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2022 Occhipinti Bombolieri (BB) FrappatoSicily, ITALY$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkOcchipinti is one of the hottest names in Italian wines, and their tiny production is highly sought after. Situated a mere 15km from the Mediterranean, the vineyards are 250m above sea level planted to Frappato and Nero d’Avola. Winemaking is natural and hands off, with fermentation occurring spontaneously, no temperature control, no fining, no filtration and only minimal sulphur additions at bottling.
Perched on a limestone-rich outcrop facing the Serra San Bartolo, Bombolieri's Vigna Strada is characterized by a mere 25 cm of sandy topsoil overlaying solid limestone. This minimal soil depth, combined with the high mineral content, imparts a linear, saline-driven profile to the Frappato, showcasing pronounced acidity and a taut structure. The vineyard's varying hues—from deep chestnut to stark white—mirror the wine's dynamic interplay between fruit purity and mineral tension.
Other Reviews....
The 2022 Frappato Bombolieri (Bb) is dark and dusty, with a whiff of ashen stones and flowery underbrush elevating its crushed blackberry fruit. Elegance and silky smoothness define the palate, where a tension-building blend of tart wild berries, brisk acidity and a hint of rosemary emerge toward the close. A twang of tropical citrus and saline concentration linger as this finishes with a gentle tannic tug and cascade of inner florals. The Bombolieri hails from limestone-rich soils that lend an amazing vertical feel to the experience. Drink 2026-2034.
95 points
Eric Guido - Vinous -
- 94
- Biodynamic
2022 Occhipinti Fossa di Lupo (FL) FrappatoSicily, ITALY$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkOcchipinti is one of the hottest names in Italian wines, and their tiny production is highly sought after. Situated a mere 15km from the Mediterranean, the vineyards are 250m above sea level planted to Frappato and Nero d’Avola. Winemaking is natural and hands off, with fermentation occurring spontaneously, no temperature control, no fining, no filtration and only minimal sulphur additions at bottling.
As one of Arianna's foundational vineyards, Fossa di Lupo features sandy soils with red to chestnut tones and a significant presence of surface limestone rocks. Beneath 40 cm of sand lies a layer of solid, hard limestone. The northeast-facing albarello-trained vines benefit from the cooling breezes of the Hyblaean Mountains, resulting in a Frappato that balances ripe red fruit with a firm, austere backbone and vibrant acidity. This site consistently yields wines of structure and longevity.
Other Reviews....
The 2022 Frappato Fosso di Lupo (Fl) opens with wild aromatics, mixing blood orange and peach with mint leaf and white smoke. Wonderfully complete, it coasts across the palate with grace, displaying silky textures and vibrant red and blue berry fruits. A gentle tug of fine tannins and a lifting hint of tangerine appear as the 2022 tapers off with floral resonance. Drink 2025-2034.
94 points
Eric Guido - Vinous -
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2022 Hay Shed Hill Cabernet Sauvignon - Last StocksMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $29.99$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2031-2033)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinRichly fruited yet youthfully inky with a bright, chalky medium length finish.
Inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced red to black currant and mulberry scents fill the olfactory senses followed by some red plum, vanillin cedar, tobacco and dried herb notes. Rich with a youthful inkiness to the mid weighted palate, ripe red to black currant, mulberry and red plum fruits are framed by a sturdy tannin structure and lively acidity. Vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and spicy dried herb elements sit in the background. Bright, chalky medium length finish.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
It feels cool and relaxed with an abundance of varietal/Margaret River flavours: cassis, mulberries, a dusting of cocoa powder, nori and lots of fresh herbs plus eucalyptus with cedary, sweet oak. Medium bodied and supple with fleshy fruit across the palate and textural, refined tannins. It’s a lovely drink now but will last some distance. Drink by 2034.
92 Points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
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- 95
2023 Wirra Wirra Farmer’s Heart GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinJuicy red fruited Grenache that has a fresh, lively feel.
The fruit for the 2023 Farmer’s Heart Grenache was selected from a range of diverse sub-regions within McLaren Vale. These vineyards boast an age range spanning from 26 to 130 years old. Notably, 48% of the blend originates from vines over a century old, while 74% is derived from those over 95 years in age.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a purple red tinged hue. Aromas of raspberry and red liquorice infused with white pepper sail through the nostrils with some fresh herb, earthy graphite and spice notes also evident. Juicy red cherry, red raspberry and red liquorice fruits decorate the mid weighted palate that has a fresh, lively feel. Extending across the back half are notions of vanillin spice, earthy graphite and pepper. Understated in its power it has good tension and a sturdy yet polished tannin framework. The long finish vibrant, succulent and peppery.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews....
This came off mainly old vines, with 74% 95 years of age or more; matured in older oak. Ripe, but a product of the cool year, this drinks towards mid-weight, with strawberry, wild raspberry, sour cherry, damson, pomegranate and medicinal herbs coiled into a thoughtful and intricate warp and weft of tannin. There’s a pleasing sour-fruited tension to this, which complements the grip, the combination aching for food. The ripeness is à point, the structure bravely savoury and compelling. It’s delightful, but no pushover. Drink by 2030.
95 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- Nick's Import
Ardbeg Anamorphic Committee Release Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 48.2%The point of difference in Ardbeg's latest Committee release sees the cask heads scored to expose more of the wood's surface area. The cask ends were heavily toasted using the distillery's 'high mocha' toasting process and the inside of the barrels were charred. The process is said to temper the briny overtones, ramp up hidden chocolaty sweetness and magnify sensations of mocha. Bottled non chill filtered at 48.2%. Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The story with Anamorphic revolves around barrel charring. After removing the heads of classic Ardbeg bourbon casks, they were scored deeply to expose more wood and then intensely charred before being filled. Jack Daniel’s did a similar trick with its Sinatra Select bottlings. Does Ardbeg need more wood on it? The nose of the non-age-stated whisky is every bit as dark and smoky as the classic Ardbegs you know and love, offering a bruising aroma of burnt end barbecue and dying beach bonfire embers. It’s a bit daunting at first, starting off as rather one-note until you let it settle down in glass, revealing more layers beyond pushy smoke. Let Anamorphic rest in glass for a while, lest you down sip after sip of charry, tarry peat, free of nuance. After 15 minutes or so, fruit becomes much more evident, with elements of banana and baked apples, then a significant chocolate quality, ringed with walnuts. There’s plenty of aggressive tar that lingers on the back end, but for many an Ardbeg fan, that’s just what the good doctor ordered. All told, Anamorphic doesn’t exactly shift expectations for the brand, but rather it doubles down on them. - drinkhacker.com
...This Ardbeg comes from ex-Bourbon casks with toasted heads, and the nose has touches of chili-infused chocolate, a hint of anise, and a slightly herbal character. The taste has notes of grilled citrus, chili powder, dark chocolate, cocoa nibs, and a gentle peatiness. The finish is long with a gentle smokiness and touches of dark chocolate and soft spices. Excellent! (October, 2023) 95 points - whiskycast.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Earthy, dusty, and slightly biscuity on the nose, this is a most curious Ardbeg, almost from an alternative universe. The sooty/tarry notes are clear but restrained, and are balanced out by some silky vanilla. Water opens up a myriad of herbal and floral notes- smoked etiver root, aniseed, fennel, chrysanthemum and jasmine, to name but a few. Palate: The mouthfeel is peppery and warming, and precedes an explosion of fiery, spicy flavours – chili – flavoured chocolate, bitter sweet mocha, briar wood, birch tar, ground black pepper and smoked artichokes. The sooty/tarry notes build up to a crescendo of rich, smoky flavours, with an incredible, lingering aftertaste of charcoal bitter almonds and molasses.
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2009 Dom Perignon Rose ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$720. 00Bottle$8640.00 DozenClosure: Diam CorkOther Reviews…..
The 2009 Dom Pérignon Rosé is a sexy, racy wine that captures all the radiance of the year. Kirsch, blood orange, mint, spice and dried flowers unfurl in the glass. Soft, plush contours wrap it all together. Readers will find a Dom Pérignon Rosé endowed with tremendous textural depth and resonance. The 2009 is a total hedonistic turn-on. That's all there is to it. Drink 2025-2049.
98 points
Antonio Galloni – VinousPeaches, fresh crushed strawberries and roses on the nose. Full-bodied and generous. Fine tannins that frame the wine beautifully and set it up for a fresh finish. Some fruit tea and cedar undertones. Enticing finish with hints of bitterness. Savory. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com - Southern Comfort Whiskey Liqueur (1000ml)New Orleans, Louisiana, UNITED STATES$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 30%
In 1874 M.W. Heron, a bartender, developed Southern Comfort in his bar near La Rue Bourbon in New Orleans and first served it in traditional fashion from a whiskey barrel. In 1934 after a short break in production due to Prohibition, Southern Comfort introduced their current distinctive label featuring the now famous Currier and Ives lithograph of a Southern plantation house on the banks of the Mississippi. The plantation is known as "Woodland Plantation", built in 1834. Southern enthusiasts can visit the newly renovated mansion, which now operates as a nine bedroom country inn.
Southern's identity as a bourbon lies only in its origins. Its inception was in an awful whisky batch that Heron was attempting to improve. Actually, Southern Comfort was originally a Peach Liqueur, and one of the few peach liqueurs on the market. Produced using neutral spirit and over 100 ingredients, the final liqueur matured for eight months prior to bottling.
Since then the formula has changed and Southern is now branded a 'whiskey liqueur'. Sweet and rich with a molasses background and faint medicinal flavour, it's America’s “Take it easy Drink”. Enjoy it straight, on the rocks or with cola.
Other reviews... Translucent bronze, Vaporous, perfume, and orange blossom nose. A smooth, round attack leads to a medium-to full-bodied palate of thin, candied orange, pitted fruit, marshmallow candy, and brown spices. Finishes with a wash of heat, tropical fruit candy, and kiddy cough syrup-like flavor. Lacks the traditional whisky backbone of flavor—reformulated? 83 points (Recommended) - tastings.com
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Scapa 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Orkney Islands, SCOTLANDReduced from $159.99$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 48%Other reviews... Worth noting is the rising alcohol strength, which could—just an observation—suggest a focus on malt enthusiasts rather than the wider public, which seems increasingly drawn to lightness, if not outright superficiality, in all things. Right. Colour: gold. Nose: indeed, not the rather light and airy malt one might have expected a few years back; on the contrary, it has presence, even a certain weight, with spicy notes on the nose, sunflower oil, very ripe apple, orange cake, exotic fruit jam, as well as Sichuan pepper and even a wee touch of curry. Style-wise, it seems to lean somewhat towards that other great Orkney name. Mouth: very fruity but with a lovely mentholated touch, almost medicinal, certainly a little salty, though it remains on pineapple and apple. Gradually shifting towards allspice, with a bit of turmeric and caraway. A small spoonful of mashed potato. Finish: great length, beautifully stewed fruits complemented by spices—pepper, turmeric, nutmeg, mint, ginger… Roasted pineapple lingers in the aftertaste. Comments: I forgot to mention the honeyed side. This is very good, with active oak, no doubt about it. Glad to see Scapa back! 85 points - whiskyfun.com
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- Nick's Import
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Plantation Grande Reserve Rum (700ml)BARBADOSReduced from $74.99$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenABV: 40%Other reviews... part of the Signature blends which include the Barbados 5, the XO, Grand Anejo and Xaymaca — these are what one might infer are entry level rums for the curious (to call them ‘premium’ would be a stretch). They are neither bartenders’ mixing staples like the Three Star, OFTD or Original Dark, nor expensive limited editions like the upscale Extreme, Single Cask or Vintage series, and exist in a kind of everyman’s universe where “reasonableness” is the watchword. It goes down easy without reaching and that may be the key observation. Overall, it’s a relatively simple rum compared to others I’ve had (including some from Plantation themselves), yet a rum one can, with care and lowered expectations, have neat without too many issues. To be honest, I thought the rum was better than it had a right to be considering the sweetening Plantation is known for... For someone now getting into rum, it’s serviceable and they could use it as a stepping stone to get more into the field, though for getting into the Barbados style it’s useless, so forget that aspect. Those with more experience can use it as a bellwether for what to look for in Plantation’s successively more upscale (and expensive) offerings; and for those who’re really into rums, well, there’s not much to say to them, since they already know all there is to know. - thelonecaner.com
... From just before Plantation became Planteray, for reasons that remain a little unclear to us—though seemingly a bit on the ‘woke’ side. We’ve nothing against wokism, of course, but we do rather like balance in all things and tend to think anything excessive becomes trivial. ‘Does ‘habitation’ still work by the way? Right then, shall we have a taste?... This must be from W.I.R.D., owned by the same fine folks. Colour: white wine. Nose: cooked sugar verging on ‘petit boulé’, sugarcane syrup and a generous splash of orgeat, with a few fluttering florals hovering about—white clover in particular, adding a faint pastoral lift. Mouth: pleasant at first, but the sweetness does rather take over. Think Malibu laced with molasses honey and sweet woodruff cordial. Finish: medium in length, gentle and sugary, with no real parting bite. Comments: clearly meant to be served over a good handful of ice, ideally dragged down to 8°C or so. In that context, it might even do the trick. At room temperature, however, it's a different story altogether. 70 points - whiskyfun.com
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- Nick's Import
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Scapa 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Orkney Islands, SCOTLANDReduced from $399.00$229. 99Bottle$2759.88 DozenABV: 48%Off the market for several years, this island gem is finally back sporting new packaging. Located on the mainland of Orkney, one of a group of islands off Scotland's northern coast, also home to one of Scotland's most revered distilleries, Highland Park. Scapa's unique flavour profile has been attributed to their water source, one that contains peat, but also involves a comprehensive pipe system from source to distillery which reduces exposure to contaminants on the water's journey. Scapa's barley is malted without the use of peat smoke, yet some peat influence can be found, though not in a smoky form, rather it comes across as added depth, richness or sweetness. Because it's matured in warehouses close to the sea, in some minds this contributes to its salty tang.
Following Pernod Ricard's change of direction for the brand, what was once a charming and unusual whisky was re-positioned as a "luxury" label, heavily filtered and bottled at an entry level ABV while proudly proclaiming it's bold and smooth characteristics. For some, this new styled Scapa was appealing, for others, a tragedy. Hopefully the latest incarnation bottled at 48% will help to reinvigorate the brand.
Other reviews... Same elements, same battle, same manoeuvre here, with active American oak. I quite like that they seem to aim to preserve a ‘house style’ across multiple expressions rather than veering off in all directions (cabernet, PX, IPA, merlot, mizunara—you get the idea). Colour: gold. Nose: this is rather amusing, as you really feel like you’re standing in front of the same whisky, just six years older. It’s therefore rounder, more on exotic fruit preserves (banana and mango), orange blossom, honeysuckle, marmalade, but also beach sand and a hint of ‘old cellar’. Very pretty, with even a touch of ‘oceanic melon’ à la B’laddich. Mouth: same sensations, almost a concentrated version of the 10-year-old in every dimension. Beautiful notes of quince paste, oranges, and citron. Careful—high drinkability index. Finish: long, lovely, on candied fruits (orange zest) with a touch of liquorice and mint. Comments: I find this really very good. Give this one some of your precious time, you do get a bit of active white oak, but you have to look for it. 87 points - whiskyfun.com
40% ABV bottling tasted... Attractive pale gold appearance. The aroma is almost floral offering up soft scents of dilute honey and a cantaloupe like fruitiness, anticipating an easy going whisky - which this is. Plenty of honeyed malt on entry leads into a medium bodied profile featuring stone fruits, dilute honey, hints of marzipan and cocoa. Gently spicy, buttery mouthfeel on the finish. Aftertaste is clean and deliciously fresh though somewhat brief, fading with traces of toasty malt, dried fruits, hints of brine and soft spices. A departure from the brawnier Scapa we fell in love with a decade ago.
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Bushmills 14 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey (700ml)County Antrim, IRELANDReduced from $139.99$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 40%Matured in first and second-fill bourbon barrels for a minimum of 14 years, including a finish of up to 12 months in Malaga wine casks to give a luscious exotic fruit intensity and beautiful smoothness. The fruit intensity from the Malaga casks is said to further enhance the whiskey's latent sweetness.
Says Alex Thomas, Master Blender at Bushmills, "I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and create a really exciting taste experience for every palate. It is unlike any other whisky in our core range. Marrying the bourbon cask with the Malaga wine adds layers of ripe fruit all working together with honey, cinnamon, and milk chocolate. It oozes sunshine and sweetness. Having followed the evolution of this 14-year-old spirit, I knew its exceptional quality was undeniable. I also have a lot of experience with Muscat of Alexandria, the grape variety carefully chosen to produce the Malaga wine we use to season our oak barrels. Wine lovers will know this is one of the oldest grapes in the world and produces incredible flavour profiles." 40% Alc./Vol.
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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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- 92
- 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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- 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% -
- 93
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% -
- 94
- 95
- Reduced
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 -
- Reduced
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 -
- 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.
- The Macallan Sherry Oak Cask 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Annual 2024 ReleaseSpeyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$750. 00Bottle$9000.00 DozenABV: 43%
Another in the vintage-dated series of Macallans matured in hand-picked sherry-seasoned oak casks from Jerez for richness and complexity. A full bodied palate of mature oak, ginger and raisin flavours is complexed by subtle notes of sultanas, orange, ground cinnamon, sticky dates and dark chocolate. 43% Alc./Vol.
- 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
Loaded Barrel Small Batch Series Shiraz Barrel Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 47%'Accelerated aging' for a total of six years in two small ex-Australian shiraz barrels has resulted in another cracker. Perhaps it’s the red wine casks adding a little tannic grip, drying the mouthfeel slightly, though not nearly enough to out-do the succulence of the malt. Leaning towards red fruits, in moments, the fleshiness of overripe plums is almost tangible, dovetailing into Summer pudding. The distillery's signature sweet oak seals the finish. Very tasty but be sparing with water. Best over ice. 47% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... this exceptional whisky is incredibly rich, robust, full-bodied. It boasts a delightful array of sweet flavours, including luscious blackcurrant and ripe dark plums, which are perfectly complemented by earthy and leathery undertones that emerge in the middle. As the experience unfolds, a lingering finish reveals a captivating blend of spicy cinnamon and a touch of pepper, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
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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
















































