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2024 Chain of Ponds Millers Creek ChardonnayAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA mid weighted, fruit driven style of Chardonnay.
Brilliant pale straw colour with distinct highlights of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Ripe peach, tropical fruit and melon aromas rise from the glass with hints of biscuity nougat and spice also apparent. Fleshy peach, melon and tropical fruit flavours greet the palate. Delicate biscuit and spice elements sit in the background. Moderately fresh, it finishes with medium length.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
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2024 Hunter-Gatherer ChardonnayMacedon, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA creamy, mid weighted Chardonnay that finishes round and supple.
Bright straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Aromas of peach, apricot and dried honey evolve from the glass followed by some citrusy nougat and crème brulee notes. Rich, creamy textured flavours of peach, dried honey, ripe nectarine, crème brulee, cashew and subtle bacon fat are draped across the mid weighted palate. Finishes round and supple.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
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2020 Three Brothers Reunited ShirazSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$9. 99Bottle$119.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinIt’s a rare achievement in this industry for a wine to maintain its price point for more than 20 years without sacrificing quality, even more so when it's priced under $10. But the Three Brothers Reunited Shiraz has done just that. Most new labels (particularly in the sub $20 category) start with a bang and over deliver in the first couple of vintages in an attempt to win new customer's loyalty. However, in follow up releases they often stretch expectations of quality in order to meet increased demand. Gradually the brand fades away as customers are disillusioned with what's become a lesser wine. Three Brothers, on the other hand, has made quality and consistency its number one priority, only gradually increasing production while growing a very loyal customer base that's made this our top selling red for over 20 years.
Juicy and silky textured this is a terrific, everyday drinking Shiraz for just $10.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Sailing out of the glass with impressive intensity are aromas of dark cherry, liquorice and dark plum which are interwoven with some scorched earth, vanillin spice and peppered dried herb notes. A touch lighter in weight than the 2019 vintage, the medium bodied palate is layered with rich, juicy dark plum, dark cherry and liquorice fruits which carry a silky flow. Subtle dried herb, scorched earth and pepper elements are threaded through the back half. Slightly grainy yet polished tannins with an amply fruited, pepper laced finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
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Janneau 5 Year Old Grand Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%This now-discontinued youngster should prove Armagnac doesn't require long ageing to be approachable. Offering a lighter body with distinct fruity flavours, vanilla notes, and a smooth, woody finish, use it as a high-end substitute for your everyday brandy - in long drinks, on the rocks, or as a base for cocktails. 40% Alc./Vol.
- Papalin Reunion 10 Year Old Vatted Rum (700ml)FRANCE$220. 00Bottle$2640.00 DozenABV: 50%
After a release dedicated to Jamaica, the spotlight shifts to France's Reunion Island, located east of Madagascar. Here we have an intriguing blend of pot-distilled molasses-based rums from four different distilleries. It equates to a total of 32 casks (including ex-cognac, ex-bourbon and ex-whisky), all entirely aged in their respective distillery warehouses in a tropical climate. Rums up to 15 years old are in the mix, but at its heart is an 11 year old 'Grande Arome' - the French Caribbean equivalent of a high ester Jamaican. We're told this should please fans of Savanna or light Grand Arome funk who want a dry, naturally unsweetened sipper. Bottled November 2023. 50% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... On the nose, medicinal notes like glue, esters, oak, roasted wood notes, sweet, flowery molasses with honey and fermented, almost rotten, pungent tropical fruits, strawberries, vegetal notes, bump into our nostrils. On aeration, roastedness is strong with smokiness, leather, cinammon arises, some citrus fruits. On the palate, the attack is strong, pungent with overripe, fermented red and citrus fruits, hints if sugarcane, honey, vegetal molasses that on oxidation goes grassy, herbaceous, flowery, even dark with black tea, the wood is roasted/toasted, sweet with pastry, caramel, leather, spicy with cinnamon, nutmeg, salty. The finish is long, furry and tannic, with tons of fermented fruits, vegetal notes, smoky and spicy roasted wood, grassy and sweet molasses with honey. - rumratings.com
- Fee Brothers Habanero Bitters (150ml)Rochester, New York, UNITED STATES$28. 99Bottle$347.88 DozenABV: 7%
With a garden-fresh essence, Fee Brothers Habanero Bitters go beyond mere heat, infusing each sip with a vibrant burst of tantalising flavour. Bring your drinks to spicy perfection! 7% Alc./Vol. Shake well before use.
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Janneau 12 Year Old Grand Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%Distilled from 100% Ugni Blanc, this coppery amber coloured Armagnac offers dominant aromas of cooked plum, vanilla and clove with a frank and balanced attack. 40% Alc./Vol.
Silver Medal, 91 points - IWSC International Wine & Spirit Competition 2022
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Janneau VS Tradition Grand Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 40%As French brandies go, Armagnac is the lesser-known rival to Cognac, despite being its forerunner. It usually stems from small family producers - unlike the big multinational names that dominate Cognac. Janneau is reputedly Armagnac's oldest house. Their VS is aged for at least three years, distilled from Baco and Ugni Blanc harvested from the two main regions of the Appellation - Ténarèze and Bas-Armagnac resulting in a light and supple expression.
Other reviews... See, even the Armagnacqais are now adding age statements to their young spirits. A matter of trust and transparency! Colour: gold. Nose: lovely, fresh, fruity, full of yellow peaches, golden raisins, and yellow melons (Spanish?) Orchard fruits. It’s not an old-style ‘caramelised’ armagnac at all, even if it does get a little fudge-y after a few minutes. Vanilla fudge. Mouth: well, the vanilla got a little loud for me, and the spirit’s a little rough, perhaps. Not feinty of course, but perhaps a little too eau-de-vie-ish, reminding us of some ‘white’ armagnacs that they like to drink down there in the Gers region. The vanilla and the oak are a little prominent, and make me think of many a modern Scotch malt whisky. Right NAS. Finish: rather short, an a little oaky. Comments: the nose was quite superb, but the palate’s pretty uninteresting. Unless, I guess, you add a few ice cubes. Maybe that’s the point… 75 points - whiskyfun.com
Gold Medal CGA – Concours Général Agricole 2024
Notes from the producers... Colour: Bright amber. Nose: Very fresh and fruity with aromas of young plums and iodine as well as vanilla and liquorice. Palate: Flavours of oak and chocolate.
- Papalin Jamaica 5 Year Old High Ester Vatted Rum (700ml)JAMAICA$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 47%
A follow-up Jamaican effort from the house of Velier, blended by Luca Gargano and bottled in October 2024. The result of 63 tropically aged barrels from three distilleries, at 47% Alc./Vol., this should be one of the more accessible high ester expressions released by this independent to date.
Other reviews... A blend of three ‘pot still’ Jamaicans. This ought to be compact, with each of the three distilleries naturally cancelling out some of the others’ character. Or not – let’s have a look, especially as nowhere is it stated that the three distilleries are present in equal proportions. Colour: gold. Nose: dry-cured ham with dried banana and pistachio oil, plus some new plastics à la supermarket bag – alas those were banned here some years ago, so I’m relying on memory. In any case this feels more like ‘low esters’ than ‘high esters'. With water: go easy with the water or it drifts off into rainwater and silt. Not a great swimmer, then, but that doesn’t mean anything. Mouth (neat): now we’re talking – excellent, young, a little rough, sharp and dry, but with notes of rambutan in syrup. Really. With water: some floral touches. Finish: not very long, truth be told. Comments: excellent stuff, though it does feel a little as though the components have somewhat cancelled each other out indeed, yielding a rather light rum. Light for a Jamaican that’s not Appleton, of course. Wait, is there Appleton in here? Either way, this is the gentlest of the high esters we’ve tried in recent months. 84 points - whiskyfun.com
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Janneau VSOP Grand Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%"Very superior quality, old and pale" is the precise translation for this category, a term hailing from traditional Anglo-Saxon traders. Armagnac regulations stipulate that a VSOP brandy is made from a blend of eaux-de-vie aged for at least four years in oak. In practice, the Armagnac houses often use much older stocks as they make for a richer experience. In this case, spirits up to 20 years old were drawn from French oak casks stored in Janneau's ancient cellars. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Sweet aromas of vanilla bean and oak tinged with orange peel lead the nose. Oak also leads the palate, balancing between tannic dryness and richer vanilla, winding into a spiced finish dusted with cocoa powder. 91 points - winenethusiast.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Fig and honey aromas, oaky and tannic. Hints of leather and caramel. Palate: Persistent impression of toasted golden raisins and spices. Notes of fruit jelly.
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Janneau XO Grand Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCEReduced from $125.00$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%Armagnac is France's oldest brandy, recognised since the Middle Ages for its therapeutic properties. It came into its own in the 15th century, with trade peaking in the 1800s. The region's vineyards were subsequently destroyed by phylloxera, only to be replanted at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1909 a decree was issued under the presidency of a local boy, President Fallières, delimiting the region permitted to produce the brandy, finally defining the Armagnac Appellation Contrôlée and its three regions in 1936.
At Janneau, the oldest of the great Armagnac houses, the spirit is distilled in two different ways: "Armagnacais" (single, continuous distillation) and "Double Distillation" which involves pot stills. In the latter, wine flows from a vat to the first still acting as the cooling agent and allowing the vapours to condense. This first product is called "brouillis" and is distilled again, however the liquid at the very beginning and end of the process (called the "head & tail") is left out as it contains some impurities. Only the heart – that part which achieves the desired quality – is kept. The freshly distilled Armagnac is clear, decidedly fruity with occasional plum, green apple and vanilla notes.
The XO is the brand's flagship expression, blending Baco and Ugni Blanc eaux-de-vie from Bas-Armagnac and Ténarèze. While the youngest liquid in the composition is ten years old, others have been resting in oak for more than three decades. Expect aromas of candied plum, reine-claude plum, oak and red fruits and intense but well-balanced flavours hinting at oak, quince and sour cherries with a spicy finish. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Rich, comforting caramel and toffee aromas warm the nose. The palate is a bit lighter than the aromas suggest but still rewards with rounded vanilla, cocoa and espresso, fading into nutmeg and mouthwatering lemon peel brightness. 94 points - wineenthusiast.com
Gold Medal / 96 points - International Wine & Spirits Competition 2022
- Camus Elegance XO Cognac (700ml) - 2 Glasses Gift Pack - Older BottlingCognac, FRANCE$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 40%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such may have some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Of the four or five big names that dominate the Cognac market, Camus has stood its ground as our steady favourite.Perhaps it's the fact that it’s the last of the major Cognac Houses to remain entirely family run, but probably more-so for their championing of Borderies, Cognac's smallest appellation, though certainly not its most prestigious. Soils here are a mixture of chalk and clay with a micro climate that's generally the earliest to ripen fruit. Borderies are typically early maturing, full bodied brandies used to give 'backbone' when blending. While eaux-de-vie from all six of the Cognac crus are included in this expression, according to Camus, it’s the Borderies input that gives “…a rounder flavour and greater aromatic length”. Apart from a shared enthusiasm for this appellation (their Borderies exclusive is a must try), the Camus house style also tends to retain slightly more 'freshness' and finesse when compared to often sweeter, broader examples from the likes of Hennessey or Courvoisier.
Composed of material that’s a minimum of six years old, reportedly, some of the eaux de vie in the Elegance XO blend is matured for as long as 30 years.
Tasting note: Deep polished copper. Issues a seductive perfume that includes fig paste, apple strudel, honey and cigar box followed by a light to medium bodied, juicy dried fig / apple mid palate with a peppery finish and a fresh, drying orange cake and cigar box aftertaste. Beautifully balanced. Silky and elegantly styled XO. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... This copper--penny colored Cognac is best when allowed time to open, since it evolves in the glass. The nose offers notes of dried cherries, toffee and oak. The palate is light at first, with vanilla and warm caramel deepening to an unusually fruity finish full of rounded apricot and orange flavors. It's mouthwatering and delicious, perfect for pairing with fruit tarts and pies.
95 points- www.wineenthusiast.comGold Medal - San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2015
- Remy Martin XO Premier Cru (700ml) - Older BottlingCognac, FRANCE$350. 00Bottle$4200.00 DozenABV: 40%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such may have some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Composed of over 400 eaux-de-vie and aged up to 35 years, this Fine Champagne Cognac is based on fruit from the region's two best crus: 85% Grande Champagne and 15% Petite Champagne.Other reviews... With a deep amber hue and mellow vanilla aroma, this lush Cognac opens with cocoa powder, vanilla and dried cherry and fig. Hints of violet and clove dry to a walnut finish. 94 points - wineenthusiast.com
A Fine Champagne par excellence. Colour: Light mahogany. Nose: Candyfloss with marzipan and white chocolate overtones. Palate: There is an immediate pepperiness in this Cognac; early jasmine floral notes transform into cedar, walnut and Christmas pudding flavours with sweet, palm sugar and dates to lead a balanced and harmonious finish. Comment: Enjoy in front of an open fireplace, in a comfortable chair with a cigar. Alc/Vol: 40%
- Franz Scheurer, AGT Wine Magazine, Cognac Tasting 27th May 2005. - Ned Australian Whisky (700ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 40%
Distilled from Australian grain using a proprietary process, this Bourbon inspired whisky includes a typical Kentucky mash-bill, sour mash fermented, double distilled and matured in 200 litre American oak barrels. The result is an easy-drinking but tasty sipper crafted for locals. Awarded a Silver Medal at the 2021 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards, the judges said, "Caramel and earthy spice. Quite sweet on the palate, corn flakes and toffee.” 40% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Aroma: Coconut and vanilla with hints of stone and dry fruit. Moves into the rich grain with hints of chocolate, then dry at the end. Flavour: Sweet oak moving into spicy grains, with a hint of dried fruit. Then mocha and oak, with vanilla and dry coconut. Finish: The finish is spicy and clean heat, smooth but powerful. Long after flavour of sweet oak and dark chocolate.
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2022 Nicks Secret APB ShirazFrankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $34.99$13. 99Bottle$167.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFrom a Margaret River producer who has sourced fruit from a single vineyard in the Frankland River to make this terrific rich, juicy Shiraz. Maturation took place in a mix of new and older larger format French oak barrels for a period of 12 months.
A rich, juicy Frankland River Shiraz that’s an absolute steal at this Nicks Secret price.
Midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Nosing evokes aromas of spicy black cherry and liquorice which are interwoven with scorched earth, vanillin cedar and blackpepper. Rich black cherry and liquorice fruits carry a juicy feel across the mid weighted palate. Superb concentration for the price point with subtle scorched earth, vanillin cedar and blackpepper elements ensuing. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins with a long deeply fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
It’s wonderfully complex and enticing on the nose, showing blackberry, vanilla, liquorice, star anise, and spicy oak characters, leading to a deliciously expressed palate offering fleshy texture and velvety tannins. Sumptuous and soothing with a persistent, robust finish. At its best: now to 2035.
95 Points
Sam Kim – WineOrbitFrom a single vineyard in the Frankland River region in Western Australia, the fruit was pressed into a mix of new and older large French oak vessels after a gentle ferment over two weeks. Maturation was for one year. The wine represents fabulous value. It is no secret how good the best Shiraz from Frankland River can be and that makes this great buying. The colour is a dark maroon. The nose reveals notes of black fruits, aniseed, chocolate, coffee beans, graphite and soy. The structure is seamless, dense but dancing, and there is serious length with immaculate balance. The lingering finish exhibits the silkiest of tannins. Enjoy this over the next ten to twelve years. Really impressive. Drink 2025-2037.
94 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.comThis is a warm-hearted shiraz with saltbush, iron and general herb characters threaded through black cherry, ripe plum and choc-mint. It’s a wine of substance but it’s also a wine of both polish and freshness; the fruit itself has a jellied, boysenberry-like edge and the wine’s texture has a softness. The firmness of the finish here also suggests that this wine can be cellared with confidence.
93 Points
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2022 M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le PavillonHermitage, Northern Rhone, FRANCE$799. 00Bottle$9588.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
The pristine 2022 Ermitage Le Pavillon stands tall next to both the 2021 and 2023 vintages. Vividly displaying ripe black fruit, licorice, pencil shaving, crushed violet notes and a flicker of mocha, the full-bodied and concentrated 2022 shows even more richness on the palate than the Le Méal from the same vintage. Round and generous, this is a Le Pavillon for the hedonists, gracefully winding down with a long and savory finale. Drink 2028-2040.
96 points
Nicolas Greinacher - VinousDense and well-composed, this showcases mulberries, plums, roasted meat, dried herbs, leather and stones. Full-bodied with ripe, sinewy tannins. The spicy influence on this warm, dry vintage brings vivacity, intensity and character to a concentrated core of dark berries. This shows solid frame and structure and a lingering, peppery finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink from 2029.
98 points
James SucklingA profound and utterly gorgeous wine, the 2022 Ermitage Le Pavillon reveals notes of ozone, graphite, asphalt, ripe black fruits, and leather. Full-bodied, concentrated, and rich on the palate, it has plenty of ripe tannins and a blockbuster finish. Coming all from the Les Bessards lieu-dit located on the western side of Hermitage, this beauty was 85% destemmed and spent 18 months in a mix of demi-muids and puncheons. It has riveting purity, depth, and length, and certainly tops out my scale. Hide bottles for 7-8 years and enjoy through 2062. Drink 2032-2060
100 points
Jeb DunnuckPlum and damson compote, star anise and soy on the nose. This is fresh and lithe, with marked acidity and a great explosion of flavour; bright as a meteor. Not as long as some vintages on the finish, but certainly makes an impression. The pH is at 3.6 naturally through concentration, and nearly 14% alcohol. Remarkably athletic in acid and tannin for a 2022. From lieu-dit Les Bessards. Drink 2030-2050.
96 points
Matt Walls - Decanter -
- Nicks Import
Janneau 18 Year Old Grand Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 43%Distilled from Ugni Blanc grapes sourced from Ténarèze. The youngest eaux-de-vie in the blend is at least 18 years old.
Other reviews... This baby was integrally double-distilled in one set of stills. It’s 100% ugni blanc. Oh and it’s got a nice age statement instead of some very woolly name. Like Grand Prestige Of The Mousquetaires Du Roy. Whatever… Colour: deep gold. Nose: another category for sure. Lovely tropical fruits (papayas covered with honey and nectars) plus ripe peaches and fresh liquorice, then a little custard, tobacco, and sandalwood. Lovely freshness. Mouth: it’s still got young Armagnac’s grittiness, but that’s totally an asset here. Liquorice, black chocolate, orange blossom water, baklavas, more tinned peaches, and quite curiously, a spoonful of smoked tea. Finish: this is where it loses points, it’s a tad too grassy and drying. Lack a little, shall we say vibrancy? A wee touch of sugar, don’t know where that’s coming from. Comments: not perfect but I think it’s very good, very solid middle-aged Armagnac. And hey, it comes with an age statement (in general, and just like in Scotland, NAS-ers always try to make you believe that their make is older than it actually is). 80 points - whiskyfun.com
Notes from the producers... Colour: Beautiful brown copper reflections. Nose: Aromas of dry fruits with a dominance of walnuts and hazelnuts, balanced by floral aromas. Palate: Frank attack, rich and supple tannins. Persistent flavour of liquorice.
Silver Medal – 92 points - IWSC International Wine & Spirit Competition 2023
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Maxime Trijol Selection XO Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%A super buy in XO Cognac with the presentation to match.
A 'sister' bottling to our biggest selling XO cognac, Maxime Trijol's 'XO Selection' is composed of slightly younger eaux de vie, drawing on a higher proportion of Ugni Blanc from the Fins Bois appellation. The value looks to be just as exceptional as their signature XO, with no big brand house coming close to the price being offered here. 40% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Amber-mahogany dress with golden and coppery highlights. Brilliant colour. The first nose is floral (iris, jasmine) and spicy (hazelnut, vanilla wood). The attack is silky and voluptuous. The aromatic notes are intense and round (floral, fruity marmalade, woody). Very beautiful, noble and well-balanced Cognac.
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Fee Brothers Old Fashioned Aromatic Bitters (150ml)Rochester, New York, UNITED STATESReduced from $25.99$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenABV: 17.5%Closure: CorkSince its establishment in 1864, Fee Brothers continue to expand with a product list boasting over 80 drink mix products. The company presently has six different bitters. Up until now, some of these ingredients have been difficult to find despite being essential for many classic cocktail recipes which are returning to popularity. In general, we've found the Fee Bros. range of bitters to be more pungent than others on the market, so they offer fantastic value for money by being used sparingly.
Fee Bros. 'Old Fashioned' is a classic Bitters essential to every bar. Key ingredients include Angostura bark, spice flavours, citrus oil and gentian. Perfect in a Manhattan or a Planter's Punch amongst many other classic drinks, as well as soups, minced meat, plum pudding and many other preparations. 17.5% Alc./Vol.
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2024 Delas Saint Esprit Cotes du Rhone BlancCotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkA texturally voluminous dry white with brisk underlying acidity.
Brilliant pale straw colour with straw tinged edges and a watery hue. Aromas of pear and red apple mix with faint musk, honeysuckle and wet stone notes. Shapely in its feel the palate features ripe pear and apricot fruit over spicy peach, delicate honeysuckle and wet stone characters. Texturally voluminous it has brisk underlying acidity and a well rounded finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
A mouthful of peach and acacia blossom and a very attractive freshness. Medium-bodied, but quite some power to the nicely balanced and very clean finish. A cuvee based on grenache blanc with viognier, marsanne, roussane and a very small amount of clairette. Drink or hold.
91 Points
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2025 Mandala Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA delicious Yarra Valley Pinot that has a silky feel and lengthy finish.
Matured for 9 months in 25% new French oak. Semi translucent dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Fragrant scents of violet, red to dark cherry and strawberry sail from the glass trailed by some clove, bramble and spicy rhubarb notes. Delicious cherry and strawberry fruits are layered across the palate with a supple feel. Some brambly forest floor, dried herb and spice elements unfold across the back half. Silky smooth tannins with a polished feel to the lengthy finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
Fruit from Yarra Junction and Dixons Creek. A light ruby garnet. Gently fragrant with its aromas of strawberries, rose petals, white pepper and cinnamon. It's medium bodied and persistent, with enough tannin to suggest this will take six to 12 months to approach its ideal drinking window. Drink by 2029.
93 Points
Philip Rich - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- Nicks Import
2009 Signatory Vintage Cameronbridge 16 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #3 Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 57.1%Judging by online reviews, this sounds like a grain that tastes like it's peaking early, probably the result of input from the first and second refill casks which makes it taste richer than you'd expect. Says one, "Pleasant dram for sure, and very decent for quite a young grain." 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Nice, consistent whisky. Powerful, but not too much; sweet and red fruits, and some earthy vibes later on. Nose: Full scent, vanilla sweetness and some berries, a whiff of darker red fruits. Taste: Powerful, not too hefty. Red fruits, berries, milk chocolate now, vanilla sweetness. A little earthy touch noticeable later on. Finish: A bit more alcohol noticeable, but still very drinkable. Red fruits again, berries, a bit of earthy touch as well. A bit drying mouthfeel, medium long finish. - whiskyfun.com
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2022 Barr-Eden Mengler’s Hill Hommage Love Over GoldEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$180. 00Bottle$2160.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam CorkJuicy yet quite elegant in its flow with energetic acidity and a red to dark fruited finish that’s laced with pepper.
A blend of Mourvedre, Grenache and Shiraz. Deep black dark red heart with a dark red hue. Expressive ripe plum, dark raspberry, red liquorice and blueberry scents sail through the nostrils followed by spicy vanillin cedar, subtle dried herb and peppered earth notes. Juicy yet quite elegant in its flow with dark raspberry, red liquorice and red plum fruits to the fore. Spicy vanillin cedar, earth, infusions of herbs and pepper also chime in. Fine grained tannins and energetic acidity with a red to dark fruited finish that’s laced with pepper.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews……
An hommage to the great Bob McLean; a blend of 42/42/16% grenache/mourvèdre/shiraz. I miss Bob. Our last conversation before he passed away was conducted while leaning on our utes while filling them with diesel, discussing whether it was wise to buy butter chicken from a service station bain-marie. But I digress. This is a ripper of a wine. Spicy and packed full of graceful, pure plum and dark cherry fruits cut with hints of roasting meats, dried citrus rind, dried wildflowers, orange blossom, ginger cake, rosehip and earth. Powdered granite tannins and snappy, sour acidity with plenty of sustain on the finish. Drink by 2038.
94 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- Nicks Import
2009 Signatory Vintage North British 15 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #2 Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 57.1%"A nice find in this SV 100 Proof collection." - whiskybase.com
A dedicated blend filler, North British never bottle whisky under their own label, so few would have had the opportunity to taste it on its own. This one's apparently not as extreme as many others in the 100 Proof series and pretty young for a grain, but does its job well - no doubt due to the injection of added flavour from the first and second fill oloroso sherry butts. Some bourbon barrels are also in the mix. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Very pleasant, even though this grain whisky is only 15 years old. Cereal-like, fruity, spicy and very well-balanced. Smooth and oily on the palate. A nice find in this SV 100 Proof collection. A nice balance between Bourbon and Sherry. Vanilla and walnut in the finish. - whiskybase.com
...Taste: Some power, but very drinkable. A lot of sweetness and red fruitiness, berries. Later on it gains some power. Finish: Now a little alcohol bitterness comes in, but not too dominating. Sweet, red fruits, medium long finish. - whiskybase.com
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- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Jericho Bracken Vineyard ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRich, lush and weighty with a long, sumptuous finish.
Matured in 60% new French oak for a period of 14 months. Midnight black core with a deep dark red hue. Expressive ripe blackberry and liquorice aromas are complimented by some black cherry, vanillin cedar, earthy dark chocolate and spicy fennel notes. Rich and lush, the weighty palate is swept away in a wave of succulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Showing ample freshness and velvety tannins, notions of vanillin cedar and spicy fennel linger through the long, sumptuous finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 93
- 92
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Lodali Rocche Dei 7 Fratelli Barbaresco DOCGPiedmont, ITALY$125. 00Bottle$1500.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinJuicy red cherry and red liquorice fruits with mildly muscular tannins and a long energetic conclusion.
Semi translucent red colour with a light rusty red hue. A fragrant mix of red liquorice, rose petal and red currant are followed by some dried herb, red cherry and delicate spicy earth notes. Juicy red cherry and red liquorice fruits drive the palate with undertones of red currant, scorched earth and spicy dried herbs also evident. Quite supple in its flow with mildly muscular tannins lending some gentle grip across the long energetic, red fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
A garden-variety Barbaresco with red fruit, leafy lightness and a touch of spices. The attack is soft, with a medium body, velvety tannins, integrated freshness and a chewy finish. Drinkable now, but best from the end of 2025.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2022 Barbaresco Rocche dei 7 Fratelli is a blend from Ferrere and Giacone, both in Treiso. Aromatic and light on its feet, with lovely brightness, the 2022 is a jewel of a wine. Sweet red cherry, white pepper, chalk and dried herbs are all beautifully delineated in this vibrant yet ethereal Barbaresco. This fragrant, understated Barbaresco is impeccably done. The 2022 was fermented in cement and aged in neutral cask for 18 months. Drink 2024-2032.
92 Points
Antonio Galloni – Vinous -
- 93
Balgownie Sparkling ShirazBendigo, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenABV: 13.8%Closure: Crown SealRich and luscious with plenitude of black fruit framed by a robust tannin structure.
Pours with a prolific dark red purple tinged mousse that fades into a black dark red base. Fine nimble bead with aromas of liquorice, blackberry and black cherry intertwined with dark chocolate, earthy vanillin oak and spice. Rich, luscious blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits are underpinned by a robust tannin structure. Earthy dark chocolate, mocha and vanillin spice elements are also evident. Dry, slightly chalky finish yet one that’s plentiful in fruit.
Alc. 13.8% -
- Nicks Import
Janneau 25 Year Old Grand Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$179. 99Bottle$2159.88 DozenABV: 43%Yet another offer from Janneau that's likely to incite equal degrees of temptation and anticipation. This time it opens a door to access the kind of well-aged spirits associated with high rollers, cigar aficionados and otherwise certified brandy hedonists. Different from the younger Janneau expressions, the heavier oak input is counterpointed by dense dried fruit characteristics and wrapped up in softer textures, approaching an almost seamless spirit/wood/fruit balance. The youngest element in the blend is 25 years old, with all of the eaux de vie being Ugni Blanc based, sourced from Tenereze.
Gold Medal – 96 points. IWSC – International Wine & Spirits Competition 2021
Notes from the producers... Colour: Clear copper hues. Nose: Delicious combination of dry fruits and resinous-tree fruits. Palate: Unique sensory experience, complex woody and spicy while still sweet, velvety and never aggressive. Exceptionally long finale.
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- Nicks Import
2012 Signatory Vintage Cameronbridge 12 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #1 Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 57.1%Obviously relatively young for a grain whisky, but balanced and (just) mature enough to bring vibrant layers of vanilla, toffee and gentle oak, enhancing the distillery's naturally mellow, sweet spirit. Aged exclusively in first-fill bourbon barrels. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Crazy aroma but great taste and finish. Despite its intensity, it remains refined and gentle until the very end. Nose: Initially very strange, like a freshly opened paint bucket and very alcoholic. Then sweet vanilla, cream candies, fresh coconut and citrus fruits come through. Also a hint of marzipan. Taste: Powerful and creamy on the tongue. This is complemented by caramel, toffee, roasted almonds and plenty of spice. Finish: Long finish with lingering sweetness and delicate oak notes. - whiskybase.com
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- 95
- 95
- Organic
2024 Paritua Willow ChardonnayHawkes Bay, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich, full and textured with an underlying freshness.
Certified organic. Brilliant pale straw colour with green tinted edges and a watery hue. Elevated white peach and ripe nectarine aromas have a distinct dried honey overlay with some crème brulee, biscuity nougat and spice notes also evident. The rich, creamy textured palate features concentrated peach, nectarine, dried honey and crème brulee flavours over biscuity nougat and spice characters. Balanced acidity with a long, mouth filling finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews……
A precise, lively and textured chardonnay showing spiced apples, dried pears, sweet baking spices and custard on the nose. Medium-bodied with fresh acidity. Such drive and focus on the palate, with a flavorful finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 95
- 95
2024 Ministry of Clouds ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich, spicy and smoky with a long, succulent pepper laced conclusion.
After almost three decades of shared experience in the wine industry, Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood decided to have a crack at their own venture sourcing fruit mainly from high quality vineyards in McLaren Vale to produce wines under their Ministry of Clouds label. Incorporates approximately 18% whole bunches with maturation taking place in a combination of French oak hogsheads, puncheons, demi muids, foudres, and a concrete egg for a period of 7 months.
Dense midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Fragrant liquorice, red plum and blackberry scents infused with clove, smoked meats and peppered earth sail out of the glass. Rich, spicy and smoky, the palate features juicy dark plum and liquorice fruits interwoven with dried clove, smoked meat and peppered earth elements. Polished, fine grained tannins with a long, succulent pepper laced conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
There’s always a panoply of pick times and ferment constructions employed, with the matrix reminiscent of a forensic investigation, carefully linked by string and drawing pins. The impact, however, is entirely effortless, with a seamless feel and gossamer layering. This is agreeably lightweighted, scented with coal-smoky bunch notes, trilling with red fruits and popping with spices, running though coriander seed, green cardamom, white pepper and fennel seed. Goji berry, redcurrant, rose petal, Earl Grey tea, tart blackberry, tamarind … sweet and sour in the right way. A thoroughly modern Vale shiraz with Rhône echoes. Lovely. Drink by 2032.
95 Points
Marcus Ellis - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Maressa Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13.7%Closure: StelvinA ripe, juicy Pinot that carries a supple feel.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a light red hue. Intense dark cherry, anise and strawberry jam scents fill the nostrils followed by some dried herb and spice notes. Juicy ripe morello cherry, strawberry jam and anise flavours unfold across the supple palate. Dried herb, bramble and spice elements then chime in. Silky tannins with a long succulent finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.7% -
- 94
- 94
2022 Ring Bolt Cabernet SauvignonMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA rich, mouth filling Cabernet Sauvignon that has a sturdy back drop.
Fruit for the Ring Bolt was sourced from a selection of sites, most being around the Margaret River’s flagship Wilyabrup sub-region, close to the Indian Ocean. Maturation took place in a combination of 10% new American oak barriques with the balance in one year and older American and French oak barriques for a period of 12 months.
Dense inky black colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced blackcurrant and ripe mulberry aromas are complimented by vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco, subtle black olive and bay leaf notes. Rich mouth filling blackcurrant and mulberry fruits overlay a cedary tobacco, earth and bay leaf infused back drop. Fine grained tannins finishing generous yet sturdy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
With the challenges of the ’21 vintage behind it, this excellent value for money Margaret River Cabernet from the subregion of Wilyabrup is right back in form. It was a very good vintage for red wine and this one, which displays excellent structure and balance is a terrific example. Rich black fruits and a dollop of chocolate with that slightly saline minerality and subtle black olive adding complex nuances. One of the very best I have tasted in this line. Drink 2025-2035.
94 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com -
- 93
- Organic
2024 Domaine Les Mesclances Charmes Méditerranée RoseMediterranee, FRANCE$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA moreish, flavour packed and slippery textured Rose.
A certified organic blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Tibouren. Pale salmon pink tinged colour. Expressive peach, raspberry and strawberry scents sail from the glass followed by some musk and wet stone notes. Slippery textured the palate features intense flavours of raspberry, peach, strawberry and musk. Brisk acidity with some wet stone elements lingering through the long, moreish finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Beechworth Wine Estates James BarberaBeechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinBright and lively with juicy red to blue fruits.
Matured in seasoned French oak. Pitch black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Bouncing out of the glass are aromas of ripe plum, liquorice and black cherry trailed by some blueberry, scorched earth and vanillin spice notes. Juicy plum, ripe blueberry and red liquorice fruits are underscored by lively acidity. Some vanillin spice and dried herb elements extend across the back half. Faintly chalky tannins finishing bright and fruity.|
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
2022 Mount Pleasant Philip ShirazHunter Valley, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinJuicy blue to dark fruits with infusions of dried clove and pepper threaded throughout the long savoury finish.
Dark red black tinged heart with a dark red hue. Smoky dark cherry, liquorice and plum scents are married to clove, dried meat and pepper notes. Rich, concentrated and juicy, dark cherry, ripe blueberry and liquorice fruits meld into a smoky back drop of clove, dried meat and peppered earth elements. Fleshy mouth feel with polished tannins. Finishes long and savoury with infusions of dried clove and pepper threaded throughout.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Dols Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.1%Closure: StelvinLight & supple decorated with red fruits finishing fresh, elegant and savoury.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant violet, red to dark cherry and strawberry scents sail through the nostrils followed by subtle whiffs of anise, brambly rhubarb like notes and spice. Light and supple in it’s feel, red cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits are featured over delicate anise, spicy bramble and forest floor elements. Polished tannins with a fresh, elegant finish that’s quite savoury.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.1% -
- 93
2024 Minuty Prestige Rose - Last StocksProvence, FRANCE$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkSilken in it’s texture with refreshing acidity and a long mineral laced finish.
Very pale salmon tinged colour. Delicate peach skin, pomegranate and raspberry scents are trailed by some subtle spicy musk and wet stone notes. Delicious fleshy peach, strawberry and pomegranate fruits carry a silken feel across the palate. Traces of musk and wet stone sit in the background. Refreshing acidity with a long slippery textured, mineral laced finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 96
- 97
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Barr-Eden Estate Mengler’s Hill Love Over Gold GrenacheEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$180. 00Bottle$2160.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam CorkRich, concentrated and powerful yet light on its feet with an abundance of energy.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Captivating red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and ripe cherry aromas leap out of the glass followed by some subtle scorched earth, vanillin spice and pepper notes. Rich, concentrated and powerful yet light on its feet, juicy dark raspberry, red liquorice and red to dark cherry fruits bounce across the mid weighted palate with an abundance of energy. Vanillin spice, earth, dried herb and pepper elements extend across the back half. Polished tannins and fresh underlying acidity, finishing long, succulent and peppery.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews……
The 2021 Love Over Gold Grenache is fine-boned, febrile and pretty, with layers of blood and iodine, plum skin and licorice. The tannins are embossed into the fruit and are incredibly pliable and malleable in the mouth. This is not a big expression of Grenache, and some may argue it isn't "big" enough for Grenache—but not me. This remains true to variety with an abundance of graphite tannin and a mineral, cooling finish. The fruit is not overly sweet; it is balanced by an exotic pink peppercorn/pastrami/sumac character. What a wine! A big, mineral YES. Drink 2022-2037.
97 Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2025-2026$39. 99Bottle$479.88 Dozen
For the 2025-2026 edition, Jim Murray reflects on 1017 new whiskies, adding to more than 1,500 Scottish single malts, nearly 400 blended Scotches and in excess of 1000 American whiskies already tasted. Over thirty countries feature! Paperback. 384 pages.
Other reviews... Jim’s approach is unique! I had a chance a to discuss with Jim personally and at length how he approaches the whole job of bringing so many whiskies and tastings together, year after year, and I was really astonished to what a degree of meticulousness he goes. There are many great whisky writers and gurus, but Jim’s approach is unique! And as a good author, when you have to describe thousand different whisky expressions every year, you try to make it colourful and diverse, using parallels from life. - Whisky Bible reader.
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- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Zilzie Selection 23 Sauvignon BlancVictoria, AUSTRALIA$11. 99Bottle$143.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now (2025)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA refreshingly zesty entry level Sauvignon Blanc.
Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Pungent herbaceous gooseberry and passionfruit aromas mix with some lime and faint grassy notes. Ripe tropical fruit and gooseberry flavours overlay a subtle herbaceous grassy back drop. Crisp acidity with a refreshingly zesty finish.
Drink now.
Alc. 12% -
- 92
2023 Chateau JoannaCotes de Bourg, Bordeaux, FRANCE$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkMedium bodied with lively acidity underpinning youthful red to black currant and blueberry fruits.
Pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Fragrant red to black currant aromas infused with fresh herbs blossom out of the glass followed by some subtle liquorice, vanillin cedar, earthy graphite and spice notes. Medium bodied, lively acidity underpins youthful red to black currant and blueberry fruits with some spicy vanillin cedar, gentle earth and infusions of fresh herbs sitting in the background. Fine grained, mildly chalky tannins with a fresh, energetic red to blue fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
- 96
- 97
2023 Cesar Marquez Perez El Val GodelloBierzo, SPAIN$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkCesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.
Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.
El Val is a new wine of 100% Godello from a cool, high altitude vineyard, and transcends the quality limits expected of this grape in Bierzo.
Other Reviews....
The top white 2023 El Val comes from one of the coolest places in Valtuille with vines regrafted to old-clone Godello. It has 13.09% alcohol, a pH of 3.09 and 7.98 grams of acidity, with good ripeness and very good parameters for acidity and freshness in a very complete year that is closer to 2021 than to 2022. It comes from ancient vines on clay, stone and quartzite soils and fermented in one 500-liter barrel, where the wine matured with the lees that were never stirred for 12 months. It has a stunning nose, smoky and flinty, with a lovely reduction and hints of gunpowder and toasted sesame seeds, very Burgundian à la Coche-Dury. It's very tasty, with a salty twist in the finish. Only 570 bottles were produced. It was bottled in October 2024. Drink 2025-2033.
97+ points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 El Val is 100% Godello from a unique white parcel in Valtuille, surrounded by reds. The aromas are reductive to start, with notes of flint and gunpowder, evolving to green apple, floral hints, praline and herbs. Expressive and compact, the palate is fresh, concentrated, and lifted, with a soft, creamy touch. Utterly delicious. Drink 2025-2038.
97 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousThe nose shows salted lemons with a restrained touch of flint. The palate is medium- to full-bodied with brilliant acidity. It’s linear and precise, with just the right amount of extract. There’s an exceptional sense of balance. Drink now.
96 points
Jacobo García Andrade - JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
- 96
- 94
2023 Cesar Marquez Perez Valtuille Vino de Villa MenciaBierzo, SPAIN$57. 99Bottle$695.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkCesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.
Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.
Valtuille Vino de Villa replaces the previous Las Firmas bottling, and is Cezar's village wine sourced from two sites in the village of Valtuille, considered the most prestigious village in Bierzo.
Other Reviews....
The village red 2023 Valtuille Vino de Villa comes from sandy soils on closer plots. This year, it's 85% Mencía, 10% Alicante Bouschet and 5% other white and red varieties like Bastardo, Sousón or Estaladiña. It fermented with some full clusters in 1,000-liter vessels and matured in 500-liter barrels. It's juicy, round, harmonious and fruit-driven, with freshness and elegance. It has a moderate 12.55% alcohol, a pH of 3.51 and 5.42 grams of acidity. 6,890 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2025. Drink 2025-2032.
94+ points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Valtuille Vino de Villa opens with aromas of pomegranate, violet, rose and cherry. The palate is compact, juicy and tense, with a slightly more enveloping texture and a fresh, sustained finish. Drink 2025-2035.
93 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousPerfumed on the nose, with dried geraniums, rose petals and herbal nuances. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, showing an ethereal character with delicate fruit. Subtle and refined, with a graceful finish. This comes from five parcels planted in the village of Valtuille. It’s classified as Vino de Villa, the designation for a village wine. Fermented with about 30% whole clusters. Drink now.
96 points
Jacobo García Andrade - JamesSuckling.com -
- 95
- 96
- 96
2023 Cesar Marquez Perez El Rapolao MenciaBierzo, SPAIN$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkCesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.
Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.
Rapolao is the coolest of the single vineyard wines, located in the village of Valtuille and is certainly the most famous vineyard in Bierzo.
Other Reviews....
César's 2023 El Rapolao was sourced from a centenary plot in the coldest part of the village, where the soils are rich in iron and organic matter. It fermented with 30% full clusters in small 1,000-liter vats, with a short maceration of 17 days and an élevage in used 500-liter oak barrels. It comes in at 12.75% alcohol, a pH of 3.58 and 5.38 grams of acidity, with lower alcohol and more freshness and acidity than the previous vintage. This is a place with more rusticity, always a little earthier, with slightly dusty tannins. 1,911 bottles were filled in May 2025. Drink 2026-2036.
96+ points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 El Rapolao was sourced from old vines in Valtuille. It opens with violet, herbs, a touch of soft pine resin and rose. The palate is juicy, supple and gently creamy, with fine tannins and a clear expression. Tasted just weeks after bottling, this will gain further complexity with time. Drink 2025-2038.
95 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousRed cherries and herbs on the nose, with hints of tapenade, elderberries and earth adding depth. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, marked by fine-grained yet firm tannins and a focused thread of dark fruit that carries through to a tight, linear finish. Drink now or hold.
96 points
Jacobo García Andrade - JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- 97
- 97
2023 Cesar Marquez Perez Pico Ferreira MenciaBierzo, SPAIN$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkCesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.
Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.
Pico Ferreira is located in the village of Corullon, and while only 300m from Sufreiral it’s on the opposite side of the mountain with a north-east exposure. Soils here are very poor, thin and rocky slate where the roots struggle to penetrate. This leads to small clusters and wines that are often more robust than others in the portfolio.
Other Reviews....
The 2023 Pico Ferreira comes from a lieu-dit in the village of Corullón, a northwest-facing, shady slope planted with centenary vines on slate soils. It fermented with 30% full clusters and indigenous yeasts in 1,000-liter vats with 21 days of maceration and matured in a 1,200-liter oak vat and 600-liter barrels for one year. This is a little more discrete and remained closed after being in the glass for a while, whereas the other wines opened up. It comes in at 12.98% alcohol, with a pH of 3.57 and 5.36 grams of acidity, with abundant, slightly dusty tannins. 1,980 bottles produced. It was bottled in January 2025. Drink 2026-2036.
97 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Pico Ferreira is Mencía grown on slate with some clay, a rarer soil type in Bierzo. This aged in 500- to 600-liter barrels. Aromas include soft herbs, a hint of balsam, pomegranate and cherry. The slate-driven palate is compact and tense, yet juicy, with fine-grained tannins and long flavor. Drink 2025-2043.
96 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousThis is subtle and floral, with aromas of nervy herbs and red cherries. It’s juicy, delicious and precise, with fine-grained tannins and subtle fruit in the firm and flavorful finish. This comes from a vineyard planted on calcareous soil at high altitude. Drink now or hold.
97 points
Jacobo García Andrade - JamesSuckling.com -
- 89
- 89
2023 Hudelot-Noellat Chambolle-MusignyBurgundy, FRANCE$270. 00Bottle$3240.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkHudelot-Noëllat is no longer one of Burgundy’s hidden gems as word is well and truly out now on just how exceptional these wines are. Charles Van Canneyt runs this iconic family owned domaine based in Vougeot where he crafts elegant and classic wines from some of the region’s most prized vineyards. Staying true to tradition, Charles practices minimal intervention in the cellar along with limited new oak usage. His aim is to produce refined Burgundy with an emphasis on purity and finesse, all while letting the terroir shine.
Other Reviews....
This is also aromatically fresh and bright with its essence of lightly spiced red berries. In the same fashion as the Bourgogne, the mouthfeel of the medium weight flavors is moderately robust, serious and powerful before terminating in a firm and lingering finish that flirts with rusticity. Drink through 2029+.
88-91 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Chambolle-Musigny Village reveals aromas of cherries, berries, orange zest and petals. Medium to full-bodied, ample and satiny, with a sweet core of fruit and a clean, classic profile, it will offer a broad drinking window.
89-91 points
William Kelley - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Chambolle-Musigny Village has a refined bouquet with dark berry fruit, touches of wilted rose petals suffusing the raspberry and cranberry scents and neatly integrated oak. The palate is medium-bodied with a sorbet-fresh entry, orange rind interlacing the red fruit with an agile, poised finish. This should drink early—it's very fine. Drink 2026-2036.
89-91 points
Neal Martin - VinousFresh purple colour, again this high acid tension on red fruit. Redcurrant fruit and fresh raspberry, attractive if completely different from others in 2023. Persistent though. Drink from 2028-2033.
89-91 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 92
- 92
2023 Hudelot-Noellat Nuits-St Georges Les Murgers Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$470. 00Bottle$5640.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkHudelot-Noëllat is no longer one of Burgundy’s hidden gems as word is well and truly out now on just how exceptional these wines are. Charles Van Canneyt runs this iconic family owned domaine based in Vougeot where he crafts elegant and classic wines from some of the region’s most prized vineyards. Staying true to tradition, Charles practices minimal intervention in the cellar along with limited new oak usage. His aim is to produce refined Burgundy with an emphasis on purity and finesse, all while letting the terroir shine.
Other Reviews....
This is also quite aromatically interesting and pretty with its ripe and fresh combination of plum, dark cherry, earth and a whiff of the sauvage. The super-sleek, intense and delicious, if not especially dense, middle weight flavors still manage to display good power that continues onto the youthfully austere finish that flirts with rusticity. This is clearly built-to-age and a wine that's going to need at least mid-term keeping. Drink through 2035+.
91-93 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundAromas of plums, cassis, orange zest and spices introduce the 2023 Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Les Murgers, a medium to full-bodied, lively and concentrated wine that's penetrating and intense. Due to rootstock problems, the younger vines that informed this cuvée are being replanted, so in 2023 this is an all old-vine cuvée.
92-94 points
William Kelley - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Nuits Saint-Georges Les Murgers 1er Cru comes from just one-third of the original parcel as the rest were pulled up. This comes solely from the old 80-year-old vines. It has a cohesive bouquet with a mixture of red and black fruit and touches of slate. The palate is medium-bodied with crunchy black fruit tones laced with light briny elements toward the finish. This has a beguiling sense of harmony and great persistence. Drink 2027-2045.
92-94 points
Neal Martin - VinousThe darker side of purple here. A classic nose, the weight and power of north side Nuits lifted by the headier class of Vosne-Romanée. Clearly a lot of wine in this glass. On the cusp of red and black yet fresh, lifted and quite concentrated, fills the mouth in satisfying fashion with a perfect fruit-acid balance Drink from 2030-2038.
93-96 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy
















































