323 products

Fortifieds

    All Saints Estate The Keep Tawny
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $17. 99
    Bottle
    $215.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Stelvin

    The All Saints Estate "The Keep" Tawny is a drier style Australian Tawny with long-lasting fruity flavors. This Tawny complements strong cheese and coffee excellently. The aroma combines ripe berry fruit with rancio characters developed from extended barrel maturation. On the palate, you'll experience ripe fruit, providing a generous mouthfeel, along with subtle notes of vanilla and chocolate.
    Alc. 18%

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    All Saints Estate Rutherglen Muscat (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Glass Stopper

    Other Reviews....
    And so the journey starts in the classification system, this the first tier, a youthful style with a pale amber hue; lighter on the palate but with plenty of flavour from big fat juicy raisins, fresh brewed black tea with honey, butter scotch, lemon toffee and a floral lift. Just like chewy toffee for adults. 375ml.
    91 Points
    Jane Faulkner - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion (August 2022)

    All Saints Estate Rutherglen Muscadelle (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17%
    Closure: Glass Stopper

    This Tokay has been produced from 4-5 year old stocks. Caramel brown, orange colour and orange olive hue. Aroma of honey, toffee, confectionary and spice. Moderate palate length, with flavours of honey and toffee followed by a touch of orange rind and caramel. Soft acid finish. Aftertaste of orange, honey and toffee.

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    All Saints Estate Grand Rutherglen Muscat (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Glass Stopper

    An Outstanding Example of Rutherglen Muscat! All Saints Estate is one of Australia's original wineries, established in 1864, by two enterprising Scots, George Sutherland Smith and John Banks. Now owned by Brown Brothers the winery has fortified material up to 80 years old which form the basis of many blends.

    Very deep walnut brown colour with deep olive, walnut hue - showing considerable bottle age. Superb nose of toffee, raisin, rancio, and raisin cake. Complex, mouthfilling, luscious palate. Flavours of orange marmalade, honey and raisins, filling the palate with the viscous texture of oil. Clean finish. Very long aftertaste of honey, raisins and toffee.
    Alc/Vol: 18%

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    All Saints Estate Grand Rutherglen Muscadelle (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $64. 99
    Bottle
    $779.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Glass Stopper

    Deep sienna brown colour with olive green edges. Excellent aroma of toffee, raisin and honey. The palate is luscious showing great concentration of flavours of caramel and honey followed by a hint of light raisin on the back palate. Clean finish. Long honey caramel aftertaste.
    Drink (2006)
    Alc/Vol: 18%

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    • Hot Item
    • 98
    Alvear Pedro Ximenez Solera 1927 (375ml)
    Montilla Moriles, SPAIN
    $47. 99
    Bottle
    $575.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    Closure: Cork

    Deep viscous sienna brown black in colour with a distinctive olive green tinged hue. Decadently scented and incredibly potent, the nose is overwhelmed with dried raisin, Christmas cake and honeyed fig aromas with some toffee apple, walnut and spice notes also chiming in. Incredibly thick and dense, draped across the palate with an engine oil like consistency is an ultra concentrate of honeyed raisins, Christmas cake, toffee and marmalade flavours with some molasses and spicy walnut characters lingering underneath. Warm syrupy mouthfeel with an exceptionally long palate staining finish that stays in the mouth for minutes after the wine has been swallowed. In a word stunning.
    Alc. 16%

    Other Reviews….
    Alvear was founded in 1729 and remains under the control of the same family. They own 307 acres of vineyards in the Montilla-Moriles appellation. Anyone who visits the area recognizes the incredible white soils, which are dominated by chalk/limestone and the key to the great acids these products possess.
    The NV Pedro Ximenez Solera 1927 is non-vintage, but does have some 1927 material in it. This is totally dark brown/amber with notes of figs, toffee, caramel syrup, molasses and coffee. It is dense, super sweet, intense, rich and an amazingly, unctuously textured, thick beverage to consume slowly and introspectively after a meal. Drink now through 2050, or even longer. Drink 2016-2050.
    98 points
    Robert Parker – The Wine Advocate

    Antichi Baronati Fine Ambra Dry Marsala (750ml)
    Sicily, ITALY
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17%
    Closure: Cork

    Produced by one of the oldest wineries in Sicily, Antichi Baronati brings the oldest traditions to today’s kitchens and wine glasses. Winemaker, Gaspare La Vela-Fabrizio Vella employs Grillo and Insolia Catarratto grapes grown on clayey soils. The wine is aged in oak for twelve months and presents notes of nuts and vanilla while being mellow, with a pleasant taste of licorice, almond and coffee. 17% Alc./Vol.

    No tasting notes available.

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    Gonzalez Byass Noe VORS Aged 30 Years Pedro Ximenez Sherry (375ml)
    Jerez, SPAIN
    $92. 99
    Bottle
    $1115.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    An 'extreme' expression of PX, having spent an average of 30 years in American oak barrels following the Criaderas and Solera system.

    Other reviews...
    Concentrated raisins, dried black dates, licorice, prunes, chocolate and Christmas spices. Extremely sweet, but effortlessly balanced, with real intensity and concentration. Some complex cocoa beans, coffee, licorice and walnuts in the finish. Pour yourself a small glass and savor.
    96 points
    James Suckling

    Singed black sesame, rye, buckwheat honey, Black Forest cake and blackberry reduction notes form a large-scaled core, with a viscous texture and a long, palate-coating finish. A light echo of peanut toffee adds just enough cut on the finish. Drink now.
    94 points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    A wonderfully balanced and giving wine with sweet raisin and prune aromas and an overall richness akin to crude oil. Flavors of baked black plum, brown sugar and molasses are both juicy and rich, and then toffee and mocha take over on the finish. Sweet and thick for sure, but with discernible fruit and vitality. (6/1/2010) 15.5% Alc./Vol.
    93 points
    Wine Enthusiast

    Bordiga Bianco Vermouth di Torino (750ml)
    ITALY
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%

    A Bianco based on Piedmontese white wines, including some Moscato, and infused with more than thirty different botanicals, many of them grown in the Occitan Alps near the winery. The flavour is complex and vivid enough to easily stand alone, with an excellent balance of sweetness and bitterness that includes notes of coriander, black pepper, nutmeg, ginger and citrus. All of the herbal infusions are done individually and in-house, blended so that no single botanical stands out. Add it to your favourite cocktail, but not before you try it on the rocks with a splash of soda! 18% Alc./Vol.

    Boronia Marsala (750ml)
    AUSTRALIA
    $10. 99
    Bottle
    $131.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    A fortified wine, Boronia Marsala has become a popular cooking ingredient, as well as enjoyed for its rich raisin flavours. Infused with herbs and spices. 18% Alc./Vol.
    Buller Wines Victoria Topaque
    Swan Hill, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap

    Notes sourced from Bullers....

    The Victoria Topaque (aka Tokay) is a blend of younger material, from the vineyards of the Swan Hill winegrowing region. The Tokay style is a little lighter in flavour intensity when compared with the better known fortifieds such as Muscat and Tawny. For this reason it offers an interesting alternative dessert wine to round off a fine meal.

    Orange/brown colour. Sweet vanilla essence on the nose with developed fruit characters. Youthful fresh palate flavours of toffee and a juicy rich texture. Sweet clean finish. 18% Alc./Vol.

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    Buller Wines Fine Old Topaque
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Deep onion brown colour with olive green hue. The top note is of very ripened dried raisins, followed by toffee, spice and caramel. The palate is luscious, with flavours of honey, raisins followed by a back palate of spice, caramel and honey. Fine brandy spirit, without any heat. Clean finish. Very long aftertaste of honey, toffee, caramel and spice.
    Alc/Vol: 18.0%
    • 96
    Buller Wines Fine Old Muscat
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap

    Brothers RICHARD AND ANDREW BULLER are continuing the great fortified wine making tradition established by their father and grandfather. We first met the Buller family in the mid 70’s and pioneered the sale of their fortified wines in Melbourne. Today the brothers enjoy an international reputation for their fortified’s, largely enhanced by Andrew’s winemaking experience with TAYLORS (the famous Port producers) in Portugal. Deep sienna brown colour with olive hue. Lifted nose, with aroma of honey, ripe raisins, hints of toffee and fine old brandy spirit. The palate is rich with luscious honeyed raisin flavours dominant, followed by a layer of spice and orange rind. Clean finish, with long aftertaste of honey, raisins, toffee and orange marmalade.
    Drink now.
    Alc/Vol: 18.0%

    Robert Parker's Review
    The medium dark amber-colored Premium Fine Muscat (100% Muscat) reveals terrific aromas of toffee, melted caramel, molasses, brown sugar, hazelnuts, and smoke.
    (Notes sourced from Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate #155)
    95 points

    Buller Wines Calliope Grand Rutherglen Topaque (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Notes from Bullers... Rich honey toffee and cold tea characters balanced with wood aged rancio. The finish is long and complex. 18% Alc./Vol.
    Buller Wines Fine Old Tawny
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Notes sourced from Bullers...

    Maturation in old oak casks for many years has changed this wine from bright red to the tawny hues it exhibits today. With this slow transformation in colour has come also a change in flavour to the complex, rich and satisfying characters of a mature tawny. This wine is blended from stocks of many vintages held at Bullers Rutherglen cellars. The aim of blending is to provide a balance between the ‘rancio’ characters of an old wine and the freshness of younger wines.

    Deep tawny/red colour with red/orange tints. On the nose there are developed toffee/rancio characters. The palate is complex with rich spicy fruit flavours. Hints of toffee. The middle palate is redolent of ripe fruit with chocolate/liquorice notes. 18% alcohol volume.

    Buller Wines Victoria Malmsey
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Notes sourced from Bullers...

    Malmsey is the name of one of the classic wine styles of Madeira. In the making of this wine Bullers have used similar winemaking and maturation techniques to produce a wine style not often seen in Australia. Malmsey is equally suited as a before dinner aperitif or as a dessert wine to finish the meal. In the kitchen. a dash of Malmsey can add a unique flavour to many dishes.

    Tawny colour with orange highlights. Sweet fruit aromas plus discreet wood. The palate is medium bodied with toffee flavour and the acid on the finish is lingering and clean. 18% alc/vol.

    Buller Wines Victoria Tawny
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Notes sourced from Bullers....

    Bullers have been making port style wines for over three quarters of a century. The accumulated knowledge and experience gained over that time have contributed to making the Victoria Tawny. This younger tawny offers the consumer excellent value for money.

    Medium garnet/tawny colour with orange/red tints. The nose displays sweet scents with distinct tawny character. On the palate there are sweet fruit flavours combined with developed porty characters. Hints of rancio. Well integrated spirit. Clean fresh finish. 18% alc./vol..

    Buller Wines Calliope Rare Rutherglen Topaque (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Notes from Bullers... Limited quantities of this exceptional wine are bottled each year to maintain the standard of what is considered to be one of the world's great dessert wines. The nose shows lashings of toffee, figs and cream. Exceptional length and remarkable clean finish complement the honey, figs and toffee on the palate. 18% Alc./Vol.
    Buller Wines Victoria Muscat
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Notes sourced from Bullers...

    As with all the Buller Muscats, the grapes to make this wine are picked very late, ensuring a high level of sweetness in the finished wine. This coupled with Muscat’s typically raisiny flavour provides a luscious dessert wine. Winemakers the world over use Muscat grapes to produce wine but it is only in Australia that this particular style is made.

    Medium amber colour with reddish tints. The nose displays Raisiny Muscat grape characters. On the palate raisin character combines with fresh Muscat fruit flavours. High level of sweetness. Hints of toffee. Flavours linger to a finish which is clean and not cloying. 18% alc/vol..

    Buller Wines Calliope Rare Rutherglen Muscat (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Screw Cap
    Notes from Bullers... All you would expect in a 100/100 Perfect Parker wine. Deeply concentrated on the palate with a long distinguished finish. The complex nose is reminiscent of aromatic raisined fruit whilst the palate is concentrated to give a perfect finish to this exceptional world class wine. 18% Alc./Vol.
    Campbells The Empire Tawny (750ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Produced from Shiraz, Campbells entry level Empire Tawny, has a deep brick red colour, with ripe spicy Shiraz fruit, berry aromas, and complex oak. The wine was fermented on skins until the desired sweetness level was reached and then drained and fortified. A lengthy maturation in small oak casks ensures further development. This Tawny is blended and bottled for immediate enjoyment, and is best served with blue cheese, rich desserts and coffee.

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    Campbells Grand Rutherglen Muscat (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Other Reviews....
    Julie 'Jules' Campbell continues the winemaking and, importantly, blending tradition of her father, the late, great Colin Campbell. It's a seamless transition. The extra step up in complexity with the Grand Classification is there. So, too, the freshness of spirit that keeps everything so alive and vital. Burnished walnut in colour. Resplendent in raisin, dried fruits, toffee, rancio aged characters and treacle richness. Great depth of lusciousness, skilfully blended and clean to close. 375ml.
    96 Points
    Jeni Port - Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

    The NV Grand Rutherglen Muscat gives a medium-deep brown color and profound scents of dried figs, raisin cake, burnt sugar, licorice, preserved walnuts and black pepper with just a whiff of menthol. Incredibly full, densely packed and sweet in the mouth, is has crisp, balancing acidity and a very long spicy finish. Drink it now.
    94 Points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

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    Campbells Grand Rutherglen Topaque (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Other Reviews....
    Deep olive-brown; a wonderful example of muscadelle/topaque, with all the cold tea, butterscotch, Christmas cake and burnt toffee expected of the variety at its zenith. I have to admit to a special love of topaque, while recognising the greatness of the muscat Rutherglen makes.
    95 Points
    James Halliday - Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

    Medium-deep brown colored, the NV Grand Rutherglen Topaque gives tantalizing aromas of molasses, roasted walnuts, coffee cake, liquored raisins, earth and baking spices with a hint of chocolate. Very, very sweet, crisp and rich, it offers a wonderful array of spice and dried fruit layers with a very long finish. Drink it now.
    95 Points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

    Campbells Liquid Gold Classic Rutherglen Topaque (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $41. 99
    Bottle
    $503.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Notes sourced from Campbells of Rutherglen.

    The Campbell’s are a fourth generation winemaking family dedicated to continuing a tradition begun in 1870, of producing premium quality wines that reflect the distinctive characteristics of the Rutherglen region. Drawing on their intimate knowledge of the region the Campbells can ensure that they grow grapes of the highest quality. The result is traditional styles of wines with finesse and a subtle use of oak complementing the full fruit flavours.

    The wine that provides the basis of this blend dates back to the 1950’s. Only small amounts are withdrawn from this solera ensuring the highest quality and consistency of style.Deep golden colour displaying rich aromas of cold tea leaf, toffee, honey and citrus. The Palate is intense and mouthfilling. Malt and toffee combine with rancio characters providing a wine of power and complexity with a luscious yet clean finish. Perfect with fresh fruit, sticky date pudding or freshly brewed coffee and fine chocolates. 500ml bottle17.5% alcohol volume.

    Campbells Rutherglen Topaque (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17%
    Closure: Cork

    Notes sourced from Campbells of Rutherglen.

    The Campbell’s are a fourth generation winemaking family dedicated to continuing a tradition begun in 1870, of producing premium quality wines that reflect the distinctive characteristics of the Rutherglen region. Drawing on their intimate knowledge of the region the Campbells can ensure that they grow grapes of the highest quality. The result is traditional styles of wines with finesse and a subtle use of oak complementing the full fruit flavours.

    Each vintage the tokay grapes are left on the vine to fully ripen until raisined and laden with natural sugar. The resulting wine is then blended with wines from previous vintages to produce a consistent house style.Deep, brilliant old gold colour. The nose displays toffee, honey and cold tea characters which combine to produce the unique character of Rutherglen Tokay. Toffee and tea leaf characters predominate on the front of the mouth with a cleansing hint of spirit and old oak on the finish. A heavenly match with rich steamed puddings, caramel desserts, chocolates or as an after dinnerdrink with coffee. 17.0% alcohol volume.

    Other reviews...
    Displaying a lighter amber hue than the Muscat, the non-vintage Tokay is more elegant, not as sweet (205 grams of residual sugar per liter), but unctuous, long, and fragrant, revealing hints of Chinese black tea, toffee, and marmalade. This cuvee is based on 20-25-year old soleras.
    94 points.
    Robert Parker
    Wine Advocate #168 (Dec 2006)

    Campbells Rutherglen Muscat (375ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Notes sourced from Campbells of Rutherglen.

    The Campbell’s are a fourth generation winemaking family dedicated to continuing a tradition begun in 1870, of producing premium quality wines that reflect the distinctive characteristics of the Rutherglen region. Drawing on their intimate knowledge of the region the Campbells can ensure that they grow grapes of the highest quality. The result is traditional styles of wines with finesse and a subtle use of oak complementing the full fruit flavours.

    Each season grapes are picked after prolonged ripening to ensure maximum sugar levels and raisin character. The resultant wine is blended into soleras to maintain a consistent house style when combined with wines from previous vintages. Bright amber gold colour with copper tints. On the nose there are fresh raisin fruit aromas backed by a hint of fortifying spirit and aged oak characters. Luscious mouthfilling palate with raisin fruit followed by cleansing spirit on the back palate. Serve with strong cheeses, plum pudding or as an after dinner drink with coffee This wine should ideally be consumed within 2-3 weeks of opening. 17.5% alcohol volume.

    Other reviews...
    The sensational non-vintage Muscat possesses 230 grams per liter of residual sugar, 17% alcohol (typical for this region’s fortified cuvees), a deep amber color, good unctuosity, and a sweet bouquet of brandy macerated raisins, molasses, caramels, and toffee. Rich, full-bodied, and extraordinarily intense, it is an amazing wine. This cuvee is based on 20-25-year old soleras.
    95 points.
    Robert Parker
    Wine Advocate #168 (Dec 2006)

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    Campbells Classic Rutherglen Muscat (500ml)
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $41. 99
    Bottle
    $503.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Cork

    An outstanding wine. Orange, onion brown colour with green olive rim. Aroma of toffee, marmalade and crushed raisins, followed by very fine brandy spirit. Rich, luscious palate with luscious mouthfeel and flavours of honeyed, crushed raisins and very fine long honey, spice, raisins and marmalade aftertaste. Enjoy!17.5% alcohol volume.

    Cantine Vinci Crema Mandorla Marsala (1000ml)
    Sicily, ITALY
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%

    Made from a 50/50 blend of Catarratto and Inzolia grapes and aged at least four months in oak, this sweet-styled Marsala pairs perfectly with the dry almond based sweets typical of Sicilian confectionery. Also an excellent ingredient for the preparation of ice-creams, fruit salads and cocktails. 14.5% Alc./Vol.

    Cantine Vinci Cremovo Marsala (1000ml)
    Sicily, ITALY
    $14. 99
    Bottle
    $179.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%

    A sweet, full and harmonious Marsala that can be used in the preparation of egg-nog, ice-creams and traditional Sicilian sweets. 16% Alc./Vol.

    Cantine Vinci Fine Ambra Semisecco Marsala (1000ml)
    Sicily, ITALY
    $16. 99
    Bottle
    $203.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17%

    One of three value for money, one litre formats to arrive from Cantine Vinci. This is their amber, medium-dry expression made from an equal blend of Grillo and Catarratto grapes. Aged for at least one year in oak, it offers hints of candied orange peels, dried figs, dates and caramel, followed by suggestions of vanilla, coffee and chocolate. Excellent for the preparation of egg-nog or enjoyed alongside traditional Sicilian confectionery. 17% Alc./Vol.

    Carpano Classico Rosso Vermouth (1000ml)
    ITALY
    $42. 99
    Bottle
    $515.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%

    The company behind delicious appetisers like Punt e Mes and the best-selling Carpano Antica also make some more pedestrian vermouths, including two white styles, as well as this dark, fruity, sweet Rosso version, all based on ancient, secret recipes. Characterised by citrus and based on the original vermouth recipe invented by Antonio Benedetto Carpano, its robust notes of cherry, cola, cloves and bitter orange make it perfect for cocktails like the Americano, Negroni or Manhattan, or simply over ice or with tonic as a complex sipper to savor before or after a meal. 16% Alc./Vol.

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    Carpano Dry Vermouth (1000ml)
    ITALY
    $42. 99
    Bottle
    $515.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    A new release from this centuries-old vermouth company (the producers of Carpano Antica Formula). It employs both wormwood and a native herb of Crete for balanced bitterness, while a dose of citrus helps lighten the finish.

    Tasting note: Bright pale straw colour with a green tinge. Fresh, lifted aromas of ripe grapefruit, dried herbs, orris root and delicate bitterness. Breezy flavours reflecting the bouquet are dry, clean, grapey. Finishes invigorating, delicately floral / bitter with hints of home-made lemonade in the aftertaste. A fruity-yet-crisp style for all applications. 18% Alc./Vol.
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    Carpano Antica Formula 1786 Red Vermouth (1000ml)
    Torino, ITALY
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Drinks writer, David A.Embury stresses that a cocktail will never be any better than the quality of the cheapest ingredient in it, and hence he proselytizes constantly for the highest quality spirits, liqueurs, cordials, and modifiers (fresh squeezed lemons, etc.) It's a philosophy we completely agree with. At Nicks Wine Merchants, we take great pride in our amazing collection of the best spirits and liqueurs from all corners of the world. However, good quality Sweet Vermouth has remained elusive, that is until we discovered Antica Formula. Bearing the name of the Italian distiller, Antonio Carpano the man most famous for inventing Vermouth, this is arguably the finest example of the style available today - an artisan product, produced in tiny quantities from the very finest ingredients.

    To use a frank analogy - to go to the effort of making a great cocktail that requires sweet vermouth, without using Antica Formula is like wearing thongs with a tuxedo. Classic cocktails such as the Manhattan, Negroni, Bronx or Corpse Reviver will be taken to new heights, while its bitter-sweet balance and generous, silky mouthfeel, means it can also be consumed neat as an aperitif or with desserts. A large measure with soda and ice gives a sarsparilla like experience. The only limit is your imagination.
    The Vermouth comes beautifully packaged in a one litre, mouth blown, individually numbered glass bottle.  

    Tasting note: Burnt sienna brown colour with gold ochre hue. Inviting nose of liquorice, dried citrus peel, cinnamon, and clove. A sophisticated Sarsaparilla! The palate is a joy. A rich velvety texture delivers initially sweet flavours; aniseed, portello, cinnamon sugar and spicy fruit cake, before the palate turns and takes on a slightly bitter character driven by orange marmalade and warm spice which persists into the very long aftertaste. Retains its freshness throughout and achieves the bitter/sweet balancing act with impeccable poise. A classic. 16.5% Alc./Vol.

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    Casa Mariol Vermut Negro Vermouth (1000ml)
    Barcelona, SPAIN
    $52. 99
    Bottle
    $635.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15%

    Vermouth is making a comeback worldwide, especially in trend struck Barcelona where bars even specialise in this refreshing aperitif. A new arrival to Australia is Vermut Negro, from a pioneering vermouth house founded in 1945 outside Catalonia in North East Spain - Casa Mariol. Their vermouth is made from a base wine of 100% Macabeo grapes sourced from vineyards in the Terra Alta region 700 metres above sea level. A neutral grape spirit (also made from Macabeu grapes) is used to extract the flavours of up to 150 botanicals including green walnuts, rosemary, thyme, orange peel, wormwood and cardamom. After the fermentation process, the vermouth spends six months aging in a solera system enhancing its distinctive dark colour and herbaceous flavour.

    One of the main differences between this and other Vermouths is the very low use of caramel. The result is a lighter, more fragrant expression with greater balance and complexity. It's recommended served on ice with a slice of orange and a green olive (topped with soda if desired) or in Martinis, Manhattans or Negronis.

     Tasting note: Deep sienna brown with a gold ochre hue. Opens pleasantly fragrant with sweet spices (cardamom, cinnamon) mixed with stewed fruits and tangerine peel; second pass finds sweet oregano and hints of sarsaparilla. Light and fresh in the mouth with a softly textured, delicately bitter herb / cola / mulled wine combination and light cardamom and grapey freshness in the finish. Shows deceptive staying power. Delicious, complex and easy-drinking vermouth. 15% Alc./.Vol.

    Cinzano 1757 Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry Vermouth (1000ml)
    ITALY
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%

    Launched in 2015, the 1757 range of vermouths are a tribute to the company's founding fathers, Giovanni Giacomo and Carlo Stefano who established Cinzano in 1757.

    Other reviews... Light and herbaceous on the nose and palate, this vermouth offers fading hints of green apple, rosemary and marjoram. 91 points - wineenthusiast.com, ‎review by Kara Newman.

    ...Slivery straw color. Fruity, herbal aromas of green leaves, mint, and hints of golden raisins with a satiny, vibrant, dry light body and an effortless, breezy toasted nuts, dried lime, and hints of anise finish. A toasty and dry Vermouth for classic martini recipes. 85 points - tastings.com

    Cinzano Extra Dry Vermouth (1000ml)
    Milan, ITALY
    $20. 99
    Bottle
    $251.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Cork
    There are two basic types of Vermouth: The dark, more richly flavoured Italian variety imperative in many cocktails, as well as alone, with cassis or as an aperitif; And the light, dry French vermouth of which Cinzano Extra Dry is a locally produced example. Both are fortified and stepped up with various herbs. They aid digestion and incite appetite.

    Made using 14 ingredients including camomile and rose petals, there is no limit to what can be mixed with Cinzano Dry - its delicate flavours have made it a standard in bars around the world. Try it with Soda water, Dry Ginger or Lemonade. 18% alc./vol.

    Other reviews... Pale straw color. Nose is vibrant and brimming with off-dry, slightly candied and metallic scents of pine tar and damp vegetation. On the palate, it’s clean and keenly off-dry. Aftertaste smacks of roots and tree bark. Round, carefree and beguiling. Best Buy.
    Rating: 85-89 - tasting note sourced from www.wineenthusiast.comsize>

    Cinzano Rosso Vermouth (1000ml)
    Milan, ITALY
    $20. 99
    Bottle
    $251.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork
    Vermouth is the most widely used aperitif. The first known branded vermouth was “Carpano” produced at Turin, Italy in 1786. This was a rich, sweet red style. Rosso, or red vermouth is traditionally made using red wine. Today however, virtually all red vermouth is produced using white wine and blended with caramel to receive its distinctive red or amber colour. This dark, more richly flavoured Italian variety is imperative in many cocktails, but can be drunk alone, with cassis or as an aperitif, or mixed with lemonade, tonic or orange juice.

    Ingredients in Cinzano Rosso include marjoram, thyme, musk yarrow and an alpine herb called ‘Achillea Moscata.

    Other reviews... Very dark tawny tone. Heady perfume speaks of overripe grapes, quinine and roots. Agile, tar-like in the mouth as flavors of quinine, citrus peel, roots and berries combine in a piquant twang that’s neither clumsy nor cloying. Finishes tasting of ripe oranges and pink grapefruit. Very nice with a splash of fresh-squeezed O.J. Best Buy.
    85-89 points - wineenthusiast.com

    Cinzano Bianco Vermouth (1000ml)
    Milan, ITALY
    $20. 99
    Bottle
    $251.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Cinzano Bianco is a sweet, fragrant and delicate aperitif based on quality wines blended with essences of herbs and spices. Extremely versatile as a mixer, Cinzano Bianco can also be used as a cocktail ingredient. Serve well chilled.

    Cinzano 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso Vermouth (1000ml)
    ITALY
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    Launched in 2015, the 1757 range of vermouths are a tribute to the company's founding fathers, Giovanni Giacomo and Carlo Stefano who established Cinzano in 1757. The style on offer here is said to offer more pronounced wormwood bitterness than most other examples.

    Other reviews... Pleasing enough to drink straight, this deep plum-hued vermouth features an oxidized scent that suggests raisins and dried figs. Rich and fruit-forward on the palate, the dried fruit flavor gives over to a relatively dry finish with bitter hints of grapefruit peel, gentian and dried herbs. 16% Alc./Vol. 94 points - wineenthusiast.com
    • 90
    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Vermouth (750ml)
    Cocconato d'Asti, ITALY
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    Closure: Cork

    The house of Cocchi (pronounced co-key) is a Torino winery known for an array of still, sparkling and fortified wines. In 2011 as part of Cocchi's 120th birthday celebrations, they revived their house vermouth (originally produced in 1891), resulting in the first genuine Vermouth di Torino (protected designation of origin).

    Tasting notes: Copper / sienna brown colour with a bright copper hue. Moderate scents of cocoa, followed by ripe citrus (blood orange?) making for a nuanced jaffa-like profile. Mildly bitter herbal notes, including sarsaparilla keep the sweetness muted. Light to medium bodied and bitter-sweet, the palate offers flavours of citrus peel, spiced raisins and sarsaparilla. Concludes gently bitter with an aftertaste of quinine, citrus peel and cocoa. A more delicate expression than the likes of Antica Formula, which some find too easily overpowers cocktails. 16% Alc./Vol.

    • 96
    Cocchi Dopo Teatro Amaro Vermouth (750ml)
    Cocconato d'Asti, ITALY
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    This wine based Amaro is flavoured with wormwood, rhubarb and quassia wood amongst other ingredients, plus a double infusion of quina. "Dopo Teatro" means 'after theatre' and references the Piedmont tradition of concluding the evening with a chilled Amaro.

    Tasting note: Deep sienna brown with a gold ochre hue. Captivates from the first pass which yields quinine over herbal tea, green wood and hints of sarsaparilla. Carries through in the mouth with svelte like texture and flavours including cinnamon, ginger bread and hints of herbal tea. More clove and old tawny-port like to finish. Gently bitter accents at the fade. Perfect balance. Make a place for this in your next Negroni. 16% Alc./Vol.
    • 97
    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry Vermouth (500ml)
    ITALY
    $64. 99
    Bottle
    $779.88 Dozen
    ABV: 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

    • 94
    • Organic
    2018 Contini Vernaccia di Oristano Flor
    Sardinia, ITALY
    $64. 99
    Bottle
    $779.88 Dozen
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The production of Vernaccia in the lower Valley of the Tirso in Sardinia, has its roots in very ancient times.  Maturation takes place in chestnut barrels which are oxygenated, and the wine develops a flor, a natural, native yeast growth which acts as a protective layer, while also imparting certain flavours and aromas to the wine. Sherry is also made with a similar production method, and the resulting wine is not unlike a full-bodied fino Sherry.
    Bright amber colour with rose gold tinged edges. The nose offers up a fino sherry like aromatic profile lead by an assortment of nuts including hazelnut and almonds with some salty saline like notes also present. Well rounded and silken in its feel the palate is laden with hazelnut, roasted almond and salted cashew flavours. Finishes bone dry with a salty hazelnut aftertaste.
    Alc. 15.5%

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    De Bortoli Show Liqueur Muscat (500ml)
    Riverina, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%
    Closure: Stelvin

    Aged for 8 years in oak this excellent liqueur Muscat opens with a deep sienna brown colour with a green olive hue. Exhibiting aromas of honeyed raisins, Christmas cake, toffee, light marmalade and rancio characters, the nose displays great intensity. Rich and mouthfilling the palate possesses luscious flavours of honey raisins, toffee, caramel and marmalade that coat the palate with an oil like viscosity followed by some Christmas cake and rancio characters. Well integrated spirit with a very long honeyed raisin, toffee, marmalade, Christmas cake and rancio aftertaste. Trophy winner at the 2015 International Wine Challenge.
    Alc 18%

    • 93
    Delgado Zuleta La Goya Manzanilla Sherry (375ml)
    San Lucar de Barrameda, Jerez, SPAIN
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now (2018)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Screw Cap

    Manzanilla Sherries stay in their blending soleras for at least 3 years and often 5 or more, yet this remarkable amount of care and costly maturation doesn’t translate into higher prices. Unlike 'Grand Cru' Champagne for example, world class Manzanillas are accessible even to those on a modest income. Delagado Zuleta is the oldest family-run Bodega in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, established in 1744. The La Goya brand was created in 1918 when famous Flamenco dancer and Caple singer, Aurora Jauffre, allowed the winery to use her artistic name of 'La Goya' for their best Manzanilla sherry.

    Pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Nosing evokes aromas of flor yeast, a light nuttiness, bready characters and traces of sea spray as an end note. Light, very fine and fresh with a bone dry finish the palate is elegantly flavoured with dried nuts, flor yeast and a subtle oily breadiness. Dry, lightly salted finish with a medium to long salted nut and flor yeast aftertaste.
    Drink now.
    Alc. 15%

    • 90
    Dolin Dry Vermouth (750ml)
    Chambery, FRANCE
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    ABV: 17.5%
    Closure: Screw Cap

    Dolin is among the few remaining independent producers of Vermouth and the last producing Vermouth de Chambéry, still made according to the principles which earned Chambéry France's only A.O. for Vermouth back in 1932. Production involves maceration of real plants rather than pre-prepared infusions, and the unique addition of sugar as opposed to other sweeteners. The finished Vermouth contains 75-80% base wine, much more than that employed by many international brands, with the majority of grapes sourced from the Armagnac vineyards of the Gers in addition to local/regional producers. Enjoy as an aperitif on ice, with a twist of citrus, or in a broad array of traditional cocktails.

    Tasting notes... Clear with a very pale green tinge. Moderate, Fino Sherry-like aromatics include yeasty, nutty notes with a hint of quince. The palate is again reminiscent of dry flor sherry, though heavier and with a slightly oily texture. Flavours of almond, dried apricot and flor yeast-like characteristics are evident. Finishes bone dry with a persistent salted hazelnut and dried apricot aftertaste. Very refreshing. 17.5% Alc./Vol.

    • 93
    Dolin Rouge Vermouth (750ml)
    Chambery, FRANCE
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    ABV: 16%
    Closure: Screw Cap

    Dolin is among the few remaining independent producers of Vermouth and the last producing Vermouth de Chambéry, still made according to the principles which earned Chambéry France's only A.O. for Vermouth back in 1932. Production involves maceration of real plants rather than pre-prepared infusions, and the unique addition of sugar as opposed to other sweeteners. The finished Vermouth contains 75-80% base wine, much more than that employed by many international brands, with the majority of grapes sourced from the Armagnac vineyards of the Gers in addition to local/regional producers. Enjoy as an aperitif on ice, with a twist of citrus, or in a broad array of traditional cocktails.

    Tasting note: Sienna brown colour with a dark copper hue. Powerful aromas include sarsaparilla, dried citrus peel, stewed fruits, quince paste, clove and cinnamon. Entry is pure and silky and initially semi sweet with concentrated flavours of sarsaparilla, citrus peel and quinine. Gently warming spirit. Nice bitter-sweet balance leads into a long, dry, pleasantly bitter aftertaste of orange rind, stewed fruit and cinnamon followed by a subtle quinine fade. Lacks the luxurious texture, intensity and length of the best examples - but it’s not far off. Top value in the genre. 16% Alc./Vol.

    • 94
    Emilio Lustau Papirusa Light Manzanilla Sherry
    Jerez,
    $31. 99
    Bottle
    $383.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2000-2001)
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Pale straw colour. Very pronounced aroma of flor yeast, nut and cashew. Dry palate with salty taste, followed by a strong flor flavour with a nutty background. Excellent length and concentrated flavour, followed by very long persistant aftertaste. Drink now.

    Other reviews...
    Textbook Manzanilla! Papirusa is a clean, mildly salinic offering with green banana and toast aromas. The palate is just salty enough, but the wine’s more about almond, apple and lemon peel than saline. And the feel and finish are nutty and warm. A full-bodied but refreshing style as only Lustau can do.
    Rating: 90 points - www.wineenthusiast.com

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