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- Nick's Import
2018 Watt Whisky Nc'Nean 6 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 57.1%A baby malt from a very new distillery founded in 2017. Nc’nean is located within the Drimnin Estate on a remote west Highland peninsula with spectacular views over Mull and Tobermory. The name is an abbreviation of 'Neachneohain', which translates as 'Queen of Spirits' from Gaelic. This deeply coloured expression from Watt Whisky was STR matured (that refers to casks that have been shaved, toasted and re-charred). The outturn was 282 bottles at 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Mouth: quite strong, with caramel notes and generous amounts of oak spice. Pepper, cinnamon, oranges, more plums. A bit of a rough edge, with salty notes and a brief moment of alcohol heat. Candied ginger syrup, drops of clove oil and toasted oak, with a slightly tannic edge. Finish: medium and sweet, balancing citrus and oak spice. Very modern and spicy whisky, with a wood influence that I find too obvious, too contrived. STR casks are always a bit tricky and I think other distilleries are mastering them better. - whiskynotes.be
...Nose: The STR cask is in the driver’s seat.... Taste: Big whisky. Or intense more like. Lots of pepper, cloves and oak spices in general. There’s a touch of fudge, but also a slight vinous edge. Then oranges, apricots and more charred oak, followed by chillies and a soft aniseed-y note... It relies a lot on the STR cask, and I'm not sure that is a good thing. - wordsofwhisky.com
Notes from the bottlers... Lots of toffee, peanut brittle, plums, cinnamon balls and charred oak.
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2023 Domaine Saint-Damien Gigondas Vieilles Vignes - DAMAGED LABELGigondas, Southern Rhone, FRANCEReduced from $59.99$55. 99Bottle$671.88 DozenABV: 15%Outstanding power, energy and structure with a long, dynamically juicy finish.
Domaine Saint-Damien is run by Joel and Amie Saurel whose family has been tending vineyards for four generations, dating back to 1821. Until relatively recently they sold all of their grapes to negociants. In 1998 they brought on consulting winemaker Philippe Cambie and haven’t looked back. Of the estates 42 acres of vineyards, 30 acres are in Gigondas with vines that have an average age of 50 years.
A blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah matured in large old foudres for a period of 12 months.
Dense midnight black dark red core with a bright red to dark red hue. Wafting out of the glass are intense dark raspberry, liquorice and black plum scents which are complimented by some black cherry, violet, provincial herb, scorched earth and pepper notes. Rich, concentrated and succulent yet showing remarkable freshness, the palate is drenched in a tidal wave of dark raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits which are framed by muscular tannins and vibrant acidity. Infusions of Provencial herbs, earthy incense and pepper extend across the back half. Possessing outstanding power, energy and structure, it finishes long and dynamically juicy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 15%Other Reviews……
The 2023 Gigondas Vieilles Vignes offers fabulous notes of black cherries, licorice, roasted garrigue, and peppery Provençal nuances. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied Gigondas offering ample mid-palate depth, sweet tannins, and a great finish.
94-96 Points
JebDunnuck.com -
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2024 Bellvale Pinot Noir - DAMAGED LABELGippsland, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $27.99$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenABV: 13%Supplely textured, savoury and spicy.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a rustic red hue. Nosing offers up spicy aromas of red to dark cherry, rhubarb, bramble and dried herbs. Supplely textured, savoury and spicy, the palate features red cherry and rhubarb fruits over a dried herb, clove and bramble back drop. Polished tannins with lively acidity well concealed by the wines pillowy feel. Spicy bramble and dried herb infused finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
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- Nick's Import
2011 House of MacDuff The Golden Cask Undisclosed Single Cask 12 Year Old Cask Strength Dominican Republic Rum (700ml)DOMINICAN REPUBLIC$199. 99Bottle$2399.88 DozenABV: 59.9%The creamy nose-feel suggests custard and fruit cake, semi-ripe banana, cinnamon and dried mango. The taste is natural, unsweetened; powerful yet well-balanced with a frail smokiness augmenting an oily pot still character; Suddenly less sedate than it started, building gingery heat and becoming more tactile. Bittersweet chocolate and light molasses seal the finish. Characterful rum with impressive persistence. 250 bottles at 59.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
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- Nick's Import
2012 House of MacDuff The Golden Cask Undisclosed Single Cask 10 Year Old Cask Strength Fiji Rum (700ml)FIJI$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 64.6%Like the other rums in the latest shipment from the House of Macduff, the provenance is undisclosed. The nose opens with warming alcohol, molasses and chocolate oranges. Quite an attack: Textural, even slightly grippy with restrained sugars, a crisp finish and buzzing spices. Generous yet breezy, and remarkably well balanced for a cask strength bottling - one that leans towards aged Havana Club 7, only richer, and at least three times as intense at this gorilla ABV. No shortage of depth to handle heavy mixing. 247 bottles at 64.6.% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
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- Nick's Import
1989 House of MacDuff The Golden Cask Girvan 32 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 57.7%Named after the town it's situated in, Girvan is William Grant & Sons behemoth, ranking as one of the largest facilities in Scotland. Three decades is usually about what it takes to see its whisky blossom. In this case, the bouquet is reticent; dryish with aromas of vanilla, salted caramel, sponge cake and spent bourbon barrels. Wait long enough and it fattens up like a buttery Chardonnay. In the mouth it's more luxurious and revealing, particularly tasted after fifteen minutes in the glass. The ABV is remarkably high for a thirty year old, yet the entry is light and deceptive leading into ripe cantaloupe and cream flavours, the sugars rallying towards the finish, tempered by bittersweet dark chocolate and tannins. At the heavier end of the grain spectrum though remains poised. You don't need much water to accent a honeycombe thread, transforming it into something akin to a very refined, very old column still rum. 57.7% Alc./Vol. 166 bottles from an x-Bourbon cask. Non chill filtered.
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- Nick's Import
2011 House of MacDuff The Golden Cask Mannochmore 11 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 56%Fascinating to taste Mannochmore in burgeoning adulthood, this one offering a seductive mix of dried pear, coconut and Ugg boots, especially on the nose. More of those lovely coconut and vanilla cream notes are found on the palate, the orchard fruits being crisper and less ripe. Classy malt, though at just 11 years, there’s a few bristles to contend with. Add water for a naturally softer feel while the fruits become more salient. 279 bottles from a bourbon cask. 56% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
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- 91
- Nick's Import
2012 House of MacDuff The Golden Cask Macduff 11 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 54%Bacardi-owned MacDuff can be variable. Some tasters find it a bit bready and beery, which is no bad thing. On the other hand, it sometimes retains a nutty, sulphury edge that can taste like rubber. This is one of the most accessible singles in the latest Golden Cask lineup - rich and rounded, in moments leaning towards milk chocolate and malt extract, poached orchard fruits and buzzing spices keep the momentum going. A well-weighted, malt-forward expression that pops with a dash of water. For drinkers, not thinkers. 266 bottles from a bourbon cask at 54% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
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2022 Lake Breeze Cabernet SauvignonLanghorne Creek, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRefined, mid weighted Cabernet Sauvignon with Langhorne Creek’s characteristic mintiness.
From 50 year old vines with maturation taking place in French oak barriques for 20 months. Dense inky black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of blackcurrant and liquorice combine with mint, dusty vanillin cedar and bay leaf notes. Refined in its feel, the mid weighted palate features fleshy blackcurrant and liquorice fruits over a spearmint, dusty vanillin cedar and spice back drop. Slightly grainy tannins lend a mild firmness to the elegant finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
Made from 94/5/1% cabernet sauvignon/malbec/petit verdot; 20 months in French oak, 30% new. This delivers strong blackcurrant flavours with cedarwood, spearmint and eucalypt flavours attached. It's well scented, well flavoured and well finished, with unobtrusive tannin and a juiciness all the way through, the latter complemented by well-integrated oak. Drink by 2032.
92 Points
Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
2023 Mader Pinot GrisAlsace, FRANCE$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinLusciously fruited with a round, supple feel, fresh acidity and a dry finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish toned edges and a watery hue. Pronounced pear, red apple and honeysuckle aromas rise through the nostrils followed by hints of quince and spice. Luscious ripe pear and apple fruits fill the mouth overlaying a subtle honeysuckle, quince and spice back drop. Round, supple feel with fresh acidity lending energy to the otherwise dry, texturally full finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 94
2023 Dandelion Vineyards Lionheart of the Barossa ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinOpulently textured yet youthfully fresh with a long seductive finish.
Matured in some new but predominately older French oak barriques for a period of 18 months. Dense inky black dark purple colour with a deep dark purple black tinged hue. Pronounced dark plum, liquorice and blackberry aromas flood the nostrils followed by some fennel, spicy vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Rich juicy blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits burst across the palate with notions of vanillin cedar, fennel and subtle peppered earth elements the support act. Opulently textured yet youthfully fresh, it has polished tannins and a long seductive finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 93
2024 La Vieille Ferme RoseFRANCE$18. 99Bottle$227.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinIntensely flavoured and supplely textured Rose
Made from a blend of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah. Pale damask pink tinged colour. Enticing peach, strawberry and raspberry scents sail out of the glass with ample intensity trailed by hints of musk and wet stone. Delicious peach, raspberry and strawberry fruits are supplely layered across the palate. Excellent concentration and drive with brisk acidity lending freshness. Musk and wet stone elements extending through the long finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
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2022 Escarpment NOIR Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinLight, supple and spicy with a faint twang to the acidity and a savoury finish.
Aged in predominately older French oak barriques for a period of 10 months. Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Spiced cherry and strawberry aromas mix with forest forest floor, hints of anise and dried herbs. Light, supple and spicy, red cherry, winter strawberry and anise flavours decorate the palate with dried herb, forest floor and brambly cedar elements the undercard. Polished tannins with a faint twang to the acidity and a savoury finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- Biodynamic
2020 Domaine du Closel La Jalousie SavennieresLoire Valley, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 12%Closure: CorkBiodynamic Chenin Blanc with luscious fruit and brisk acidity counterpointing a relatively viscous feel
Bright straw colour with a watery hue. Lifted pear, baked apple and honeysuckle aromas mix with ripe quince and cinnamon spice notes. Luscious pear, baked apple and honeysuckle flavours overlay a quince and wet slate back drop. Brisk acidity counterpoints a relatively viscous feel. Finishes very dry with a long baked fruit, honeysuckle, quince and wet stone aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2020 Tollot-Beaut & Fils Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Champ-Chevrey MonopoleBurgundy, FRANCE$170. 00Bottle$2040.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkA rich, juicy Burgundy full of black fruit with a slightly inky feel, chalky tannins and fresh acidity.
Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Elevated aromas of violet, freshly crushed cherries and black raspberries sail out of the glass followed by some Provincial herb, earth and inky incense like notes. Rich and juicy the palate carries plenty of weight with lush black cherry and black raspberry fruit overlaying a violet infused back drop of incense, earth and spicy provincial herbs. Slightly inky feel with chalky tannins and fresh underlying acidity leading into a vibrantly fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 94
2022 Woodstock Deep Sands ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.9%Closure: StelvinRich, lush and weighty with slightly chewy tannins and a long, opulent yet robust finish.
Dense midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Ripe blackberry, liquorice and black cherry scents waft through the nostrils followed by some smoky vanillin oak and peppered earth notes. Rich blackberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits swamp the mouth carrying with them a lush, weighty feel. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins with spicy vanilla, scorched earth and pepper elements sitting in the background. Concludes long and opulent yet robust.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.9% -
- 93
2024 Moorooduc Estate Devil Bend Creek Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA mid weighted, amply fleshed Pinot with slightly grainy tannins.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a light red to red hue. Blossoming from the glass are fragrant scents of violet, red to dark cherries, winter strawberries, fresh herbs, forest floor and a whiff of spicy anise. Mid weighted, the palate features dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours over a dried herb, forest floor and spice back drop. Slightly grainy tannins with an amply fleshed mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2023 Tomfoolery Son of a Gun Cabernet Sauvignon ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFull bodied with rich plush fruit, sturdy tannins and prominent vanillin cedar and tobacco characters on the finish.
Matured for 12 months in French and American oak. Dense midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced blackcurrant and liquorice aromas intermingle with cedary tobacco, dried herb and spice notes. Rich plush blackcurrant, plum and liquorice fruits flood the front half of the full bodied palate. Prominent vanillin cedar, tobacco and spicy dried herb elements swamp the back half. Polished yet sturdy tannins with prominent vanillin cedar and tobacco characters lingering through the finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Plantagenet Three Lions Pinot NoirGreat Southern, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinJuicy, supplely textured and energetically fresh.
A blend of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Shiraz. Vibrant red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red purple tinged hue. Fragrant cherry and strawberry scents are complimented by violet, rhubarb, forest floor and spice notes. Delicious red cherry and strawberry fruits carry a juicy feel across the supplely textured palate with traces of anise, forest floor and spicy dried herbs the undercard. Energetically fresh it has velvety tannins and a flavoursome mid length finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% -
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2022 The Willows Vineyard G Seven Shiraz - Last StocksBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $36.99$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14.4%Closure: StelvinA rich, fleshy yet also highly energetic Barossa Shiraz.
Matured in seasoned French oak for a period of 14 months. Impenetrable inky black colour with a very deep dark purple black tinged hue. Intense aromas of freshly crushed blackberries, liquorice, dark plum and blueberry waft through the nostrils complimented by some spicy vanillin cedar, inky earth and peppered herb notes. Rich and fleshy yet also highly energetic, the palate is decorated with freshly crushed blackberry, plum, liquorice and blueberry fruits. Some inky earth, vanillin spice and peppered herb elements linger underneath. Bright acidity and polished tannins finishing long, juicy and vibrant.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.4%Other Reviews…..
A single-site shiraz from the Willows' 'Back Block' in Light Pass; partial whole bunch fermentation. Bright magenta-splashed crimson in the glass with fruit aromas of juicy satsuma plum, blueberry and red cherry fruits. Hints of violets, raspberry coulis, licorice, fruitcake, milk chocolate, earth and blueberry pie. Full bodied yet light and fresh with impressive fruit purity and detail, tight, layered gypsum-dust tannins lending the formwork and a brisk, briny acid driveline finishing fruit-pure and spicy. Drink by 2035.
95 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
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2016 Louis Roederer Vintage Champagne - NO GIFT BOXChampagne, FRANCEReduced from $160.00$140. 00Bottle$1680.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Rich and creamy yet airy and agile in it’s feel, this a wonderfully complex Champagne.
Fine pillowy mousse with a straw pale gold tinged base that’s threaded by a nibble stream of tiny bubbles. Wonderfully aromatic sniff with intense baked bread, yeast lees, pear and brioche scents engulfing the nostrils followed by some honeyed cashew, citrus and roasted almond notes. Rich and creamy yet airy and agile in it’s feel, the palate features mouth filling flavours of baked bread, pear and yeast lees with notions of honeyed cashew, citrus, almond and brioche characters extending across the back half. Crisp, mouth watering acidity with a dry, expansive finish.
Drink over the 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Complex nose of restrained strawberries and lemon zest, with macerated flowers and shortbread. Full body and plenty of concentration, with pinprick mousse, long and chewy, integrated acidity and amazing length. Pinot noir and chardonnay. Drink or hold.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2016 Champagne Vintage Brut is the new release and is composed of 70% Pinot Noir from Verzy and the rest Chardonnay from Chouilly. A slightly richer golden straw hue, it has a floral bouquet on the nose and is a very pretty vintage of this wine aromatically. It’s sappy with lemon confit and is salty throughout the palate, revealing the weight of the Pinot Noir but retaining wonderful freshness. This lovely wine is going to take some time to open aromatically, but it’s going to be worth the wait. Drink it over the coming 15 years. It’s a going to be a stunning wine for pairings. 7 gram per liter dosage in this wine and in the collection. Drink 2024-2040.
95 Points
Audrey Frick – JebDunnuck.com -
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2023 Torbreck The Struie Shiraz - DAMAGED LABELBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $47.99$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 15%Rich, voluptuously textured Barossa Shiraz with a long, firm conclusion.
A blend of Barossa Valley (76%) and Eden Valley (24%) fruit, the Barossa Valley contributes plushness and concentration whilst the Eden Valley component brings elegance and structure to the blend. The average age of vines is 50 years old and maturation takes place in a mixture of new (25%) and seasoned French oak for a period of 18 months.
Dense inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Wafting through the nostrils are heady scents of dark plum, blackberry and liquorice followed by vanillin oak, earthy dark chocolate and subtle spicy leather notes. Rich, voluptuously textured and thick across the full bodied palate, opulent dark plum, liquorice and lush black cherry fruits are delivered with Torbreck’s trademark concentration and power. Sturdy yet velvet like tannins provide a solid framework with vanillin oak, scorched earth, dark chocolate and spicy fennel elements lurking underneath. Concludes long and firm yet sumptuous.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 15%
Other Reviews.....
The 2023 The Struie is a blend from Eden and Barossa, melding the higher altitude austerity and structure of Eden with the density and muscle of the Barossa. I like this wine, because if you sit with it for long enough, you can clearly see the component parts side by side. The whole makes the understanding of the parts. You get the blueberry, black cherry, licorice, crushed quartz, aniseed and dark chocolate of Eden married to the bloody, earthy, gritty muscle of Barossa. Awesome. 15% alcohol, sealed under natural cork and wax. Drink 2025-2038.
95 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
A lovely balance of Eden Valley spices and Barossa power and strength, with aromas of blackberries, graphite, olive tapenade, violets and purple fruit. The palate is full-bodied with a velvety texture, ultra-fine tannins and flavors of mulberries, mint, pomegranates, cured meat and dark chocolate. A silken finish for this excellent release from a cool vintage. Drink or hold.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com -
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2022 Nicks Secret AC Blewitt Springs Syrah - DAMAGED LABELMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $54.99$30. 99Bottle$371.88 DozenABV: 14.5%From a renown McLaren Vale winery, this is one of their flagship cuvees which is only released in top years. Sitting at an altitude of 200 metres the Blewitt Springs sub region normally ripens 1-2 weeks later than most other areas in McLaren Vale producing refined wines that have a silken feel and gorgeous layers of rich blue to black fruit.
Sleek and glossy textured this is a gorgeous marriage of opulence and finesse.
Midnight black heart with a dark purple black tinged hue. Wafting out of the glass are seductive aromas of blackberry, liquorice and dark plum which are complimented by spicy vanillin cedar, traces of dark chocolate, earth and peppered fennel notes. A rich, silky flow of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits caress the full bodied yet wonderfully refined and polished palate. Vanillin cedar, subtle earthy dark chocolate and peppered fennel accents line the back half. Outstanding in it’s power and depth, it possesses velvety tannins and a long glossy textured finish that marries opulence with finesse.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
From three sandy sites, two planted in the '70s and one the late '90s; 14% whole bunch in the final blend; matured in French barrels (12% new) and a 2600L foudre. This is the most aromatic and lifted of the triad of single-site syrah in this range, which is unsurprising given the sandy soils. It doesn’t lack for depth and intensity though, the fruits simply more red, blurring a little into black, the structure tautly tensioned, the finale pleasingly brisk. Sour plum and cherry, tart blackberry, clove and pepper, struck rock, iron and black tea. It’s a lovely expression, just starting to suggest some tertiary perfume, which promises to build appealingly. It’s very good. Drink by 2035.
96 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionAn impressive nose of blackberries, dried kelp, violets and licorice. The structure is a taut coil, like a spring contracting and expanding across gritty, detailed tannins melded to saline acidity. Iodine reduction, nicely handled. Full-weighted but detailed and classy. Drinkable now, but best from 2027. Screw cap.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
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Ardbeg Uigeadail Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - NO GIFT BOXIslay, SCOTLANDReduced from $174.99$164. 99Bottle$1979.88 DozenABV: 54.2%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Launched in 2003, “Uigeadail” (the loch from which all Ardbeg water flows) is a cask strength, heavily peated Ardbeg produced from a mix of bourbon casks and older sherry casks. The combination gives the whisky a nice texture and sweet, smokey finish. Our tasting was from a batch released in 2010. It offers a generous, sherry-influenced nose suggesting dried apricot and marmalade over menthol and sweet cedar smoke. Some ripe green apple notes emerge with time in the glass. The palate is off-dry with a rich, dark chocolate entry becoming heavier and fudge-like with orange chocolate, sweet cereal and the peat continually reinventing itself - at once dry and sooty, then tarry and finally kippery on the finish. The balance at cask strength is excellent and there's some boiled lolly and spice notes through the aftertaste followed by a subtle spearmint fade. Solid stuff for peaters! 54.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.Other reviews... A curious Ardbeg with a nose to die for. Some tinkering - please guys, as the re-taste is not better - regarding the finish may lift this to being a true classic. 89 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2019
...Uigeadail is quite different from the 10 Year Old because it is blended from both bourbon and sherry casks, including some older stock. The sherry influence alone makes for a vastly different experience, starting with the nose, which dampens the smokiness with notes of roasted nuts, citrus, and an earthy, leathery character that simply feels like history. The palate offers a rather different experience, which adds to the curiosity and interest, melding smoke with notes of well-roasted meats, walnut shells, pipe tobacco, and cloves. The finish is lengthy and brooding — aided by the considerably higher alcohol level — a lingering reminder of how this Ardbeg may be an entirely different beast, yet just as good as the 10. - drinkhacker.com
...My God, the first Uigeadail, it was so good back then! But we were in 2004 and we tasted it with Stuart Thompson on site (while smoking cigarettes in the warehouses, different times, different customs. No, just cigarettes). The last Uigeadail we tasted, a 'circa 2017', was still very good (WF 85), but far from the early batches which tended to surf around 92 points. Colour: gold. Nose: it's good, effective, very peaty of course, again with barbecue and ash notes, a sherry influence more discreet than in the past (green walnuts), and some broken branches. Some sap, in short. With water: very, very good, maritime, with very nice notes of barbecue on the beach, when we grill both fresh fish and marshmallows. Not together mind you! Mouth (neat): it's very good, very powerful, with much more substance than in the Corryvreckan. It almost tastes like smoked walnut oil, just like there's smoked sesame oil. In fact, we can find a bit of that too in this Uigeadail. Also some touches of canned peach, which always works. With water: milk chocolate and roasted peanuts. What wouldn't I do for some roasted peanuts!? Finish: long and a bit more drying which is really not unusual. Very nice final finish on oysters and candied citron, plus a bit of walnut oil and chocolate. Comments: oh yes, it talks! Very nice balance in this recent batch, the flame is alive and glowing. 88 points - whiskyfun.com
Nose: Intensely smoky. Dry, clean, tangy smoke. Like standing downwind of the barbecue while steaks are char-grilled on the beach. Palate: Firm, very smooth, then explodes on the tongue. Finish: Hot. Alcoholic. A shock to the system. Comment: The elemental opposite of the sophisticated Lord of the Isles. RATING: 9.25 points - Michael Jackson,whiskmag.com
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- Nick's Import
The Macallan Double Cask 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Annual 2024 ReleaseSpeyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$499. 00Bottle$5988.00 DozenABV: 43%Aiming for a perfect balance of flavours, Macallan's Double Cask comes matured in both American and European sherry-seasoned oak casks. The former adds delicate vanilla to the subtle spice of European oak, delivering a Macallan with a sweeter, warmer taste and character. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... [2020 release tasted] Deep notes of wood polish on the floral nose, with toffee and a whiff of cloves. The palate is slick, with Christmas pudding, orange, caramel, oak, and dark chocolate. Black coffee, citrus fruit, ginger, and black pepper in the lengthy finish. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com
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- 98
- 96
2022 Torbreck The Factor ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 15.5%Closure: CorkRich, thick, massively sized and luxurious Barossa Shiraz at its best.
Predominately sourced from the Gomersal and Marananga sub regions of the Barossa with contributions from Krondorf and Greenock as well. Maturation took place in a combination of new (40%), second fill and seasoned French oak barriques for a period of 24 months.
About as dense in colour as a wine can get, featuring an impenetrable inky black heart and an equally deep dark red black hue. The nose is pure hedonism, delivering potent aromas of black plum, liquorice, ripe blackberry and dark chocolate followed by some toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice notes. Thick, massively sized and voluptuous, the palate is a decadent concentrate of rich dark to black plum, liquorice, blackberry and black cherry fruit. Boasting out of this world power it has a firm yet velvety tannin structure that sits in the shadows of the lavish layers of fruit. Toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spicy fennel sit underneath. The exceptionally long and exuberant finish carrying a chewy feel.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 15.5%Other Reviews....
The 2022 The Factor is a celebration of old-vine vineyards in Barossa. Aromatically, this philosophy is clear as day in the wine. Barossa is stylistically adaptable and flexible, and at its best, it's able to convey a sense of meatiness, charred bacon fat, alongside kicked red earth and brick dust, an array of exotic spices and purple fruit, all the while conveying balance and focus. These are the best examples of its capability. All of these things are evident in this wine, and it shows concentration and length in spades. It's a big, powerful wine but balanced too. Excellent. 15.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork and wax. Drink 2025-2037.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Kooyonga Creek RoseNorth East Victoria, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA well rounded Rose that finishes dry and spicy with a gentle tang.
Made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Pale rose pink in colour. Elevated ripe raspberry and strawberry aromas mix with hints of Turkish delight, musk and spice. Well rounded flavours of peach, strawberry and blood orange are counterpointed by brisk acidity. Finishes dry and spicy with a gentle tang.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
- 93
2022 Coriole Cabernet SauvignonMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14.4%Closure: StelvinGenerously fruited, mid weighted Cabernet with a fine grained yet sturdy tannin structure.
Matured for 18 months in French oak of which 25% was new. Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Nosing offers up intense blackcurrant and mulberry scents infused with black olive and cigar box notes. A whiff of spicy dried herbs is also evident. Generous red to black currant and mulberry fruits drive the mid weighted palate with notions of black olive, subtle cigar box, dried herbs and spice the undercard. Fine grained yet sturdy tannin structure with a refined feel to the lengthy conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.4%Other Reviews……
From estate vines planted in '86; raised in French oak (about 25% new) for 18 months. Though impeccably varietal, this skips any overt leafiness, leaning into cedar, mulberry, cassis, currant and a toasted nori regional note. Lifted cabernet perfume is there, though, along with both power and a certain refinement of delivery, with tannins expertly managed to pair with fruit weight. It’s fine value. Drink by 2030.
93 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 90
2024 Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay - Last StocksMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinLight and elegant with a fine line of fresh acidity.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a distinct glimmer of green around the edges and a watery hue. Delicately scented nose with grapefruit and citrus aromas intermixing with green apple and gun flint notes. Light and elegant with a fine line of fresh acidity, flavours of grapefruit, green apple and citrus carry a vibrant feel across the palate. Subtle infusions of gun flint and minerals linger through the back half. Nicely fleshed energetic finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
- 96
2020 Tarrawarra Estate Reserve ChardonnayYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinConcentrated with a silky entrance finishing lively and fresh with a gentle creaminess.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish toned edges and a watery hue. Aromas of nectarine, pear and bees wax fill the nostrils trailed by hints of lemon butter, roasted almond and spice. Making a silky textured entrance are pear, nectarine and bees wax flavours which meld into a refreshing back drop of lemon butter, roasted almond and infusions of gun flint. Concentrated, it finishes lively and fresh with a gentle creaminess to the long aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews…..
From 38yo estate-grown fruit, whole bunch pressed to French puncheons and barriques (25% new). No batonnage or mlf. A bright and medium-deep green gold. Aromas of yellow stone fruits, acacia, orange blossom and fresh vanilla bean are all present on the nose of this complex and powerful wine. The palate is rich and textured, yet equally refined and balanced. Finishes long and satisfying.
96 Points
James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 91
2023 Montresor Capitel Della Crosara Valpolicella ClassicoVeneto, ITALY$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkSoft, fleshy mid weighted Valpolicella that finishes fresh, elegant and savoury.
Red to dark red colour with a bright red hue. Spicy morello cherry and red liquorice aromas mix with dried herb, earth and subtle cinnamon notes. The soft, fleshy mid weighted palate features juicy cherry and red liquorice fruits over a delicate dried herb, earth and spice back drop. Fresh acidity and polished tannins with ample amounts of red fruit lining the finish that’s both elegant and savoury.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
A bright ruby red, a touch of brightening on the rim. Well crafted, with lots of vivid fruit, dark cherries, blackberries and rose petals. Juicy, good volume, with finely meshed, slightly grippy tannins, savoury.
92 Points
Falstaff.com -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Domaine de Chatillon RoseSavoie, FRANCE$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA delicious, shapely Rose with crisp acidity with a dry tangy finish.
Made from Gamay grapes. Translucent salmon colour. Aromas of cherry, red raspberry and blood orange mix with hints of pomegranate and slatey mineral notes. Delicious cherry, blood orange and pomegranate fruits carry river stone like shape across the palate with wet slate and mineral elements lying underneath. Crisp acidity with a dry tangy finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 The Willows Vineyard Cabernet SauvignonBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich, fleshy textured blackcurrant and spearmint flavours framed by slightly grainy tannins.
Matured for 14 months in French oak hogsheads. Midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced blackcurrant aromas infused with spearmint sail out of the glass trailed by some earthy vanillin cedar and spice notes. Rich, fleshy textured blackcurrant and spearmint flavours meld into a spicy vanillin cedar, earth and fresh herb infused back drop. Slightly grainy tannins provide ample framework along with a lick of freshness on the vividly fruited mid length finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14% - Francois Voyer Pineau Des Charentes Rouge (750ml)Cognac, FRANCE$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 17.5%
Voyer's extra-aged expression is rested in oak for around 5 years. Offering aromas of candied quince, blackberry, plums and succulent pears with supple red fruit flavours and hints of hazelnut, served slightly chilled, this classic French aperitif complements a wide range of dishes, especially desserts and cheeses but can also be incorporated into cocktails or thickening sauces. 17.5% Alc./Vol.
- Hendrick's Flora Adora Gin (700ml)SCOTLAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 43.4%
Other reviews... The base spirit includes all the elements of Hendrick’s core distillate — including rose and cucumber, which already makes Hendrick’s on the floral side to begin with — but let’s see where these extra blossoms take us. The answer: Deep into the recesses of the perfume counter. Hendrick’s Flora Adora is — unequivocally — the most floral gin I’ve ever experienced, from start to finish. Aggressive notes of lavender and lilac give the nose a distinctly laundry-like feel, although the essence of grandma’s bathroom isn’t far away. Baby powder and potpourri wash out any semblance of juniper — or cucumber — though the rose petals linger. The palate is a slightly more complex than the nose, but only just so: This is still monstrously dominated by floral notes, washing out most everything else. Give those dried and fresh flowers time to dissipate from the tongue and eventually you earn a respite in the form of mild juniper and earthy angelica, but the trip into the forest is a decidedly lengthy one, and honestly not all that exciting of a journey. The florals here clash with just about anything you might decide to mix with it; Hendrick’s cocktail ideas are mostly loaded with fruit juice and sweeteners, but even those can only go so far in covering up the flowery explosion. The finish sees lavender and dryer sheets lingering just about forever. Maybe something you can use for punch at a Mother’s Day brunch? - drinkhacker.com
...This is the fourth entry into the company’s Cabinet of Curiosities series, the experimental side of Hendrick’s that is built around Master Distiller Lesley Gracie’s ongoing experimentation in the palatial splendor of the Hendrick’s Gin Palace in Girvan, Scotland. Gracie says that the series “aims to celebrate the peculiar and instill wonder,” with Flora Adora, as the name would suggest, putting special emphasis on floral botanicals and plants favored by pollinators. Gracie observed insects in the brand’s two climate-controlled gardens, saying “I was fascinated to see how pollinators settled on some plants more than others and it’s these blooms that I’ve carefully selected to create this botanical blend.”... On the palate, I’m getting big orange oil and fresh pepper in addition to the more expected floral notes, with heavy rose, violet and elderflower. The sweetness is quite strong for even a modern gin, which to me enhances that elderflower-type impression by reminding one of the influence of a liqueur like St-Germain. The gin does maintain a decent amount of prickly heat to it as well, though–certainly enough that it should stand out in cocktails. As for how one would use Flora Adora, I find myself wondering if it might be a bit on the sweet side for some consumers when mixed with tonic in particular. I would be curious to see how this plays in some other cocktails, though–it would likely make an intriguingly floral French 75, or an oddly exotic martini. As it typically the case, Hendrick’s has gone out and made something unique, for which there are few comparisons. - Paste Magazine.
- 1975 Chateau de Laubade Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$480. 00Bottle$5760.00 DozenABV: 40%
Made using grapes from their own vineyards and from a single year's harvest, Laubade's vintage offerings are typically blended from Baco, Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche and Colombard, however the ratios will differ from one year to another. They remain the only Armagnac house to cooper their own casks from Gascony oak, maintaining quality control throughout the production process.
Other reviews... On the nose aromas of fresh peach pie are inviting. Deep concentration on the palate with dried stone fruit flavors, intense baking spice and a hint of toasted hazelnut. On the finish it is cinnamon and coffee with cream. Delicious. - Finalist, Ultimate Beverage Challenge
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- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Soho Peggy Sauvignon BlancMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinIntensely flavoured with a long zippy finish.
Brilliant water like colour with a faint tinge of green around the outskirts. A combination of passionfruit and herbaceous gooseberry scents greet the nostrils followed by some citrus, grassy asparagus and mineral notes. Crunchy passionfruit, citrus and gooseberry flavours overlay a grassy asparagus and mineral infused back drop. Excellent intensity with crisp acidity and a long zippy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- 91
- 95
Kilchoman Batch Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$164. 99Bottle$1979.88 DozenABV: 57%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
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- 93
- 93
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs Grenache BlancMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA gorgeously shaped dry white that possesses fabulous fruit intensity.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Lime, pear and green apple aromas drift from the glass followed by hints of Mediterranean herbs and wet stone. The gorgeously shaped, moreish palate features pear, red apple skin and lime flavours over a stony mineral back drop. Excellent fruit intensity combines with brisk acidity. The long, dry finish carrying a well rounded, river stone like feel.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
All estate-grown biodynamic and organic fruit, matured in ceramic egg and old French barrels. Golden apples, Meyer lemon, a herbal mint/sage/cypress note, sappy florals and a little brown spice. This is full of both flavour and vital energy, the palate built on leesy texture, a subtly pithy chew and gentle but active acidity. It’s exciting to see McLaren Vale's whites gather in strength and diversity – long may it continue. Drink by 2028.
93 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 94
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs Field BlendMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA juicy, youthfully vibrant Rhone blend that finishes fresh and succulent.
A blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Carignan, 10% Counoise, 2% Cinsault and 1% Mourvedre. Vibrant dark red core with black toned edges and a bright purple red tinged hue. Alluring red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and plum scents intermingle with whiffs of fresh herbs, vanillin confectionary and delicate peppered earth notes. Light to medium weight, juicy and possessing a youthful vibrancy, red raspberry, red liquorice and red plum fruits overlay dried herb, subtle scorched earth and pepper elements. Smooth, seamlessly integrated tannins finishing fresh and succulent.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
- 95
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2024 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Circle Blewitt Springs GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinYangarra Estate’s Circle Collection is a new range of entry-level wines that focus on Southern Rhone varietals. Made from younger vines they are uber delicious fruit driven wines that deliver fantastic value.
An explosive, super juicy Grenache that makes for highly addictive drinking.
Deep dark purple red core with black shaded edges and a bright purple hue. The wonderfully fragrant nose is singing with red to dark raspberry, violet, red liquorice and blueberry scents. Subtle fresh herb and peppered earth notes are also evident. Super juicy and intensely flavoured, rich red to dark raspberry, red liquorice and cherry fruits explode across the exuberant palate with delicate infusions of dried herbs, scorched earth and pepper the undercard. Magnificent power and silky tannins with fresh acidity lending an energetic feel to the long super succulent finish. Highly addictive drinking over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews....
This is the younger vine bottling, coming mainly off vines planted in '08. Up to three weeks on skins; maturation in steel and old puncheons and foudre. This is a nice foil to the Old Vine bottling, showing what relatively youthful vines can do on this great site. There’s an open red-berried and cherry fruitfulness, with red florals supported by savoury spice and a foundation of purposeful natural tannin. This doesn’t have the mineral depth of the Old Vine, but the fruit vibrancy and exuberance yield their own rewards. Drink by 2030.
95 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 92
2022 Paul Conti Cabernet SauvignonMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinA generously fleshed, plummy medium bodied Cabernet blend.
A blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Malbec matured in French oak (30% new). Dense inky black in colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Lifted blackcurrant and red plum aromas mix with cedary tobacco, earth and dried herb notes. Medium bodied, generously fleshed blackcurrant and plum fruits meld into a dried herb, earth and cedary tobacco back drop. Fine grained tannins with a plummy mid length finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
Another of the wines Conti sources from his Margaret River vineyard. This is a firmish wine, reflecting this warm vintage, but its balanced with excellent depth of fruit. Shows a beautiful varietal integrity with blackcurrant and black olive nuances plus a trace of bay leaf. A small amount of malbec is added to bring more weight to that middle palate. Ideal wine for the medium term.
92 Points
RayJordanWine.com.au -
- 93
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Warramate Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA light and playful Pinot that has a fresh, elegant feel.
Semi translucent ruby red colour with black shaded edges and a vibrant light red hue. Fragrant violet, red to dark cherry and strawberry aromas are complimented by hints of dried clove, forest floor and spice. Light and playful the palate is decorated with juicy red cherry and strawberry fruits which meld into a delicate fresh herb, forest floor and spice back drop. Polished tannins and fresh acidity with an energetic red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
Made with 20% whole bunches, 10% new oak. A light, bright crimson. Pretty and perfumed. Aromas of redcurrants, strawberry and blood oranges together with a little rose petal. Light to medium bodied with delicate and finely tuned tannins on the elegant finish. Drink by 2029.
94 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Cavedon Pinot NoirKing Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.8%Closure: StelvinLight, savoury and spicy featuring red fruits and an elegant mid length finish.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a light red to red hue. Fragrant nose with scents of violet, red to dark cherry and rhubarb flowing through the nostrils followed by some brambly dried herb and spice notes. Light, savoury and spicy the palate features red cherry and rhubarb flavours over a delicate cedar, dried herb and spice back drop. Fine grained tannins with an elegant mid length finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.8% -
- 95
- Organic
2022 Palliser Estate Pinot Noir - Last StocksMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$52. 99Bottle$635.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich, fleshy mid weighted Pinot.
Matured in French oak for 10 months. Dark red core with black shaded edges and a light red to red hue. Intense ripe dark to black cherry, strawberry and anise aromas intermix with dried herb, bramble, subtle forest floor and spice notes. Rich and fleshy the mid weighted palate features juicy dark to black cherry, anise, strawberry and plum flavours with dried herb, brambly cedar and spice elements the undercard. Outstanding power and concentration with velvet smooth tannins and a long, sumptuous conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
- 95
- 96
- 97
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
2021 Castellare di Castellina I Sodi di San NiccoloTuscany, ITALYReduced from $175.00$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenClosure: CorkFirst bottled in 1977, I Sodi di San Niccolò quickly established itself as one of the pioneering Super Tuscans, notable for being crafted entirely from indigenous grapes, 85% Sangioveto (Sangiovese) and 15% Malvasia Nera. The fruit comes from Castellare di Castellina’s oldest parcels in Castellina in Chianti, where low-yielding vines grow at 430m on limestone-rich soils. Fermented in stainless steel and aged for 24 months in French oak (half new), the wine has long been recognised for its structure, depth, and longevity, and remains Castellare’s flagship bottling.
Other Reviews....
Cocoa powder and red berries on the nose, some softly ferrous notes with tobacco and rose florality. Thick and glossy but lively with lots of life and energy. This is broad and powerful, complex and muscular with flesh and chew. Tannins are grippy but they're joined by mouthwatering acidity that lifts the expression. Sun-kissed black fruit and spiced on the finish. It still feels a little compact at this stage, but is full of concentration and finesse with graphite, slate and a bloody tang on the finish. Grapes come from the best two crus of the estate. 2021 saw the latest harvest ever at the estate finishing on October 20th. Winemaker Alessandro Cellai. All I Sodi wines feature endangered bird species on the label, this one is the orange-headed bunting. Drink 2027-2044.
97 points
Georgina Hindle - DecanterDark flavors of cherry, plum and blackberry are fresh, focused and framed by a light touch of toasty oak. Iron, earth, eucalyptus and tobacco notes add depth as this red plays out on the long aftertaste. Intense and resonant, with superb balance and excellent potential. Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera. Best from 2028 through 2045.
97 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine SpectatorA dark and minerally wine with a fresh, meaty nose of violets and restrained red cherries. Dense and full-bodied, with tense fruit and acidity, firm yet velvety tannins and a savory and harmonious finish. This has the potential to last decades. Drink or hold.
96 points
Aldo Fiordelli - JamesSuckling.comThe 2021 I Sodi di San Niccolò is a powerhouse. Many recent vintages have been showier, but not the 2021. It's a wine that is going to require many years to shed its baby fat. Dark fruit, lavender, rose petal, menthol and grilled herbs begin to emerge with air, but only with great reluctance. The 2021 is a wine for readers who can be patient. Drink 2026-2036.
95+ points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA wonderfully balanced vintage in Tuscany, and this wine, which is always one to follow, just slow burns into brilliance. What I mean by that is that there is a delicacy immediately evident, savoury broth and crushed rose petals on the opening, gentle woodsmoke and fragrant raspberry leaf and redcurrant fruits. Its tannins give a gentle caress. Alessandro Cellai winemaker, 66% new oak, 10 months in bottle after barrel ageing.
97 points
Jane Anson -
- 94
Amabuki Kimoto Omachi Junmai Daiginjo Sake (720ml)JAPAN$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 16.5%Closure: Screw CapAmabuki Shuzo, based in Saga Prefecture, is known for its innovative use of flower yeasts and focus on expressive, terroir-driven sake. This Junmai Daiginjo is made using the ancient Omachi rice variety and brewed in the traditional kimoto method, bringing depth and structure to its refined profile. Amabuki’s approach bridges heritage and experimentation, resulting in sake with distinctive character and textural nuance.
Tasting Note: Pale lemon colour in the glass with a crystalline clarity. Aromatically the nose is immediately engaging, offering pleasing notes of white nougat, green melon, and papaya with a delicate creaminess. The palate leans towards the green fruit spectrum—green melon and edamame—though hints of yellow orchard fruit emerge with warmth. Excellent concentration, finishing long and clean in a dry, pure, and refined style. A versatile sake, well-suited to seafood and vegetable dishes or simply enjoyed on its own towards the end of the night.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Alc: 16.5%
Rice Polishing: 40%
SMV +1 -
- 93
Koi Shisou Red Shiso Liqueur (720ml)JAPAN$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenABV: 7%Closure: Screw CapProduced by Sengetsu Shuzo in Kumamoto Prefecture, Koi Shisou is a rice shochu-based liqueur infused with premium red shiso from Kyushu. Free from additives or colouring agents, its vivid crimson hue and bright, herbaceous character come naturally from the shiso itself. With a gentle sweetness and refreshing lift, it’s a distinctive, expressive liqueur.
Tasting Note: Blushing and vibrant pink in the glass, this liqueur makes a bold statement. The nose is complex, with cherries and strawberries harmonizing with sweet-savory red bean soup notes, while layers of watermelon skin and a faint medicinal touch element add intrigue. The palate focuses on bright, sweet red fruits—plums, watermelon, and strawberry—all lively and expressive. Despite the sweetness, it's refreshingly light and never cloying. A joyful liqueur, perfect over ice on its own, or topped with soda water.
Alc: 7%
















































