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Glendronach 18 Year Old 100% Sherry Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - New PackagingHighlands, SCOTLANDReduced from $299.99$280. 00Bottle$3360.00 DozenABV: 46%"Allardice" has been dropped from the title of this snappy new presentation, however it would appear nothing else has changed. All matured in oloroso sherry casks (according to the website), Glendronach 18 is what many whisky connoisseurs would describe as a sherry bomb: Rich, dark and seductive with feature notes of Christmas cake, rum and allspice married together with aged oloroso, toasted walnut bread and chocolate orange. Put it on your short list of whiskies to try before you die. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... New look! Matured in Oloroso. They mention ‘Spanish oak casks’ on the label, but I’ve always thought that term could be a tad misleading (not just with Glendronach, mind). What exactly is ‘Spanish’ here, the oak, the casks, or both? That said, we were quite fond of the previous 18-year-old ‘Allardice’ (around 86 points), though it didn’t exactly have us swinging from the rafters – we used to prefer the 15-year-old. Colour: amber. Nose: there’s that Mars bar and millionaire’s shortbread note, followed by a hint of tar and damp earth. It’s got that dunnage warehouse feel, which I rather like. Then, as expected, the walnut wine shows up, with a touch of mustard and clove, before we nose into an old tin of black tea. Nothing to complain about. Mouth: perhaps a touch less precise, opening on peppered chocolate and espresso, moving into Catalan rancio, old walnuts, brown tobacco, and finally, oranges. The texture is a bit lighter than I anticipated, but it all works beautifully. Finish: medium length, with black tea, walnuts, and chocolate with a coffee edge. Comments: I’m not sure if it’s full-on Oloroso maturation or a three-year rerack or so, but I think it’s very well done. For my money, there’s absolutely no reason to think it’s any less good than the Allardice – and hey, I rather prefer the new look. 87 points - whiskyfun.com
[2024 tasting] Densely sherried, the nose is rich and laced with oxidized aromas evoking nutty, winey Pedro Ximenez sherry over oloroso. That’s but an illusion, of course, as this is aged fully in oloroso casks. The impact is impressive all the same: Bold, brooding, and rich, the nose evokes oily leather and furniture polish alongside spicier, racier notes of cinnamon red hots and some cayenne — surprising given its generally tame 46% abv. A not-insignificant level of sea spray salinity is clearly detectable, the Highlands at work. The palate quickly pours on sweeter elements: Molasses, brown butter, warm Coca-Cola, plenty of spice notes. Rich and enveloping on the tongue, the whisky evokes austerity and intrigue: Turkish rug shops, old London barrooms, Asian spice markets. Increasingly nutty as the palate moves toward the finish, the well-sherried experience approaches Madeira at times with its intensely wine-laden quality. Dark chocolate and caramel sweeten up the lengthy, enveloping finish, a healthy baking spice quality — more ginger-driven here — clinging to the back end alongside a sweetening raspberry element. Outstanding stuff. - drinkhacker.com
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- 95
2024 Lawson's Dry Hills GewurztraminerMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinThis luscious, intensely flavoured Gewurztraminer was sourced predominately from Lawson’s Home Block vineyard which was planted in 1981. The 2024 vintage was low yielding, and the dry season meant the grapes ripened perfectly, packed with flavour.
Luscious and exotic, this is a superb example of Gewurztraminer.
Brilliant water like core with distinct highlights of green skirting the edges. Incredibly potent nose with exotic scents of lychee, rosewater, musk and Turkish delight captivating the olfactory senses. Some pear and subtle ginger spice notes also chime in. Engulfing the mouth are luscious lychee, Turkish delight and rosewater flavours with notions of musk and ginger spice the undercard. Excellent concentration and power with a long off dry finish that’s balanced by fresh acidity.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14% - 1996 The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$3999. 00Bottle$47988.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Other reviews... It’s the latest batch of the well-known and now very expensive 18yo ‘sherry’. It’s actually not pure 1996, as it says ‘1996 and earlier years.’ I had found last year’s 1995 very excellent (WF 89.) Colour: amber. Nose: feels like home. It’s probably not as deep and complex as the pre-1980 vintages, and certainly more focused on fruitcake and toffee, but indeed it’s a lovely nose. Glazed chestnuts, honey sauce, touches of fennel or dill, dried porcinis, cigars, toasted brioche and, yeah, sultanas. Really a perfect nose, and the 43% vol. make it pleasantly approachable, in both senses of the word. Mouth: it’s a little narrow, perhaps, less majestic and ample than the old ones for sure, and maybe a little too toffee-ed and malty (Ovaltine-malty.) Raisin-filled chocolate, praline, butterscotch. The mouth feel is perfect, though. Finish: good length, spicy and toffee-ish. Peppered fudge. Comments: very, very good, of course, I’m just missing a little more complexity on the palate. But as they say, ‘it does what it says on the tin.’ 87 points - whiskyfun.com -
- 93
2024 Gipsie Jack Sauvignon BlancLanghorne Creek, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with a faint tinge of green around the outskirts. Herbaceous gooseberry and citrus aromas have a grassy asparagus overlay with some minerality also evident. Crunchy textured, racy herbaceous gooseberry and passionfruit flavours combine over a grassy asparagus and flinty mineral back drop. Crisp acidity with a long scrumptious finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 91
2023 Millebuis Bourgogne Aligote SableBurgundy, FRANCE$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Synthetic CorkBrilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of pear and green apple mix with lime, fresh herb and wet slate notes. Nicely rounded in the mouth flavours of pear and lime are featured over a back drop of subtle quince and cinnamon spice. Finishes dry with brisk underlying acidity and a shapely river stone like conclusion.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Redman Coonawarra ShirazCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14.3%Closure: StelvinDense inky black colour with a vibrant dark red hue. Elevated dark plum and liquorice aromas are intermeshed with toasty vanillin oak, subtle earth and peppered dried herb notes. Medium bodied the palate features juicy red plum and red liquorice fruits over a vanillin cedar, dusty earth and pepper back drop. Youthfully fresh in its feel it has fine grained tannins. The medium length conclusion a touch inky.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.3%Other Reviews…..
This immediately enticing 2022 Shiraz offers up a delicious mix of sweet and savoury with choc blackberry aromas lifted by strong scents of toasted cloves and wood smoke. Vibrant yet measured, with excellent overall purity and a solid base of tannins. Slightly closed with a long, tight finish now but has the integrity and balance to build nicely. Drink 2030-2042.
94 Points
Angas Hughson – WinePilot.com -
- 93
- 92
2023 Soul Growers Provident ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinPitch black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Dark plum, liquorice and dark cherry aromas emerge followed by some vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Rich juicy dark plum and liquorice fruits meld into a vanillin cedar, scorched earth and pepper back drop. Showing good concentration and plenty of flesh it has velvety tannins and concludes medium to long.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
Deep magenta/crimson with notes of bright red and dark plum fruits along with hints of dark cherry and boysenberry, baking spices, milk chocolate, fruitcake, crushed rocks, violets and panforte. Bright, lifted fruit on the palate with a fine, sandy tannin architecture, bright acidity and just a touch of raspberry lift on the fade out. Drink by 2034.
92 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2019 Tout RoupitCotes de Blayes, Bordeaux, FRANCE$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkA blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Petit Verdot aged in older barrels for 12 months. Midnight black in colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Elevated blackcurrant aromas mix with liquorice, dusty scorched earth, tobacco and spicy cedar notes. Rich red to blackcurrant and mulberry fruits meld into a back drop of earth, tobacco and spicy cedar. Sturdy fine grained tannins with an elegant mid length finish of red fruit and earthy tobacco characters.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 91
2022 Famille Vincent Bourgogne ChardonnayBurgundy, FRANCE$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinVinified in stainless steel tanks (70%) and oak barrels (30%) for a period of 6 months.
Brilliant pale straw core with straw tinged edges and a watery hue. Engulfing the nostrils are aromas of ripe peach, apricot and honeyed apple followed by hints of crème brulee, nougat and spice. Round and fleshy in the mouth pear, apple, peach and apricot fruits are featured over some honeysuckle and spice. Nicely integrated acidity with a mid length finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
2023 DCB Wine Pinot Noir - Last StocksYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 13.4%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red colour with a light crimson red hue. Wonderfully fragrant, the nose offers up alluring scents of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and subtle anise. Also evident are fresh herb, delicate forest floor and spicy cedar notes. Light on its feet, the energetic and playful palate features delicious red cherry and winter strawberry fruits over a back drop of fresh herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar. Lively acidity and polished tannins with a medium to long conclusion that’s highlighted by fresh red fruits.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.4% -
- 91
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Redman Coonawarra Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2030-2032)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDense inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Freshly crushed blackcurrant and liquorice aromas elevate their way through the nostrils combining with some mulberry, inky earth, vanillin cedar and mint notes along the way. Still very youthful and inky in its feel the palate is decorated with freshly crushed blackcurrant and liquorice fruits which overlay an earthy back drop of vanillin cedar and infusions of bay leaf. Bright, almost crunchy like acidity in conjunction with muscular tannins lead into a tense, inky finish.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
This 2022 Cabernet is bold for Coonawarra but still holds its shape admirably. Powerful slaty blackcurrant aromas are lifted by touches of oregano and bay leaf with sweet blackberry in support. Dry, sturdy and strong with a dense core of drying tannins accented by juicy acidity. Generous ripeness but all kept in check nicely with cherry liqueur accents to finish. Drink 2030-2040.
94 Points
Angus Hughson – WinePilot.com -
- 94
2022 Atze Decadent CabernetBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinSourced from a single vineyard planted in 1998 located in the Ebenzer sub region with maturation taking place in 3rd to 4th fill French oak barriques.
Dense inky black colour with a very deep dark red black hue. The nose is filled with ripe blackcurrant, liquorice, vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and spicy bay leaf aromas. Medium to full bodied, rich fleshy textured blackcurrant and mulberry fruits are intermeshed with vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and bay leaf accents. Fine grained yet sturdy tannin structure. Long amply fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 92
- 92
2023 Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Bush Vine Grenache - Last StocksBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant dark raspberry, plum and red liquorice aromas evolve out of the glass followed by some fresh herb and subtle peppered earth notes. Juicy red to dark raspberry, cherry and liquorice fruits flood the mouth with subtle notions of dried herbs and vanillin spice evident below. Silky tannins with a long succulent conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews……
Mid-ruby with aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry and redcurrant fruits cut with gingery spice, pressed purple flowers, dried orange rind, exotic spice and earth. Plenty of space and spicy detail on the palate with billowing, powdery tannins and a sprightly mineral line. Super value here. Drink by 2032.
92 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 91
Redbank Elevage ProseccoKing Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: Diam CorkPours with a fluffy mousse which fades to reveal a pale straw coloured base that has a fine and persistent bead flowing through it. Lifted pear and red apple scents fill the nostrils followed by some quince and sherbet like notes. Refreshing pear and green apple fruits are dispersed across the palate with some citrus and quince elements also evident. Crisp acidity with a dry mouth watering finish.
Alc. 12% -
- 93
- Biodynamic
2022 Chateau Malherbe Pointe du Diable RoseProvence, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinMade from biodynamically grown Grenache and Semillon grapes. Brilliant pale salmon tinged colour. Pronounced peach, raspberry and strawberry aromas jump out of the glass followed by hints of blood orange and wet stone. Delicious peach, raspberry and blood orange fruits are delivered with excellent intensity and possess a supple feel. Stony mineral back drop with a long voluminous finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
D’ Soumah Blanc de Blanc SparklingYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesABV: 11%Closure: Diam CorkA buoyant lacy white mousse shows good hold over a very pale straw coloured base that has a fine bead coursing through it. Elevated pear and Jonathan apple aromas flow out of the glass trailed by some peach and subtle lees notes. Light and vivid the palate features pear, citrus and red apple fruits which are framed by crisp acidity which lends a sculptured feel. Some delicate chalky lees characters are also apparent. Finishes very dry and refreshingly lean.
Alc. 11% -
- 94
2022 Atze’s Corner Bachelor ShirazBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinAtze's Corner is owned by sixth generation Barossa Valley vigneron, Andrew Kalleske. At the heart of the project are low-yielding 1912 and 1951 Barossa Valley Shiraz vines planted adjacent to the locally-known Atze's Corner, in an unassuming plot of land to the east of Nuriootpa on the valley floor. Fruit is also sourced from several other vineyards, also owned by the Kalleske family. Two of the Barossa Valley's prized sub regions make up 100% of the Shiraz in this wine - Ebenezer and Koonunga. Open, small-batch fermentation, hand plunging and pumping and minimal filtering and fining define Andrew's unobtrusive approach. Maturation takes place in a combination of new French oak (20%) with the balance in seasoned French and American oak for a period of 22 months.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a dense dark red black hue. Pronounced dark plum, liquorice and black cherry aromas are followed by some dusty vanillin cedar and peppered fennel notes. Rich and concentrated, plush dark plum, liquorice and black cherry fruits are framed by sturdy tannins. Toasty vanillin oak, subtle earthy mocha and pepper characters lie beneath. Robust feel finishing long and chewy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Warrabilla Reserve Cabernet SauvignonRutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 15%Closure: StelvinImpenetrable midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Nosing reveals herbaceous green bean and tobacco leaf like aromas over blackcurrant, black olive and earth notes. Rich and full the palate features generous blackcurrant and ripe mulberry fruits avoiding much of the green notes that were evident on the nose. Tobacco, subtle green herb, earthy black olive and spicy cigar box characters ensue. Stern muscular tannin structure with a tightly wound finish that’s slightly bitter.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 15% -
- 94
- 95
- Reduced
2022 Riposte The Cutlass Shiraz - Last StocksAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $26.99$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinMidnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Alluring scents of black cherry, liquorice and dried clove are complimented by smoked meat and peppered earth notes. Juicy plum, liquorice and black cherry fruits are complexed by infusions of dried clove, smoked meats and peppered earth. Medium bodied it has fine grained tannins and a polished feel. Finishes savoury and elegant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Adelaide Hills Shiraz is a hot-ticket at the moment and here is a wine that sits very comfortably in the pocket of the emergence of a regional style. It’s satisfyingly ripe, crimson plum and berry to the fore, plump, with a little lift of pepper. Its signature, more importantly, is a palate shape that feels circular and continuous, with a sense of generosity that fills the mouth without weight, thickness or oak overburden. A wine with purity of flavour and structure that offers a complete new-age Shiraz experience.
95 Points
Tony Love - WinePilot.com -
- 95
- 94
- 94
2022 John Duval Wines Plexus Shiraz Grenache MourvedreBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA blend of 43% Shiraz, 41% Grenache and 16% Mourvedre aged for 15 months in French oak of which 10% was new. The Shiraz component was sourced from old vineyards at Krondorf, Ebenezer and Tanunda. Grenache was sourced from vineyards at Tanunda, Moppa and Ebenezer, and Mourvèdre from Light Pass and Ebenezer.
Very deep black dark red core with a dark red hue. Pronounced dark plum and liquorice aromas mix with some black raspberry, ripe cherry, subtle vanillin spice and gentle peppered earth notes. Rich succulent dark plum, raspberry, liquorice and blueberry fruits engulf the medium to full bodied palate. Notions of vanillin spice, subtle scorched earth and pepper lie beneath. Amply fleshed it has velvet like tannins and a long, juicy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
The 2022 Plexus comprises 43% Shiraz, 41% Grenache and 16% Mourvèdre (a.k.a. Mataro). This is the most Grenache that has ever been included in the Plexus, and 2022 was a beautiful season for that variety. "It's always an SGM," says winemaker John Duval. "The Shiraz helps it age in the cellar." On the nose, you get black fruits and exotic spice, layers of forest berries and brine. On the palate, the wine is sweetly fruited and brilliantly fresh. It has an earthy textural bedrock presumably from the Mataro, which grounds the fruit. The tannins are a highlight here. There are some very old vineyards that add to this cuvee, four at over 100 years old, and perhaps these assist with the tannic complexity. A portion of the fruit is from the Hoffmann Vineyard: Shiraz Dallwitz block, Church Block Mataro and 65-year-old dry-grown Grenache. This is a sensational release. Really good. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2024-2037.
94 Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine AdvocateThis year's Plexus release sees a blend of shiraz (43%), grenache (41%) and mourvèdre (16%) from across a number of the parishes of the Barossa. Lovely dark plum and boysenberry fruits with hints of cherry clafoutis, dark chocolate, roasting meats, clover blossom, softly spoken cedar and vanillin and earth. Supple and pure with fine gravelly tannins and a minerally cadence showing plum, spice and mocha tones at the tail. Drink by 2035.
94 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
2022 Grasshopper Rock Earnscleugh Vineyard Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 13.3%Closure: StelvinAged for 10 months in French Oak barriques (28% new) followed by 18 months bottle aging.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Alluring violet, ripe cherry, dark plum and anise scents show plenty of elevation out of the glass trailed by some toasty oak, earth, dried herb and spice notes. Ripe and fleshy the palate is amply endowed with rich dark cherry, plum and anise flavours which meld into a subtlety toasted vanillin cedar, dried herb and spicy earth back drop. Polished and supple, it has velvety tannins and a long powerful finish that’s highly seductive.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.3% -
- 93
- 93
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
- Organic
2017 San Polo Brunello di MontalcinoTuscany, ITALY$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkDark red core with black tinged edges and a brick red hue. Pronounced ripe dark to black cherry and blackcurrant aromas are interwoven with earthy leather, tobacco, dried herb and spice notes. Medium to full bodied, ripe dark cherry and blackcurrant fruits are framed by a stern tannin structure which imparts a rustic feel. Earth, leather, old cedar, tobacco and spicy dried herb characters ensue. Dry linear finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
Ripe plum and dried citrus notes in the form of oranges on the nose follow through to a full body with juicy fruit and a creamy and rather chewy aftertaste. This 2017 shows some balance and focus for the vintage, considering the hot growing conditions. Try after 2023.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe San Polo 2017 Brunello di Montalcino (made with organic fruit) opens to a really fun and unique bouquet. I found aromas of dried herb, oregano and wild licorice, which I don't find in other wines from this vintage. There is also a pretty floral component that actually outpaces those characteristic aromas of cherry and redcurrant that you always get with Sangiovese. This wine has that extra layer of balsam intensity that sets it apart in a crowd. Production is 28,600 bottles. Drink 2023-2035.
93 Points
Monica Larner – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Raidis Wines Coonawarra Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDense pitch black heart with a dark red black tinged rim. Ripe blackcurrant aromas tinged with black olive and cigar box fill the nostrils followed by some bay leaf and spicy earth notes. Rich blackcurrant and mulberry fruits carry plenty of weight and a supple texture across the full bodied palate with some prominent cigar box, earthy black olive and dried herb characters lying below. Polished, slightly grainy tannins with a ripe spicy medium to long conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 93
2023 Casabianca Millesimato Prosecco Superiore Valdobiaddene DOCG Extra DryVeneto, ITALY$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 11%Closure: Diam CorkA nicely formed mousse overlays a pale straw coloured base that has a nimble stream of bubbles flowing through it. Aromas of lime and green apple mix with green pear skin, lemon and chalk notes. Delicious pear and green to red apple fruits meld into a lime, citrus and fresh herb infused back drop. Vivid acidity leads into a long and dry yet fruity finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 11% -
- 90
Loredan Gasparini Prosecco Superiore Asolo DOCG BrutVeneto, ITALY$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenABV: 11%Closure: Diam CorkPours with a buoyant mousse which sits atop a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold tinged edges. The bead fine and persistent. Pronounced pear and ripe apple aromas mingle with a faint whiff of honeysuckle and quince. Light and invigorating across the palate, fresh pear, citrus and red apple fruits are featured over a dry chalk tinged back drop that also sees some subtle lees characters evident. Crisp acidity with a racy finish.
Alc. 11% -
- 92
Casabianca Prosecco Superiore Valdobiaddene DOCG Extra DryVeneto, ITALY$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenABV: 11%Closure: Diam CorkAn exuberant fluffy white mousse subsides to reveal a pale straw coloured base that’s threaded by a stream of tiny bubbles. Green apple skin and lime aromas lead the way followed by some citrus and stony mineral notes. Delicious green to red apple and pear flavours fill the mouth with some fresh quince and subtle sherbet characters extending across the back half. Crisp stimulating acidity with a dry, flavoursome finish.
Alc. 11% -
- 95
- Reduced
2022 Pllana Hans Old Vine Grenache - Last StocksBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $34.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Fragrant spicy red raspberry, cherry and red liquorice aromas drift through the olfactory senses trailed by some subtle scorched earth and peppered dried herb notes. Juicy red to dark raspberry, ripe cherry and red liquorice fruits unfold across the palate with a silken feel. Excellent concentration with vanillin confectionary, subtle dried herb and peppered earth elements dancing across the back half. Outstanding power with velvet smooth tannins concluding long and luscious.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 93
Domaine de Joy VSOP 5 Year Old Bas Armagnac (500ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$88. 99Bottle$1067.88 DozenABV: 40.5%The brainchild of Swiss couple, Paul and Marguerite Gessler, Domaine de Joy is a luxury French brand specializing in high-quality drinks. The company is particularly well-known for its exceptional range of flavoured liqueurs, however, they also bottle spirits, including Cognac, Armagnac and Calvados. Distilled from Bacco and Ugni blanc, matured in Limousin oak, then finished in older Gascon casks for maximum fruit-oak balance, at just five years old, Joy's VSOP is described as "already well poised". 40.5% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Deep amber in the glass, the sweet aromas suggest honey, maple, vanilla and oak. The remarkably light, silky palate shows oak, vanilla and a hint of cocoa powder. Most of the flavor is on the mouthwatering, exceedingly long finish, echoing with baking spice and vanilla. 93 points - wineenthusiast.com
- 2008 Darroze Domaine de Cantau Cask Strength Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$230. 00Bottle$2760.00 DozenABV: 50%
Located in the golden triangle of Bas Armagnac, the commune of Mauléon d'Armagnac has been producing great eaux de vie for decades. At Domaine de Cantau, the classic sandy soils are accompanied by clay, a terroir known as 'boulbènes'. Folle blanche and Baco find their best conditions here. Guy Beyris has farmed his property for decades, always favoring the former, Armagnac's historic grape variety. His 2008 vintage was distilled in Philippe Gironi stills and aged in 400-liter Bartholomo cooperage barrels. Like others in the Unique Collection, no blending of domains or vintages takes place. There's also no dilution before bottling to tame the aromatic strength or the nuances of the terroir. It's Armagnac made for purists. 50% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the bottlers... the tannins are fine. Notes of vanilla and rancio accompany candied fruit, creme caramel and elderflower. Superb!
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- Organic
Darroze Biologic 4 Year Old Bas Armagnac (700ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 47.5%Distilled from organically grown Folle Blanche grapes, at just four years old, you might anticipate this to be a little 'rustic' (having said that, unaged eaux de vie from this appellation can be fantastic). Cognacexpert.com were struck by its "remarkable finesse" - the tannins are yet to assert themselves, instead, fruity aromas of prune and apricot are balanced with notes of honey and almond. The simplicity of the presentation reflects its organic origins. Try it neat or over ice or use it as a base for innovative organic cocktails. 47.5% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Light yellow colour. A fruity, spicy nose (candied orange peel, dried apricot, prune, mango, vanilla) which also reveals notes of brioche, honey and almonds. Elegant both on the nose and on the palate (where those same fruity flavours emerge) thanks to its silky tannins. Rounded on the palate, despite its youth, and very long.
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- 95
- 92
- 92
2022 Hudelot-Noellat Vosne-Romanee Les Beaumonts Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$750. 00Bottle$9000.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkHudelot-Noëllat is no longer one of Burgundy’s hidden gems as word is well and truly out now on just how exceptional these wines are. Charles Van Canneyt runs this iconic family owned domaine based in Vougeot where he crafts elegant and classic wines from some of the region’s most prized vineyards. Staying true to tradition, Charles practices minimal intervention in the cellar along with limited new oak usage. His aim is to produce refined Burgundy with an emphasis on purity and finesse, all while letting the terroir shine.
Other Reviews....
The Beaux Monts from Hudelot-Noëllat is another level of richness and depth in 2022, with a pronounced mulberry and fig fruit aroma touched with earth, smoke and spice. The wine is dense and tannic, impressively muscular for this appellation. One can only imagine the secret is the old vines and judicious punching down; Van Canneyt farms 0.3 hectares at the top of the slope; otherwise, it is a cool terroir. The grapes were partially destemmed and firmly punched down before ageing in cask (25% new). Drink 2030-2065.
95 points
Charles Curtis MW - DecanterA more deeply pitched and spicier, if perhaps slightly less elegant, nose is comprised by notes of exotic tea, sandalwood and an interesting hint of star anise. Here too the medium-bodied flavors possess a really lovely and sophisticated texture yet no lack of power on the intensely mineral-driven, dusty and youthfully austere finale. Excellent quality in an equally age-worthy package. Drink through 2034+.
91-94 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundAromas of plums, red berries, orange zest, exotic spices and potpourri preface the 2022 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Les Beaumonts, a medium to full-bodied, deep and layered wine with a concentrated core of fruit that's framed by sweet, powdery tannins. It's pure and complete.
92-94 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 19, 2024)The 2022 Vosne-Romanée Les Beaumonts 1er Cru has red and black fruit, plus a touch of shucked oyster shell and Japanese nori. Impressive delineation and focus. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a pretty and relatively delicate Les Beaumonts. It is sapid and quite linear, maybe needing a little more grip on the finish. Give it 3-4 years once in bottle. Again, I think this will gain weight during its élevage. Drink 2027-2048.
92-94 points
Neal Martin - VinousRuby purple in colour, with an intensity on the nose well ahead of its predecessors. The Beaumonts goes into the mouth discreetly, then blossoms, offering summer pudding fruits with vivacious acidity, an excellent balance here. Drink from 2032-2040.
93-96 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 90
- 91
2022 Hudelot-Noellat Vougeot Les Petits Vougeot Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$485. 00Bottle$5820.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkHudelot-Noëllat is no longer one of Burgundy’s hidden gems as word is well and truly out now on just how exceptional these wines are. Charles Van Canneyt runs this iconic family owned domaine based in Vougeot where he crafts elegant and classic wines from some of the region’s most prized vineyards. Staying true to tradition, Charles practices minimal intervention in the cellar along with limited new oak usage. His aim is to produce refined Burgundy with an emphasis on purity and finesse, all while letting the terroir shine.
Other Reviews....
This too is cool, airy and spicy with its essence of red currant, cherry and crushed fennel aromas. The notably finer texture of the middleweight flavors is immediately evident as there is a lilting but punchy mouthfeel, all wrapped in a dusty, silky and refined yet firm, serious and youthfully austere finish. I very much like the balance and this too should be more than capable of rewarding a decade plus of keeping. Drink through 2032+.
91-93 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2022 Vougeot 1er Cru Les Petits Vougeot is beautiful, bursting with aromas of sweet plums and red berries mingled with orange zest and warm spices. Medium to full-bodied, pure and ethereal, it's supple and seamless, with lively acids and a saline finish.
91-93 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 19, 2024)The 2022 Vougeot Les Petits Vougeot 1er Cru has quite a potent oyster shell scent on the nose, almost overriding the dark berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and veins of blue fruit surfacing towards the finely detailed finish. This is a delightful, very well-crafted Vougeot. Drink 2027-2045.
90-92 points
Neal Martin - VinousCrimson with a pinker tinge. Lifted little red fruits on the nose, stylish and racy, some youthful bitters on the palate, light tannins, adequate acidity, then the fruit comes rushing back behind. Persistent, discreet, fine, with a pleasing mineral touch. Drink from 2030-2038.
92-95 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 97
- 94
- 94
2022 Hudelot-Noellat Romanee St Vivant Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$2499. 00Bottle$29988.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkHudelot-Noëllat is no longer one of Burgundy’s hidden gems as word is well and truly out now on just how exceptional these wines are. Charles Van Canneyt runs this iconic family owned domaine based in Vougeot where he crafts elegant and classic wines from some of the region’s most prized vineyards. Staying true to tradition, Charles practices minimal intervention in the cellar along with limited new oak usage. His aim is to produce refined Burgundy with an emphasis on purity and finesse, all while letting the terroir shine.
Other Reviews....
Lavish aromas of blackberry and plum fruit with an edge of earthy complexity make the initial attack compelling. The texture is firm and elegant, with grippy tannins but no astringency and enough extract and freshness to ensure an interminable finish. The grapes are from a half-hectare of century-old vines that run the length of the vineyard just north of the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti vines. They are partially destemmed and gently fermented before ageing in cask (half new). Ideally, one would wait a decade before opening this wine, but there is enough substance here to age 50 years beyond that. Drink 2030-2075.
97 points
Charles Curtis MW - DecanterA highly restrained and decidedly cool nose requires aggressive swirling to coax the wonderfully spicy red pinot fruit, floral and exotic tea scents from the glass. On the palate the super-refined, energetic and well-detailed middleweight flavors possess a lilting, pure and highly refined mouthfeel thanks primarily to the beautifully fine-grained tannins supporting the striking long, balanced and lightly austere finale. This is very classy juice. Drink through 2034+.
93-96 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2022 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru unfurls in the glass with scents of cherries, wild berries, rose petals and exotic spices. Full-bodied, fleshy and perfumed, its velvety attack segues into a fleshy, layered, almost unctuous core of lively fruit that's framed by sweet, powdery tannins, concluding with a long, resonant finish.
94-96 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 19, 2024)The 2022 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru is vivacious and well-defined on the nose. A mixture of red and black fruit swirls with crushed violet, and blueberry aromas emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with those graphite elements that tincture that black fruit, fleshy and rounded. A crescendo towards the finish delivers the sapidity that entices you back for more. This oozes class, even if I don't think it is the ultimate wine Van Canneyt has overseen. Tasted at the Stannary Wines dinner in London with Charles van Canneyt. Drink 2029-2055.
94 points
Neal Martin - VinousA fine mid ruby purple, then the nose says ‘hold on, this is special’. The quintessence of Vosne-Romanée finesse. An intense raspberry seedless intensity straight away on the attack, broadening slightly behind, medium acidity, submerged tannins and a fine very long finish. Drink from 2035-2045.
95-98 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 91
2017 Carn Mor Strictly Limited Glenlossie 6 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 54.6%Matured for over six years before bottling in 2024 at natural strength. Young but sherry-heavy aromas speak of new leather, cinnamon toast, vanilla and dry fruit cake. An initially crisp spirit develops a broad, expansive mouthfeel with a tropical fruit edge, mouth filling and chewy through the finish. The outturn equates to 840 bottles - all from first-fill sherry butts. 54.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered. Tasted from a 30ml sample.
- Glendronach 15 Year Old 100% Sherry Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - New PackagingSpeyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$164. 99Bottle$1979.88 DozenABV: 46%
Sporting a new presentation, the 15 year old continues to be matured in Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks from Andalucía. Master Blender, Rachel Barrie sums up the profile as "Honey-glazed apricot and ripe fig with a crescendo of black cherry, angelica, and muscovado." 46% Alc./Vol. States natural colour and presumably this is chill filtered.
Other reviews... [2020 bottling] I had thought it had lost a large part of its original oomph when I last tried the 15, back in 2018 (WF 81). That was already a version to which they had added PX. Seems that our friend Ralfy had noticed that it is now not 'non chill-filtered' anymore, not too sure why a bottler would take that away while still bottling at 46% col. But sometimes whisky is like wurst or the law, you wouldn't want to know how they make it. Colour: gold. Nose: same path as that of the 10, only a little hotter and with more raisins I would say. Same cherry stems, nuts, grist, burnt cake, a little metal polish… The first Revivals had been stunning more than ten years ago, but rumour had it that they had added much older whiskies to the vattings. As B.B. King would have said, the thrill is gone now. Mouth: still a pleasant whisky and I think I actually like it better than last time. I'm particularly fond of these mentholy and liquoricy notes, the sour oranges, this earthiness, and certainly the orange blossom (our pals the panettones, I love panettone and my birthday is… joking). Roasted nuts. Frankly, I find this pretty good, if not as thick and wide as the early batches. Finish: rather long, with a retro style. Earth and soot on top of sherry and all that. Roasted nuts in the aftertaste. Comments: Glendronach, you had me worried for a minute… 86 points - whiskyfun.com
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- 93
2024 Freycinet Louis ChardonnayTasmania, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 12.8%Closure: StelvinGeoff and Susan Bull were early viticultural pioneers on the East Coast of Tasmania, establishing Freycinet Vineyard in 1979. It is situated adjacent to the picturesque Freycinet Peninsula, (latitude 42 degrees), which is named in honour of the French explorer Louis de Freycinet, who chartered the region in 1802.
Brilliant water like colour with greenish tinged edges. Elevated white peach, nectarine and melon scents mix with stony mineral elements. Nectarine, citrus and subtle grapefruit flavours are intermeshed with melon and flinty mineral accents. Zippy acidity with a fresh, energised conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12.8% -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Pllana Pinot GrigioSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now (2024)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. The nose exhibits aromas of pear skin, dried apple and quince followed by some stony mineral notes. On the palate pear skin and dried apple flavours are featured over some subtle salted nut characters. Dry crisp finish with salted hazelnut like characters lingering through the aftertaste.
Needs drinking.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
- Organic
2022 Domaine Faiveley MontagnyBurgundy, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkMontagny is the most southern of the Côte Chalonnaise villages and lies at the border of the Mâconnais. The Chardonnay vines thrive in this rugged terrain where they face east/south-east and are planted on slopes that reach as high as 400 metres above sea level. Twenty percent of this Chardonnay was aged in French oak barrels (10% new) for a period of 12 months with regular stirring.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of nectarine, peach and bees wax drift through the nostrils followed by hints of crème brulee and wet stone. Generous white peach, nectarine and dried honey flavours carry a refined, river stone like shape across the palate.
Subtle notions of crème brulee and stony mineral characters lie underneath. A lick of brisk acidity freshening up what is otherwise a well rounded finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Water Wheel Bendigo Cabernet SauvignonVictoria, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2030-2031)ABV: 13.6%Closure: StelvinMedium to full bodied with a chalky tannin structure and rustic, somewhat austere finish.
Dense pitch black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Blackcurrant and black olive aromas rise through the nostrils trailed by some cedary tobacco and spicy dried herb notes. Medium to full bodied, blackcurrant and liquorice fruits show good richness framed by a chalky tannin structure which imparts a muscular feel. Notions of black olive, cedary tobacco and dried herb characters extend through to the rustic and somewhat austere finish.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.6% - Rhum J.M. Fumee Volcanique Agricole Rum (700ml)MARTINIQUE$124. 99Bottle$1499.88 DozenABV: 49%
One in a new series called the Atelier Range (aka “L’Atelier des Rhums”), a trio of products designed by Master Blender Karine Lassalle “to identify three characteristics inherently present and specific to the terroir of Rhum J.M, and cleverly highlight them through cask manipulation.” All the rums in the range are quite young, being under three years old. Fumee Volcanique means "Volcanic Smoke". Essentially, it's agricole aged for 12 to 14 months in bourbon barrels that undergo an “extreme” char treatment. The producers sum it up as "intense and powerful, with notes of salted butter caramel, lime and honey enhanced with smoke." Rhum for fans of Islay single malts, perhaps? 49% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Extremely fruity on the nose, this has the immediate impact of a classic agricole, overwhelming with notes of overripe pineapple and charred lemon, tempered by a strong vein of cut grass and a touch of licorice. This hasn’t had enough time in barrel to become as smoky as the distillery might want, given the name, but there’s a taste of char that emerges on the palate, melding with the toasty caramel, almond, and coconut elements on the tongue. A tough of racy tajin adds some bite on the finish. The overall effect is a little haphazard, as the heavy fruit character weighs down everything else. Definitely something the tiki crowd can mix with, though. - drinkhacker.com
...Fumée volcanique, volcanic smoke, that will obviously appeal to any malt whisky lover – not to mention peatheads. Smoke, where? Hold on, as I understand it, this has nothing to do with smoke per se, it's just that the casks have been heavily charred. Which, as whisky folks know well, would not impart any form of smokiness to a spirit. But let's see… Colour: straw. Nose: young and fresh, with touches of rubber and aniseed, then indeed a wee smokiness, as if the casks had met some peaters in an earlier life. Some kind of STRised ex-Islay wood, perhaps? Ow the distillate feels very young and it's true that the heavily charred wood did not add to much vanilla here, let alone coconut. So, it's pretty dry. Mouth: first and foremost it is very spicy and vegetal. You'd almost believe this is verbena liqueur blended with green chartreuse and tar liqueur (goudron). Some lime too, but really not a lot of 'rhum agricole', in my opinion. Some kind of in-cask mixology? But don't get me wrong, I rather enjoy this, it's just very unusual. Finish: medium, with rather more mint and aniseed. What we call 'a perroquet', which is pastis with a dollop of mint syrup. Some rubber is back in the aftertaste. Comments: a rather cute alien, and perhaps a category on its own. 81 points - whiskyfun.com
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- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Fowles Ladies Who Shoot Their Lunch Wild Ferment Pinot NoirVictoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesABV: 13.3%Closure: StelvinDark red in colour with black toned edges and a translucent dark red hue. Aromas of cherry and strawberry infused with hints of mint drift from the glass trailed by some vanillin cedar, earth and fresh herb notes. Light and elegant the palate features red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits over earth, spicy cedar and infusions of fresh herbs. Slightly dryish, chalky tannins and fresh underlying acidity with a savoury finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.3% -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Kingston Estate Cabernet SauvignonClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDense inky black colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of blackcurrant and liquorice have a smoky cedar overlay with some black olive and spicy earth notes also evident. Rich blackcurrant, ripe cherry and liquorice fruits are intermeshed with prominent smoky vanillin cedar, earthy black olive and spice elements. Firmish tannins impart a robust feel onto the spicy mid length finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 94
- 95
- 94
2022 Provenance Henty Pinot Noir - Last StocksHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Perfumed aromas of violet, dark cherry, strawberry and anise blossom out of the glass trailed by some dried herb, earth and spicy cedar notes. Rich and fleshy textured yet possessing plenty of underlying freshness, the light to medium bodied palate features dark cherry, strawberry and subtle anise flavours. Beneath lie delicate smoky cedar, dried herb and spicy earth accents. Fine grained tannins with a bright savoury finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Made with 90% whole berries with a small portion of whole bunches. Matured in barriques (25% new). A medium, bright crimson red. An excellent set of regional Victorian pinots from Provenance in '22, this sits nicely between the Ballarat and Geelong versions. A mix of red and black fruits together with a little thyme and peony. Medium bodied, this silky-textured and well-balanced wine is ready to enjoy but, equally, will only become more complex over time. Drink by 2031.
95 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThis is both lithe and sinewy. There’s macerated fruit, there’s an earthen aspect, there’s fragrant herbs and a meaty, bloody, rusty character. It doesn’t have a lot of volume but it makes the most of itself. Tannin is emery-board-fine, and length is very good. This is one of those wines that grows on you more and more, the longer you sit with it. It’s understated but it’s complex. Drink 2025-2029+
94 Points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front -
- 96
- 95
- 95
2021 Mount Langi Ghiran Talus ShirazGrampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinImpenetrable midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Fragrant blackberry, liquorice and red plum scents are interwoven with a hint of violet, spicy vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Fleshy blackberry, liquorice and red plum fruits carry a refined textural feel across the medium bodied palate. Spicy vanillin cedar, delicate earth and peppered meat accents ensue. Very fine grained, perfectly integrated tannins meld into the long savoury finish which carries a sense of eloquence.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
There's a power to this wine, a force, and yet it also comes across as a wine with a keen savoury side. Win-win. Black cherry, hazelnut, black pepper and rounds of leaf matter and tobacco put on a confident and highly engaging display. Indeed, it's beautiful. Drink by 2035.
95 Points
Campbell Mattinson - James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe colour is brilliant and bright with deep crimson hues. The nose offers a lovely combination of cherry and chocolatey dark plums, it’s engaging from the outset. The medium bodied palate is neatly structured with satsuma plum, a little licorice and dark chocolate richness. Seamless oak integration with fine chalky tannins sustains a long finish. Drink 2024-2039.
95 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com -
- 96
- 96
- 96
2019 Castagna Genesis SyrahBeechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam CorkPitch black in colour at its core with a dark red hue. Intense spicy plum, violet, liquorice and clove aromas engulf the olfactory senses with some dried meat, scorched earth and peppered herb notes also chiming in. Rich and sleek across the medium bodied palate, spicy dark to black cherry, plum and liquorice fruits are complexed by notions of clove, smoky earth, vanillin cedar and peppered dried meats. Polished tannin structure with a long finish that’s refined and highly savoury. Very Northern Rhone like.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
Made with 98/2% shiraz/viognier. A compelling example of syrah, one that brings subtlety and restraint, giving full voice to the grape's aromatic side and innate beauty. Smell the lifted violet, acacia, briar, black cherry and spice. Quietly assumes a personality ripe in black cherries, bramble, cinnamon, allspice, woodsmoke and cured meats. Feel the tension playing out on the palate between tannin and acidity, tight and taut at this still-early stage, and oak (25% new) and fruit. Five years old and almost ready for its close-up. Drink by 2035.
96 Points
Jeni Port - James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe finest syrah in Australia, if not the New World. At least if the measuring stick is the Northern Rhone. A warm year, but with no dearth of freshness, nor aromatic fireworks. Think violets, salumi, blueberries, crushed clove, mace and Chinese five spice. The tannins, a beautiful weave from fore to aft. A little more astringent, perhaps, than the finest vintages, but this biodynamically certified expression will age beautifully across the mid-term. Best after 2025.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
2023 Domaine de Paris RoseProvence, FRANCE$33. 99Bottle$407.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinPale salmon pink in colour. Delightful raspberry, peach and strawberry aromas allure the olfactory senses with some musk and stony mineral notes also chiming in. Delicious peach and strawberry fruits intermeshed with pomegranate, musk and stony mineral elements have a river stone like feel across the palate. Fresh acidity finishing dry and savoury.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
2024 Brave Souls The Lighthouse Keeper RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinBrave Souls is collaboration between Sons of Eden and distributor David Fesq. The fruit for this wine was sourced from two standout vineyards within the higher altitude and cooler sections of Eden Valley, the Cranes Range vineyard and Boehm Springs Road vineyard. The 2024 vintage was a cool season with a long slow, and dry, ripening period which delivered pristine Riesling fruit with an abundance of flavour and natural acidity.
Concentrated and textural yet zesty Riesling with a long mouth watering finish.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with a subtle tinge of green around the edges and a watery hue. Intense lime, citrus and orange rind aromas jump out of the glass followed by some chalky talc and delicate mineral notes. Zesty in it’s feel yet possessing plenty of textural volume, concentrated lime and citrus fruits flood the mouth with notions of orange rind, green apple, chalky talc and subtle steely mineral elements lying underneath. Crisp acidity with a long mouth watering finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 11.5% -
- 90
Morrison Distillers Mac-Talla Flora Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$129. 99Bottle$1559.88 DozenABV: 48.2%Mac-Talla continues to explore diversity in Islay whisky. Through Flora, the brand pays tribute to Islay’s “botanical richness”, complementing the other expressions in the range: Terra, inspired by the earth; Mara, a seaside dram, and Strata, which nods to the rocks of Islay. 70% Sherry vs 30% Bourbon matured whiskies have been vatted together and returned to second-fill sherry butts to marry for a number of months before bottling. The floral theme anticipates a soft whisky, but the delivery is pretty full-on for its namesake. Our small sample yielded fresh, grassy, peppery flavours with the peat gathering steam. There's a paradox between its relatively light body and the weight of the phenols that draws comparisons with several Octomores - however given this is from Morrisons, the source is likely Bowmore. 48.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... COLOUR: Gorse Yellow. NOSE: Fragrant with ripe floral notes and aromatic wood spice. TASTE: Delicate notes of heather intertwined with soft peat smoke and nutty undertones.
















































