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2019 Quartz Hill SyrahPyrenees, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 13.8%Closure: StelvinMatured for over a year in French oak barrels. Black as night heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Smoky red to dark plum and liquorice aromas are complimented by vanillin cedar, fennel and peppered meat notes. Mid weighted the palate is decorated with rich red to dark plum and liquorice fruits which overlay smoky cedar, dried meat, earth and peppered herb elements. Fine grained tannins with a medium length finish that’s both polished and refined.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
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2022 Heathcote Winery Mail Coach ShirazHeathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinIncludes a splash of Viognier (2%) with maturation taking place in French and American oak. Midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas are followed by some toasty vanillin cedar and earthy fennel like notes. Rich and lush the palate is decked out with ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits which meld into vanillin cedar, subtle earth and peppered fennel characters. Amply fleshed with a polished yet sturdy tannin structure. Concludes long and deeply fruited.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
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2022 Coulter Wines Sangiovese Cabernet SauvignonAdelaide, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)ABV: 15%Closure: StelvinDense midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Lifted blackcurrant, black olive and fresh herb scents intermingle with earth and spicy tobacco notes. Rich blackcurrant and dark cherry fruits carry a fleshy texture with earthy tobacco and spicy dried herb characters lingering underneath. Bright acidity and dry, chalky tannins impart a robust feel. Gritty blackcurrant and earthy black olive conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 15% -
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2022 Five Geese The Ganders Blend Old Vine Grenache ShirazMcLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Shiraz sourced from vines over 70 years old. Matured in old French oak barrels. Dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Aromas of freshly crushed raspberry juice, dark cherries and red liquorice are trailed by some fresh herb, earth and delicate vanillin cedar notes. Vibrant and juicy in its feel the palate features red raspberry and red liquorice fruits over earth, vanillin confectionary and peppered fresh herb characters. Slightly grainy tannins with bright acidity lending an energised feel. Finishes with lively red fruits and plenty of pepper.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5% - Karuizawa x Kawasaki Ghost Series No. 7 "Time Slip" Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$9999. 00Bottle$119988.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product shown.
Using artwork from 19th-century Japanese artist Yoshitoshi Tsukioka's New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts, the Ghost Series from Nonjatta unfolds even more expressions from the Karuizawa distillery. Number 7 in the series, entitled "Time Slip", is one of the more unique bottlings. Blended back in the 1970s, this whisky contained both Karuizawa malt as well as Kawasaki grain distillate, which was laid down to rest under glass. Fast forward to the 1980s and the blend was transferred to ex-Karuizawa Spanish Oak for finishing, quite a long one at that being bottled in 2015. One of only 140 bottles, this looks to be one of the more drinkable releases from two legendary distilleries. Collectible. -
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Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 45%"...Green River Straight Bourbon nails it out of the gate..." - breakingbourbon.com
Crafted on the historic Green River campus in Owensboro, Kentucky, Green River is an industrial distillery with roots back to 1885 when J.W. McCulloch first marketed his product as “The Whiskey Without A Headache”. The slogan later changed to “The Whiskey Without Regrets,” in order to avoid liability for misleading medical claims. Over that time, numerous brands have been made there including Ezra Brooks, Mellow Corn, Medley Brothers, Old Medley, Five Brothers and Kentucky Beau. The distillery has also had several different owners and names. Most recently, Terressentia Corporation purchased the plant in 2014 and began renovations. In 2016, acting Master Distiller, Ron Call passed the torch to his son, Jacob, and in 2020, the distillery reclaimed its original title and Distilled Spirits Plant number (DSP-KY 10). Thus, the Green River brand which had largely faded from memory was reborn exactly where it originated. The product launch made an impact in the value Bourbon segment - so much so that Bardstown Bourbon bought the company the following Summer. The eponymous whiskey is distilled from a mash bill of 70% Corn, 21% Winter Rye, 9% Malted 2 and 6 Row Barley, then aged for over five years. Our tasting found an initially rye-accented whiskey where the dry, nutty and spicy character of the grain dominates before opening to a sweeter side. The delivery takes place in a delicious chocolatey setting, followed by a peachiness on the palate, refreshed by muddled mint. The overall style and high rye content makes this a little bit like Sazerac, but with a notable step up in body, intensity and definition. Besides pulling up slightly short, there's very little to dislike about this affable Kentuckian. Bottled at 90 proof (45%) without chill filtration.
Other reviews... salivating to puckering grain make for a dramatic entry with a sugar-candy fruitiness making up the midground. Barley sugar and heather honey sit well with the lemon blossom honey; slightly tart and would be short were it not for a metallic uplift. Tangy, even when some vanilla makes up ground; a thoroughly enjoyable character Bourbon with many contrasting features. 89.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023
...Aromas of vanilla, Tootsie Roll, caramel, and cinnamon meet more fruity, acidic scents of lime, lemon, and pineapple on the nose, with a sweeter note of fresh melon. Lots of chocolate and pistachio nuttiness on the palate; it's also spicy and offers notes of bitter espresso and pepper spice. The finish is also very chocolaty and has a pleasant tartness. Well-executed flavors, though a bit short at the end. 86 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...Green River Straight Bourbon nails it out of the gate with their 5 year old stock. What makes it work is that it’s an incredibly easy sipping bourbon thanks to an agreeable flavor profile. Despite being only 90 proof, it still packs ample intensity and a pop of heat. It’s not overly complex and the finish is on the shorter side, yet it only takes one sip to know this bourbon works. If you’re looking for very drinkable bourbon at a very reasonable price, Green River Straight Bourbon is a fantastic place to start. - breakingbourbon.com
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Bardstown Bourbon Co. Discovery Series #9 Blended American Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 56.25%A blend with the majority sourced from Georgia (35%), then Kentucky (31%), 17 year old Tennessee whiskey (19%), and Canadian whiskey (15%) making up the remainder. The flavours here seem to sit on the fence. At first it feels more like a corn-heavy Bourbon, then the rye ups the ante. Medium dry flavours pack decent concentration, trailing off with vanilla bean, peppery warmth and lots of bittersweet mint chocolate. Fades dryish, medium long and oaky. 56.25% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Toastier and woodier than Discovery #8, this blend has a bit more gravity and a considerably different — albeit still engaging — character. Malty and a bit bready on the nose, the whiskey moves over time from a pastoral aroma to one that is somewhat austere and a bit leathery. Much of that follows over to the palate, where the malty elements soon give way to a sharp citrus character, orange and lemon peel, then tobacco and more spice notes. This feels surprisingly hotter than #8, despite being lower in proof. Red pepper gives the finish some lingering burn, with cloves, ginger, and sesame oil coming on strong. Overall, it’s a bold and somewhat burly whiskey that offers plenty to love — if you can take the heat. 112.5 proof. - drinkhacker.com
- Eden Mill Art of the Blend Sherry Cask Blended Scotch Whisky (700ml)SCOTLAND$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 47.1%
Eden Mill continues to diversify adding a blended whisky to their line up. It's a six year old finished in sherry casks. Expect subtle flavours of green oak, dry berries and a delicate finish of roasted nuts and macadamia. 47.1% Alc./Vol.
- 1964 Chateau de Laubade Bas Armagnac (500ml)Armagnac, FRANCE$799. 00Bottle$9588.00 DozenABV: 40%
Château de Laubade's remaining stocks run through the decades, in this case, all the way back to 1964. The house was built in 1870 in the heart of the noblest area of the AOC Bas Armagnac and is today considered by many as the premier Armagnac property composed of 105 hectares of single vineyard. The third generation is actively involved to make Château de Laubade an undisputed reference among the Armagnac category. Four traditional grape varieties: Ugni-Blanc, Folle Blanche, Colombard and Baco (the most emblematic) are grown via sustainable agriculture. 40% Alc./Vol. Extremely limited stocks.
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Green River Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$119. 99Bottle$1439.88 DozenABV: 45%Following a successful launch in 2022, Green River Distilling Co. expanded its range with two new expressions including this Wheated Bourbon comprised of 70 percent Kentucky-grown corn, 21 percent wheat and 9 percent 6-row barley. Said Dan Callaway, VP of New Product Development, “In contrast with Green River Bourbon, which brings a hearty backbone of rye spice, the wheated expression lends itself to easy drinking while holding its own distinct character." A small sample revealed an oiliness to the nose feel that gets close to much older Bourbons; Cherry chocolate, dried peach and light maple syrup mingle with dustings of cocoa and wood shavings. For a wheated whiskey this is a biggun': Buttery and almost succulent at mid palate, capped off by some beautifully integrated oils through the sweet oak and dark chocolate finish. At around fours years old, it's the antithesis of feminine styles like Weller Special Reserve, never really complex, but equally hard to fault. 45% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Wheated bourbons can sometimes be a bit one dimensional, especially on the nose, but this is impressively expressive from the get-go. The aroma is bright and gently sweet with loads of orchard fruit: golden apples, fresh peaches, and dried apricots. And it builds as it opens with undertones of buttery caramel and soft baking spice. The palate is a little more straightforward but impressively approachable, showcasing rounded notes of butterscotch, peanut brittle, and well-balanced oak ahead of a warming finish of vanilla frosting and orange rock candy. While it’s a well-executed young wheater, I think I like it just a bit more than the rye-based bourbon... it’s a similarly solid value. - drinkhacker.com
...At 90 proof, it’s gentle enough to sip but doesn’t get lost in a cocktail. The high percentage of wheat in the mashbill (21%, with 70% corn and 9% malted barley) makes for a soft, buttery mouthfeel, with lots of creamy vanilla and toffee, plus hints of my favorite breakfast cereal, Golden Crisp (known in my childhood as Super Sugar Crisp). A clean, gentle finish encourages repeat sipping, and perhaps a refill or two once the glass has been drained. - Tony Sachs, Forbes Magazine
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Bardstown Bourbon Co. WVGBC Infrared Cherry Oak Barrel Finish Blended Rye Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 55%Nestled in Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World, the Bardstown Bourbon Company is a new breed of whiskey maker, building a reputation for innovation while honouring tradition. The company blends Bourbon and Irish Whiskey, Canadian Whiskey and Bourbon or Bourbon and Rye as well as experimenting with a wide range of wood finishes. This bottling is a case in point: Their first cooperage collaboration, celebrating the equally forward-thinking West Virginia Great Barrel Company. A synergy in modern production led to a custom blend aged in cherry wood barrels toasted with infrared technology.
According to drinkhacker.com, "The barrels are composed of alternating staves of lightly toasted cherry oak, medium toasted cherry oak, and the more common American oak. However, it’s the final distinctive detail that gets top billing on the bottle – those toasted staves were created using infrared technology. In speaking with Bardstown Bourbon Company’s VP of Hospitality and Product Development Dan Callaway, he told me that the idea behind utilizing infrared toasting was to reduce the tannins from a second barreling. "We were looking for a cooperage to innovate with on barrel maturation and we found the infrared toasted cherry wood was a perfect match for 95/5 rye,” Dan says. “I started about 1.5 years ago and did tons of experiments with bourbon and rye, as well as different toasts.”
We received a 50ml sample. Being a blend of 6 year old Indiana rye with 12 year old Canadian whiskey, this is not exactly a mainstream style. Some of the usual sharpness and definition of the grain feels like it's been soaked up by the oak, yet even from our small taste, the flavour saturation is impressive. Medium spices and bitter dark chocolate rise to moderate the sugars, closing with a mouth coating, oily finish. Is it more like a rye or is it more like a Bourbon? Either way, it's a fascinating take. 55% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Wow, I don’t understand the mad scientist stuff they’re doing at Bardstown, with different types of oak, infrared trickery, and bringing the Canadians into this, but it’s working because Bardstown Bourbon Company West Virginia Great Barrel Company Rye is one of the best rye’s I’ve ever had. It’s almost a crime that I got a free media sample of something this good. - thewhiskeyshelf.com
Notes from the producers... Almond, cinnamon, potpourri, and baked cherry circle traditional rye notes of mint and herbal tea. A luscious mouthfeel leads to a luxurious balance between lightly tannic oak and rich berry compote.
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1994 Glendronach Single Cask No.1769 Oloroso Sherry Puncheon Cask Strength 28 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$1199. 00Bottle$14388.00 DozenABV: 55.5%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
After a run of PX single casks, Glendronach returns to its roots with a 28 year old oloroso matured malt. Like some venerable Armagnac, it starts with a bouquet that marries fabulous depth with freshness, including figs, aged fruit cake, brandy cream sauce, gingerbread, cinnamon and rancio. The palate doesn't disappoint offering all the classic Glendronach notes in a caramel setting, host to a range of dark fruits, chocolate and orange peel; the sweetness of the raisin and apricot tuned to the malt. Arguably bottled at the perfect time with some minor astringency creeping in, Glendronach are leading the way with single casks at prices that blow competitors like Macallan out of the water. Distilled in 1994 and bottled in 2023, 692 bottles are on offer globally. 55.5% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. - Amrut Raj Igala Sherry Finish Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)Bangalore, INDIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%
Apart from a change to the colour of the label, the liquid inside is a slight departure from the Raj Igala we've previously offered. The importers explain, "We felt that early samples of this value whisky would benefit from an increased sweetness to suit our target audience. So Amrut consigned our first shipment to finish in Oloroso casks (unknown duration) before bottling". All labels had already been printed before this was done, so the words 'Oloroso finished' unfortunately do not appear on the label. 40% Alc./vol.
- 2011 Ardbeg Single Cask No.2198 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Islay, SCOTLAND$1999. 00Bottle$23988.00 DozenABV: 60.2%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Single cask Ardbegs offer amplified distillery character. They're highly desirable but rarely surface. This particular release was distilled in August 2011 and left to age in a first-fill bourbon barrel for six years before bottling at cask strength in July 2018 with an outturn of 256 bottles. 60.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.
- Sakurao Japanese Single Malt Whisky (700ml)JAPAN$169. 99Bottle$2039.88 DozenABV: 43%
This is one of the first whiskies from Sakurao Distillery (formerly Chugoku Jozo) to be distilled in Japan. Previously, they've been producing Togouchi whisky - aged in a railway tunnel in the Hiroshima mountains, but using sourced whiskies from overseas. Sakurao, on the other hand is 100% Japanese, aged in Sakurao in four different cask types (ex-Bourbon, ex-Sherry, American Oak & Mizunara). There's reportedly a bit of peat to this youngster. 43% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
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2021 Domaine Charles Audoin Pommard en MareauBurgundy, FRANCE$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
Other Reviews....
Medium-bodied with aromas of wet earth, dried lavender, cedar and black berry fruit, with some burnt orange peel. Lovely richness for the vintage, with a spicy, sleek core and firm, creamy tannins. Long and concentrated, with an elegant minerality at the end. From organically grown grapes. Try from 2024.
94 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com -
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2021 Domaine Charles Audoin Fixin Le RozierBurgundy, FRANCE$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
Other Reviews....
Beautifully supple and silky with aromas of crushed stones, strawberries, cherries, nutmeg and redbush tea. Stony, fine tannins here, with a medium body and a cool minerality throughout. From organically grown grapes. Delicious already, but even better from 2024.
95 points
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2021 Domaine Charles Audoin Marsannay Les LongeroiesBurgundy, FRANCE$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
Les Longeroies is a relatively large vineyard located in the north of the Marsannay sector on the border with Chenove. The upper part of the vineyard has large amounts of limestone just below the surface, while the lower section has more red marl. Les Longeroies is one of the prime candidates to be promoted to premier cru status, and the wines from here are incredibly refined, yet also serious and well structured.
Other Reviews....
This is showing aromas of cherries, green olives, strawberries, watermelon and some cocoa powder. Medium-bodied, with more powdery tannins and a savory finish full of flavor. From organically grown grapes. Drink now or hold.
94 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com -
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2021 Domaine Charles Audoin Marsannay Clos du RoyBurgundy, FRANCE$120. 00Bottle$1440.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
Clos du Roy is the northern most lieu-dit of Marsannay, and the relatively steep south-east facing vineyard sits above the town of Chenove. Soils here are light red with an element of sand, sitting atop a bedrock of hard limestone. Wines from Clos du Roy can be more elegant, aromatic, and approachable.
Other Reviews....
What a fragrant and spicy nose, showing peppercorns, slate, chili chocolate, hazelnuts and bramble berry fruit. Incredible balance of both fruit and minerals, concentrated, with a medium body and creamy tannin frame. Long and somehow increasing in flavor. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
95 points
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2021 Domaine Charles Audoin Marsannay Cuvee Marie RagonneauBurgundy, FRANCE$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
Other Reviews....
I like the savory olive notes here, with peppercorns and salted almonds amongst the red berry fruit. Some nutmeg. Creamy and layered on the palate, with a medium body and silky yet very present tannins. Powerful fruit, with a deep savory and salty element. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
94 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com -
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2022 Domaine Charles Audoin Marsannay RoseBurgundy, FRANCEReduced from $59.99$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
An incredibly moreish Rose that’s impossible to resist.
Brilliant salmon pink colour with delightful scents of red cherry, peach and raspberry streaming out of the glass. Hints of rose petals, musk and wet stone adding further interest. Uber delicious, the moreish palate features raspberry, peach and pomegranate fruits which are delivered with fantastic intensity. Gorgeous supple textural feel with subtle musk, wet stone and mineral elements also chiming in. Superb drive finishing dry and fresh with a long, silky, stony mineral laden conclusion.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews....
This youthful rosé Burgundy has stacks of nectarine and peach with just a touch of fresh cranberry aroma. Medium-bodied and properly dry it has spot-on balance of fruit and lively acidity with a touch of spice at the very straight finish. Made from all this producer’s young vineyards. Makes you wonder why other producers don’t do the same! Drink now.
92 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com -
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2021 Domaine Charles Audoin Marsannay Blanc Cuvee CharlieBurgundy, FRANCE$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
Other Reviews....
Beautifully ripe and fragrant fruit here, with mangoes, white blossoms, star fruit and cashews. Some nougat. Full-bodied, creamy and with excellent weight that you might not expect for the appellation or vintage. Very textured with a mineral dryness. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
93 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com -
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2021 Domaine Charles Audoin Bourgogne Aligote Vieilles VignesBurgundy, FRANCE$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkDomaine Charles Audoin was formed in 1972 by Charles and his oenologist wife Marie-Francoise, starting with three hectares in Marsannay. Their holding has now grown to around 14 hectares that captures some of the best parcels in Marsannay. Their son Cyril joined his father in 2000, and is now in charge of both vineyard and winemaking activities for the Domaine. Cyril is increasingly focused on vineyard health, to deliver wines with pure varietal expression and a sense of place. They are among the most serious wines from the area, and while juicy and approachable young, have the capacity to age gracefully for many years.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Delightful pear and lime aromas are complimented by hints of dried honey, wet stone and mineral. Delicious pear, lime and green apple fruits carry a beautifully rounded river stone like feel with notions of slate and mineral lying underneath. Excellent intensity and balance. Finishes dry with invigorating acidity and a long fresh, stony mineral laden conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews....
This has lovely complexity with notes of apples, praline, lemon cream and hints of vanilla bean, along with sea salt and crushed stones. It's medium-bodied with fantastic firmness and phenolic texture. Structured and serious aligote. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
93 Points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com -
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2019 Quinta do Noval Nacional Vintage PortDouro Valley, PORTUGAL$2999. 00Bottle$35988.00 DozenABV: 19.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
The 2019 Vintage Port Nacional is a field blend, mostly Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinto Cão, Sousão and Tinta Roriz, aged for 18 months in old wood. It was bottled May 4, 2021, with 100 grams of residual sugar and 19.4% alcohol. This opened rather differently than the regular Noval Port this report, showing more open and expressive fruit, more cherries and even more power as they both aired out. The aromatics are excellent here too, but more fruit driven. When I came back to both some two days later, this brilliant and graceful Nacional made the wonderful regular Noval seem clumsy. It's the difference in styles, really, and reasonable minds might differ in preference, but this Nacional has more precision and more finesse. It is brighter and laser-like focused with an expression of fruit that seems so pure that you can almost think they used a spoon to fill the bottle after just crushing the grapes. The regular Noval, by contrast, seems rounder, more full-bodied and richer, albeit less defined.
They both have a fair share of power. On first taste, the regular Noval seemed less powerful. Two days later, it seemed more powerful, but the Nacional fruit was always more interesting and far more intense in its character. Three days later, there was certainly still plenty of firmness on the Nacional finish. If the structure is excellent, the fruit is sensational. Three days after opening, the fruit had not budged an inch, showing nothing but exuberance and youth. The juicy finish of this very fresh Porto seals the deal. True, it was in bottle only about two months or so when tasted, but its quality is not in question. If you want a collectible and can afford it, this is the easy pick. If neither of those is true, the regular Noval offers way more bang for the buck. Both have significant aging potential. As promising as the regular Noval is, however, this seems to have a lot more upside as well as a lot more "wow" factor.
I have given this wine a drinking window that begins in about 10 years, but of course, that is a minimum for this as well as the regular Noval. These days, Ports are more refined, so you can theoretically start sooner, most of the time. In truth, it will need 20 years before it is firing on all cylinders. Purists will suggest longer. Drink 2029 - 2075.
99 points
Mark Squires - Wine Advocate (Jul 23, 2021)Last but certainly not least, the 2019 Quinta do Noval Naçional Vintage Port comes from Noval’s un-grafted vines and undergoes essentially the same maturation as the regular Noval. It is more backward on the nose compared to the Noval, demands time to open, before eventually revealing black cherries, tar, tobacco and clove. A touch of smoke and eucalyptus make an appearance with time. The palate is absolutely sublime with a perfectly judged line of acidity; a Naçional that is full of tension and energy, finely chiselled tannins and an enthralling crescendo towards the spicy and peppery finish. This is quite profound. Drink 2033-2070.
98 points
Neal Martin - VinousA chewy and beautiful young Nacional with grapey character and lots of depth and layers of tannins. Crushed black berries and black cherries. Tannic finish. Needs 10 to 15 years to soften.
98 points
James SucklingPure perfection in Port, the 2019 Vintage Port Nacional is riveting stuff in every sense, and I certainly can't imagine it being any better. Coming from a single parcel of older vines and a field blend (it's primarily Touriga Nacional) brought up in older wood, it's one of those ports that brings incredible intensity, richness, and power while somehow staying perfectly balanced, pure, and light on its feet, with its fruit, alcohol, and structure just flawlessly integrated. It's also incredibly complex, even at this young stage, offering red, blue, and black fruits as well as sandalwood, Asian spice, dried flowers, iron, black olive, and graphite on the nose. While the base Noval closed down quite quickly, this showed consistently over the three days I had the bottles open, never showing any sign of fatigue or oxidation, and given its incredible balance, it was the wine I chose to pour a small glass of each evening as well. While the 2020 is all about power and richness, this is an utterly complex, compelling, insanely good Port that I wish I could pour for every reader. While it offers ample pleasure today (count me in the group that enjoys young Port), I would hide any bottles I might have for at least 7-8 years, and it should have 50, 60, 70 years of longevity? This beauty will unquestionably outlive most of us today. Drink 2030 - 2090.
100 points
Jeb Dunnuck -
- 98
- 98
- 94
- Nicks Import
2019 Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape ChaupinChateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)ABV: 15.5%Closure: CorkDomaine de la Janasse are one of the leading estates in Chateauneuf du Pape today, having been formed in the mid twentieth century by Aimé Sabon and named after the family farm “La Janasse” located in Courthézon. Over time Aimé has expanded their holdings from 15 hectares to now occupy 90 hectares of vines, including some of the finest parcels on the La Crau plateau. Today the domaine is run by siblings Isabelle and Christophe Sabon, each heavily involved in all aspects of production from vineyard to bottling.
Chaupin is a 100% Grenache cuvee with the vines planted as far back as 1912, each parcel planted on sandy soils. Grenache on sand produces wines with an elegant and refined character.Dense black as night colour with a deep dark red hue. Wafting from the glass are intoxicating black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice scents which are intermeshed with Provincial herb, peppered meat, scorched earth and spice notes. Combining glorious richness and power with structure, flamboyant black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry liqueur flavours are framed by a robust tannin framework that lends a sinewy feel to the otherwise voluptuous palate. Out of this world intensity and a dense textural feel are counterpointed by good underlying freshness. Lingering through the exceptionally long, brooding and muscular finish are notions of herbs du Provence, dried meats, spice and peppered earth elements.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 15.5%Other Reviews....
Marked by scents of garrigue, raspberries and black cherries, the 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin is full-bodied, rich and tannic but also incredibly ripe and long. The betting here is that the fruit outlasts the tannins and that the wine develops similarly to the stunning 2005. Drink 2025-2040.
94 points
Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 06, 2022)I was able to taste the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Chaupin on two occasions, rating it one point higher on one of those as well. Incredible notes of red and black fruits, violets, scorched earth, ground pepper, and Provençal garrigue notes define the nose, and it’s a darker, richer, slightly more powerful wine than usual, while still showing the inherent elegance and finesse this cuvée always shows. Give bottles 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 15-20. Don’t miss it! Drink 2023 - 2044.
98+ points
Jeb Dunnuck -
- 88
2021 Domaine Clarendon Old Vines GrenacheBlewitt Springs, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2027-2028)ABV: 14.7%Closure: Diam CorkDense midnight black heart with a vibrant red to dark red hue. Sailing from the glass are freshly crushed raspberry and plum juice aromas followed by some liquorice, vanillin confectionary and faint traces of varnish. Rich, sweetly fruited raspberry and strawberry fruits are underscored by prickly acidity which imparts a gentle fruit tingle feel across the palate. Sturdy tannin structure with some liquorice and vanillin confectionary elements also present. Finishes tense and sharp.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.7% - 2020 Domaine Jean-Jacques Confuron Chambolle-Musigny Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$499. 00Bottle$5988.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
This is more elegant still with its overtly floral array of essence of ripe red cherry that is nuanced by a hint of exotic tea. The sleek, intense and more mineral-driven flavors don't possess the same size and weight, but they do offer more refinement on the wonderfully long finale. This could use better depth but that should reasonably develop if given a chance. Drink through 2030+.
93 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundAssembled in tank. One third whole bunch vinification was used. Mostly Chatelots, where there is very little earth, with Feusselottes. Again the bouquet has a pleasing floral quality and is more in red fruit behind. Just a little bit drier behind though that might be in part the wood which is currently showing more strongly.
90-93 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy - 2020 Domaine Jean-Jacques Confuron Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$2450. 00Bottle$29400.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
Here the spicy, elegant and pure nose of both red and dark currant, Asian-style tea, sandalwood and anise is noticeably fresher. The freshness carries over to the palate impression of the tension-filled and beautifully detailed middleweight flavors that are markedly finer before terminating in a hugely long, firm, youthfully austere and impeccably well-balanced finale. The Clos de Vougeot is certainly good, but this classy effort possesses an extra dimension of depth. Drink through 2035+.
95 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundTasted from barrel, unracked. All destemmed because Louis thinks it has all the finesse it needs. He has yet to try whole bunches on his Romanée St-Vivant. Mid purple colour. A very light reduction which is being hastily pushed aside by the quality of the fruit. Heady stuff without imbalance and it has its own peppery feel. Dark red fruit with a little liquorice, and the faintest of phenolic notes.
93-96 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy - 2020 Domaine Jean-Jacques Confuron Nuits-St.-Georges Les Chaboeufs Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$370. 00Bottle$4440.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
Liqueur like aromas of ripe dark currant are trimmed in hints of earth, pepper and crushed fennel. There is excellent volume and richness to the full-bodied and muscular flavors that exhibit impressive power on the complex, mildly rustic and persistent finale. This is very Nuits in style and patience will absolutely be necessary. Drink through 2032+.
92 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundDestemmed after the drought so as not to stress further. Assembled in tank. Fine mid purple. Another really attractive perfumed nose, they do seem to have hit the picking dates just right at J-J Confuron this year. Much more red than black fruit, extremely juicy, enough generosity here, some tannins to finish, but the fruit is the clear winner.
91-94 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy - 2020 Domaine Jean-Jacques Confuron Chambolle-Musigny Magnum (1500ml)Burgundy, FRANCE$530. 00Bottle$6360.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
Here the nose is noticeably riper yet still agreeably fresh with its array darker berries, spice and discreet floral hints, especially violet. The middleweight flavors are rich to the point of opulence thanks to the abundance of sappy dry extract that enrobes the supporting tannins on the sneaky long finish. This is a very good wine for its level though it would be fair to observe that it's not a typical Chambolle villages. Drink through 2026+.
89 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundTasted from barrel, unracked. As always, this is the ripest in the cellar but not too obvious at 13.8%. Concentrated deep purple. The power blocks the nose a little, then a good weight of fruit shows up behind on the palate. Darker fruit, more in the ripe cherry mode at the back of the palate, a tiny bit drier but not by much.
88-91 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 96
2019 Conterno Nervi Gattinara Vigna ValferanaPiedmont, ITALY$430. 00Bottle$5160.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkThe Nervi estate is the oldest in the DOCG of Gattinara, north of Piedmont, founded in 1906 by original owner Luigi Nervi. A long time admirer of the wines and friends of the owners at the time, Roberto Conterno (of Giacomo Conterno fame) purchased a 90% stake in the winery in 2018, renaming it Conterno Nervi. A relatively new designation, Gattinara became a DOCG in 1990, and while the wines show similarities to those of Piedmont, generally Gattinara reds have a more elevated feel, savoury and structured, with plenty of acidity and fine tannins allowing for great longevity.
There are 20 cru vineyards in the Gattinara DOCG appellation, with Valferana sitting near the geographical centre of the commune at a height of 370 metres. Although it sits a little lower than Molsino, Valferana doesn’t get as much sunlight or warmth, facing predominantly west, and it is one of the steepest crus. Most vintages, the wine has a tight, focused frame. ‘Valferana’ is the more austere of the two crus, with a tightly wound core gifted by Gattinara’ s porphyry-gravel soil; the wine is disciplined with myriad mineral nuances. The wine is fermented and macerated in tini (large conical wooden vats) for 3–4 weeks, then aged for another 40 months in various large wood formats.
Other Reviews....
A wine of soaring intensity, the 2019 Gattinara Valferrana opens with intensely floral aromatics that are immediately alluring. Bright red-fleshed fruit, chalk and mint lend notable inner sweetness. At times, the Valferrana is quite potent, in other moments it presents notable finesse. That counterpoint makes for an absolutely compelling Gattinara that readers will want in their cellars. Drink 2029-2049.
96 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous -
- 97
2019 Conterno Nervi Gattinara Vigna Molsino Magnum (1500ml)Piedmont, ITALY$1030. 00Bottle$12360.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkThe Nervi estate is the oldest in the DOCG of Gattinara, north of Piedmont, founded in 1906 by original owner Luigi Nervi. A long time admirer of the wines and friends of the owners at the time, Roberto Conterno (of Giacomo Conterno fame) purchased a 90% stake in the winery in 2018, renaming it Conterno Nervi. A relatively new designation, Gattinara became a DOCG in 1990, and while the wines show similarities to those of Piedmont, generally Gattinara reds have a more elevated feel, savoury and structured, with plenty of acidity and fine tannins allowing for great longevity.
Located on the western border of the DOCG, sitting up at 420 metres, Molsino is the largest of the vineyards and faces mostly in a classic south-west exposure. It has a natural amphitheatre shape, which helps retain plenty of perfect Nebbiolo ripening warmth – required at these cooler areas. Fermentation and maceration is exactly the same as for the ‘Valferana’ but the ‘Molsino’, though tightly wound on release (perhaps even more than ‘Valferana’), opens up and can be lush by comparison, still underpinned by evident structure and tang, but more generous with cherry, plum and balsamic (local bush sage) over and above.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Gattinara Molsino is a dark, brooding wine. Smoke, incense, licorice and leather open in the glass, but only with great reluctance. A wine of tremendous persistence and presence, the Molsino is so impressive in 2019. It is also embryonic and in need of cellaring. The only question is how long. Time in the glass brings out the wine's natural resonance, offering a glimpse of what will come in time. Drink 2029-2049.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous -
- 97
2019 Conterno Nervi Gattinara Vigna MolsinoPiedmont, ITALY$430. 00Bottle$5160.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkThe Nervi estate is the oldest in the DOCG of Gattinara, north of Piedmont, founded in 1906 by original owner Luigi Nervi. A long time admirer of the wines and friends of the owners at the time, Roberto Conterno (of Giacomo Conterno fame) purchased a 90% stake in the winery in 2018, renaming it Conterno Nervi. A relatively new designation, Gattinara became a DOCG in 1990, and while the wines show similarities to those of Piedmont, generally Gattinara reds have a more elevated feel, savoury and structured, with plenty of acidity and fine tannins allowing for great longevity.
Located on the western border of the DOCG, sitting up at 420 metres, Molsino is the largest of the vineyards and faces mostly in a classic south-west exposure. It has a natural amphitheatre shape, which helps retain plenty of perfect Nebbiolo ripening warmth – required at these cooler areas. Fermentation and maceration is exactly the same as for the ‘Valferana’ but the ‘Molsino’, though tightly wound on release (perhaps even more than ‘Valferana’), opens up and can be lush by comparison, still underpinned by evident structure and tang, but more generous with cherry, plum and balsamic (local bush sage) over and above.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Gattinara Molsino is a dark, brooding wine. Smoke, incense, licorice and leather open in the glass, but only with great reluctance. A wine of tremendous persistence and presence, the Molsino is so impressive in 2019. It is also embryonic and in need of cellaring. The only question is how long. Time in the glass brings out the wine's natural resonance, offering a glimpse of what will come in time. Drink 2029-2049.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous -
- 94
2020 Conterno Nervi Gattinara Magnum (1500ml)Piedmont, ITALY$580. 00Bottle$6960.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkThe Nervi estate is the oldest in the DOCG of Gattinara, north of Piedmont, founded in 1906 by original owner Luigi Nervi. A long time admirer of the wines and friends of the owners at the time, Roberto Conterno (of Giacomo Conterno fame) purchased a 90% stake in the winery in 2018, renaming it Conterno Nervi. A relatively new designation, Gattinara became a DOCG in 1990, and while the wines show similarities to those of Piedmont, generally Gattinara reds have a more elevated feel, savoury and structured, with plenty of acidity and fine tannins allowing for great longevity.
Effectively the ‘Classico’, this is comprised of four key plots, Casacce, Garavoglie, Molsino and Valferana. Nervi's Gattinara is fermented and macerated in steel at controlled temperatures for 25–30 days, followed by 30 months in large Stockinger Austrian botti.
Other Reviews....
The 2020 Gattinara is elegant and lifted. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon and orange peel grace this ethereal, nuanced Gattinara. Bright saline notes and sweet red-toned fruit build into the long, persistent finish. Understated and silky, the 2020 is exquisite. All this needs is a few years to soften. Drink 2024-2045.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous -
- 94
2020 Conterno Nervi GattinaraPiedmont, ITALY$230. 00Bottle$2760.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkThe Nervi estate is the oldest in the DOCG of Gattinara, north of Piedmont, founded in 1906 by original owner Luigi Nervi. A long time admirer of the wines and friends of the owners at the time, Roberto Conterno (of Giacomo Conterno fame) purchased a 90% stake in the winery in 2018, renaming it Conterno Nervi. A relatively new designation, Gattinara became a DOCG in 1990, and while the wines show similarities to those of Piedmont, generally Gattinara reds have a more elevated feel, savoury and structured, with plenty of acidity and fine tannins allowing for great longevity.
Effectively the ‘Classico’, this is comprised of four key plots, Casacce, Garavoglie, Molsino and Valferana. Nervi's Gattinara is fermented and macerated in steel at controlled temperatures for 25–30 days, followed by 30 months in large Stockinger Austrian botti.
Other Reviews....
The 2020 Gattinara is elegant and lifted. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon and orange peel grace this ethereal, nuanced Gattinara. Bright saline notes and sweet red-toned fruit build into the long, persistent finish. Understated and silky, the 2020 is exquisite. All this needs is a few years to soften. Drink 2024-2045.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous -
- 93
2021 Atze’s Corner Giant DurifBarossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2029-2031)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFeaturing Durif’s trademark colour saturation the wine pours an impenetrable inky black with an equally deep dark purple black hue. Morello cherry, liquorice and black plum aromas fill the nostrils followed by vanillin cedar, hints of earthy graphite and pepper. Rich morello cherry, liquorice, black plum and blueberry fruits have an opulent yet robust feel framed by a muscular tannin framework and bright youthful acidity. Vanillin cedar, scorched earth and spice characters lie underneath. The finish densely fruited, grippy and energetic.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- Reduced
Kirin Fuji Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)JAPANReduced from $179.99$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 46%The Kirin Whisky brand belongs to the Kirin Group, better known for their world famous beers. Produced at the massive Fuji Gotemba plant at the foot of Mount Fuji, the distillery's location maintains a climate similar to Scotland with an average temperature of just thirteen degrees celsius. In recent years, their output has garnered some serious accolades including Japanese Whisky of the Year, World's Best Grain Whisky and numerous Gold Medals. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, Fuji Gotemba is finally expanding into export markets and launching new products. For this release, they've employed ex-Bourbon, French oak red wine barriques and beer casks, blending single malts up to sixteen years of age. The combination adds Jota Tanaka's signature stamp of layered complexity. With over 30 years of experience in both the US and Japan, he's only the second Master Blender in the distillery's history and succinctly describes this release as "Delicate, but with lots of layers of flavours. All in harmony." Expect notes of oatmeal biscuits, fresh peach and white table grapes with a splash of wildflower honey to finish in a classically elegant Japanese profile. 46% Alc./Vol.
Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2023.
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- 95
2021 Jeanneret Rank & File ShirazClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 15%Closure: StelvinBen Jeanneret calls this curiously named wine 'Rank & File'. It's what Shiraz represents to him - the heart and soul of the Australian wine industry. Sourced from some of the best low yielding, old vine vineyards in Clare, the fruit for this wine was matured in a mixture of French and American oak for a period of 17-23 months. Year in year out this is one of our best selling Shiraz, the powerful rich black fruits and opulent feel make it irresistible drinking.
A super rich Clare Shiraz layered with a dense wall of lavish fruit that’s underscored by a muscular structure.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep black dark red hue. Wafting from the glass are liquorice, black cherry liqueur like aromas and blackberry which meld into toasty vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Super rich, densely textured and exuberant, the full bodied palate is engulfed with lavish liquorice and black cherry liqueur flavours which are underscored by a ripe muscular tannin structure. Toasty vanillin cedar, scorched earth and blackpepper elements line the back half. Concludes long and opulent yet quite robust.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 15% -
- 95
- 94
2022 Louis-Claude Desvignes Morgon Cote du Py Javernieres aux PierresBeaujolais, FRANCE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkLouis-Benoit Desvignes and his sister Claude-Emmanuelle Desvignes today run this historic estate in Morgon. This 13-hectare domaine produces some of the longest-lived and most serious wines in the Beaujolais. Old vines, organically farmed and harvested late, produce grapes that see traditional winemaking with whole clusters, long macerations and a submerged cap. The result is a range of inky, saturated reds with plenty of character and structure, and the top cuvées will have no trouble evolving for two decades.
Other Reviews....
The 2022 Morgon Côte du Py Javernières Aux Pierres is enchanting with a complex nose of ripe blackberries, dark plums, blood orange, anise, wet stones, white musk and vine smoke. Medium to full-bodied and with a succulent weave of fruit, the wine is suave, multi-layered and generously upheld by a velvety layer of tannins. The bright acidity paired with the lining of marine-tinged salinity creates a refreshing contrast with the darker notes, and the wine lasts long overall, gracefully concluding with a slow fade of flavor. This is a noble expression of terroir, complex, luscious, balanced, truly captivating. Drink 2025-2040.
94+ points
Kenna Wells - Wine Advocate (May 31, 2024)The 2022 Morgon Aux Pierres Javernières comes from a métayage since the 2020 vintage from vines planted in 1931. It has a very complex, mineral-driven bouquet with dark cherries, tea leaves and crushed stone, floral scents emerging with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. This is very pure in style, beautifully balanced with a satin-textured finish that is one of the most caressing you will find this vintage. Outstanding. Drink 2024-2042.
95 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 91
- 95
2022 Sadie Family Swartland Kokerboom SemillonSwartland, SOUTH AFRICA$170. 00Bottle$2040.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkFollowing the Citrusdal Valley north towards Clanwilliam, we come to Sadie’s highest vineyard, Kokerboom. Named for the striking aloe plants that grow near the vines, Kokerboom was planted on Table Mountain sandstone in the 1930’s and is now home to one of Swartland’s few remaining plantings of old-vine Semillon—a variety that at one time, made up 80% of South Africa’s national plantings. Owned and managed by Henk Laing, Sadie notes that, “This is one of the most pristine old vineyards we know. No herbicides or artificial fertilizers have been used on it, and it has been perfectly pruned over the years. The downside is that it is small and low-yielding.”
Kokerboom is a field blend of Semillon Blanc and Semillon Gris, the latter contributing between 20-30% depending on the year. Both Semillons are picked and pressed together and raised in large-format oak. Thanks to its solar exposition, the Semillon ripens extremely well here and has little to none of the tart herbaceousness so often associated with this grape. Instead, the Semillon from this site is known for its ripe lime character with more citrus and chamomile flavours and a waxy texture.
Other Reviews....
Starting with a delightful mineral-laced nose, the 2022 Old Vine Series Kokerboom offers complex aromas of roasted almonds, underripe peach and wax melon with delightful citrus blossom. Light to medium-bodied and with 12.8% alcohol, the palate is complex, offering a beautiful weight with a waxy and phenolic mouthfeel before showcasing incredible mineral tension with energetic acidity. This beauty will remain food friendly for years and will benefit from another year in the bottle. Only 2,300 bottles were produced of this devastatingly gorgeous wine. Drink 2024 - 2038.
95 points
Anthony Mueller - Wine Advocate (Dec 30, 2023)The 2022 Kokerboom is a blend of Semillon Blanc and Gris, whole bunch pressed and aged in old foudres. This is the first time it has been bottled under 14% alcohol (13.2%). It has a backward, stoic nose, opening with yellow fruit, jasmine and fern. The palate is very well balanced with a fine thread of acidity. This is based on freshness and texture, with a touch of glycerin and lanolin towards the finish, with tangy orange rind and stem ginger on the aftertaste. Maybe just missing the X-factor of Sadie's other cuvées this year? Drink 2024-2038.
91 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 90
- 94
Wild Turkey Russell's Reserve 6 Year Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (750ml)Kentucky, UNITED STATES$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 45%Another addition to Wild Turkey’s Russell’s Reserve line, this time with an age statement. Made from a mash bill of 51% rye, 37% corn and 12% malted barley, like the others in the range, the label honours Jimmy and Eddie Russell, the father-son Master Distiller team that have a combined tenure at Wild Turkey in excess of a century. 45% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... "All incredibly charming and understated - a bit like Jimmy Russell himself..." 94 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...Fresh and grain-forward on the nose, with orange slices, lemon peel, and a hint of pineapple. Very sweet and honeyed on the front palate with chocolate custard, pepper spice, and toasted oak, accented by bright notes of fresh citrus. A mid-length finish offers the sweetness of lemon cream pie and lots of spice at the back. Steady and flavorful progression of balanced sweetness and spice, a rock-solid rye. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com
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- 97
Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry Vermouth (500ml)ITALY$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenABV: 17%First there was "Dry". Now there's "Extra Dry." Released in the year of Cocchi’s 130th anniversary, this classic-style vermouth is based on a Piedmontese recipe using local ingredients. The base wine is Cortese, the same grape used for Gavi DOCG. The Artemisia Absinthium is entirely harvested from the Piemonte mountains. The aromatic profile is characterized by Menta di Pancalieri, a local variety of peppermint, and lemon, traditionally used to garnish vermouth in the region. Other botanicals include angelica, coriander and cardamom for a fragrant and balanced character. This vermouth will enhance classic cocktails such as the Martini or the Bamboo (40ml Cocchi Extra Dry stirred with 40ml Dry sherry, garnished with lime zest or basil leaf), but it also shines when served with tonic water (elderflower tonic is the preferred choice) or simply sipped over ice. Best consumed within a month after opening. 17% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Look for a pale straw hue and fresh green apple and white flower aromas. The palate is zippy and remarkably light, with mouthwatering lemon peel and the barest hints of fresh herbs and peppermint on the super-clean, brisk exhale. Martini-worthy. 97 points - wineenthusiast.com
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- 94
- 92
- 92
2021 Domaine Meo-Camuzet Vosne-Romanee Aux Brulees Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$1699. 00Bottle$20388.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Here the expressive nose freely reveals its overtly exotic aromas of orange peel, jasmine tea, star anise, sandalwood and violet. The rich and impressively concentrated medium-bodied flavors are also blessed with an abundance of tannin-buffering dry extract while displaying outstanding length on the firm, serious and youthfully austere finish. This beautifully balanced if compact effort should also amply reward longer-term cellaring. Drink through 2033+.
92-95 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe domaine's efforts to protect the 2021 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Aux Brûlées were quite successful, so the yield this year is the same as in 2020. Bursting with notions of raspberries and plums mingled with orange zest, spices and petals, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and concentrated, with powdery tannins, bright acids and a melting finish.
92-94 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Feb 01, 2023)The 2021 Vosne-Romanée Aux Brûlées 1er Cru is expressive and overtly floral on the nose…just how you want a Vosne to be. It discretely gains intensity in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied, with quite structured red fruit, symmetrical, nothing powerful yet almost "athletic" on the finish. I suspect this will gain weight throughout its second winter. Drink 2025-2045.
92-94 points
Neal Martin - VinousOne of the fuller red purple colours. A most engaging expansive deep cherry fruit. This is close to its magical best, with a volume of fruit which for me sits just right. Obviously less than in the recent rich vintages, but definitely enough! And an excellent fresh mineral note through the finish, not the burned stone style of the hot dry years. Drink from 2029-2036.
94-96 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside BurgundyThis is ripe and smoky up front, with a black cherry and mulberry fruit aromas and mineral and earth notes. The texture of the wine is dense and firm but enlivened by the fresh acidity of the 2021 vintage that carries it to a marvelous, lingering finish. The grapes come from Méo’s 0.72-hectare parcel planted in the 1930s. The grapes are destemmed and fermented on native yeasts before ageing in cask (half new). This will show well sooner than the grand crus but should also have the substance to age for several decades. Wonderful wine. Drink 2030 - 2060.
94 points
Charles Curtis MW - Decanter -
- 93
- 91
2021 Domaine Meo-Camuzet Clos Vougeot Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$1070. 00Bottle$12840.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
A restrained if really pretty nose somewhat grudgingly offers up its combination of cool earth, red berries and herbal tea hints. The medium weight flavors are not particularly dense, but they do possess both a really lovely texture as well as fine precision that carries over to the saline, youthfully austere and superbly long finish. Moreover, there is already first-rate depth and overall, this beauty is very promising. Drink through 2033+.
92-95 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2021 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru is more structured, unwinding in the glass with aromas of smoky berries, sweet spices, plums and orange zest. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, with powdery tannins that assert themselves on the saline finish, it's one 2021 that will reward a bit of patience.
91-93 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Feb 01, 2023)A medium crimson purple in colour. The bouquet is attractive rather than massive. Lovely cherry fruit right through the middle then a firmer finish as the natural tannins of the Clos kick in. Proper length here as well. Drink from 2030-2038.
93-95 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside BurgundyThis wine is surprisingly accessible, with a charming, bright pomegranate and ripe cherry fruit, and rose petal, pepper and mineral notes. The texture is silky and fresh – it lacks the imposing density of some years (like 2020), but it is beautiful nonetheless. Méo has 2.75 hectares, second only to Château de la Tour, and the parcels are very well placed in La Garenne (which he calls Pres du Château), Les Chioures, and Grand Maupertuis. The 2021 vintage is a blend of all of the parcels. Drink 2027 - 2055.
93 points
Charles Curtis MW - Decanter -
- Reduced
Johnnie Walker Platinum Label 18 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky (750ml) - NO GIFT BOXFife, SCOTLANDReduced from $499.00$400. 00Bottle$4800.00 DozenABV: 40%Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such may have some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
This 18 Year Old blend is reported to have more of an intense, peaty character when compared to the Clynelish dominant Gold Label. Platinum is positioned between Johnnie Walker Blue Label and Johnnie Walker Gold Reserve Label within the hierarchy. - The Macallan A Night On Earth In Scotland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2022 ReleaseSpeyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 43%
Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
There's been quite some interest in this curiously titled Macallan which reflects the story of Scotland’s world-famous Hogmanay festivities celebrated annually on 31st December. This seasonal release is a collaboration with acclaimed Japanese-French illustrator, Erica Dorn, whose artwork has featured in director Wes Anderson’s films.
The unique packaging provides a special unboxing experience coupled with Dorn’s playful abstract illustrations, inspired by the historic fire rituals dominant in New Year celebrations around the world. Upon opening the gift box you discover a blue interior, representing the night skies of Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) and the blue from the national flag of Scotland, the Saltire.Says Macallan's Lead Whisky Maker, Sarah Burgess, "Creating A Night on Earth in Scotland has been an extremely personal experience for me, which took me back to growing up in our family home in Speyside, just across the river from The Macallan Estate."
American and European oak sherry seasoned casks, along with American ex-bourbon barrels have been employed to bestow a rich, sweet shortbread-like character - a whisky referencing the rich Scottish delicacy traditionally gifted and eaten at Hogmanay. This profile is punctuated by festive notes of dried orange and spice. It's recommended neat, with a serve of shortbread on the side. 43% Alc./Vol. Natural colour.
Other reviews... Macallan always loves to wear its sherry on its sleeve, but this is nonetheless one of the racier bottlings I’ve seen from the classic Speyside outfit in recent years. Boldly sherried up front, the whisky exudes notes of fresh clementines and cloves on the nose, though these exuberant, Christmassy characteristics are tempered by notes of oiled leather and roasted chestnuts. Austere but refined, it immediately invites sipping, where many of these same elements are evident. Oily with orange and nougat notes prominent, it fades into a lightly grassy cereal character, some youth evident later in the game. The finish has a gently pastoral character to it, though it remains bright and dripping in citrus notes, almost lemony at times. While it’s not overwhelmingly serious or complex, it is hard to put down — and a (nearly) classic example of what Macallan does best. And it’s awfully pretty in the box. - drinkhacker.com
- Benriach The Sixteen 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND$159. 99Bottle$1919.88 DozenABV: 43%
Benriach's signature style blossoms at ten years old, finding depth and richer layers of orchard fruit character as it turns sixteen. Three cask types are employed in this edition: Bourbon, Sherry and Virgin oak. 43% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... NOSE: Baked apple and creamy hazelnut malt with overtones of ginger-spiced apricot and honey. TASTE: Spiced stewed apple, stone fruit and mellow nutty oak, with honeyed malt and candied peel. SMOKE LEVEL: Trace.
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL - 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Distilleries de Provence Absente Absinthe Trio Gift Pack (3 x 100ml)Provence, FRANCE$74. 99Bottle$899.88 Dozen
Three contrasting styles make up this educational gift pack which includes one 100ml bottle of each of the following absinthes:
Absente 55%, composed of a perfect mix of wormwood, mugwort, anise seed, lemon balm and peppermint. A classic expression that's delicately sweet and slightly fresh and spicy.
Grande Absente 69% is a traditional style with more of a bitter taste due to a higher proportion of wormwood and less sugar.
Absente 26 fluo 26%, a low alcohol absinthe composed of mugwort, wormwood plants, southernwood, green anise, lemon balm and peppermint - also reported to glow in the dark under certain lighting conditions due to the presence of riboflavin.
















































