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2024 The Crossings Sauvignon BlancMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinZesty Sauvignon Blanc with crisp acidity and a finish of admirable length.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Pungent herbaceous gooseberry, passionfruit and green apple aromas fill the nostrils complimented by some grassy asparagus notes. Zesty gooseberry, passionfruit and green apple flavours drive the palate with some herbaceous grassy elements the back drop. Crisp acidity with a dry, mouth watering finish that shows admirable length.
Drink over the next year.
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2019 Tim Adams Aberfeldy ShirazClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.9%Closure: StelvinA rich, densely concentrated Clare Shiraz saturated with opulent, dark chocolatey fruit.
Aged in new American oak hogsheads for 24 months. Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Potent aromas of dark plum, liquorice and mocha waft through the nostrils complimented by toasty vanillin oak, subtle earth and spice notes. Rich, powerful and densely concentrated the palate is engulfed with lavish dark plum, liquorice, dark chocolate and vanillin oak flavours. Earthy mocha and spice elements ensue. Opulently textured it has a velvet smooth yet underlyingly sturdy tannin structure. Concludes long and plush.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
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2022 Domaine de la Vougeraie Vougeot Les Cras Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkLight and nicely fleshed with a refined feel to the medium to long conclusion.
Dark red heart with a red hue. The nose slowly builds intensity to reveal a mix of sour and red cherry scents intermeshed with hints of violet, red liquorice, earth, fresh herbs and spicy cedar. Light and nicely fleshed across the palate with red to dark cherry and winter strawberry fruits overlaying a delicate earth, fresh herb and spicy cedar back drop. Velvety tannins with a refined feel to the medium to long conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews……
A racily fresh purple, with a bouquet full of floral energy, as was the village Vougeot. Again, I could imagine whole bunches but there are none. Perhaps what I am tasting is the effect of retaining whole berries from the top-end destemmer which they now use, suggests Sylvie. A saline finish alongside abundant red fruit. Drink from 2030-2037. Tasted Nov 2023.
91-94 Points
Jasper Morris – Inside BurgundyThe 2022 Vougeot Les Cras 1er Cru has an uncomplicated nose: black plum and briar, missing a bit of presence compared to some of the other cuvées. The palate is more promising, with a corpulent entry counterbalanced by a silver bead of acidity, quite strict, finishing with a touch of sour cherry. Quite peppery on the aftertaste. Worth seeking out. Drink 2026-2038.
91-93 Points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
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2021 Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot Vosne-RomanneBurgundy, FRANCE$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkLight and fresh yet concentrated with some gentle grip on the long savoury finish.
Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a dark red hue. Pretty violet, red cherry and winter strawberry aromas infused with earthy notes are trailed by some provincial herb and spicy cedar notes. Rich red cherry and strawberry fruits are light and fresh in their feel across the palate yet show ample power and concentration. Dusty earth, dried herb and spicy cedar characters ensue. Lending some gentle grip and a subtle rusticity to the long savoury finish are firm, grainy yet integrated tannins.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 White Gate Wine Co. GrenacheBarossa Valley, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkRich, succulent Grenache with a prominent whole bunch influence.
Includes 75% whole bunch fruit. Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Rising out of the glass are red to dark raspberry, clove and red liquorice aromas followed by some smoky earth and peppered meat notes. Rich, succulent and spicy, the palate is layered with dark raspberry and liquorice fruit infused with dried clove. Sleek mouth feel with notions of scorched earth, dried meats and peppered dried herbs lying underneath. Velvet smooth tannins concluding long, fleshy and peppery.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
What a flavour bomb we have here! It's melt in your mouth kind of stuff. So evocative, so expressive, it's an absolute delight to drink and demands selfishness and large pours at that.
Picked earlier than the 2022, the fruit comes off 90+ year old vines just to the west of Nurioopta. That slight tweak with harvest has paid dividends deluxe.
Pretty and vivid aromas explode from the glass unravelling with incredible ease. So floral and gorgeously perfumed, this is an utterly seductive drink. Think lavender, purple flowers, dried red petals and ripe blueberries smeared all over your face. And if that's not enough to get the juices flowing, well-handled fruit floods the mouth highlighted by an abundance of purple berries and blueberries driving its medium body frame. A fine milk chocolate textural presence slides through late with a lick of spice and a fine rub of brick dust tannin that lingers on a respectable finish. What an absolute winner! Go here.
Drink to five years.
94 Points
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Buller Wines RLB Pinot GrigioVictoria, AUSTRALIA$15. 99Bottle$191.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinLight and refreshing with a crisp edge.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with a watery hue. Pear, green apple and citrus scents are trailed by some mineral notes. Pear, red apple and lime fruits carry nice shape across the light refreshing palate. Some citrusy mineral elements persist through the dry finish that has a crisp edge to it.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 12% -
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2024 Chateau Pontet-Canet Pre-Arrival OfferPauillac, Bordeaux, FRANCE$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenClosure: CorkToday Chateau Pontet Canet is one of the most popular and collectable wines in all of Bordeaux, and much of this success has come from the extraordinary quality of wines made in the last two decades. While ranked as a Fifth Growth in the 1855 Classification, today the property would easily be regarded as a Second Growth as the wines often rival the best in the region. Much of the emphasis at Pontet Canet is in the vineyard, and the property has converted to 100% biodynamics as of 2005. The vineyard is next to Chateau Mouton-Rothschild, and is planted to 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot.
Other Reviews....
The 2024 Pontet-Canet underlines the fact that daring to harvest late paid dividends in this challenging vintage, wafting from the glass with aromas of cassis, black raspberries and plums mingled with accents of rose petals, licorice and exotic spices. Medium to full-bodied, deep and integrated, with mid-palate density that's all too rare this year, it's layered, suave and seamless, concluding with a long, sapid finish. Picking began on September 26 and concluded on October 11, with the heart of the estate's old-vine Cabernet Sauvignon coming in between the seventh and the ninth, well after many châteaux had finished their harvest. Greater reactivity during the season means that Pontet-Canet's vineyards are gaining in vigor, while in the winery, a lighter touch with extraction, systematic climate control and a wholesale refinement of the estate's cooperage choices have brought new harmony and sensuality to this estate's wines. That has combined with a willingness to take risks with harvest dates to deliver what is clearly one of the wines of the vintage. The blend is roughly half Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.
94-96 points
William Kelley - Wine AdvocateThe 2024 Pontet-Canet is one of the most elegant wines I have tasted here in some time, as in a long time. Brisk acids and beams of tannin shape a mid-weight, classically built Pontet-Canet unlike any I have tasted. The 2024 is not an obvious wine, it does not have the opulence of most recent years, rather it is a wine that impresses with its energy, tension and class. Floral, spice and mineral notes stain the palate in this vibrant, beautifully sculpted Pontet-Canet. The 2024 is seriously impressive, but it is also less immediate than what was once the norm because of a shift towards a style that favors greater energy and vibrancy than in the recent past. The evolution here is going to be fascinating to follow in the coming years. Tasted three times. Drink 2032-2044.
94-96 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousVibrant ruby in colour with violet edging, this is beautifully measured, with a careful release of black fruits. Puts the focus on the floral side of Cabernet Sauvignon, with rose petals, chamomile, fragrant tomato leaf and lilac. There is austerity on the opening, with tight architecture but as it opens juice begins to flow through the pumice and slate-textured tannins, and this delivers a finessed, slim-style of Pauillac, with plenty of ageing potential and quiet confidence. One of the successes of the vintage. Harvest September 26 through to October 11. 3.8ph, 50% new oak, 35% concrete amphoras. Tasted twice. Drink 2032-2046.
94 points
Jane Anson - Inside BordeauxConditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
There is no minimum order unless stated.
All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2027.
Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
Errors and omissions excepted.
Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.
- Lochlea Sowing Edition Third Crop Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Lowlands, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 46%
Lochlea have scored some high ratings for a relatively young distillery, including 94 points from Whisky Advocate for their cask strength inaugural release. This limited edition is the final instalment in their seasonal whisky series. Aimed at showcasing the spirit style in a variety of casks, reflecting the farming calendar, like the First and Second Crops, Sowing Edition Third Crop has been 100% matured in first-fill Bourbon barrels. They remain the distillery's preference, as the apple notes of their new make complement the vanilla flavours typically imparted by these barrels. You might also find hints of almonds and rose petals on the nose, with apple blossom underpinned with white pepper and crisp pear on the palate. The finish is gentle, with notes of warm straw and freshly-cut grass. Like the previous editions, it comes bottled at 46% without chill filtration.
Other reviews... We have followed the seasonal range and Lochlea's development with much interest. We are fascinated to see what the third and final round of the range will reveal and what they are planning for the future. Sowing Edition (Third Crop) is a bright, vibrant and lively whisky that is delicious and refreshing. We like youthful whiskies in good ex-bourbon casks and this is certainly one of those. - whiskyforeveryone.blogspot.com/
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2012 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Craigellachie 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 65%Craigellachie is notable as a full bodied and slightly sulphurous malt (in a good way) used primarily to add punch to blends. Part of it's charm is that the distillery still uses old-fashioned worm tubs with low copper content, said to add weight and a beef-stock kind of flavour while also resulting in whiskies that “taste older than they are”. This may well be one of the boldest drams for the year. Starting with an already heavyweight make, it then gets finished for around 30 months in one of Rattray's exceptional Glenallachie x-Sherry butts. These casks lend notes of red berry and baking spice to the classic Craigellachie toasted oat, cereal base. A selection to suit the adventurous before beginners, it's another bomb of a malt capped off by a whopping 65% Alc./Vol. The yield was 552 bottles. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Autumn leaf. Nose: Seville orange, roast plum and crystallized ginger. Palate: Raspberry jam, juicy nectarine and lemon zest. Finish: Sweet, sticky marmalade with hints of walnut and clove.
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2007 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Teaninich 16 Years Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$189. 99Bottle$2279.88 DozenABV: 57.8%Rattray had a sister cask to this one (#461) released at 14 years old in 2021. By comparison, Bourbon hogshead #462 was afforded two further years of maturation through perhaps the most significant mid-teen ageing period, allowing fresh orchard fruits to develop into more tart citrus notes over the ever-present, hearty cereal base. 290 bottles were filled at 57.8% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Polished gold. Nose: Chalky lemon, honey pomelo and soda bread. Palate: Rustic loaf, Parma violet and fresh lime. Finish: Subtle saffron, liquorice and ginger decorate the palate.
- Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky Tasting Pack (4 x 100ml)Highlands, SCOTLAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 Dozen
Discover why Glenmorangie is one of world's best selling Single Malt Scotch Whiskies via this handsome tasting pack. The collection includes one 100ml bottle of each of the following expressions, beginning with the entry level 10 year old and building in richness as they progress.
The Original Aged 10 Years – Bourbon cask matured.
The Lasanta Aged 12 Years – Sherry cask finish.
The Quinta Ruban Aged 14 Years – Port cask finish.
The Nectar D’Or – Sauternes cask finish.
- 1995 Chateau de Laubade Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 40%
Château de Laubade only release these Armagnacs after a minimum of 15 years of ageing, each vintage beautifully presented in a hardwood box - in this case making the perfect gift for a 1995 anniversary of any kind! Anticipate deep, powerful flavours including candied prunes, dried fruits like figs, vanilla and coffee, all framed by fine oak tannins.
More than eighty different vintages are currently being matured in Laubade’s cellars. The oldest vintage is from 1888. Each year tells a story dealing with the ongoing climate changes, cask quality and the cellar's temperature - all of which define the vintage identity. A culmination of rich know-how and dedication to quality from three generations, the Lesgourgues family continue to run their own 260 acre property. Planted to Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche & Baco, each variety is distilled seperately. Notably, Laubade remains alone in coopering their own Gascon oak casks. Sustainable agriculture is also the standard here (manure is produced by 600 ewes). 40% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.
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2021 Henschke Mount Edelstone ShirazEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinThe Mount Edelstone Vineyard, established in 1912 by Ronald Angas, a descendant of George Fife Angas, features ancient 500-million-year-old geology that has resulted in deep red-brown clay-loam soils. These conditions lead to low yields from the dry-grown, ungrafted centenarian Shiraz vines. First bottled as a single-vineyard wine in 1952 by fourth-generation Cyril Henschke, Mount Edelstone has been crafted by the Henschke family for over 65 years and is considered one of Australia's premier single-vineyard Shiraz wines.
The 2021 vintage delivered one of the finest Mount Edelstone releases of recent decades. Following a cool summer and warm, dry autumn, the old-vine Shiraz achieved remarkable depth, colour, and tannin maturity. The result is a wine of outstanding purity, balance, and expression—hallmarks of this historic single-vineyard site. Matured 18 months in French and American oak hogsheads (9% new, 91% seasoned), it recalls legendary vintages such as 1986, 2002, and 2015, with immense cellaring potential.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews....
The 2021 Shiraz Mount Edelstone is a stunner, offering a tremendous mix of refinement and understated power. It is quite beautiful, although tightly bound right now, delivering a compact core of spice, bay leaf, and violets, while oak adds well-judged support. There is a balletic feel to the palate as ethereal flavors of measured ripeness are backed by firm acidity and tight tannins. This release is marked by delicious energy and overall lightness of touch—an exceptional vintage for this label. Drink 2034 - 2050.
97 Points
Angus Hughson - Antonio Galloni's VinousI used to live next door to this 109-year-old vineyard for nearly a decade and have seen the hard work and attention to detail that goes into its farming. The 2021 is an absolute stunner from a great vintage and I've no doubt that this will age gracefully for decades. The length of flavour with this release is quite something; the fruit is sleek, plush and on-point pure. Blackberry, Doris plum and black cherry layer with spice and hints of sage, bay leaf, pepper, olive tapenade, anise, violets and stone. Velvety and graceful in its flow on the palate with a fresh mineral cadence and superfine, powdered granitic tannins for support. It'll go down as one of the greats. Drink 2024-2054.
98 Points
Dave Brookes - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionSpice- and earth-driven aromas of blood plums, cured meat, pepper, dried herbs and graphite. The palate is full-bodied with silky tannins and a creamy mouthfeel, giving notes of wild blackberries, black olive tapenade, mocha and licorice. Savory and powerful, with an underlying freshness that will age nicely for decades to come. Made from vines planted in 1912. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2021 Mount Edelstone Vineyard Shiraz was planted in 1912 and was 16 hectares from own-rooted, pre-phylloxera James Busby vine stock. The first Mount Edelstone wine was produced in 1952, from 40-year-old vines. The success of the Mount Edelstone was the inspiration for the Hill of Grace single-vineyard wine to be produced from the 1958 vintage. The Mount Edelstone vineyard is planted at 400 meters in elevation and has an easterly aspect trellised to the Scott Henry system, capturing the morning sun and avoiding the hot afternoon sun. The wine is velvety and layered with raw cocoa tannins, black pepper, Sichuan pepper, raspberry and blood plum. This has all the concentration and intensity that we know and love of Mount Edelstone; it speaks clearly to Eden Valley as a place, with notes of sage, bay, crushed rocks and a cool minerality that drives it through the long finish. This is a superb wine. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025 - 2041.
97 Points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate“Mount Edelstone has been crafted by the Henschke family for over 65 years and is arguably the longest consecutively produced, single-vineyard wine in Australia.” It’s grown on vines that were planted in 1912.
This is a bold expression of Mount Edelstone shiraz with rich plum, graphite, woodsmoke and black licorice characters bursting through the palate. Woodsy spice and mint notes hurry thereafter to catch up. There’s force to the fruit and there’s force to the tannin too, the latter of which feels grunty and serious, if not yet fully resolved. This is a lifted wine, smoky, meaty and dark on the one hand, but while the nose is generous and open the palate itself has a brood to it, and a creaminess. All indications are that this is a wine with a long future ahead of it.
95 Points
Campbell Mattinson - The Wine FrontMount Edelstone in 2020 was devastating for the Henschke family, the whole vintage went into the museum and wasn’t released, though the volume likely could be drunk by the family alone, as a plus. The 2021 returns with abundance and balance, a stellar vintage for the site.
Dark, brooding red of concentration but levity. A freshness and elevated spice amongst dark chocolate-berry/cherry, mocha touches, liquorice, sweet, turned earth and mahogany/cedary woody elements. Tannins are light then build into chewiness, the dust settling into swishes and pools at the conclusion. It feels like it needs time to flesh out, though it is balanced at present. Moody, meaty red of old school, good school feel. Drink 2030-2045+
95+ Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine FrontSourced from a 109-year-old single vineyard which brings its own form of Australian old vine class to the glass. It is both immediately friendly while also offering a sense of something deeper and more serious. I love that about Edelstone: whenever you taste it, young or old, it’s a friend. Ripe, sweet black and red fruits light up the scent accompanied by lifted woody spices, a hint of bitter chocolate, sage and earth. Opens up beautifully on the palate, in part, no doubt, to the quality of the vintage and in part to the quality of the fruit. Tannins are laid out fine and evenly integrated with a mix of 20% American and 80% French oak with just a light new oak (9%) component that contributes an extra degree of woody spiciness, especially on the finish. The ’21 holds a little more in reserve than in previous vintages, it’s tighter, no less friendly but boasts significant depth yet to be revealed. Drink 2025-2047.
97 Points
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Santis Malt Sigel Edition Single Malt Swiss Whisky (500ml)SWITZERLAND$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 40%Other reviews... It is well known that I am no advocate of beer barrel matured whisky, not least because the bitterness of the hops can cause havoc with the overall balance. Santis, though, are in a league of their very own - especially when it appears to create a creamy hop-less stout like this with sugars appearing from every angle. 92 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024
Why is it that so many great beer-producing European nations, many of them with Germanic roots, didn't progress to whisky making? Appenzeller brewery makes this malt using old beer casks, and they have softened the edges of the malt and given it a liquid honey frame around which woody-earthy notes and unripe dates create an intriguing mix. A long, long way from the Alps to the Scottish Highlands, but a lofty malt nevertheless. [2011 bottling] 80 points -whiskyadvocate.com
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Santis Malt Himmelberg Edition Single Malt Swiss Whisky (500ml)SWITZERLAND$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 43%Other reviews... Such an attractive, seductive nose... the fruit is so delicate it seems the oak may break through any moment. Or a rush of intense malt might happen along. But it doesn't... a sublime redcurrant freshness to that coats the palate. Muscovado sugars act as an anchor keeping the barley, fruit and charming oak in place... unquestionably the most elegant malt I have tasted from this distillery. The perfect pre-prandial whisky, even when given the full Murray method of tasting, its growth in the glass always remains studied and perfectly balanced. Such charm. 94 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024
Made from Alpine water and barley harvested from one of Europe’s highest growing areas, this was double matured in beer casks and red wine barrels. Spicy and fruity aromas, with apple, cranberry, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and roasted chestnut. Mouth-coating, with bright apple flavors, cherry, malt, and pepper, then showing its darker side with hints of dark toffee, chocolate, blackberry, and leather. 89 points - whiskyadvocate.com
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- Packaging may vary
- Batch may vary
2008 Delord Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$139. 99Bottle$1679.88 DozenABV: 40%A relatively young release by Delord's standards. The opening aromas conjure tobacco leaf, mild honey, vanilla and fruit cake. Aeration adds extra fruit presence plus a dry oloroso sherry character. Middle weight. Shows attractive sweet-dry balance with the spices and dried fruits set against fine tannins and oaky vanillas. Ends biscuity with dustings of cocoa and liquorice root in a nutty/woody finish. Rustic and affable. 40% Alc./Vol.
Situated in Bas-Armagnac, Delord's distillery is to be found in the village of Lannepax, the ancestral home of the Delord family. They comment, "Our old Sier Armagnac alambics, that we wouldn't part with for all the gold in the world, produce less than 30 litres of eau-de-vie an hour. Our cellars contain our old treasured vintages and include more than 700 oak barrels that protect and age the Armagnac eau-de-vie dating from the 20th Century to the present day".
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2022 Nicks Secret FE Frankland River ShirazFrankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $27.99$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFrom one of Western Australia’s most well known wineries and arguably the state’s premier producer of Shiraz and Riesling comes this certified organic Shiraz at a never before seen price. Co-fermented with the addition of 2.5% Touriga Nacional and 1.5% Viognier to lend further complexity, 5% whole bunch fermentation was employed with maturation taking place in 500 litre French oak puncheons of varying ages for a period of 14 months.
Rhone styled Shiraz that delivers crazy value.
Pitch black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Streaming from the glass are aromas of liquorice and ripe black cherry which intermingle with dark plum, subtlety smoked vanillin cedar, scorched earth and peppered meat notes. The refined, mid weighted palate carries a plush feel, rich black cherry and liquorice fruits delivered with terrific intensity. Spicy vanillin cedar, scorched earth and peppered meat characters the undercard. Slightly chewy tannins with a long, fleshy, pepper laced conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews....
Super savoury and highly appealing from the first pour. Certainly there are dark plums in the mix but also lots of woodsy spices, ferrous earth, wood smoke and some Aussie bush fragrance. Fuller bodied, yet the palate is neatly shaped with grainy, drying tannins and lithe acidity. Drink by 2032.
92 Points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThis stylish mid-weight 2022 Shiraz delivers a powerful yet elegant Syrah expression with layers of licorice, old earth and spice well integrated with fine French oak. Genuine tannins and generous flavours are well balanced with chewy textures which make for an impressive package with all the pieces in place to be enjoyable over the medium term. Drink 2025-2030.
92 Points
Angus Hughson – WinePilot.comA well-balanced, peppery and delicious shiraz offering aromas of cherries, strawberries, cured meat and warm spices. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. A refined texture with a dense core of delicious berries and chocolate. Textural finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
92 Points
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2024 Hoddles Creek Estate Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.2%Closure: StelvinFresh, juicy and supplely textured, this is a delicious Yarra Valley Pinot Noir that delivers great value.
Winemaker Franco d’Anna regularly fashions some of the best value Pinot Noir’s and Chardonnay’s out of the Yarra Valley and the 2024 releases are no exception.
Red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a vibrant red hue. Perfumed like aromas of violet, wild cherry, strawberry and anise stream out of the glass with wonderful intensity. Some bramble, forest floor and spicy dried herb notes ensue. Delicious wild cherry, strawberry and anise flavours are supple yet simultaneously fresh in their feel across the palate. Supplementing the fruit are infusion of fresh herbs, delicate bramble, forest floor and spice. Polished tannins and lively acidity with a long, energetically juicy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.2%Other Reviews….
A very light, bright crimson red. Pure fruited, with aromas of freshly crushed raspberries, summer flowers and a touch of spice. Just as good on the light- to medium-bodied, brightly fruited and silkily structured palate. A wine, as always, to buy by the case and enjoy over the next three to four years! Drink by 2029.
95 points
Philip Rich - James Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionRed fruit, cherry, a little earthy, with some cinnamon oak showing, and sarsaparilla. It’s a more fruity and bouncy expression of Hoddles Pinot, some grainy chew to tannin, a bit of sap and orange rind, something of a ferrous edge, with a stiff tannic finish of good length. Needs a bit of time to come around. It’s maybe a little more robust and fruity than is usual for this wine, though it’s still good. Drink 2026-2034.
92+ Points
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Santis Malt Alpstein XIX Edition Single Malt Swiss Whisky (500ml)SWITZERLAND$174. 99Bottle$2099.88 DozenABV: 48%Part of the distillery's flagship series, Alpstein comes matured in a range of casks, varying with each release. XIX started life in x-beer barrels followed by a sherry cask finish. Aged for a total of seven years, these limited editions are released in runs of around 2200 bottles. 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Fabulous sherry trifle on the nose and a marvelously confident delivery makes for a storming start to this flavoursome malt. Indeed, despite the healthy sherry influence on the delivery, the malt makes its presence felt in both the flavour and texture. However, the bitterness on the finish, almost rubbery at times, compromises the overall balance. That said, the nose and delivery combo is sublime. 86.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024
[IV Edition tasted 2013] Whisky Advocate is moving out into the unknown, turning over the rocks and discovering beautiful and unfamiliar creatures like this one. In tiny distilleries in Switzerland, Sweden, and, er, Swansea, they're throwing the rule book up in the air and creating new whiskies based on how it falls. This has spent four years in a beer barrel and then a year in a port cask, and it's fabulous. Think licorice, aniseed, and cherry-flavored soda. Then add cream, fruit…and yowza! 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com
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- 96
2021 Chaffey Bros. Wine Co. Synonymous ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinSo named as Shiraz is synonymous with the Barossa, Chaffey Bros is a collaboration of brothers in law Daniel Chaffey Hartwig and Theo Engela who are at the forefront of the new wave of Barossa winemakers. From a benchmark year this sumptuous Barossa Shiraz delivers all you could wish for in a bold Shiraz at a price that delivers terrific bang for your buck.
Rich, powerful and plush, this is one super seductive Barossa Shiraz.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Wafting out of the glass are heady scents of ripe blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and blueberry which are complimented by some fennel, subtlety smoked vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Rich, plush and deeply concentrated, the weighty palate is flush with succulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Lending further interest across the back half are notions of spicy vanillin cedar, earthy dark chocolate and peppered fennel. Opulently textured, it has velvet smooth tannins yet there’s an underlyingly sturdy structural presence. Boasting superb power, the finish is long and super fleshy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 95
2014 Moulin TouchaisCoteaux du Layon, Loire Valley, FRANCE$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 30 Years (2025-2055)ABV: 12%Closure: CorkLuscious yet fresh with a long, elegant finish.
The wines of Moulin Touchais begin reaching their peak after twenty years, and many of the great vintages will take much longer. Vintages such as the 1953, 1959, 1964, 1969 are still maturing. The 1945, 1947 and 1949 have become classics. Moulin Touchais are the only winemakers in the world who give a century long guarantee on the longevity of their wines (subject to being kept under optimal cellar conditions). Bottles may show some sediment or deposit. One should understand this is due to the traditional filtration process, the main aim being to protect the colour, the bouquet and the depth of flavour of the wine.
Bright pale gold straw colour with gold tinged edges. Aromas of ripe pear, red apple skin and quince draped in honey sail from the glass with toffee apple and spice notes ensuing. Rich honeyed red apple, quince and pear skin flavours balance a luscious feel with brisk underlying acidity. Marmalade and spice elements linger across the back half. Finishes long, fresh and quincy with an elegant feel.
Drink over the next 20-30 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 96
2010 Moulin TouchaisCoteaux du Layon, Loire Valley, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 30 Years (2025-2055)ABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkRich, concentrated and viscous with fresh acidity enlivening the long, luscious finish.
The wines of Moulin Touchais begin reaching their peak after twenty years, and many of the great vintages will take much longer. Vintages such as the 1953, 1959, 1964, 1969 are still maturing. The 1945, 1947 and 1949 have become classics. Moulin Touchais are the only winemakers in the world who give a century long guarantee on the longevity of their wines (subject to being kept under optimal cellar conditions). Bottles may show some sediment or deposit. One should understand this is due to the traditional filtration process, the main aim being to protect the colour, the bouquet and the depth of flavour of the wine.
Deep brassy gold colour. Honeyed peach and marmalade aromas mix with some dried pineapple, subtle baked apple and spice notes. Rich, concentrated and viscous, the palate shows greater texture and intensity than the 2014, featuring mouth filling flavours of honeyed apple, marmalade, pineapple, toffee apple and spice. Fresh acidity enlivens what is otherwise a long, luscious finish.
Drink over the next 20-30 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 96
2009 Moulin TouchaisCoteaux du Layon, Loire Valley, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 30 Years (2025-2055)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkConcentrated, ripe and viscous but far from cloying with a clean, fresh finish.
The wines of Moulin Touchais begin reaching their peak after twenty years, and many of the great vintages will take much longer. Vintages such as the 1953, 1959, 1964, 1969 are still maturing. The 1945, 1947 and 1949 have become classics. Moulin Touchais are the only winemakers in the world who give a century long guarantee on the longevity of their wines (subject to being kept under optimal cellar conditions). Bottles may show some sediment or deposit. One should understand this is due to the traditional filtration process, the main aim being to protect the colour, the bouquet and the depth of flavour of the wine.
Bright brassy gold tinged colour with a pale gold hue. Intense honey and toffee apple aromas mix with poached pear, marmalade and subtle spicy raisin notes. Concentrated, ripe and juicy but far from cloying, honeyed toffee apple like flavours are intermeshed with marmalade, sweet ripe pineapple and delicate spice. The long finish, clean and fresh yet simultaneously rich and luscious.
Drink over the next 20-30 years.
Alc. 13% -
- Biodynamic
2023 Gut Oggau AtanasiusBurgenland, AUSTRIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 11.5%Closure: CorkGut Oggau is a leading natural wine producer based in Burgenland, Austria, celebrated for its expressive, biodynamically farmed wines. Established in 2007, husband and wife Stephanie and Eduard Tscheppe-Eselböck took over one of the oldest estates in the region, with the manor’s oldest walls dating back to the 17th century. Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention, crafting wines without added SO₂ to let the vineyard speak clearly. Each wine is represented by a fictional family member on the label, reflecting the wine’s unique personality and story. The result is a compelling range that combines tradition, sustainability, and vibrant, soulful drinking.
Atanasius is a silky, supple red made from biodynamically farmed Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch. Youthful and approachable, expect vibrant notes of red cherry, raspberry, and crushed violets, with a gentle spice and a whisper of earth. Light on its feet but with plenty of inner depth and charm.
Alc. 11.5% -
- Biodynamic
2023 Gut Oggau TimotheousBurgenland, AUSTRIA$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkGut Oggau is a leading natural wine producer based in Burgenland, Austria, celebrated for its expressive, biodynamically farmed wines. Established in 2007, husband and wife Stephanie and Eduard Tscheppe-Eselböck took over one of the oldest estates in the region, with the manor’s oldest walls dating back to the 17th century. Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention, crafting wines without added SO₂ to let the vineyard speak clearly. Each wine is represented by a fictional family member on the label, reflecting the wine’s unique personality and story. The result is a compelling range that combines tradition, sustainability, and vibrant, soulful drinking.
Timotheus is a textured, full-bodied white crafted from biodynamically farmed Grüner Veltliner and Weissburgunder. Rich and structured yet remarkably fresh, expect layers of ripe stone fruit, citrus oil, and toasted almond, underpinned by saline minerality and a gentle herbal lift. A wine of quiet confidence and complexity.
Alc. 12% -
- Biodynamic
2023 Gut Oggau EugenieBurgenland, AUSTRIA$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 10.5%Closure: CorkGut Oggau is a leading natural wine producer based in Burgenland, Austria, celebrated for its expressive, biodynamically farmed wines. Established in 2007, husband and wife Stephanie and Eduard Tscheppe-Eselböck took over one of the oldest estates in the region, with the manor’s oldest walls dating back to the 17th century. Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention, crafting wines without added SO₂ to let the vineyard speak clearly. Each wine is represented by a fictional family member on the label, reflecting the wine’s unique personality and story. The result is a compelling range that combines tradition, sustainability, and vibrant, soulful drinking.
Eugenie is a vibrant and textural skin-contact white wine crafted from a blend of fungus-resistant hybrids including Solaris, Muscaris, and Souvignier Gris. Herbal and aromatic, expect notes of green mango, citrus zest, ripe peach, and wild thyme.
Alc. 10.5% -
- Biodynamic
2023 Gut Oggau EmmeramBurgenland, AUSTRIA$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkGut Oggau is a leading natural wine producer based in Burgenland, Austria, celebrated for its expressive, biodynamically farmed wines. Established in 2007, husband and wife Stephanie and Eduard Tscheppe-Eselböck took over one of the oldest estates in the region, with the manor’s oldest walls dating back to the 17th century. Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention, crafting wines without added SO₂ to let the vineyard speak clearly. Each wine is represented by a fictional family member on the label, reflecting the wine’s unique personality and story. The result is a compelling range that combines tradition, sustainability, and vibrant, soulful drinking.
Emmeram is a striking and aromatic white made entirely from Gewürztraminer, grown biodynamically and vinified with minimal intervention. Intensely perfumed yet beautifully dry, expect notes of rose water, lychee, citrus peel, and spice, balanced by fine tannins and a persistent, savoury finish. Distinctive and full of character.
Alc. 12.5% -
- Biodynamic
2022 Gut Oggau JosephineBurgenland, AUSTRIA$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkGut Oggau is a leading natural wine producer based in Burgenland, Austria, celebrated for its expressive, biodynamically farmed wines. Established in 2007, husband and wife Stephanie and Eduard Tscheppe-Eselböck took over one of the oldest estates in the region, with the manor’s oldest walls dating back to the 17th century. Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention, crafting wines without added SO₂ to let the vineyard speak clearly. Each wine is represented by a fictional family member on the label, reflecting the wine’s unique personality and story. The result is a compelling range that combines tradition, sustainability, and vibrant, soulful drinking.
Josephine is a refined and quietly powerful red, crafted from 35-year-old biodynamic Blaufränkisch and Rösler grown on gravel soils. With tiny yields of just 1.5–2.5 tons per hectare, the fruit is hand-harvested and gently destemmed before fermenting in large, neutral barrels. The wine then matures for eight months in 500L oak, unfined, unfiltered, and without added sulphur. Elegant and savoury, it carries fine structure, mineral freshness, and a graceful, lingering finish.
Alc. 12.5% -
- Biodynamic
2022 Gut Oggau JoschuariBurgenland, AUSTRIA$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 13.2%Closure: CorkGut Oggau is a leading natural wine producer based in Burgenland, Austria, celebrated for its expressive, biodynamically farmed wines. Established in 2007, husband and wife Stephanie and Eduard Tscheppe-Eselböck took over one of the oldest estates in the region, with the manor’s oldest walls dating back to the 17th century. Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention, crafting wines without added SO₂ to let the vineyard speak clearly. Each wine is represented by a fictional family member on the label, reflecting the wine’s unique personality and story. The result is a compelling range that combines tradition, sustainability, and vibrant, soulful drinking.
Joschuari is the darker, more powerful side of the Gut Oggau family—Made from 100% Blaufränkisch grown on 35-year-old vines rooted in limestone and shale soils. Fruit is harvested by hand, partially destemmed, and left to macerate on skins for seven months. Fermentation is spontaneous with wild yeasts, followed by 20 months of ageing in large oak barrels. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, and without sulphur additions.
Alc. 13.2% -
- Biodynamic
2022 Gut Oggau MechthildBurgenland, AUSTRIA$280. 00Bottle$3360.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkGut Oggau is a leading natural wine producer based in Burgenland, Austria, celebrated for its expressive, biodynamically farmed wines. Established in 2007, husband and wife Stephanie and Eduard Tscheppe-Eselböck took over one of the oldest estates in the region, with the manor’s oldest walls dating back to the 17th century. Certified biodynamic by Demeter, the estate focuses on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention, crafting wines without added SO₂ to let the vineyard speak clearly. Each wine is represented by a fictional family member on the label, reflecting the wine’s unique personality and story. The result is a compelling range that combines tradition, sustainability, and vibrant, soulful drinking.
Mechthild is the matriarch of the Gut Oggau family—Made from 100% Grüner Veltliner sourced from the estate’s oldest vines, over 60 years of age, planted on limestone and slate soils. Fruit is hand harvested, fermented on skins in large wooden vats, and aged in 1500L barrels. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, and without sulphur additions. Structured and textural, showing depth, minerality, and age-worthy complexity.
Alc. 12% -
- 91
1975 Darroze Domaine de Bellair 49 Year Old Cask Strength Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$550. 00Bottle$6600.00 DozenABV: 45.5%This addition to Darroze's ongoing 'Unique Collection' of single vineyard, cask strength brandies is one of the oldest releases to date: distilled in 1975 and bottled in October 2024. It's fairly muted bouquet evokes cinnamon and woody/resiny notes alongside tobacco leaf, developing subtle fruitiness (baked pineapple / citrus), but only after ample time in the glass. The initial taste is bold, typically Armagnac, giving more than the resin-laced bouquet with semi-sweet vanilla and caramel-like flavours accompanied by dried fruit slice. Oak and chewy tannins reign in the mid-palate, leaving an attractive coffee-cake and rancio aspect to contemplate through the final stages. Not exactly the pinnacle of Armagnac, but quite good. Where else can you obtain a 49 year old wood aged spirit for well under $1000? 45.5% Alc./Vol. Tasted from a 30ml sample.
Notes from the producers... look for keynotes of fig jam and brioche apple pie in a long and complex delivery.
Francis and Marc Darroze roam the best estates and terroirs of Bas Armagnac in search of the most beautiful and distinctive brandies. Around 30 estates contribute to their "Unique Collection" with each barrel finishing its ageing in the Roquefort and Labastide d’Armagnac cellars.These are rustic spirits, entering the alembic via small vineyards, distilled by reputable mobile distillers, each demanding several decades of careful ageing in oak barrels in order to express a sense of place and vintage. The typical Armagnac grower raises a range of animals fed by many different crops, plus a small vineyard, part of which is distilled every year and aged in one or more barrels which constitute the savings of the farm. A sick bull, a dying horse or a retiring tractor are repaired or replaced by the sale of a barrel. Multiply the number of farms and vintages and you have the dizzying variety of the Darroze collection: Different because each farm is almost as unique as each barrel. Add to this zero reduction (only through ageing), no caramel colouring as well as labeling transparency and you have Armagnacs that are all about the time in oak (once in glass, nothing improves or changes. An 1890 Armagnac bottled in 1900 is no better than a 2007 bottled in 2017, but collectors don't want you to know that!)
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- 91
1995 Delord Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$149. 99Bottle$1799.88 DozenABV: 40%Older Delords tend to develop richness and roundness - with exceptions. This example requires plenty of air contact to fully appreciate. Patience sees the fruit character emerge beyond what is initially a fairly subdued, oak-driven brandy. Tasted from a 30ml sample. 40% Alc./vol.
Situated in Bas-Armagnac, Delord's distillery is to be found in the village of Lannepax, the ancestral home of the Delord family. They comment, "Our old Sier Armagnac alambics, that we wouldn't part with for all the gold in the world, produce less than 30 litres of eau-de-vie an hour. Our cellars contain our old treasured vintages and include more than 700 oak barrels that protect and age the Armagnac eau-de-vie dating from the 20th Century to the present day". 40% Alc./Vol.
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- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Castelli ChardonnayGreat Southern, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA nicely fleshed mid weighted Chardonnay that has good underlying freshness.
Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Nectarine and grapefruit aromas are intertwined with biscuity oak, hints of bees wax and gun flint. Nicely fleshed the mid weighted palate features pear and nectarine fruit over a back drop of biscuity oak, subtle dried honey and infusions of gun flint. Fresh underlying acidity with a gently creamed finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% - Bacardi Carta Oro Gold Rum (1000ml)PUERTO RICO$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 37.5%
First produced in 1862, re-launched around 2015 and named after the Spanish word for Gold, Bacardi Oro is the premium blend from the Bacardi stable based in Peurto Rico. Fourteen young rums make up the mix which is aged for just one to two years adding subtle notes of toffee and muscovado sugar. Filtered once through charcoal for smoothness, expect a lighter, drier style made for mixing.
Other reviews... The Carta Oro despite all of Bacardi’s marketing gimmicks is not a very sophisticated or complex spirit. If you want a strong hit of alcohol in a glass then reach for the Carta Oro. From the intense alcohol fumes on the nose to the strong ethanol notes when sipped and the strong boozy flavours when mixed this isn’t anywhere near as sophisticated as it wants to be. Or the adverts suggest….. - thefatrumpirate.com
Golden amber color. Dark caramel, anise cookie, and wet hay aromas. A round entry leads to a dryish medium-bodied palate with smoky caramel and peppery spice flavors. Finishes with a pithy, watery caramel fade. 37.5% alc./vol. International Review of Spirits Award: Bronze Medal 84 points (Recommended) - tastings.com
- Experimental de Christian Drouin Foursquare Cask Finish 19 Year Old Calvados (700ml)Normandy, FRANCE$250. 00Bottle$3000.00 DozenABV: 46.8%
Drouin's Experimental Pays d'Auge Calvados is described by its creator as "one of the most intense and rich expressions we've produced in this range." After exploring the islands of Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago and Martinique, Guillaume Drouin was inspired to age a seventeen year old brandy in French oak rum barrels from the famous Foursquare Distillery in Barbados. A seventeen month spell was followed by three months in freshly toasted barrels. The rum imparts brown sugar and vanilla notes, while the toasted barrels enhance roundness and structure. The resulting calvados has aromas of ripe apples, vanilla, caramel and brown sugar, with flavours of tropical fruits, dark chocolate and spice - an exotic marriage and a perfect balance between two worlds. 2396 bottles produced. 46.8% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... On the nose, this calvados awakens the senses with its captivating aromas of ripe and roasted apples, delicate vanilla, creamy caramel and brown sugar. On the palate, it reveals all its richness with suave and harmonious flavors of tropical fruits, dark chocolate and sweet spices. The finish is long and powerful, opening with notes of pine nuts and almond.
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- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Gilberts 3 Devils ShirazMount Barker, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinRipe and fleshy with medium body weight.
Midnight black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Pronounced dark plum and liquorice aromas are trailed by hints of dark chocolate, vanillin cedar and peppered earth. Ripe and fleshy, dark plum and liquorice fruits are featured over spicy vanillin cedar, scorched earth and pepper characters. Medium weight with polished tannins and an amply fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- Biodynamic
2023 Occhipinti Santa Margherita (SM) GrilloSicily, ITALY$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenABV: 12.5%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.
Santa Margherita is a recent addition to the portfolio. The vineyard is located 490 meters above sea level, planted to Grillo, and is surrounded by pine forest, oaks and secular olive trees. Arianna Occhipinti gives her Grillo a short 48 hour maceration, before spontaneous wild fermentation occurs in concrete and oval Austrian oak barrels, and the wine is matured for 12 months prior to bottling.
Other Reviews....
Decidedly savory, the 2023 Bianco Santa Margherita 23 opens in the glass with shavings of raw ginger, dusty dried flowers and a hint of citrusy spice. It is round in feel, with a pulse of saline minerality up front that beautifully contrasts its ripe orchard fruits. Perfumed and exceptionally long, the 2023 finishes with lovely tension, leaving a tinge of young kiwi that fades slowly. The calcareous soils of Santa Margherita ring true in this elegant Grillo. Drink 2025-2032.
94+ points
Eric Guido - Vinous -
- 95
- Biodynamic
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 -
- 91
- 92
- Reduced
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 -
- Nicks 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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- 98
- 97
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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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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Yalumba 50 Years Old Rare Aged Tawny (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenABV: 22%Closure: CorkBeginning in the 1960's, winemakers at Yalumba set aside small parcels of the very best tawnies for extended ageing in barrels crafted by their very own coopers. After five decades, this Rare Aged Tawny release has become rich and concentrated, and is now the perfect accompaniment to hard cheese, quince paste, roasted nuts and salted crackers.
Unbelievable value for a 50 year old fortified!
Other Reviews....
The NV Rare Aged Tawny 50 Years Old is hugely concentrated in all respects. Dark, almost scorched-earth notes join dried dates and figs, yet there's also a searing level of bergamot-like acidity, which helps keep things balanced and (relatively) drinkable. Of course, there's black walnuts and molasses, plenty of rancio character and tremendous length. For pure pleasure, I prefer the 30-year-old bottling, but this is very impressive.
94 points
Joe Czerwinski - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate -
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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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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.















































