks Secret is sourced from the best blocks and only produced in top years. Presented in a monumentally sized bottle to match its decadent contents, everything about this wine oozes pure class. Maturation took place in American oak barrels (100% new).
A glorious, seductive bombshell of a wine at a third of it’s normal price.
Dense pitch black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Intoxicating scents of dark plum, liquorice, dark chocolate and toasty vanillin oak engulf the nostrils followed by some earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich, silky and exceptionally concentrated, the full bodied palate is caressed by layers of lavish dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate flavours which carry a smooth, voluptuous feel. Detailed across the back half are notions of vanillin oak, earthy mocha and subtle spice. Boasting magnificent power and depth it has seamlessly integrated cashmere like tannins and a plush, expansive finish that’s super long.
Outstanding drinking over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
This comes off four blocks in the Barossa, and is made in years that are considered worthy. In this case, it’s very worthy. Deep purply-red colors. The aroma is immediately captivating with its dark chocolatey fruits, a little mocha, and a touch of cedar. Engaging stuff. And then the palate starts to deliver with its dark plummy richness, a little bit of that licorice nuance and some bright fruity blackberry characters. The oak and tannins have been expertly managed ensuring the wine is perfectly balanced to suit drinking now if you wish, but with the obvious characters to support extended cellaring. Drink 2026-2046.
96 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.comThis is immensely appealing on the nose, showing dark fruit richness, vanilla, star anise, clove, and toasty oak characters with a touch of dark cocoa. The concentrated palate exhibits terrific depth and power, wonderfully framed by velvety texture and beautifully melded tannins. Opulent and plush with sophistication, making it hugely appealing. At its best: now to 2038.
96 Points
Sam Kim -
- 95
2024 Dandelion Vineyards Treasure Trove GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA rich, super juicy Grenache.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Potent dark raspberry, ripe dark cherry and liquorice scents waft out of the glass trailed by subtle dried clove, vanillin spice, crushed rock and peppered herb notes. Rich and super juicy, the palate is awash in a concentrate of dark raspberry, ripe dark cherry and liquorice fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, scorched earth, dried herb and subtle pepper elements sit in the background. Plump and opulent, it has an underlyingly sturdy tannin structure and long succulent finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 94
2021 West Cape Howe Book Ends Cabernet SauvignonMount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, medium to full bodied Cabernet with robust tannins imparting a grippy feel across the finish.
Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black hue. Pronounced spicy blackcurrant aromas infused with black olive intermingle with vanillin cedar, tobacco and bay leaf notes. Rich blackcurrant, liquorice and black cherry fruits show excellent concentration across the medium to full bodied palate. Cigar box, earth, black olive and spice elements underpin the fruit. Robust tannins impart a grippy feel across the medium to long finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews……
An excellent wine from the 2021 vintage, which in Mount Barker delivered beautiful cool climate fruit with richness, concentration and supreme balance. Classic varietal characters of blackcurrant and dark plum with a touch of black cherry open on the nose, followed by a supple palate with a structural core contributing to its long finish. It's the most stylish expression of Mount Barker cabernet.
94 Points
RayJordanWine.com.au -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Killibinbin Scaredy Cat Cabernet SauvignonLanghorne Creek, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinGenerous fleshy blackcurrant fruits with a firm, chewy feel across the finish.
Dense black dark red colour with a very dark red black tinged hue. Blackcurrant aromas infused with a mix of black olive and tomato leaf are followed by some cigar box and spice notes. Generous fleshy blackcurrant fruits are intermeshed with black olive, cigar box, tomato leaf, earth and spicy bay leaf flavours. Grainy tannins lend a firm, chewy feel across the mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 92
- 92
- 93
2025 Williams Crossing By Curly Flat Pinot NoirMacedon Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA light, savoury Pinot with an elegant finish.
Dark red in colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Spicy red to dark cherry and strawberry aromas are trailed by hints of rhubarb, dried herbs and forest floor. Light and savoury, red to dark cherry, winter strawberry and rhubarb fruits are featured over some forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar characters. Fine grained tannins with an elegant finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews……
You’re getting a fair bang for your buck with this Macedon Pinot Noir. Shows a compelling mix of red fruits with a subtle truffle-oil nuance and a damp earthen-floor infusion. Medium-bodied but finely structured, with chalky tannins, lightly applied oak, and plenty of fruit generosity. Drinking beautifully now, though a little more time in the cellar will allow the fruit characters to develop even more. Drink 2025-2032.
93 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.comI’m not sure I’ve tried a Williams Crossing Pinot Noir before. This is raised in oak that’s all older then three years of age.
It’s a savoury style of Pinot Noir with dark cherry, redcurrant, pastrami and dried twigs, only medium-bodied, with good density of flavour, cool balanced acidity, a tight sort of graphite and dusty feel to tannin, gentle sappiness, and fine length. It has complexity and it drinks well. Nice.
Drink 2026-2030+
92 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front -
- 93
2024 Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Cabernet Sauvignon ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinQuite plump and juicy with a refined mid length finish.
A blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon and 46% Shiraz matured for 10 months in 12% new French and Hungarian oak hogsheads. Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Dark plum, blackcurrant and liquorice aromas sail out of the glass followed by some spicy vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco and peppered earth notes. Quite plump and juicy, the palate features rich blackcurrant and dark plum fruits over mulberry, red liquorice, spicy vanillin cedar and tobacco elements. Finely grained tannins with a refined mid length finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Red Feet Sangiovese ShirazKing Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 13.2%Closure: StelvinStewed plum flavours with slightly rustic tannins and a savoury, plummy earth and spice laden finish.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Spicy dried cherry and stewed plum aromas mix with anise, earthy leather and some emerging varnish like notes. Stewed plum flavours drive the mid weighted palate with some red currant, earth, anise and spice elements extending across the back half. Slightly rustic tannins with a savoury, plummy earth and spice laden finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.2% -
- 91
- Nicks Import
Glenlivet Groundbreaker Chapter 1 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 40%The first release in a new series exclusive to global travel retail. Glenlivet's Groundbreaker Collection aims to "marry original perspectives through travel experiences" with Chapter One in the series selectively finished in red wine casks - a first for the distillery. The packaging was made in collaboration with Red Hong Yi, a Malaysian-Chinese contemporary artist who used traditional Chinese red pigments, reflected in the hue of the red-wine-finished whisky. Initially matured in European and American oak, a portion of the liquid was then finished in charred American oak and European red wine casks. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... the nose has red currant, glacé cherry, Szechuan peppercorn, Red Vines, and apple. Gently paced with subtle flavors of red apple, fudge sweetness, damson, more Red Vines, and a tingle of pepper. It finishes with hints of honey, creamy vanilla, and oak char. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
-
- 89
- 91
- Nicks Import
Glengoyne 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Gift Pack with GlassHighlands, SCOTLAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 43%Comes with a bonus branded Glencairn Glass.
Glengoyne uses only unpeated malted barley i.e. barley which is air dried rather than dried under a peat fire. The newly packaged twelve year old expression (as opposed to the 12 year old cask strength) is said to have a high proportion of Sherry casks involved in the maturation.
Other reviews... The nose has a curiously intimate feel, but the tasting experience is a wonderful surprise. 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2025-26
2010 bottling tasted... Straw / gold colour with very pale straw hue. The nose reveals subtle notes of vanilla, clove and cinnamon with an apple / pear like fruitiness, then sweeter cereal notes. The warm palate entry reveals pear, biscuit and grain flavours. Excellent concentration and texture. Subtle yet lasting aftertaste of cereals and liquorice strap. A perfect session whisky and a little bit more besides! 43% Alc./Vol.
-
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Plantagenet York ChardonnayGreat Southern, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2026-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich, full and creamy textured.
Brilliant straw colour with green tinted surrounds and a watery hue. Expressive nectarine, pear, lemon butter and bees wax aromas are trailed by some almond and spice notes. Rich and luscious, ripe peach and honeycomb flavours are to the fore with notions of crème brulee, subtle bacon fat and spicy nougat extending across the back half. Creamy textured it finishes long and full.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- Nicks Import
Douglas Laing's The Gauldrons Eclipse Cask Strength Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Campbeltown, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 52.9%Douglas Laing’s The Gauldrons represents the Campbeltown region through a range of blended malts. The exact make-up is known only to the Laings, but an educated guess says they're heavy on Glen Scotia, simply because of how scarce Springbank and Kilkerran are. This limited edition is unusual for being finished in Orange Wine Casks, sourced from the cellars of Jerez de la Frontera in Southern Spain. Besides walnuts, honey, ginger and toasted almonds, the secondary maturation is reported to leave traces of tangy orange with an almost otherworldy edge. 3000 bottles were produced at 52.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Nose: Immediate hints of orange marmalade, touches of cough syrup, jammy apricots and some light notes of marzipan. There’s a thin layer of cereals lingering, as well as green olives and some ozone, but then we veer into the likes of cherry-flavoured candy canes also. Taste: A mixture of roasted peanuts, char and liquorice with a hint of sourdough. Also honeyed influences, orange pith, nectarines and a very gentle smokiness with soft mineral notes. Water highlights the distillates oiliness and enhances the stone fruits. Finish: Medium length. Sweet spices with barley husks and citrus zest. Quite cereal-forward there in the end. A whisky with character, The Gauldrons does a good job representing the Campbeltown region. There’s a funkiness combined with coastal elements, but also a pleasant sweetness to bring balance. It seems to have improved compared to how I remember it. The Gauldrons Eclipse loses some of its Campbeltown-esque qualities, outshined by the orange wine finish, presumably. However, it gains a distinct fruitiness – peels and stone – that adds a new layer. - wordsofwhisky.com
"Wow, what an interesting whisky ! Love the orange taste (even if orange wine has no orange in it). A special whiksy, really enjoyed it!" - whiskybase.com
-
- 93
2023 Reillys Dry Land TempranilloClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 14.8%Closure: StelvinRich, concentrated and chewy with a long, robust finish.
Dense inky black in colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Elevated ripe black cherry and liquorice aromas mix with scorched earth, dried herb, vanillin cedar and spice notes. Rich, concentrated and chewy, the full bodied palate is swamped with juicy black cherry and liquorice fruits which overlay a scorched earth, vanillin oak and spicy dried herb back drop. Ripe sturdily built tannins impart mild grip across the long, robust finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.8% -
- 93
2026 Tim Adams Pinot GrisSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinConcentrated and gorgeously rounded with fresh acidity and a long, lusciously fruited finish.
After visiting the Alsace region in the late 1990’s where Riesling and Pinot Gris grow side by side, it seemed logical to Tim Adams that if Clare Valley had the conditions to produce world class Rieslings, it could also make quality Pinot Gris. The first vines were subsequently planted in the Tim Adams Ladera vineyard and today their Pinot Gris is one of the country's most popular.
Brilliant pale straw to straw colour with a watery hue. Intense pear, ripe red apple and quince aromas are trailed by notes of musk and spice. Gorgeously rounded and showing excellent concentration, the palate is awash with juicy pear and red apple fruits. Some quince, delicate musk and spice elements are also present. Fresh acidity with a long, lusciously fruited finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 94
2024 O’Leary Walker Watervale Nero d’AvolaClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA rich, juicy Nero with faintly chewy tannins and good underlying freshness.
Midnight black heart with a dark red hue. Blossoming out of the glass with impressive intensity are dark plum, ripe blueberry, liquorice and dark cherry scents followed by some earthy incense and fragrant provincial herb notes. Rich, juicy dark and morello cherry, liquorice and blueberry fruits swamp the mouth with some earthy incense, provincial herb and spice elements tailing off onto the back half. Faintly chewy tannins with good underlying freshness across the long succulent finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- Nicks Import
Douglas Laing's The Epicurean 12 Year Old Lowland Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 46%The cheeky Glaswegian returns with a bigger age statement in another marriage of some of the Lowland's finest malts featuring the best that the East and the West of Scotland have to offer. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Sweet with honeyed barley, candied peels and toasted nuts. Palate: Sugar with citrus zest, ripe peaches and a touch of spice. Finish: Cut grass and a herbal character, a gristy quality with coconut flakes and brown sugar.
-
- Nicks Import
- Reduced
Douglas Laing's Big Peat 12 Year Old Small Batch Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLANDReduced from $139.99$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 46%Archetypally Islay, Big Peat 12YO delivers flavours of charred oak, chimney smoke, rock pools and Summer tar, running to a long lingering finish with brown sugar, bonfire ashes and a real phenolic quality. Bottled at 46% ABV and offered without colouring or chill-filtration, this is one whisky where the label tells the story! 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Gold - Blended Malt aged up to 12 years old - 2022, The Scotch Whisky Masters (The Spirits Business).
-
- 86
- Nicks Import
- Reduced
Douglas Laing's Timorous Beastie 10 Year Old Highland Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)SCOTLANDReduced from $119.99$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 46.8%The original Timorous Beastie, immortalised in Robert Burns’ famous Scots poem “To a Mouse” was a timid, little field creature. Echoing the national bard’s wit is the presentation of this whisky, though less so the liquid inside, which promises a robust and characterful medley of vanilla, malted barley, meringue, honey and citrus flavours. Also bottled without chill filtration at 46.8% for maximum flavour.
Other reviews... Soft and floral with perfumed lavender soap, peach, green apple, and parma violets. It floats in the mouth, dispensing flavors of sweet apple, custard, tangy tangerine, hard candies, green plum, marshmallow, and white pepper. Delicious and accomplished, but there’s an overlap here: it feels like the NAS version had a birthday, rather than the arrival of a new member of the family. 86 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick 2018
...[Batch 1 tasted] Tried the NAS (WF 85), tried the 18 (WF 86), tried the 21 (WF 89) and tried the 40 (WF 91) but never the 10. Colour: white wine. Nose: fresh as a daisy, so floral, subtle, with green melons, yellow peaches, fresh hazelnuts, angelica, rhubarb, and just a drop of vanilla essence. Mouth: fresh and really full of pears, of all kinds. Williams first, naturally. Hints of Gueuze, hops, and tangerines. It’s a pretty light and fresh style, perhaps a little timorous indeed. Some sides remind me of Glenkinchie. Finish: short to medium, a tad ale-y. Hints of asparagus in the aftertaste. Comments: perhaps a little shier than its compadres? But once again, it is a very nice composition. And WF’s registered mouser, Aston the Scottish fold cat, says he loves the label. 83 points - whiskyfun.com
-
- Nicks Import
- Reduced
Douglas Laing's Rock Island 10 Year Old Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)SCOTLANDReduced from $139.99$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 46%In 2018, Douglas Laing rebranded its 'Rock Oyster' whiskies to 'Rock Island'. One report suggests it was because oysters have a negative connotation for some people. The Laings were concerned it put some consumers off. Besides the label, we can assume nothing has changed in terms of the liquid inside the bottle which includes malts from Orkney, Arran, Jura and Islay. The ten year old was released in July 2019 and was followed by Rock Island 21 Year Old (a more limited bottling). 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the producers... Nose: The nose is initially barley-rich and buttery, developing to wave-soaked rocks with gentle peat smoke and citrus fruits. Palate: The palate bursts with a beachy quality – sea spray, black pepper and damp ash. Finish: The finish goes on and on, with wave after wave of wood embers, orange peel and gentle spice.
-
- 87
Whipper Snapper Upshot Bandit Australian Whiskey (700ml)Perth, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 43%Other reviews... Upshot Bandit is the lower-cost sibling to the original Upshot corn whisky from Whipper Snapper Distillery in Perth. Also a single cask bottling at 43% and otherwise produced in the same way as Upshot Original (from a corn-based recipe that also includes barley and wheat, matured in virgin American oak casks), my assumption is that the $20 price difference comes down to a slightly lower age, or perhaps it’s just a matter of cask selection. Slightly more volatile and showing less integration of oak and spirit on the nose than its older sibling; there’s definitely more grain and less wood here. But the lively, light, sweet and very easy-drinking palate shows careful distillation and still offers a lot of appeal for those who want whisky for drinking, not thinking. 87 points - Fred Siggins, winecompanion.com
-
- Nicks Import
Glenfarclas 11 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 46%"...a very successful, well-rounded whisky. Naturally sherry-forward, but certainly not overpowering." - whiskybase.com
For the travel retail channel, this 11-year-old highlights Glenfarclas’ distillery character, 'framed' rather than 'shaped' by predominant sherry cask maturation - meaning it's not intended as a 'sherry bomb', so the oak influence won't be heavy. Expect a casual dram offering notes of dried fruits, warm malt and gentle spices, followed by a crisp, dry finish. 46% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews...The Glenfarclas 11 is a very successful, well-rounded whisky. Naturally sherry-forward, but certainly not overpowering. It's a very drinkable (thankfully it's a 1-liter bottle!), delicious, smooth whisky. Well-rounded, not too sweet, and not too spicy. Great for simply enjoying with friends. Essentially, it's what the 12-year-old should be, but sadly hasn't been lately. - whiskybase.com
"...This is an impressive whisky from Glenfarclas. They are known for their use of ex-sherry casks, ex-Oloroso in particular, but this is not a massive ‘sherry monster’ or ‘sherry bomb’ of a whisky. Instead it is superbly well balanced and multi dimensional. This makes is a nice Autumnal whisky with the warming spices on top of the sweet and fruity characteristics. This 11 Years Old expression offers great value for money, especially given the quality of the liquid and reputation of Glenfarclas. Definitely one to consider picking up when next travelling through an airport. That’s what we did …" - whiskyforeveryone.com
- Ron Barcelo Blanco (White) Rum (750ml)DOMINICAN REPUBLIC$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 37.5%
Aged for up to two years in oak barriques, this crystal-clear rum is then filtered through charcoal. Ideal for the preparation of cocktails.
Other reviews... Coconut and cappuccino cream aromas have a hint of acetone and follow through on a round entry to a dryish medium body with good depth and a hint of powdered sugar, mint and spiced nuts on the finish. A tasty, easy going white rum. 85 points - tastings.com
















































