Availability:
What's New
We boast Australia's fastest growing online selection of wines, spirits and liqueurs added to weekly. If you can't find what you're looking for, call us on 1800 069 295 and we'll try to track it down.
- Weis Cherry Schnapps Liqueur (700ml)GERMANY$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 16%
Cherry liqueurs are a traditional European specialty that probably started in Poland. As you'd expect, the sweet cherry flavour makes a delicious drink on its own, with your favourite mixer or even poured over ice cream. 16% Alc./Vol.
- Weis Plum Brandy (500ml)GERMANY$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 40%
A traditional Yugoslavian specialty where it's referred to as Slivovitz, plum brandies are also made in Serbia, the Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary. In Germany and Switzerland they're referred to as eaux de vies or fruit brandies. One such example is Weis, which is distilled from the blue oat plum, aged for at least three years and rounded off with pure plum juice. In Eastern Europe, these spirits are normally enjoyed at room temperature. Alternatively, try them chilled as an aperitif or add a dash to your next glass of sparkling wine. 40% Alc./Vol.
-
- 95
- 96
- 98
2023 Clonakilla Shiraz ViognierMurrumbateman, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, AUSTRALIA$128. 00Bottle$1536.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinClonakilla's flagship, the Shiraz Viognier, represents a meticulous selection of the finest parcels from their Murrumbateman vineyard. The 2023 vintage presented challenges with a wet, cool spring that delayed vine growth, leaving uncertainty about whether the grapes would ripen. Fortunately, a warm late summer and mild autumn allowed the fruit to ripen perfectly by mid-April. The 2023 Shiraz Viognier showcases intense and pure fruit aromas, capturing the essence of cool-climate Shiraz. This vintage is style-defining, with an elegant and luminous palate, making it an exceptional example of Clonakilla's signature style.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews....
The flagship is in fine form from this cool vintage, rendering it elegant and quite exotic. Plus, 22% whole bunches in the ferment make an impact. It’s a touch sappy yet laden with heady aromatics – all florals with a dusting of Middle Eastern spices such as sumac. Super peppery. The mid-weighted palate is tight and a touch lean with red fruit accents, bright acidity and fine if plentiful tannins. It’s a wine you keep coming back to as it reveals more and differently. It's lovely and enticing; it feels light and ethereal, deceptive. Time will reward the patient as this builds more complexity, but it is seriously hard to resist now. Drink 2024 - 2035.
95 Points
Jane Faulkner - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionI’ve loved Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier since the 1997 release and I love them from all manner of seasons. But gradually, over time, I’ve come to really prize the results of the cooler seasons, and the 2023 season was one of those. In a wine like Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier, which comes from a micro-climate, seasonal variation makes a distinct difference.
The finesse of this release. The fragrance too, which leads to a palate where just enough, feels like extra. It’s buoyant, juicy and perfumed, with a wild party of spice notes flying through the wine like happiness itself, or like confetti, either way there’s an air here of celebration. This wine sits on the apex of the road, where the rain meets the oil. The fruit flavours have a water-colour aspect; the texture coats the flavour in satin. We’ve come to expect all the above from Clonakilla’s flagship wine. What’s special, for me, in this 2023 release is the web of tannin, as dewy as it is strong. There’s a weave to this release. It’s a masterpiece of twigs, nuts and strings. If Morricone had been a winemaker he’d have made something like this. Orchestral. Spellbinding. Itself.
Abandon all resistance, ye who enter here.
Extra details: 22% whole bunches, 6% viognier, co-fermented, wild yeast, three week-ish maceration, 33%-ish new oak.
96 Points
Campbell Mattinson - The Wine FrontPut simply, this is one of Australia’s greatest wines, year after year, and one of only a handful that can be reliably called world class, without hesitation. It is also one of the world’s very best Shiraz Viognier blends, happily sitting beside the best from Cote Rotie. From a cool year, their third in a row, the blend is 94% Shiraz and 6% Viognier. 22% of the Shiraz was whole bunches and that was co-fermented with the Viognier, via wild yeasts. For maturation, the wine went into French oak barrels, both puncheons and barriques, with one-third of them new. Deep magenta, the nose exhibits all the joy and complexity that we have come to expect from this stellar wine. Focus, balance and seemingly endless length, this also has silky tannins and while there is an underlying exuberance with the fruit, everything is held in restraint. Cocoa powder, truffles, raspberries, spices, aniseed and tobacco leaves, the wine is utterly seamless with fifteen to twenty years ahead of it, with ease. Virtuoso winemaking resulting in a masterpiece. Drink 2024 - 2044.
98 Points
Ken Gargett - Winepilot -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Heathcote Creek ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinMatured in a mix of new and 1 year old French oak for 16 months. Midnight black in colour with a dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of black cherry and liquorice mix with mulberry, vanillin cedar and spicy earth. Lush dark plum and liquorice fruits are sprawled across the mid weighted palate with vanillin oak, earthy dark chocolate and fennel characters lying underneath. Fleshy in its feel it has polished tannins and a generous mid length finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 94
2022 Harbinger Cabernet Franc - Last StocksMacedon Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkBarrel matured in oak (23% new) for a period of 14 months. Midnight black colour with a vibrant red to dark red hue. Delightful red currant and red cherry aromas lead the way followed by hints of violet, vanillin cedar, delicate earth and spice. Very elegantly styled, the mid weighted palate features bright red currant and red cherry fruits over a background of dusty earth, vanillin cedar, infusions of fresh herbs and spice. Slightly dryish fine grained tannins with a refined mid length finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 96
- 97
2018 Kilikanoon Oracle ShirazClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinAged for 14 months in new and seasoned French oak hogsheads. Dense pitch black in colour with a deep dark red black hue. Intense dark plum, liquorice and blackberry scents engulf the nostrils followed by toasty vanillin cedar, hints of mocha, fennel, earth and spice. Rich and concentrated the weighty palate is awash with opulent dark plum and liquorice fruits. Toasty vanillin cedar, fennel, scorched earth, dried meat and blackpepper elements linger underneath. Outstanding power with a sturdy yet nicely integrated tannin structure. Concludes long, peppery and sumptuous.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews……
Deep purple-garnet. Brings full meaning to the word complexity. Such an evocative, powerful introduction to the wine. Marries a world of aromatic spices of clove, allspice, licorice with light earthy notes, toasty char and abundant blackberry and bramble fruit. The palate has an undeniable intensity and flows easily courtesy of almost gossamer fine tannins. They do a great job bringing balanced structure and elegance. Fleshy plum, black fruits, star anise, tobacco, chocolate bullet and toasty oak build layer upon layer across the palate. Superbly crafted, walks that often difficult line between depth and fineness effortlessly. What a delight. Drink 2023-2038.
97 Points
Jeni Port – WinePilot.com -
- 94
2023 Te Mata Estate Sauvignon BlancHawkes Bay, NEW ZEALAND$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant very pale straw almost water like colour with a faint tinge of green around the edges. Pungent herbaceous gooseberry, passionfruit and green apple scents stream out of the glass trailed by some grassy asparagus and capsicum notes. Zesty gooseberry, passionfruit and citrus flavours line the racy palate with some herbaceous grassy asparagus and flinty mineral elements also evident. Crisp acidity provides laser like focus to the long zippy finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 94
- 94
2023 Seville Estate Regional Series Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Showing a perfumed like intensity are fragrant scents of violets, red to dark cherries, strawberries and anise followed by some smoky dried herb and delicate forest floor notes. Delicious red cherry and strawberry fruits supplely flow across the palate with traces of anise, dried herbs, forest floor and delicate spicy cedar in the background. Excellent power and silky smooth tannins finishing long and moreish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
Whole bunches (20%) and matured in one to four year old French puncheons. A bright crimson red. A pretty, red-fruited wine with a little spice and some rose petal aromas. The light- to medium-bodied palate is brightly fruited and juicy with good acidity and balanced, crunchy tannins.
94 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 94
- 92
2023 Pacha Mama Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Aromas of violets, red to dark cherries, forest floor and fresh herbs escape from the glass with some spicy cedar notes also evident. Delicious spicy red to dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb flavours show terrific drive across the palate. Notions of forest floor, subtle dried herbs and cedar are interwoven through the back half. Finely grained tannins finishing long, spicy and savoury.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
A fresh and vibrant Pinot from the Upper Yarra Valley, specfifically the Full Moon Vineyard which was planted in 2001. Maturation is in French oak, a portion of it new. The wine is the colour of liqueur cherry, while the aromas include strawberries, spices, herbs, bay leaves, and cassis. A ripe style with attractive maraschino cherry notes, this is well focused, seamless and exhibits red fruits throughout. Very fine tannins, bright acidity, and a lingering finish. Enjoy this any time over the next three to five years. Drink 2024-2029.
92 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com -
- 95
2023 Seville Estate Regional Series ChardonnayYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$31. 99Bottle$383.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 1972 Seville Estate is located at the beginning of the Upper Yarra Valley at an elevation of over 200 metres. Dylan McMahon, grandson of founder Dr Peter McMahon is in charge of winemaking.
Whole-bunch pressed and fermented in French puncheons and foudre. Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Nosing offers up aromas of white peach and dried honey which are tied to notions of biscuity nougat, cashew, delicate citrus and spice. Refined and long across the palate, flavours of white peach, nectarine, dried honey and cashew are featured over notions of biscuity nougat and spice. Gently creamed in its feel it shows excellent persistence right through the long fresh finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 90
2021 Zilzie Regional Collection Barossa Shiraz - Last StocksBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDeep black dark red colour with a dark red purple hue. Pronounced dark plum, liquorice and toasty vanillin oak aromas drift from the glass with some earthy mocha and spice notes also evident. Rich plush dark plum and liquorice fruits are completely overwhelmed by prominent toasty vanillin oak across the back half. Soft, sleek mouthfeel with some earth and spice nuances also evident. Velvet smooth tannins with a toasty vanillin oak driven finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years
Alc. 13.5% - 2020 Ichiro's Malt Chichibu The First Ten Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$2999. 00Bottle$35988.00 DozenABV: 50.5%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Described as a "rockstar" of the Japanese Whisky Scene, Ichiro Akuto waited quite patiently to release Chichibu's first ever age statement bottling.
Born into a family that has produced Sake for over 300 years, Akuto took after his Grandfather, who started distilling Hanyu whisky in 1945. After accruing years of experience at the Suntory Distillery, Akuto re-opened the Hanyu distillery as Chichibu in 2008, buying back 400 barrels of Hanyu spirit to kick off production.5000 bottles of this expression were produced, making it a decently exclusive bottling.
Other reviews...
Aroma - After a slight smell of cemedine, a sweet aroma of vanilla opens up. Herbaceous aroma.Taste - Smooth mouthfeel. Pudding sweetness, bourbon-type oak sweetness plus citrus fruit. Rounded and gentle image. Finally, mint and other herbal notes escape.
Aftertaste - Mellow, gentle and elegant sweetness lasts moderately long.
Japanese Whisky Dictionary 2022 -
- 96
- 98
- 99
- 99
- 97
- Nicks Import
2020 Chateau ValandraudSaint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 15.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
The 2020 Valandraud is a stunner. Rich, deep and explosive, the 2020 possesses dazzling intensity from start to finish. Silky tannins wrap around a core of plush dark red/black fruit, licorice, spice, mocha and new leather. Even with all of its intensity, the 2020 is bright and wonderfully focused. Sweet floral and blood orange accents liven up the explosive finish. Magnificent. Drink 2028-2060.
98 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousVery opulent and expressive aromas of black fruit and pine needles. So floral. Full-bodied with plush, velvety tannins and lots of fruit and texture. It goes on for minutes. Rich at the finish, but remains fresh and vivid. Superb. One of the great Valandrauds. Drink after 2027.
99 points
James SucklingOne of the wines of the vintage is Jean-Luc Thunevin's 2020 Château Valandraud, which comes from the cooler, eastern side of Saint-Emilion. Exhibiting a dense purple hue as well as an incredible perfume of crème de cassis, ripe black cherries, violets, new leather, and an almost Hermitage-like burning embers character, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, ripe, seamless tannins, remarkable purity of fruit, and a finish that won't quit. A blend of 85% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, it's clearly in the same league as the 2019, if not slightly more concentrated. Give bottles 5-7 years in the cellar, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 20-25 years or so. Drink: 2028 - 2053.
99 points
Jeb DunnuckJuicy and alive, a brightness to this even though the fruits are dark in profile - blackcurrant, black cherry, herbal-tinged blueberries - heady and seductive. Layers of acidity, mint, freshness and toast combine to give quite a full and complex palate with everything at the fore yet staying the right side of being too much. Strong and characterful but totally charming. I love the St-Emilion glamour and muscle, softly flexing with a salty minerality and unmistakable signature. Drink 2027 - 2046.
96 points
Georgina Hindle - DecanterThis 17-acre vineyard gives a wine with an explosion of black fruits. It offers sweetness balanced by acidity and impressive tannins. The wood aging gives a polished texture with richness and style in balance. Drink this wine from 2027.
97 points
Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast - The Macallan Sherry Matured 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 1980s BottlingSpeyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$1999. 00Bottle$23988.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
"For reasons not even science can wholly explain, whisky has always matured best in oak casks that have contained sherry." Such was Macallan's claim on back labels of the era. Like the even harder to find 18 year olds, these twelves from yesteryear seem to be drying up. In full Sherry-form, distilled in the heydey when majority Golden Promise barley was still being used and probably bottled in the 1980s. One only. 43% Alc./Vol. -
- 100
1996 Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millenaires La Collection Crayeres Brut ChampagneChampagne, FRANCE$1099. 00Bottle$13188.00 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkCharles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires is a rare gem among Champagnes, showcasing the house’s mastery of Chardonnay. Crafted only in exceptional vintages, its creamy texture and remarkable depth set it apart from the crowd.
The 1996 Blanc des Millenaires La Collection Crayères hails from the kind of vintage that makes champagne lovers pause in admiration. 1996 is unanimously recognised as one of the most spectacular vintages of modern times, characterized by optimal ripeness, intense freshness, and flavour concentration. After nearly a quarter of a century of maturation, this late release Blanc des Millenaires (known as La Collection Crayeres) will display layered complexity and timeless elegance. A rare release that's a true collector’s dream.
Other Reviews....
A perfect, aged blanc de blancs with superb aromas of chalk, pie crust, limes and green apples with buttered popcorn, jasmine and hints of green tobacco. Medium-bodied, this has a compacted palate of dense dried fruit, turning to caramel and pie crust with an energized, vivid finish. Goes on for a minute. Aged almost 25 years on the lees. Released July 24, 2024. Drink now. Only 4,000 bottles made.
100 points
James SucklingThis is the follow-up to the legendary 1995, and is only just being released. Intense roasted hazelnut and nougat bouquet, lots of aged characters and very, very complex. An extraordinary wine, beautifully balanced and the acidity which kept it in the cellar for so long is no longer obvious. Drink 2024.
97 points
Huon Hooke - The Real Review -
- 93
- 95
2022 Juniper Three Fields Cabernet SauvignonMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2029-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDense midnight black colour with a deep vibrant dark red black tinged hue. Sailing out of the glass are aromas of blackcurrant infused with mulberry, black olive, tobacco and hints of spicy capsicum. Refined and mid weighted, the palate is layered with blackcurrant and mulberry fruits which meld into a cigar box, earthy black olive and spicy herb laced back drop. A sturdy tannin structure firms up the mid length finish.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
An elegant, refined and lovely wine. Brimming with all the good regional cabernet flavours of mulberries and cassis, spiced boysenberries, a dusting of cocoa and just the right amount of leafy/herbal freshness. Sure, there’s cedary oak in the mix (the wine’s aged 14 months in French barriques, 30% new), but the fruit has sucked it up. Fuller bodied, the tannins are textural, almost grainy and ripe, and the finish lingers. Impressive. Drink by 2036.
95 Points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Pacha Mama Heathcote ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 13.9%Closure: StelvinMidnight black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Nosing offers up aromas of blackberry and liquorice infused with blackpepper followed by some vanillin cedar and scorched earth notes. The mid weighted palate features rich fleshy blackberry and liquorice fruits over a vanillin cedar, subtle scorched earth and pepper back drop. Fine grained tannins with a medium length conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.9% -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Pinot GrisClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Intense pear, red apple, musk, subtle honeysuckle and quince scents engulf the nostrils. Delicious pear and red apple fruits carry a silken flow across the gorgeously shaped palate with notions of quince and musk lying underneath. Fresh, slippery textured finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 93
- 92
2020 Famille Roux Jadis Saint-Aubin 1er CruBurgundy, FRANCE$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw to straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of ripe pear and dried honey are trailed by hints of nougat, wet slate and oyster shell. Medium bodied and gently creamed, pear, nectarine and dried honey flavours are featured over a roasted almond, subtle nougat and wet slate back drop. Good underlying freshness with a stony laced finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
This has aromas of hazelnuts, baked apples, crushed stones, white grapefruit and a touch of white chocolate. It’s full-bodied with a creamy, rounded and gently nutty palate. Fresh acidity to balance. Lengthy finish. Drink or hold.
92 Points
JamesSuckling.com - Vaudon VS Fins Bois Cognac (700ml)Cognac, FRANCE$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%
While the house of Vaudon produce ‘multi-cru’ blends in combination with Grande Champagne, the heart of the operation is focused on a single cru: Fins Bois, the largest of Cognac's regions. Ugni Blanc vines are planted in light soils made from hard, superficial calcareous clay that bring body and softness to the eaux de vie. Fin Bois cognacs are known to age quickly, developing spice and liquorice notes early on. This is Vaudon's entry-level offering. Amid its stone-fruit fragrance and soft, delicate mouthfeel you'll also find hints of vanilla, fresh pears and fennel. Present day custodians, Anne-Marie Vaudon and Pierre Vaudon continue the family's history and know-how that began in 1771. 40% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Attack is supple and delicate, a well-known signature from good Fins Bois Cognac’s. A beautiful marriage between a white fruit basket and slight notes of liquorice. The Fins Bois eaux-de-vie bring interesting flavours of fresh berries sustained with an important vanilla ambiance completed by a bouquet with fruits notes like pear or apricot, a beautiful harmony.
-
- 94
- Nicks Import
2022 Y (Ygrec) d'YquemSauternes, Bordeaux, FRANCE$430. 00Bottle$5160.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkY d'Yquem (Ygrec) is the rare, dry wine from Chateau d'Yquem. Historically Y was made in the years when the season didn't allow for sufficient accumulation of botrytis, but since 2004 the decision was made to make the wine each vintage. Differing from the sweet wine, Y is composed of predominantly Sauvignon Blanc (75%) with the balance Semillon, harvested early in the season, before being matured in barrel (one third new) for approximately ten months.
Other Reviews....
This is a big white with sliced apple, pineapple and lychee fruit. It’s full-bodied and dense with lots of fruit and phenolics on the mid-palate. A roundness and power at the end. From the same plots as Yquem. Harvested August 9. 60% sauvignon blanc and 40% semillon. Drink or hold.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
- 95
- Biodynamic
2022 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Roche GranitiqueAlsace, FRANCE$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
The 2022 Riesling Roche Granitique was harvested in the Brand Grand Cru. The nose is clear as a bell with a touch of smoke and a strafe of citrus, but essentially shy. The palate is clear, bright and shining, with a spectrum of plum, from greengage via Reine Claude to Mirabelle. This is fresh, wonderfully stony, zesty, streamlined and pervasive. It's almost incisive, with just a touch of pepper on the finish and a lovely feel of grapefruit zest. (Bone-Dry). Drink 2024-2045.
93 points
Anne Krebiehl MW - VinousYou can almost taste all the sunshine of this very warm vineyard site. The aromas tip over from stone fruit to fresh pineapple and white flowers. But what makes this so exciting is the vibrancy and mineral energy that so beautifully balances the juicy fruit on the palate. Very long, super-clean finish. Mostly from younger vines in the Grand Cru Brand. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
95 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- 97
- 97
- Biodynamic
2022 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Clos WindsbuhlAlsace, FRANCE$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
Picked very late in the middle of September, the 2022 Clos Windsbuhl Hunawihr Riesling offers a very deep, rich and intense, lime and limestone-driven bouquet that is very distinctive, rich, coolish, fresh and citric. Round and generous on the palate, this is a powerful, complex, very salivating Windsbuhl Riesling with the generosity and finesse (also in terms of acidity) of a grand cru and a lemon-fresh (and bitter) finish The wine is wide and juicy but also refined and fresh in all its minerality. It is also really rich and potent yet not at all driven by alcohol. The salinity is great here and intertwined with tannins and noble bitters. 4,400 bottles 12.46% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in April 2024. Drink 2025-2070.
97 points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Feb 07, 2025)The 2022 Riesling Clos Windsbuhl is a "bucolic" site, Humbrecht says, surrounded by forest and fields at altitude. It is on rocky Triassic limestone. The wine is slightly flinty and nutty on the nose. The palate is stony, too, taut and bright but flowing like clear spring water, cooling, with ever more citrus coming to the fore. Lemon zestiness and lovely brightness make this mouth-puckeringly tangy and deliciously thrilling. (Bone-Dry). Drink 2026-2060.
96 points
Anne Krebiehl MW - VinousAt once powerful and crystalline, this densely structured dry riesling is made for the long term. Extremely lemony and salty on the medium- to full-bodied palate, then so compact at the very long, driving finish, which is as pointed as a rapier. The last riesling harvested in this vintage, but with the lowest alcohol and the highest acidity. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.
97 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 94
- 96
- 95
- Biodynamic
2022 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Hengst Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
From a cooler, higher part of the grand cru that is facing east-southeast on rocky, reddish soils, the 2022 Hengst Wintzenheim Riesling opens with a very deep and coolish, intense and complex yet refined and elegant, terroir-driven bouquet with fresh apple puree and spicy and saline terroir notes. Full-bodied, very elegant and not all too rich, this is a dense and well balanced, less racy Riesling than the Clos Häuserer but with a long, intense and finely tannic finish. After 500 liters in the inaugural 2021 vintage, 3,200 bottles plus 170 magnums of the 2022 vintage were filled in January 2024. The vineyard was planted in 2016 with the winery's own selections at a density of 9,000 vines per hectare, which yielded 28 hectoliters per hectare in 2022. 12.83% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in April 2024. Drink 2025-2045.
95 points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Feb 07, 2025)The 2022 Riesling Grand Cru Hengst is picked on the eastern side of the Hengst. The parcel was planted in 2016 with high density, and the first vintage of the wine was the 2021. Gorgeously smoky flint precedes subtle floral and tangerine peel notes. The juiciness on the palate is all-encompassing, spreading wonderfully ripe, fresh Mirabelle fruit pervaded by fine, tangerine-like ripe citrus. The 2022 is serene, bright and sunny, with a long, zesty aftertaste. (Bone-Dry). Drink 2026-2050.
94 points
Anne Krebiehl MW - VinousDense nose of papayas, persimmons and gunpowder. Huge concentration on the medium- to full-bodied palate, but it is as fresh as it is lush. Terrific energy at the bold and clean finish. There is a touch of sweetness in there somewhere, but you barely notice it. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
96 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 97
- 98
- 99
- Biodynamic
2022 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Clos Saint Urbain Rangen de Thann Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$230. 00Bottle$2760.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
The late-budding and rather late-ripening Clos Saint-Urbain, in the very south of Alsace, meets the very warm and solar 2022 vintage in this wine. What a thrilling setting this is, the more so since August and September brought rather cooler conditions to this cooler but, due to its dark soils and stony terraces in summer, nevertheless warm terroir of the Rangen. Indeed, the pH level was rather low in 2022 (at 3.1) and caused a dry and tense Riesling that doesn't at all show the characteristics of the Rieslings around Turckheim or elsewhere in Alsace.
The 2022 Clos Saint-Urbain Rangen de Thann Riesling opens very clear, pure, saline/iodine-inflected and stony on the flinty or smoky nose that represents the volcanic terroir of the clos perfectly or, as Olivier Humbrecht puts it, "Like a volcano fart."
Powerful, rich and saline on the palate, this is a dense, highly complex and energetic Saint-Urbain that somehow combines the purity of Dönnhoff's Hermannshöhle with the concentration, power and mineral complexity of the magnesium-rich Rangen. The finish is very intense, dense and aromatic as well as salivating, with a great mix of tannins, saline acidity and perfectly ripe (apricot) fruit.
Pressed slowly over 14 hours, this is one of the, if not THE, finest Rangen I have tasted from Zind-Humbrecht. (Loyal readers know that I had them all a year ago.) The 2022 comes in with 12.8% alcohol and is a wine to keep for many years. Drink 2028-2090.
99 points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Feb 07, 2025)The 2022 Riesling Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain Grand Cru was harvested among the last Rieslings but had one of the lowest alcohols, with 12.8 %. A lovely sharp, green aromatic flavor, almost of watercress intensity, fresh, green and vigorous without being unripe, sets an initial aromatic highlight. The famed smokiness arrives on the second sniff, followed by gloriously aromatic tangerine. The palate is exquisitely precise, stony, taut and naked, but oh so nuanced with immense citrus brightness. This is a marvel glimmering with zestiness, citrus and such stony directness. (Bone-Dry). Drink 2026-2060.
97 points
Anne Krebiehl MW - VinousAll the yellow and fresh tropical fruit of the world is packed into this exceptionally complex and mind-blowingly intense wine that pushes the envelope of minerality all the way, and then some. If that isn’t your thing, then get off the bus, but for friends of very focused, stony wines this is a staggering experience. The smoky, salty and spicy finish is really extraordinary. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
98 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com - 2023 Alkoomi Grazing Collection Late HarvestFrankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenABV: 11%Closure: Stelvin
Produced from estate-grown fruit which was harvested in the early hours of the morning before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel to preserve fruit freshness and delicacy. This Late Harvest wine has unctuous residual sugar that pairs perfectly with spicy Asian fusion food or served on those really hot summer days, with a handful of ice and a wedge of lime.
Alc. 11% -
- 98
- 99
- Nicks Import
1999 Kracher TBA No. 6 Grande Cuvee Nouvelle VagueBurgenland, AUSTRIA$450. 00Bottle$5400.00 DozenABV: 10.5%Closure: CorkHailing from the shores of Lake Neusiedl in Austria, the third-generation Kracher family produces here high-quality sweet wines, making the most of the surrounding microclimate, particularly favourable to the development of botrytis. The pinnacle of their production falls under the Kracher Collection, created in 1995 to showcase wines made with different grape varieties and sweetness levels at different stages of botrytis development.
Other Reviews…..
The amber-colored 1999 Trockenbeerenauslese No 6 Grande Cuvée Nouvelle Vague (Library Release 2024) is deep, refined and very intense on the nevertheless finessed nose that tends almost toward red wine or Colheita in its toasty and darker-toned fruit aromas that are reminiscent of potted cherries and plums as well as iodine, syrup and chestnut honey. Rich and elegant on the palate, with cedarwood and graphite (pencil tip) notes, this is a highly refined and elegant, very saline, vital and salivating TBA with oatmeal notes on the finish. This is a superb 25-year-old TBA. 10.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in May 2024. Drink: 2025 - 2075.
99 points
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate (Jun 2024)If you’ve never tasted a mature dessert wine, then you must try this to find out how incredible these wines can be. Great nose of peat and gunpowder underlined by notes of molasses and candied orange slices. Concentrated and rich, but elegant and beautifully balanced on the medium- to full-bodied palate. Very long, subtle finish. Drink or hold.
98 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 99
- Nicks Import
2021 Kracher Trockenbeerenauslese Collection Case Nouvelle Vague (6 x 375ml)Burgenland, AUSTRIA$899. 00Bottle$10788.00 DozenClosure: CorkThe Kracher Collection showcases the finest quality of Kracher wines, featuring only Trockenbeerenauslese from these seven grape varieties: Welschriesling, Chardonnay, Muskat Ottonel, Traminer, Zweigelt, Scheurebe, and Rosenmuskateller. The Grande Cuvée is the sole blend in the collection, made from Chardonnay and Welschriesling.
The collection box, redesigned annually and limited to just 320 pieces, is a handcrafted collector's item. Some wines are produced in such small quantities that they are exclusively available in this set.
The box contains a 375ml bottle of each:TBA No 1 Traminer
Other Reviews…..
The 2021 Trockenbeerenauslese No 1 Traminer Nouvelle Vague opens with a deep, intense, fresh and savory bouquet with candied lemon and minty and herbal aromas. Full-bodied, rich and savory on the palate, this is a refined and elegant, lemon-fresh and bitter-finishing TBA with a tight and spicy structure and less juice than in more generous years. This 2021 TBA is more pithy and saline, even gastronomic, since it doesn't taste super sweet but spicy and savory. This is due to early botrytis in a very dry year and the harvest in early October. 10.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in May 2024. Drink: 2029 - 2070.
94 points
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate (Jun 2024)TBA No 2 Zweigelt
Other Reviews…..
The 2021 Trockenbeerenauslese No 2 Zweigelt Nouvelle Vague reveals a bright cherry color and a clear and savory bouquet of kumquat, plums, candied cherries and salts. Elegant and round on the palate, this is a rich and concentrated, sweet yet fresh and lemony TBA with fine bitters and a tart, noble bitter and lemony finish. 9.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in May 2024. Drink: 2029 - 2060.
95 points
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate (Jun 2024)TBA No 3 Grande Cuvée
Other Reviews…..
Based on 65% Welschriesling and 35% Chardonnay, the golden-yellow 2021 Trockenbeerenauslese No 3 Grande Cuvée Nouvelle Vague opens with a concentrated and savory nose of candied pineapples and lemons along with notes of brown sugar and fine oak. Round and generous on the palate, this is a full-bodied, rich and refined, elegant and stimulating, saline and finely buoyant TBA with concentrated fruit, fine tannins and a long, caramelly and saline, tight and intense finish. 10% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in May 2024. Drink 2025 - 2070.
97 points
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate (Jun 2024)TBA No 4 Rosenmuskateller
Other Reviews…..
Picked a couple of days earlier than the Red Roses BA, the 2021 Trockenbeerenauslese No 4 Rosenmuskateller Nouvelle Vague is deep, refined and spicy on the pure and elegant nose that reveals candied cherry, nougat, mocha and also floral aromas. Full-bodied, rich and elegant on the palate, this is a concentrated and savory, lemony and tight TBA with fine tannins, candied lemon and grapefruit notes on the finish. This is very young but promising. 9.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in May 2024. Drink 2030 - 2070.
96 points
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate (Jun 2024)TBA No 5 Scheurebe
Other Reviews…..
The golden-yellow 2021 Trockenbeerenauslese No 5 Scheurebe Zwischen den Seen offers notes of orange tea, ripe mango, pineapple, honey and candied Amalfi lemons. Rich and oily on the lush and elegant palate, this is a generous yet refined and stimulatingly saline TBA with pretty sweet but also aromatic and well-balanced fruit. 6.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in May 2024. Drink 2025 - 2080.
98 points
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate (Jun 2024)TBA No 6 Welschriesling
Other Reviews…..
The 2021 Trockenbeerenauslese No 6 Welschriesling Zwischen den Seen is deep, very clear, precise and savory on the dense and complex nose that shows bergamot and lavender notes along with quince and lemon aromas. Rich and generous on the palate, this is a very sweet and oily yet also savory and finessed TBA that is a spectacularly generous, finely tannic and balanced Welschriesling that fermented slowly for 18 months to end up as one of Kracher's greatest TBAs. 5.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in May 2024. Drink 2025 - 2080.
99 points
Stephan Reinhardt – Wine Advocate (Jun 2024)
-
- 91
2022 Domaine J. A. Ferret Pouilly Fuisse Les Menetrieres Cuvee Hors-Classe Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$230. 00Bottle$2760.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Ménétrières reflects a mix of three soil types, clay, limestone and marl. One of the fuller yellow colours. Almost banana and cream on the nose, high class though. Here the fruit and the crystalline racy character march hand in hand, very well integrated with the oak as well. Waves of flavour course across the palate. Clearly an additional nobility, with a fine backbone and excellent length. 13.5% alcohol. Drink from 2028-2038.
94 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside BurgundyHere the nose is similar to the Perrières but with more floral influence. In contrast to the relatively refined mouthfeel of the Perrières, the notably bigger-bodied flavors are rich, concentrated and powerful with seriously good punch on the strikingly long, balanced and sappy finale. In the context of what is typical for Pouilly-Fuissé, this is a big wine. Drink through 2030+.
91-93 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2022 Pouilly-Fuissé Les Ménétrières 1er Cru is more reticent on the nose following on from the Les Perrières. Crushed stone and subtle menthol notes emerge with aeration. Fine delineation (again). The palate is well-balanced with fine depth, but this year, I found more complexity within the Les Perrières, and it needs a little more mineralité on the finish. Nonetheless, it is a well-crafted Pouilly-Fuissé, albeit not best in show this vintage. Drink 2024-2040.
91 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 93
2022 Domaine J. A. Ferret Pouilly Fuisse Tournant de Pouilly Cuvee Hors-Classe Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$230. 00Bottle$2760.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Over the crest from Ménétrières, with more of a northern aspect as well as east, lots of stones in a light marly limestone. Once again, the Tournant de Pouilly shows a superb backbone, rinsed in lemon and lime, on a very pure white fruit, apples in the orchard, one feels to be hardly touching the potential of this wine. Stunning potential. 13.5% alcohol. Drink from 2028-2040.
95 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside BurgundyThe 2022 Pouilly-Fuissé Tournant de Pouilly 1er Cru, which is located in the climat of Les Reisses, has a sophisticated bouquet with crushed stone, orchard fruit and noisettes. The 2022 is pure and quite seductive. The palate is nicely balanced with a keen thread of acidity. It's a little more tensile than the Les Ménétrières this year, with a bright, lightly spiced, persistent finish. Excellent. Drink 2024-2040.
93 points
Neal Martin - Vinous - Sortilege Wild Blueberry Whisky Liqueur (750ml)CANADA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 23%
Made using a Canadian whisky base, pure maple syrup and Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean wild blueberries, this whisky liqueur offers a taste that is both rich and refreshing. Serve chilled over ice. 23% Alc./Vol.
-
- Organic
Three Foxes Sunny Arvo Blood Orange Hibiscus Nopertivo 0% (700ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenAustralia's first organic, non-alcoholic aperitivo. Daring and bittersweet, bursting with a blend of citrus, decorated with rosella, lemon myrtle and a bouquet of aromatic spices. Perfect for a sunny arvo, on the rocks or in your favourite spritz. Certified organic.
San Francisco Spirits Competition 2024 - BRONZE
San Francisco Spirits Competition 2023 - BRONZE
London Spirits Awards 2023 - SILVER -
- 94
2000 Ardbeg Vintage_Y2K 23 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$1699. 00Bottle$20388.00 DozenABV: 46%"A glitch in the Ardware" reads the inside of the futuristic presentation box. Welcome to the first in a new limited edition series, created during a milestone year at Ardbeg. Each one will represent a different side of the distillery with no two whiskies alike. ‘Y2K’ is pronounced ‘Year-Two-K’. While the year 2000 will be remembered by many for bootcut jeans, flip phones and the elusive millennium bug, it went down in Ardbeg history for very different reasons. Following decades of neglect, the Distillery had been saved from extinction by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 and meticulously restored. As the clock ticked over from 1999 to 2000, Ardbeg was returning to full production. And while the rest of the world partied, with many distilleries shut down in fear of computerised chaos, its dedicated stillmen stayed up all night to keep the spirit flowing.
Crafted with some of the very first spirit of the millennium, the inaugural edition in the Ardbeg Vintage Y2K series is unlike anything before. It was distilled in the historic still which served Ardbeg for 51 years, before being retired in 2001. And with an increased rigour applied to cask selection under the new ownership, the whisky was laid down in some of the finest bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks around. The result is a single malt jampacked with bright zesty notes and intensely sweet, sooty flavours – a smoky anomaly never to be repeated. Aromas of lemon balsam reminisce with linseed oil and heather honey, while soot and peppermint stir up memories of ground coffee and aniseed on the palate.
Says Dr Bill Lumsden, Master Distiller, "Ardbeg Vintage Y2K is a phenomenal souvenir of a pivotal year at Ardbeg. Crafted at the dawn of a new era in our historic still, this ultra-rare whisky has been stowed carefully at the Distillery ever since. Herbal, citrusy and sweet on the nose, before soot, peppermint and coffee explode on the palate, this retro collectors’ classic is pure Ardbeg nostalgia.”
Other reviews... Distilled in Ardbeg’s historic still that was retired in 2001 after 51 years of service, this vintage has a sweet and zesty nose with coal soot, honey-lemon lozenges, Peppermint Pattie, and traces of black licorice. Silky smooth on the tongue, with sweet vanilla, lemon, peppermint creams, doughnut custard, ashy peat smoke, and orange pith, with creamy coffee, aniseed, and vanilla on the finish. No water needed. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com
Notes from the producers... Colour: Pale amber. On the nose: Herbal, sweet and fragrant, with a distant, subtly fragrant smokiness. A closer look reveals tangy notes of lemon balm, linseed oil and candied walnuts. Theflavourintensifies with a splash ofwater, followed by notes of heather honey, creosote and some tarpaulin. On the palate: A tingling, sorbet-like structure, vibrating on the tongue. The initialflavouris intensely sweet, with a burst of aniseed, toffee, digestive biscuits, peppermint, menthol, tar and coffee grounds. Sooty and tarry flavours then develop. Finish: The long, lingering aftertaste reveals notes of antiseptic lozenges, bitter orange peel andoaktannins.
- Nikka Black Rich Blend Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%
With dwindling stocks leading to a shortage of age-statements, Nikka has offered a number of lower tier expressions filling out their portfolio with younger-leaning releases such as this one. The blend is made from Miyagikyo and Yoichi malts balanced by the lightness of Coffey grain whisky. Some components are matured in ex-sherry casks for added richness - hence the label title. 40% Alc./Vol.
- Nikka Black Deep Blend Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 45%
Black Nikka was launched in 1965 as the company's premium blend. This edition lands at a higher ABV than most and comes matured in new oak. The result is said to be a different profile to the standard 'Black Nikka', smoother and more elegant with floral notes, light oak and vanilla sweetness. 45% Alc./Vol.
-
- 90
- Nicks Import
KWV 5 Year Old Brandy (750ml)Suider Paarl, SOUTH AFRICA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenABV: 43%Brandy can justifiably lay claim to the title of South Africa's favourite spirit, selling more than white spirit and whisky markets combined. And so it should. With a heritage dating back to the late 17th century when early Dutch pioneers in the Cape quickly worked out that the typically Mediterranean climate and favourable soils were ideal for growing grapes - wine, and ultimately, brandy was produced. The quality has more than kept pace with demand.
South Africa remains a world-class producer (it’s also one of the few brandy making areas outside Cognac that still conforms to age-old Cognac traditions). The quality/price ratio combined with the range on offer is compelling. The KWV company is a case in point. It first distilled in 1926 and has been receiving praise for its brandies ever since. Master Distiller, Kobus Gelderblom is at the helm. In 2010 KWV was awarded a gold medal for the 20 Year Old Brandy at the London International Spirits Competition (it’s worth noting that only four brandies were awarded golds at the competition). A single estate bottling from KWV was subsequently honoured as “Best Brandy in the World’ by the same group. A remarkable achievement that continues to grow. Gelderblom has a passion for Pinotage with Chardonnay his other preference.
KWV's five year old blends pot still brandy with unaged wine spirits. Its opulent bouquet includes dried figs, raisins, clove and toffee apple. The mouthfeel is plush and soft, mirroring the aromas with flavours of dried figs, Christmas pudding and cafe-creme combined with a gently warming, spicy flourish. It's remarkably well balanced, with a persistence that brings notes of toffee apple and vanilla to the spicy afterglow. A very drinkable all-rounder and great value. 43% Alc./Vol.
-
- 92
- Australian Exclusive
- Reduced
2014 Cooper's Choice Campbeltown 10 Year Old Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Campbeltown, SCOTLANDReduced from $189.99$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 54.5%A hefty bouquet precedes a heftier delivery. A hard one to nail down but there’s no pronounced peat so if it’s from Springbank it’s a Hazelburn distillate or Glengyle? A slight grittiness to the mouthfeel reminds us of Glen Scotia, as does the slightly prickly attack. The sprite finish is flattened by the sweetness of the wine before a rush of coastal freshness relieves the sugars. Initially the wine input smothers, but it gets better as you go, which brings us back to Springbank… Whatever the mix, it's very characterful. Finished in a muscat cask. 312 bottles for the Australian importer. 54.5% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
-
- 93
2021 Domaine de Trevallon Alpilles RougeProvence, FRANCE$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkFormed in the early 1970's, with the first vintage 1976, Domaine de Trevallon have become one of the most famous and respected properties in Southern France. After graduating his architecture degree, Eloi Durrbach set south aiming to make natural wines with a sense of place and ability to age with ease. Planting now comprises 15 hectares of red grapes, equal parts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, plus 2 hectares of Marsanne and Roussanne. All grapes have been grown and treated organically since their planting.
Alpilles Rouge is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Syrah, aged for 24 months in old foudre and barrels with a minimum amount of racking during this time. The grapes are not destemmed, and vinification occurs with natural yeasts and no sulphur. While this wine is generally opulent and indulgent in its youth, it famously rewards time in the cellar, beautifully evolving slowly over decades.
Other Reviews....
From a marginally cooler, damper year, the Syrah and Cabernet are already beginning to meld together. Tightly youthful and closed, this needs either advance decanting or be allowed to age for a few years. Fresh, vibrant notes of blue flowers and dark berry fruit on the nose opens out to concentrated, ripe blackberries, the vibrant kick of sloes and powerful, bitter black chocolate tannins, finishing with aromatic notes of black pepper and sweet allspice. Drink 2025-2045.
93 points
Elizabeth Gabay MW - Decanter -
- 93
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2019 Ellis Wines Signature Label ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14.2%Closure: StelvinA family owned and run venture, Ellis wines was established in 1999 and for 10 years they sold their fruit off to other wineries before establishing their own label in 2009. In only a relatively short period of time they have built a reputation for producing high quality Heathcote Shiraz grown on the regions famous Cambrian soils. Today the vineyard has grown to over 123.5 acres in size.
Matured in a mixture of French and American oak barrels for 18 months. Pitch black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Potent aniseed, dark plum and black cherry scents fill the nostrils complimented by some toasty vanillin oak, fennel and peppered earth notes. Rich aniseed, dark plum and black cherry fruits carry ample flesh across the medium to full bodied palate with notions of toasty vanillin oak, fennel and peppered earth the underbelly. Sturdy tannin construction with a lengthy finish that has a lingering toasty oak component running through it.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.2%Other Reviews…..
A rich, oak-influenced style in keeping with the producer's style of red-wine making which demands further bottle ageing. Tight and focused, it delivers a complex array of scents and flavours, of clove, cardamon spice, violet with a thread of herbal complexity before settling into a solid core of plums, blueberries and cassis. The overarching influence of oak resonates in tandem with burly tannins. Drink by 2031.
94 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 94
2019 Zema Estate Coonawarra Cabernet SauvignonCoonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2029-2030)ABV: 14.8%Closure: StelvinOne of Coonawarra’s long standing Estate’s, the Zema family having been crafting wines from their vineyards for nearly 40 years. The family arrived from Italy in 1953 bringing with them a wealth of traditional vineyard practices and experience. In 1982 they purchased their first 20 acre property, located in the heart of the famed terra rossa strip adjacent to Coonawarra landmarks Mildara, Rouge Homme and Wynns. Eight acres were already planted to Shiraz, the remaining 12 acres were subsequently planted to Cabernet Sauvignon.
Matured for 18 months in French oak hogsheads. Dense inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Flooding the nostrils are ripe blackcurrant, liquorice and black cherry scents which are pursued by some cedary tobacco, dried herb and earthy bay leaf like notes. Rich, large scaled and formidably structured the full bodied palate is saturated with blackcurrant, liquorice and ripe mulberry fruits. A firm tannin structure asserts its presence lending a grippy feel across the palate. Cedary tobacco characters, earth and spicy bay leaf accents linger underneath. Amply powered it has a long yet very robust finish.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.8% -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Taka K Waipara Pinot NoirNorth Canterbury, NEW ZEALAND$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2029-2030)ABV: 12.9%Closure: StelvinAged for 10 months in French oak barrels. Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a bright purple red hue. Sour to red cherry aromas infused with graphite like notes are trailed by some stalk and smoked meat like notes. Juicy red to dark cherry flavours mix with stalk, meaty graphite like characters, earth and traces of sour cherries. Leanish feel with lively acidity and chalky tannins. Finishes very structured, elegant and spicy.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.9% -
- 95
2022 John Gehrig Wines RG DurifRutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 14.7%Closure: StelvinImpenetrable inky black core with an equally deep dark purple black hue. Potent morello cherry, black cherry and liquorice scents flood the nostrils followed by some black plum, vanillin cedar, scorched earth and blackpepper notes. Rich, firmly structured and chewy in texture, the full bodied palate is swamped with lavish morello to black cherry and liquorice fruits. Smoke infused vanillin oak, cinnamon, scorched earth and blackpepper characters ensue. Ripe muscular tannin structure finishing long, concentrated, youthfully bright and grippy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.7% -
- 95
2021 Tonic ShirazBarossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 13.9%Closure: Diam CorkDense inky black in colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum sail out of the glass followed by some vanillin earth and dark chocolate notes. Rich and concentrated the full bodied palate is generously endowed with succulent blackberry, dark plum and liquorice fruits. Spicy vanilla, dusty earth and peppered fennel elements lie underneath. Lush yet slightly chewy in its feel with a sturdy tannin structure firming up the long juicy yet quite energetic finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.9% -
- 94
- 95
- 93
2022 Penny’s Hill Edwards Road Cabernet SauvignonMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2030-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinMatured for 14 months in French oak barriques of which 23% were new. Dense black as night core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Red to black currant and mulberry aromas permeate through the nostrils followed by some dusty vanillin cedar, black olive, dried herb and spicy tobacco notes. The firmly structured yet elegant palate features red to black currant and mulberry fruits which are intermeshed with dusty vanillin cedar, spicy tobacco, black olive and dried herb elements. Dry, assertive yet integrated tannins. The refined, dusty mid length finish showing some tension.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
Vibrant, stylish and shrouded in cassis and blueberry fruit elegance with an immaculate oak core and silky tannins. Supple and smooth with an enduring length.
95 Points
DecanterThis is a single site Cabernet from McLaren Vale, planted in 1993. Ten days on skins, after pressing the fermentation was finished in barrel, with around 30% of it new French oak, followed by 14 months maturation. Deep maroon, the wine offers rich chocolatey notes, dry herbs, tobacco leaves, mulberries, smoked meats, plums and soy. Oak is evident, but it is not intrusive. There is a supple texture, firm finish and very good length. Sleek tannins. Lovely example of a warm climate Cabernet which will provide excellent drinking for the next eight to twelve years. Very good buying. Drink 2024-2036.
93 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com -
- 94
- 92
2022 Dandelion Vineyards Treasure Trove GrenacheMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Lifted dark raspberry, ripe cherry and liquorice scents flow through the olfactory senses with some dried herb and vanillin spice notes also evident. Juicy dark raspberry, cherry, liquorice and vanillin spice flavours carry ample richness and a lush feel across the mid weighted palate. Flanked across the back half are dried herb and pepper elements. Velvety tannins with a finish that’s long, succulent and spicy.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
From the estate Firehawk Farm; two-thirds destemmed and crushed over whole bunches for a seven-day ferment, then pressed to mainly seasoned oak for 12 months' maturation. A spicy rendition of grenache, this is also quite deep, though very much lifted and respectful of the integrity of fruit flavour. Davidson plum, baked raspberry tart, rhubarb, white pepper and celery salt, cinnamon and clove. It’s got some moody depth and bright fruitfulness, the tannins dryly assertive. Drink by 2028.
92 Points
Marcus Ellis – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2023 Feudo Montoni Catarratto MassoSicily, ITALY$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkFeudo Montoni enjoys a long history in the Valledolmo region of central western Sicily. Their cellars are housed in the baglio (typical Sicilian court square building) built by the noble Arogenese family in 1469. The property was purchased by current owner and winemaker Fabio Sireci’s grandfather Rosario in the late 1800s.
This Catarratto comes from the ‘Masso’ cru, which is one of the highest vineyards on the Feudo Montoni Estate at 700m and named because of its rocky-sandy soil. The vines are aged between 55 and 60 years old but have been grafted onto very old bush vines producing fruit that’s dense and full flavoured. This iron rich soil contributes to a wine that is intensely fresh and mineral. After concrete fermentation, the wine is kept on lees for 6 months with some batonnage before being bottled.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a glimmer of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Intense pear and lime scents infused with fresh herbs are trailed by some Granny Smith apple, slate and mineral notes. Highly energised the palate features a racy flavour profile of lime, green apple and mandarin fruits infused with a mix of Mediterranean herbs, wet slate and saline characters. Crisp acidity. The long snappy finish laced with minerality.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
2022 Comando G La Bruja de Rozas GarnachaSierra de Gredos, SPAIN$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkIt’s time to leave your preconceptions at the door, as Comando G produce Garnacha (Grenache) unlike anyone else in Spain. Comando G’s Daniel Landi and Fernando Garcia craft Garnacha up in the near inaccessible hills of the Sierra de Gredos mountains which are miles away (figuratively and literally) from the dark, powerful, brooding wines of Priorat that hit the scene 20 years or so ago. These are a different breed of Garnacha, light, ethereal, built on tension and finesse. There’s no lack of concentration however, and they have much more in common with high-end Burgundy than what you would normally associate with Spain. Word is well and truly out on these special wines, with demand far outstripping supply and prices skyrocketing on the secondary market.
Other Reviews....
There is a change in the 2022 La Bruja. It is no longer a village wine from Rozas de Puerto Real. In 2022, it is a regional wine, and in 2023, it also will be a regional wine but from Ávila, from the Cebreros appellation, as they are focusing their work there. It's a juicy and aromatic Garnacha, very much in the Comando G style, with good ripeness, 14% alcohol and more in the style of the 2020. It has a medium-bodied palate and a sapid finish with contained ripeness and fine granite granularity. They macerated less to adapt to the vintage, and it partly fermented with less skins. It's a more approachable La Bruja, expressive, open and more fruit-driven, more in a Morgon style. 56,487 bottles produced. It was bottled in August 2023. Drink 2024-2029.
94 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Dec 08, 2023) -
- 95
2022 Comando G Rozas GarnachaSierra de Gredos, SPAIN$105. 00Bottle$1260.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkIt’s time to leave your preconceptions at the door, as Comando G produce Garnacha (Grenache) unlike anyone else in Spain. Comando G’s Daniel Landi and Fernando Garcia craft Garnacha up in the near inaccessible hills of the Sierra de Gredos mountains which are miles away (figuratively and literally) from the dark, powerful, brooding wines of Priorat that hit the scene 20 years or so ago. These are a different breed of Garnacha, light, ethereal, built on tension and finesse. There’s no lack of concentration however, and they have much more in common with high-end Burgundy than what you would normally associate with Spain. Word is well and truly out on these special wines, with demand far outstripping supply and prices skyrocketing on the secondary market.
Other Reviews....
The Rozas 1er Cru has a slight change in 2022 and turned into a village wine, the 2022 Rozas. They selected the best five vineyards that used to go to the Rozas 1er Cru, vineyards they have worked since 2012. In this warmer vintage, they did a softer vinification, with less maceration and more fermentation without skins, to avoid over-ripeness and notes of black fruit in the wine. It has more fruit and some silty tannins, which are more like Italian tannins in the more Mediterranean years like this 2022. This village is more subject to the changes in the years, with more herbal and ethereal notes in the wines in cooler years and juicier and with more marked tannins in the warmer ones. It has 14.5% alcohol and is more jovial, definitely not banal. 10,992 bottles produced. It was bottled in August 2023. Drink 2024-2032.
95 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Dec 08, 2023)
















































