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  • Nick's Import

  1998 A.D. Rattray Vintage Cask Collection Auchentoshan 25 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $499. 00

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  $5988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 56.9%

  A serious age statement from what is one of the few remaining Lowland distilleries and the only one practising triple distillation for its entire range. This brand has seen a huge growth in sales and popularity in the last decade, so no wonder it made it into this bottler's premium collection. Rattray's chairman, Tim Morrison, played a key role in the history of Auchentoshan through its purchase in 1984 by Stanley P. Morrison (latterly Morrison Bowmore Distillers). Subsequently acquired by Suntory, the Japanese influence on distillation is evident here, with elegant notes of green tea and white nut, underpinned by bold, ripe fruit flavours.164 bottles were filled from a single Bourbon hogshead. 56.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Brilliant ochre.  Nose: Tahitian vanilla, flaked almond and tangerine slice. Palate: Sweet orange marmalade, juicy mango and crystallised ginger. Finish: Green tea and cashew nut when the waves of tropical fruit subside.  

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  • Nick's Import

  2011 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Bunnahabhain (Moine) 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $199. 99

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  $2399.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 56.8%

  One of Scotland’s most revered distilleries may be better known both for its lightly peated output and sherry maturation, but there’s a fair amount of know-how on Islay when it comes to more liberally peated makes. Here, the first fill bourbon barrel offsets any overly drying ash, forging notes of coffee and chocolate amid the mineral, smoke and citrus. In Rattray's words, it's "frankly stunning whisky." 242 bottles were filled at 56.8% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Sunset gold. Nose: Earthy peat, smoked nectarine and salted dark chocolate. Palate: Rock oyster, charred vanilla bean and orange oil. Finish: Mouth-coating slickness, lifted by bright citrus and a subtle twist of ginger. 

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  • Nick's Import

  2011 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Dailuaine 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 57.3%

  A first fill bourbon barrel offers accelerated wood impact compared with more widely used refill hogsheads, due to the richer oak, and higher surface-to-liquid ratio. Arguably, however, accelerated maturation is only possible with a robust style like the meaty make of Dailuaine. Its distillate is not easily overpowered and balances the vanilla sweetness with a profound savoury element. This example has keynotes of citrus fruit and sweet nuts. Cask 800471 yielded 241 bottles at a natural strength of 57.3% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Yellow gold. Nose: Bright tangerine, vanilla custard and toasted marshmallow. Palate: Desiccated coconut, ginger snap and brioche loaf. Finish: Thick, oozy honey lifted by tart citrus and gentle cinnamon.

  If unusual aromas and flavours are what you seek from a whisky, then single casks are the place to find them. Beyond the fruity esters and the softening sweetness imparted by oak that distillers like to amplify, seasoned drammers relish the road less travelled. Their eyes light up to the smell of sweaty leather or burlap sacks or birthday candles. Master distillers may cringe, yet these weird and wacky side notes are what keeps whisky interesting. Of course, it would be a brave decision for any major distillery to release thousands of cases of anything exhibiting flavours that some might consider to be “off” notes. But for an independent bottler, the tiny quantities involved in a single cask make releasing whiskies that may be deemed out of character much less risky. That's why many of A.D.Rattray's single cask picks cater to the curious, often valuing intrigue over perfection. In stock evaluations they often note casks as “flawless” - a technical assessment of quality, but on its own, not necessarily high praise from Rattray. Everything is there, but where is the hook? Can a whisky be too balanced? In fact, it's not unusual for Rattray to overlook casks that simply aren’t interesting enough, rather than reject them for exhibiting peculiar notes. For drinkers who share their passion, this is the collection for you.

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  • Nick's Import

  1996 A.D. Rattray Vintage Cask Collection Bowmore 26 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $1299. 00

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  $15588.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 42.8%

  Stepping up one tier from the "Cask Collection", Rattray's Vintage Cask Collection represents the oldest and rarest Scotch whiskies in their portfolio. Single casks are selected from what they consider Scotland's most prestigious distilleries. Each comes suitably presented to match the contents. Thanks to the Morrison family, the stories of A. D. Rattray and Bowmore will be forever entwined. This selection promises an enchanting Islay from the mid 1990s, whisking you away to the shores of Loch Indaal for a blissfully long summer evening. We've sourced a handful of the 235 bottles produced. 42.8% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Burnt orange. Nose: Warm lavender, blackcurrant, fennel seed and birch wood smoke. Palate: Roast chestnut, pork crackling, tangerine and pine. Finish: Tangy peat oil coats the tongue, bringing waves of sea salt and lime. 

  
  

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  • Nick's Import

  2012 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Balmenach 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $139. 99

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  $1679.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 56.7%

  Although situated within the Speyside region, traditional methods of production at Balmenach yield a spirit more classically Highland in nature. Rattray's consider it demonstrative of the kind of reliable, cereal-rich and full-bodied malt, unblemished in a refill bourbon hogshead, upon which the global reputation of Single Malt Scotch Whisky is built. 229 bottles were filled at 56.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Sparkling gold. Nose: Rustic rye sourdough, nut brown ale and banana chip. Palate: Fine-milled oatcake, greengage plum and ground allspice. Finish: Gooseberry, elderflower and aniseed decorate a robust malt biscuit base. 

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  • Nick's Import

  2013 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Ardmore 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $139. 99

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  $1679.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 58.8%

  Reliably of high quality and only moderately peated, without the more medicinal elements of its counterparts on Islay, Ardmore is increasingly being given the spotlight by indies. Rattray afforded this one two more years in refill bourbon wood than its sister cask (#800650) for a riper fruit character and a more rounded mouthfeel. The resulting whisky exhibits primary notes of sweet nutty malt, hints of tropical fruit, smoke and mineral. The outturn was 252 bottles at 58.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Butterscotch gold. Nose: Velvet mesquite honey, roast almond and maple wood smoke. Palate: Sweet, nutty peat, grilled apricot and caraway seed. Finish: Charred pineapple with a pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar.

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  • Nick's Import

  2009 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Fettercairn 15 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $179. 99

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  $2159.88 Dozen

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  You wouldn't believe it, but worldwide demand for ex-bourbon barrels far outstrips current supply, meaning a cherished style of single malt is under threat. Thankfully, Rattray have a few more of these Fetters' in the pipeline, as the honeyed sweetness from first-fill bourbon is just the perfect match for its distinctive tropical fruit flavours. Cask 1098 yielded 283 bottles at 57.3% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Rich gold. Nose: Ripe mango, red apple peel and ginger oil. Palate: Clotted cream fudge, crystallised papaya and soft liquorice. Finish: Decadent dark chocolate mousse with a dusting of ground hazelnut. 

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  • Nick's Import

  2012 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Glenburgie 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $139. 99

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  $1679.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 53%

  Particularly revered in Japan, in recent years, more effort has gone into marketing Glenburgie as a single malt and sales have increased significantly. Ex-bourbon wood is the perfect platform for this characterful Speyside spirit. The traits which make Glenburgie so highly-prized for blenders - aromatic and grassy, with orchard fruits, a cereal sweetness and oily mouthfeel – are all in abundance in this edition. No wonder it’s such a vital component of Ballantine’s, the world’s second biggest selling Scotch! Rattray's outturn was 308 bottles at 53% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
  Other reviews... Colour: Shortbread gold. Nose: White peach, San Francisco sourdough and forced rhubarb. Palate: Golden linseed muesli, candied grapefruit and cantaloupe à la mode. Finish: Lemongrass and lime with a crisp white pepper pizzazz. 

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  • Nick's Import

  2009 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Blair Athol 15 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $159. 99

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  $1919.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 54.9%

  Always an important contributor to the Bells blend, as a single we like Blair Athol with a bit of sherry, and in this case, the bottlers seem to feel likewise. In the interests of openness and transparency, Rattray aim to be as precise as possible on their labels, noting here a second maturation in 1st fill Oloroso for 34 months. What they couldn’t fit in is that the premium quality European oak finishing cask was seasoned for three years prior to filling. Dried fruits and a sweet nutty character are prevalent in this dram with 260 bottles making it to market. 54.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Autumn leaf. Nose: Cherry and marzipan cake, sultana and raspberry coulis. Palate: Spiced bramble, dark chocolate and fresh Javan coffee. Finish: Rich, sticky date and raisin pudding, with a demerara caramel glaze. 

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  • Nick's Import

  2011 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Deanston 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $169. 99

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  $2039.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 59.9%

  We can no longer claim Deanston as 'under the radar' as it's now well-established as a favourite among the hardcore in the Scotch whisky community. Their best whiskies almost defy categorisation, and the myriad of flavours encountered in this refill barrel make it suitably challenging to pin down. Rattray sum it up as "cereal and herbal". Bourbon barrel 800049 filled 208 bottles at 59.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Soft gold. Nose: Torn sourdough, pink grapefruit and camphor oil. Palate: Barley sugar, green cardamom and crushed lemongrass. Finish: A complex medley of cereal, fruit, mineral, herbs and spices.

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  • Nick's Import

  1986 A.D. Rattray Vintage Cask Collection Glenrothes 36 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $1199. 00

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  $14388.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 42.1%

  Glenrothes is at its very best when it comes out of Bourbon wood with a massive age statement. In this case it was a refill hogshead. Given the steady rise in prices for malts of this ilk and category, Rattray's offering remains very reasonable. The maturation encompasses Diego Maradona’s magic in Mexico 1986 and Lionel Messi’s majesty in Qatar 2022. The whisky is elegant, bold, full of flair and "velvety signature of ultimate maturity." A celebratory dram befitting the most special occasions. The cask yielded 220 bottles. 42.1 Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Sunset gold. Nose: Brazil nut, elderflower, mango and saffron. Palate: Juniper, bergamot oil, cacao nib and liquorice. Finish: Orange blossom honey and the unmistakable, velvety signature of ultimate maturity. 

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  • Nick's Import

  2009 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Knockdhu 15 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $139. 99

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  $1679.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 52.4%

  Knockdhu is better known as AnCnoc. Its dainty, fruity spirit spent 13 months of secondary maturation in a Moscatel wine barrique. Expect subtle orchard fruit notes from the original Bourbon wood maturation, and something a little sweet and tropical from the latter. 322 bottles were produced. 52.4% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

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  • Nick's Import

  2011 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Balblair 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 57.4%

  Balblair is a characterful make that’s rarely in the spotlight. Here's a bit of a twist on one from an indie: Finished in a two year-seasoned, first-fill Oloroso sherry European oak butt for one year, following maturation in a refill sherry butt for over eleven years, this Balbalir is defined by dried fruit notes. European oak typically imparts a greater spice and depth of character than soft, sweet American oak. Combined with a high strength expression, you can expect a big'un! 604 bottles produced. 57.4% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Warm copper.  Nose: Sticky raisin, may rose and morello cherry.  Palate: Dried cranberry, bergamot and sugared almond. Finish: Exotic Turkish delight with pistachio and date. 

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  • Nick's Import

  2015 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Dalmunach 8 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $139. 99

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  $1679.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 65.9%

  Built in 2014 on the site of the old Imperial distillery, Dalmunach is a new Pernod-Ricard backed project at the forefront of the latest wave of new Scottish distilleries. Filled less than a year after the first spirit flowed from the stills, this refill hogshead provides the perfect stage to showcase this newcomer’s flavours of cereal and orchard fruit. Drawn from a single bourbon hogshead at an intense ABV of 65.9%, cask 4191 filled 300 bottles. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Sun-blushed gold. Nose: Grapefruit oil, toasted multigrain bread and spiced chive butter. Palate: Grilled peach, rolled oat granola and damson jam. Finish: Mouthwatering orchard fruit and citrus liven the charred oak base.

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  • Nick's Import

  2010 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Craigellachie 14 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $159. 99

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  $1919.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 57.1%

  Around 14 years old seems to be a good age for Craigellachie, a fact confirmed by the official release 13 year old which remains the distillery's leading line. Long fermentations are responsible for a fragrant, fruity aspect in the distillate, giving it a tropical and slightly floral edge that's most noticeable in mature examples. In this 14 year old from Rattray, tradition and heritage meet experimentation and modernity via an “old-style” spirit drawn from an x Bourbon barrel acquired back in 2010. It's been given an extra layer of complexity through finishing in a first-fill Burgundy red wine cask. Matching casks with secondary woods is a continual learning process. Here the bottlers say the spirit has gained appreciable notes of Pinot Noir, complementing Craigellachie's characteristically full-bodied base. Cask No.18 yielded 296 bottles at 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Nectarine gold. Nose: Fresh iris, blackcurrant jam and apricot toasted oat crumble. Palate: Charred peach, dried cranberry and rose petal jelly. Finish: Spiced berry compote with a sprinkling of toasted pine nut.

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  • Nick's Import

  2013 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Glen Moray 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 64.3%

  Rattray contend that few makes are more amenable to finishing than Glen Moray. Its soft, fruity elegance matches well to a great variety of cask types. Sauternes wood, in particular, enhances the inherent sweetness of the spirit, highlights the abundant citric notes and peppers it all with a gentle spice. Starting life in a Bourbon hogshead before been transferred to a first-fill Sauternes Barrique for over two years, cask No.892 had an outturn of 264 bottles at a potent ABV of 64.3%. Yet, despite the extreme alcohol, tasters have stated, "Keep your hands off the water, this Glen Moray can also be enjoyed at cask strength." Non chill filtered.

  Other reviews... Nose: Amazingly smooth with flattering fruit aromas and a complementary honey sweetness. Apricot cream, peach, walnuts with summer honey. Behind this I find dark malt biscuits, delicate vanilla and a hint of caramel. Palate: The sweetness of the Sauternes hits you hard here. Apricot jam, ripe mandarins, orange zest, Jaffa biscuits, golden syrup. Then the alcohol can no longer hide, a slight spiciness of ginger and cinnamon emerges. - whiskybase.com

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Deep amber. Nose: Honey poached apricot, vintage marmalade and butterscotch sauce. Palate: Caramelised pear, Curaçao orange and spiced gingerbread loaf. Finish: Indulgent toffee apple interspersed with lively cinnamon and clove.

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  • Nick's Import

  A.D. Rattray Cask Speyside Sherry Finish 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $99. 99

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  $1199.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

  The ten year old predecessor to this edition received praise from the likes of Jim Murray (89 points). This latest Cask Speyside ups the age statement and includes a spell in sherry casks. The rich, spiced berry flavours make an indulgent contrast to the refreshing citrus flavours of the ten. Un-coloured and non-chill-filtered, it's good to see Rattray maintaining the higher abv in this super value series. 46% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Despite the finish, it got a lot of sherry, modern profile, of course. More in the direction of PX, very sweet, toffee, orange peel, apple and almonds. On the palate there is a clear hint of oak, a bit bitter, slightly tingling, very spicy, again orange or orange jam and a hint of red fruit. Quite long finish, spicy, slightly bitter, warming. The 46% drinking strength is just right. Imho did the finish right here for the malt. - whiskybase.com

  Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Almond icing, dusted cinnamon, red apple and blackcurrant. Palate: Cherry plum, spiced honey and zesty orange marmalade. Finish: Rolling gently through subtle spice to a lightly tart, bramble conclusion. Spiced berry, citrus and orchard fruit.

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  • Nick's Import

  A.D. Rattray Cask Orkney 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Orkney Islands, SCOTLAND

  $119. 99

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  $1439.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

  A mystery Orkney. Could it be Scapa? The notes from the bottlers describe a peppery-smokey character, so it's the other. Not a mainstream Highland Park that most will be accustomed to, which is what you want from an independent. At first, mezcal-like, and subtle smoke indeed, instead, a rather fresh, grassy, crisp expression with trace peat. Fascinating and strangely compelling compared to the official bottlings, once attuned to the right amount of water it makes for a good aperitif. Otherwise, add an ice cube or two, release the oils and richen up the experience. Mimimal water is required. One reviewer sums it up as "...a great summer whisky. Lovely honied malty waxy notes; a good ex-bourbon maturation". It's out of the ordinary for the age statement, but at this price and ABV, grabbing a bottle is't much of a gamble. 46% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

  Other reviews... Nose: A freshness opens the dram, before vanilla, coconut, lemon peel, and some red berries ­— think raspberries. Palate: That freshness continues alongside cream soda, orange and lemon peel, some apple skin, blossom honey, brioche, and just a hint of sweet spice like ginger powder. Finish: Decent length on the finish here without too much tannin. Comment: Sweet and mellow with lots of sweet bourbon-cask character. - whiskymag.com

  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Butterscotch gold. Nose: Clover honey, Parma violet, ripe peach and wild heather embers. Palate: Grilled plum, old-fashioned barley sugar, noble hop and caraway.  Finish: A prolonged peppery smoke lifted by tart citrus and foraged pine.

  
  

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  • Nick's Import

  2007 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Teaninich 16 Years Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $179. 99

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  $2159.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 57.8%

  Rattray had a sister cask to this one (#461) released at 14 years old in 2021. By comparison, Bourbon hogshead #462 was afforded two further years of maturation through perhaps the most significant mid-teen ageing period, allowing fresh orchard fruits to develop into more tart citrus notes over the ever-present, hearty cereal base. 290 bottles were filled at 57.8% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
  Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Polished gold. Nose: Chalky lemon, honey pomelo and soda bread. Palate: Rustic loaf, Parma violet and fresh lime. 
  Finish: Subtle saffron, liquorice and ginger decorate the palate. 

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  • Nick's Import

  A.D. Rattray Cask Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $89. 99

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  $1079.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

  Double Gold Medal Winner in the 2016 & 2017 San Fransisco World Spirits Competition.

  Yet another independent bottler hits Australian shores, boasting a strong reputation for quality. Founded by Andrew Dewar Rattray in 1868, the company began trading as an importer of French wines, Italian spirits and olive oil. More importantly, the firm established itself as a specialist in the field of blending and storage of malt and grain whiskies. After several changes in ownership, it returned to the family and is presently owned by Tim Morrison, previously of Morrison Bowmore Distillers and fourth generation descendent of the founder. The company’s resurgence came about in 2002 with the bottling of a ‘new’ Stronachie. In April 2004, using his extensive industry knowledge, Morrison then bottled a selection of his own handpicked whiskies and the A.D. Rattray Cask Collection was born. Plans for their new Glasgow-based distillery were approved in 2014.

  Peated to 35ppm, Cask Islay is assembled from up to twenty casks from the one distillery, mostly x-bourbon barrel matured, though some ex-sherry hogsheads are reportedly in the mix. It is unashamedly Islay in its semi-sweet, sooty peat character that's complexed by suggestions of orange cake, cough lozenge, hints of smoked fish and later, banana cake. Because this series is bottled at 46% with zero chill filtration, the whiskies are surprisingly concentrated. Here, the medium dry, spicy profile features sooty malt and vanilla with some apparent sherry influence towards the finish as this gets more dried fruit-like. There's also real staying power with Fisherman's Friend carrying the aftertaste. A sit-back-and-relax island treat at a very reasonable price. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Other reviews... Does what it says on the tin. 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

  ...A.D. Rattray! Glad to meet one of their recent bottlings, I had thought they were, well, gone. Or busy with the Outer-Mongolian market. We had an early batch of their Cask Islay in 2011, and thought it was pretty good (WF 83). Colour: white wine. Nose: reeks of young Caol Ila, which can’t be bad news. Apples, garden bonfire, seawater, whelks, oysters, fresh almonds, and lemons. There. Mouth: purrfekt, with some impeccable ashy smoke (very CI indeed) and more almonds, lemons, apples, and those tiny green crabs that people would rather throw into wild broths and soups. Oh and apples, naturally. Okay, I had mentioned apples before. Finish: rather long, very ashy, kippery, and with apples and lemons in the aftertaste. Comments: a great batch despite the youth and the (relative) simplicity. Not much depth, but all the rest is perfect. Welcome back, A.D. Rattray! 84 points - whiskyfun.com

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  • Nick's Import

  Aberlour Casg Annamh Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 8

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $119. 99

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  $1439.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 48%

  Proof positive that high ABV and zero chill filtration makes a world of difference.

  Sheer approachability has helped Aberlour become the most popular whisky in France, where more single malt is consumed than any other country. At around 40%, it's a polite, relaxed and sometimes, slightly wanting tasting experience. As an alternative for those who prefer sherry with a kick, owners Pernod-Ricard introduced the natural strength A'bunadh around 2000. Eighteen years later, Casg Annamh was launched as a French Exclusive in a similar vein (the name translates from the Gaelic as “rare cask”). Also influenced by Oloroso, it's matured in three types of casks: European oak Sherry casks and two different types of American oak . Like A'bunadh, Casg Annamh is batch specific, with about ten iterations to date, some better than others. Whichever you come across, they're all handsomely packaged with a wax seal stopper, while the extra ABV and zero chill filtration makes a world of difference. 48% Alc./Vol.

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  • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  Aberlour Forest Reserve 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $99.99

  $89. 99

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  $1079.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Recently re-packaged and subtitled 'Forest Reserve', Aberlour's 10 year old is one of the world's top selling single malts. Along with the new look, there's been a slight change to the maturation regime - this expression has had an additional finishing in French Limousin oak barrels after spending most of its time in Bourbon and Sherry casks.

  Other reviews... [Original 10YO bottling] Orange-amber hue. Inviting aromas of orange marmalade and Sherry. Moderately full-bodied with mouth-coating viscosity. Well-balanced flavors of honeycomb, heather, oloroso Sherry, and citrus peel with a hint of herbaceous peat. Finishes with a warm, satisfying glow of alcohol. A sure bet as a digestif.
  91 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com

  Founded on its current site by James Fleming in 1879, the village ‘Aberlour’ (Gaelic for Mouth of the Chattering Burn) became nationally famous in the 19th century for its orphanage. The town has preserved much of its historical character. Original houses, built of stones taken from the bed of the Spey, mingle with more recent buildings and landscaped public gardens. Aberlour's spectacular setting on the banks of the Spey makes it easy to see what made it such an attractive place to found a community and a distillery. Built alongside the Lour burn, Aberlour uses pure spring water that rises through peat and granite from Ben Rinnes. The St Drostan Well stone was erected to mark the location of the spring, which was used by St Drostan to baptise the local population in the 7th century, and is also featured on Aberlour’s label.

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  2024 Ad Hoc Cruel Mistress Pinot Noir

  Pemberton, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

  $19. 99

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  $239.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)

  ABV: 13%

  Closure: Stelvin

  The Pemberton region in Western Australia is renown for it’s Pinot Noir. Winemaker Larry Cherubino utilises his local knowledge and relationships with growers to consistently produce the Cruel Mistress Pinot at a level that delivers exceptional value for money.
  Fruit was fermented using a combination of wild fermentation and selected yeasts. Maturation took place in 1-3 year old French oak barrels for 6 months.

  Consistently one of the country’s best value Pinots, the Cruel Mistress once again delivers the goods.

  Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Showing good aromatic lift, the nose offers up dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb scents followed by some dried herb, bramble and spicy earth notes. A supple flow of cherry, strawberry and rhubarb flavours are layered across the delicious palate with impressive intensity. Lying underneath are notions of anise, spicy cedar, dried herb and subtle earthy bramble elements. Polished tannins with a long juicy finish that’s quite moreish. Delivers the goods yet again – fantastic value.
  Drink over the next 3-4 years.
  Alc. 13%

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  2013 Adelphi Deanston 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $219. 99

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  $2639.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 58.2%

  Bourbon casks are standard for most Deanstons, complementing the distillate's natural sweetness while adding layers of vanilla and tropical fruit. This ten year old should have plenty of youthful spice in reserve. Cask #7403 yielded 239 bottles at a natural strength of 58.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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• • 

  2018 Adelphi Lochlea 5 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $219. 99

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  $2639.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 59.2%

  A name that will be new to most whisky lovers: Thirty minutes drive south from Glasgow, nestled in the heart of Ayrshire, Lochlea is an independent family-owned distillery - now a rare thing in the Scotch whisky industry. Producing since 2018, their approach is small-batch, innovative and flexible without the constraints of a large corporate structure. Barley is grown on the farm and an on-site water source is employed, so there's full traceability over production. Adelphi's selection was matured in a single first fill Bourbon barrel. 265 bottles are on offer at 59.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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• • 

  2011 Adelphi Blair Athol 13 Year Old Whisky & Dreams Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $199. 99

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  $2399.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 55.5%

  Located in Perthshire, on the road to the flock of distilleries that are located further north, Blair Athol was first brought to the attention of malt lovers via Diageo's Flora & Fauna series. Typically a gingery and nutty dram, this cask strength edition from Adelphi was presumably drawn from an x bourbon barrel and was originally an exclusive for "Whisky & Dreams" with an outturn of 251 bottles. 55.5% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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• • 

  Adelphi The Glover 7th Edition 8 Year Old Cask Strength Blended Malt Whisky (700ml)

  $299. 99

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  $3599.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 56.4%

  Now in its seventh iteration, 'Glover' is a blend of Scotch and Japanese Whiskies named in honour of 19th century Scottish industrialist, Thomas Glover. This time around, 8 year old peated Chichibu and unpeated Ardnamurchan are in the mix, both distilled in 2014 and both matured in Bourbon barrels. Described as complex, perfumed and coastal, it should be another very tasty addition to Adelphi's Fusion series. As word has travelled, these limited editions now routinely sell out. 56.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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  2020 Alheit Vineyards Hemelrand Vine Garden

  Western Cape, SOUTH AFRICA

  $74. 99

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  $899.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 13.1%

  Closure: Cork

  Hemelrand Vine Garden is a white field blend that changes every year depending on the vintage conditions, as the idea behind is to bottle a wine just as the vineyard produces it. The Hemelrand vineyard, situated on the Hemel & Aarde Ridge at 360 meters above sea level on gravelly clay and Sandstone, was planted in 2010 to Chardonnay, Roussanne, Verdelho, Chenin blanc and Muscat Blanc a petit grain. As mentioned, the proportions of the different grapes produced significantly varies each vintage. The 2020 release is composed of 32% Chardonnay, 25% Roussanne, 25% Chenin, 13% Verdelho and 5% Muscat.
  The grapes were hand sorted in the vineyard and whole bunch pressed. The resulting juice was very lightly settled with no additions and wild fermented in old barrels of various sizes. After fermentation, the wine was kept on lees for around twelve months, then rested in tank on fine lees without fining for a further six months prior to bottling.

  Other Reviews....
  The 2020 Hemelrand Vine Garden comes from a field blend albeit planted in rows that makes it easier to manage. It is aged on the gross lees for 12 months. It has a wonderful bouquet with yellow plum, honeysuckle and a very slight petrolly scent, all supremely well defined. The palate is very well balanced with a saline entry, fine tension with a pithy, lightly spiced finish that lingers with touches of stem ginger and fennel. Maybe my pick of Alheit's 2020s? This is a profound white Rhône blend that will be fascinating to watch age in bottle. Drink: 2023-2038.
  95 points
  Neal Martin - Vinous

  A vivid white, revealing rapierlike acidity enmeshed with flavors of white raspberry and peach, dried thyme and pickled ginger, with minerally stone and saline accents. Tightly meshed and linear, but opens nicely on the palate, layering the fruit character with a rich hint of graham cracker on the juicy finish. Chardonnay, Roussanne, Chenin Blanc, Verdelho and Muscat. Drink now through 2030. 687 cases made.
  92 points
  Wine Spectator

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  2023 Allegrini Corte Giara Pinot Grigio

  Veneto, ITALY

  $19. 99

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  $239.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2024-2025)

  ABV: 12.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  The Corte Giara range is an offspring of the famous Allegrini family in the Valpolicella region. Together with a few select winegrowers, they created a concept centred around modern and eclectic wines, representing great value for money, with international varietals through to Amarone, Recioto and other classic wines of the Veneto region.
  Brilliant pale straw colour with a subtle glimmer of green around the edges and a watery hue. Delightful pear and red apple scents enchant the olfactory senses with a faint whiff of honeysuckle, musk and spice also evident. Beautifully shaped with a slippery, well rounded feel, the palate features delicious pear, red apple skin and spicy lime fruits over a delicate quince and wet stone back drop. Showing excellent intensity it has brisk underlying acidity and a long, moreish finish.
  Drink over the next year.
  Alc. 12.5%

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  • Nick's Import

  AnCnoc Sherry Cask Finish Peated Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $109. 99

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  $1319.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  A logical addition to Knockdhu's family, given that the distillery is perched close to some of the finest barley and peat bogs the Highlands offer. Unlike AnCnoc Peat Heart, which features 100% peated spirit and has been solely matured in ex-bourbon casks, this is a combination of unpeated and peated distillate that gets finished in sherry butts creating a soft, sweet, smoky malt that's more accessible than many Islays. 43% Alc./Vol.

  Notes from the producers... NOSE: Sweet honey and tropical fruit, notes of cinnamon and rich toffee, delicate campfire smoke. TASTE: Toffee apples coated in warming spices, deep vanilla, a rich, sweet, smoky character. Long wood smoke, caramel, vanilla finish.

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  • 91

  • Reduced

  AnCnoc Peatheart Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $149.99

  $129. 99

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  $1559.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

  "Won't be long before Peat Heart becomes the peataholic's sweetheart." - Jim Murray

  Not just on the islands, but throughout the Scottish uplands, most extensively in the north and west, you'll find the heart of the peatlands. Knockdhu Distillery (aka AnCnoc) sits on the doorstep of this region, rich in barley and in peat. A natural resource, peat was historically embraced as fuel to fire stills and dry the barley in order to make whisky. Peatiness can be controlled by the amount of peat burnt and the humidity of the barley. Peat smoke produces chemicals called phenols, and it is by its phenol content that a whisky's 'peatiness' can be measured. In this case, AnCnoc have gone to a relatively high 40ppm - much higher than previous editions like 'Flaughter' and 'Rutter' which peaked around 15 ppm.

  Other reviews... Won't be long before Peat Heart becomes the peataholic's sweetheart. Curiously underperforming nose but makes amends in style on the palate. 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023

  Notes from the producers... Colour: Pale amber. Nose: An initial smoky burst surrenders to a surge of fruitiness. Ripe pears and the citrus notes of apples and limes with just a touch of tobacco in the background. The nose is balanced yet an undeniable smoky sweetness prevails. Taste: Smoke laced with leather and sweet stewed apples. Chocolate is there too, perfectly complemented by sweet vanilla and zesty lemon. The finish has a lingering warmth with a floral smokiness. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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  Andre Clouet Silver Brut Nature Champagne

  Champagne, FRANCE

  Reduced from $99.99

  $74. 99

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  $899.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Diam Cork

  When it comes to Pinot Noir in Champagne, the grand cru villages of Bouzy and Ambonnay rank amongst the greatest in the region. And one of the most talented exponents from here is the Clouet family based in Bouzy. Champagne Andre Clouet have been producing Champagne for over two centuries, and under the guidance of Jean Francois Clouet the wines have never looked better. While his wines are exuberant and concentrated, Jean Francois manages to counter this with immaculate finesse and detail on the palate.
  Silver Brut Nature is a rich yet elegant 100% Pinot Noir expression, bottled with Zero Dosage to highlight the wine's precision. It includes 35% reserve wines, with 10% of the maturation taking place in barrel. A plentiful mousse dissipates to reveal a pale straw to straw coloured base with gold tinged edges. A nimble stream of bubbles flowing to the surface. Bready yeast lees top notes are trailed by oily toast like notes, citrus, almond and subtle brioche. Tense and sculptured yet full and rich across the palate with riveting acidity, flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and citrus overlay a roasted almond and chalky mineral back drop. Bone dry and crisp it finishes long and chalky.
  Alc. 12%

  Other Reviews....
  A bold and generous champagne for Brut Nature, the bone-dry finish mellowed by the ripe-apricot character, plus hints of toast and melted butter. Not super-elegant, perhaps, but gives a lot of pleasure and has entirely its own style. 100% pinot noir. Drink now.
  93 Points
  JamesSuckling.com

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  • 92
  • 93

  • Reduced

  Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut Champagne

  Champagne, FRANCE

  Reduced from $89.99

  $74. 99

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  $899.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Diam Cork

  When it comes to Pinot Noir in Champagne, the grand cru villages of Bouzy and Ambonnay rank amongst the greatest in the region. And one of the most talented exponents from here is the Clouet family based in Bouzy. Champagne Andre Clouet have been producing Champagne for over two centuries, and under the guidance of Jean Francois Clouet the wines have never looked better. While his wines are exuberant and concentrated, Jean Francois manages to counter this with immaculate finesse and detail on the palate.
  Made from a Pinot Noir base this blend is aged on lees for a period of 36 months and includes 30% reserve wines. It pours with a fluffy white mousse which gradually evaporates to reveal a pale straw coloured base with pale gold tinged edges that's threaded by a fine, persistent bead. Delightful aromas of baked bread and yeast lees combine with pear, baked apple and brioche notes. Rich, mouth filling favours of baked bread, pear and brioche linger over a subtle roasted hazelnut and yeast lees back drop. Full, creamy like feel with chalk tinged acidity. Finishes dry, long and expansive.
  Alc. 12%
  
  Other Reviews....
  The effusive nose of candied citrus, ripe pear and brioche pulls you into this fresh and creamy champagne that hits all the pleasure buttons for a non-vintage Brut. Then the chalky freshness at the finish pulls you back for another sip. Excellent balance! 100% pinot noir. Drink now.
  93 points
  JamesSuckling.com
  
  Incredible value for a blanc de noirs (100% Pinot Noir) grower Champagne from the grand cru vineyards of Bouzy. It shows gorgeous aromas of stone fruit, citrus and strawberry, with complex brioche nuances, remarkable balance, ongoing elegance and a rich, refined, persistent finish.
  92 points
  Stacy Slinkard - Decanter (March 2021)

  
  
  

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  • 88
  • 98

  • Reduced

  Angel's Envy Bourbon (750ml)

  Kentucky, UNITED STATES

  Reduced from $119.99

  $99. 99

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  $1199.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43.3%

  Lincoln Henderson is an iconic Brown-Forman master distiller who helped develop several well-known brands, including Woodford Reserve, Gentleman Jack and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel. His son, Wes, went onto found Angel's Envy. Before his father's passing in 2013, Lincoln worked on selecting and perfecting the blend for the brand. This is his pride and joy, and unusually for Bourbon, it's finished in French oak Ruby Port Barrels for up to six months. If you’re after a premium Bourbon that’s affordable while delivering a little something extra, this should work. Charry oak, candied citrus peels and cherry ripe chocolate come together on the nose with hints of sticky date in tow. Come back after further air contact and you get more nuanced wine input. It’s a one of a kind Bourbon bouquet that follows through on the palate with spiced plums, blueberry bubble gum and semi-ripe raspberries alongside more familiar Bourbon notes. The finish extends that cherry ripe dark chocolate overlay with soft rye spices, moderate astringency and more vanilla and chocolate. A trailblazer when it was first released in 2011, at around six years old, it's a Kentuckian with a delicious twist. Holding it back is a somewhat tame ABV. Look out for the high-strength bottlings, but expect to pay much, much more. 43.3% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... A beautiful, mouthwatering newcomer to the whiskey scene. Named for the “angel's share,” the portion that evaporates from the barrel during the aging process, this golden amber spirit is finished in Port barrels, which explains those juicy red-fruit notes that slide into the long finish. Look for orange peel, vanilla and roasted nut flavors, too. 98 points - wineenthusiast.com

  ...Cherry cough syrup, cinnamon French toast, spearmint gum, boiled peanuts, dried flowers, hay, and a hint of sandalwood on a sweet and earthy nose. Creamy texture on a bitter palate, with dried cherries and strawberries, cinnamon sugar, and chocolate. With water there is tart cherry cobbler. Good length on a woody finish, with some vanilla cream and spice.
  88 points - Ted Simmons 2021, whiskyadvocate.com

  ...Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey finished in a port pipe. This is veteran master distiller Lincoln Henderson’s newest creation, and it’s a beauty. Richly textured, silky, and well-rounded, with ripe berried fruits, candied tangerine, light toffee, maple syrup, and creamy vanilla, sprinkled with spice (cinnamon, hint of mint). Smooth, silky finish, and dangerously drinkable! The port pipe notes dovetail perfectly. Lovely just the way it is, but it’s begging for a cigar. My only gripe: why not 45 or 50% ABV? But I’m splitting hairs. I really enjoy this stuff!
  93 points - Reviewed by: John Hansell (Spring 2011), whiskyadvocate.com

  “Five Stars, Highest Recommendation” - spiritsjournal.com

  ...Muted vanilla, light oak, and leather swirl together and are joined are dashes of green peppercorn and syrup-soaked raisins. For being finished for 3-6 months, you’d expect more of an impact from the port barrels. However, this isn’t the case. While the flavors present are nice, the mouthfeel is on the thinner side, which detracts from their impact... If you haven't explored barrel finished bourbons yet, Angel’s Envy Port Finished Bourbon is a good start. It’s not so influenced that you’ll be turned off if you discover you're more of a traditionalist, and if you find that you like it, you’ll have a suitable introduction to a range of barrel finished products to further explore. On top of that, it provides a really nice subtle twist for lower proof cocktails. Credit needs to be given to this trailblazer of a product, however it also needs to be realized that this bourbon leaves you wanting just a bit more. - breakingbourbon.com

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  • 

  2024 Antonio Pinot Grigio

  Veneto, ITALY

  $23. 99

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  $287.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)

  ABV: 12.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A delicious, slippery textured Pinot Grigio with a long, refreshing finish.

  Antonio Fattori is the third generation to grow vines and make wine at his family’s Terrossa estates. His Pinot Grigio is made from vineyards near Antonio’s home, fruit is picked early, close to a week before most, to retain freshness.
  Brilliant water like core with a faint greenish tinge around the edges. Delightful pear and red apple scents are trailed by whiffs of honeysuckle, musk and spice. On the palate delicious pear, red apple and lime fruits are delivered with impressive intensity over a back drop of delicate musk and wet stone. Slippery textured it has brisk acidity and a long refreshing finish.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 12.5%

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• • 

  • Nick's Import

  Appleton Estate 15 Year Old Black River Casks Rum (700ml)

  JAMAICA

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  A tribute to the iconic Black River, the source of limestone-filtered water used to craft Appleton's rums, and according to some reports, timber from the crocodile infested mangroves south of the estate is used in some of the barrels (other sources say they're just 40-gallon American oak casks). Regardless, this blend of pot and column still rums was rated as one of the Top 100 Spirits of 2021 at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and has received unanimous praise from rum lovers globally. 100% tropically aged in Jamaica. 43% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Intoxicating bouquet of orange blossom, banana bread, crème brûlée, papaya, Sichuan peppercorn, and high-toned dunderfunk. Elegant and smooth on the palate, with vanilla bean, chocolate covered strawberries, and sweet smoke coming forward before a long, tropical finish dotted with tobacco takes over. 95 points - Extraordinary, Ultimate Recommendation - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021

  ...Anyone familiar with the Appleton house style will find plenty to enjoy here, kicking off with a rich nose that offers ample notes of allspice and cloves, extracted fruit notes, and a restrained hogo character that keeps everything in balance. The palate doubles down on the tiki spice elements, a base of red fruit and figs finding kinship with a healthy cinnamon character. Everything feels like it’s going great up to the finish, which comes across as a bit thin for a 15 year old rum. However, a nice clove character lingers after the fruit fades out.

  It may be too expensive for regular use as a mixer, but would certainly excel as one. - drinkhacker.com

  ...Since I had never heard of Black River in Jamaica, I just had to look it up. It is on the southwest coast of Jamaica about 20 miles south of the Appleton Estate. Back when I visited Jamaica in 1988 and 1996, this part of Jamaica saw no tourism at all. This has obviously changed as there are now safari boats guiding tourists through these mangrove swamps. I gather that some very special wood from this area goes into making the casks that aged this rum. If you are expecting a heavy black char in this rum, you won't find it at all. It is a very good dry rum with the usual no sugar being added, but I still prefer their 8 Year Reserve Blend as my favorite from this island. - rumratings.com

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  • Nick's Import
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  Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml) with Free Ardbeg T-shirt & Mug

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $310.00

  $249. 99

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  $2999.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

  Get a FREE Ardbeg t-shirt and mug with every order containing a Smoketrails purchase. Maximum one t-shirt and mug per order.*

  The first edition in Ardbeg’s inaugural travel retail series. One litre, 46% NCF.

  'Smoketrails' is the name for Ardbeg's new and first-ever collection of single malts exclusively dedicated to the travel market. Launched in late 2022 with annual batches in the pipeline, each edition will be a marriage of Ardbeg aged in American oak with Ardbeg matured in secondary casks sourced from around the world. This is the first edition, employing Manzanilla (dry) Sherry casks from Sanlúcar de Barrameda on Spain’s Atlantic coast. Light and fresh in style, Manzanilla sherries are aged close to the sea and are typically bone dry with a salty tang - well matched to Ardbeg's island profile.

  Distillery Manager, Colin Gordon says, “For each Smoketrails release we’ll pack our suitcase and zig zag across the globe in search of new flavour adventures...With a unique batch code on this and future bottlings, we hope Ardbeggians will jump at the chance to get their hands on this delectable, collectable dram when they are on their travels.”

  Ardbeg’s Master Distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden adds “In Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition, salty sea spray and deep, nutty notes mingle with pungent aromas of soot, dark chocolate and Brazil nuts. Clouds of pine and fennel fill the senses with notes of saddle soap and aniseed trailing gently behind. All I have to say to anybody who lays their hands on a bottle is… get ready for a smoky blast!” Available at selected airports around the globe, we've sourced a small parcel for Australian devotees who might otherwise miss out. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Other reviews... I've just seen that this one is still available in travel retail, for a price that's much lower than in regular shops. They were having dozens at Basel airport just last week, for example. It is a vatting of ex-American oak (Heaven Hill?) and ex-manzanilla casks. I remember some superb ex-fino Ardbeg around Feis 2005, but I'm not sure we've already tried some ex-manzanilla 'beg. But was Dr Bill's idea to add saltiness to saltiness? Let's see, while it's mentioned on the label that it should display some 'saddle soap'… Remember horses are another specialty of Jerez… Colour: straw. Nose: frankly, the territory of an (unsherried, ha) Ardbeg and that of some manzanilla are so close to each other that I'm finding this nose particularly tautological. Fresh walnuts shouting out, green apples and lemons, some chalk, a touch of mustard, sea spray, fresh almonds and chalk, then only a wee touch of mutton suet or something like that. Having said all that and while it's classic Ardbeg in my book, it is not really 'big'. Mouth: perhaps a little too much grittiness, fresh oak at first, making it bitterish (bell pepper, walnut skin), but also loads of salt, as expected. It feels young for sure. Cold ashes, lemon skin, tart cider apples, lemon jellybeans… I find it relatively simple, but Ardbeggy enough. Finish: rather long, still salty. Or, let's say it triggers a lot of saltiness. Walnuts and mustard in the aftertaste. Comments: now, what to do with a litre of this, if you've also got a bottle of the superior Ten in your cabinet? And I'm afraid I couldn't recognise any notes of saddle soap, but that is me. Don't get me wrong, it's some very good Ardbeg that we could quaff with langoustines on the shore of the Guadalquivir, in Sanlucar. 86 points - whiskyfun.com

  Notes from the producers... Nose: Lemon peel. Gentle smoke, not too peaty, more bonfire than medical. Some fruity notes. Taste: Sweet, toffee notes, milk chocolate, then the citric notes from the nose are coming back. Smoke is rather gentle. Finish: Long. Now reconcilable peaty, yet sweet.

  *Please request your preferred t-shirt size in the Special Instructions field of the checkout. T-shirt sizes and mugs are subject to availability and we cannot guarantee we will have your size. If no t-shirt size is requested it will be selected at random.

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  Ardnamurchan AD/ Sherry Cask Release 2024 Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 50%

  The importer tells us that these Ardnamurchan Sherry Cask Releases have a slightly different barrel makeup each time. The distillery is offering them annually to differentiate them from previous versions - hence '2024' in the title. Likely more mature stock is added each vintage, and no doubt their skills in blending the final whisky are honed as the liquid matures. The much-anticipated second edition has been bottled from a parcel of 15 unpeated ex-sherry Hogsheads and 10 peated ex-sherry casks filled in 2018 and 2019, including nineteen Oloroso butts and two PX butts. The deep mahogany colour shows their influence which comes through as a wonderful medley of red fruits, bonfire smoke, brine and dense nutty sherry. It will leave you wondering how a young whisky can taste so 'old'. This West Highland gem is becoming preferred over sherried Islays for many peat heads. The only question is, will Ardnamurchan sustain the quality over time? 21000 bottles produced. 50% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Other reviews... The Sherry Cask Release is once again a success; the sherry is evident but does not overpower the distillery character with smoky fruitiness. The whisky has a lot to offer and shows that a strong sherry influence does not have to lead to sticky sherry bombs, but can produce complex whiskies. Another Ardnamurchan that is extremely enjoyable. - whiskybase.com

  Notes from the producers... Nose: Murray mint, bonfire on the beach, salted peanut ice-cream, tomato stalks, Brazil nut, sundried tomatoes, teriyaki beef jerky, relish and tamari. Unctuous. Palate: Tarry rope, bung cloth, smoky bacon, old tractor shed, peanut brittle, sticky spare-ribs. Red plum and cherry, then shifts to chalk cliff and meaty traits above on later half. Finish: Crashing waves, sea-salt, bothy fireplace and cigar shop.

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  2020 Argiano NC Non Confunditur Toscana Rosso

  Tuscany, ITALY

  $34. 99

  Bottle

  $419.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2027-2028)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 25% Sangiovese from younger vines this is a generously endowed baby super Tuscan. Aging took place in older French oak for just a few months. Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Fragrant ripe black currant and dark cherry aromas drift out of the glass followed by some dusty earth, tobacco and delicate spicy cedar notes. Rich blackcurrant fruit carries plenty of weight across the palate with notions of earthy cedar, tobacco and spice lying underneath. Firmish yet nicely integrated tannins provide a sturdy structure and robust feel to the long generously fruited conclusion.
  Cellar 4-5 years.
  Alc. 14.5%

  Other Reviews….
  Blackberry with some asphalt and black-cherry aromas follow through to a medium body with firm, polished tannins and a crisp and clean finish. Cabernet sauvignon, syrah, merlot and a splash of sangiovese. Drink or hold.
  92 points
  JamesSuckling.com

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  • 87
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  • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  Arran 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Isle of Arran, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $109.99

  $99. 99

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  $1199.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

  "...tough to put down. It’s a stellar base for elevated Scotch cocktails, too." - drinkhacker.com

  Nominated as one of the twenty defining whiskies of the past twenty years by Malt Advocate back in 2013, this new incarnation of Arran 10 opens slightly woody and acidic on the nose developing attractive honeyed, chocolatey notes. On the palate, American oak underscores the malt; juicy orchard fruits and vanilla shine through in a fresh, spicy delivery. The finish offers stewed pears and hints of cinnamon. Uncomplicated but very tasty. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Other reviews... We last reviewed this whisky in 2012. Today the whisky is sweeter than I recall, the honey and nougat characteristics more immediate and vibrant on both nose and palate. Fresh, heathery granary notes give the palate a sense of the earth, with rolling notes of sweet breakfast cereal, a spritz of grapefruit peel, and just the lightest hint of rosemary. Definitely nutty on the finish, though my mention of almond notes 10 years prior is less distinct today, perhaps owing to the healthy slug of sweet honey that gives the whisky its exuberance. A light touch of green herbs returns on the finish — again, evoking rosemary. Arran 10 may not be overwhelming in its complexity — but it is, to be sure, tough to put down. It’s a stellar base for elevated Scotch cocktails, too. - drinkhacker.com

  ...Honey and fresh pear mingle on nose and palate of this single-malt Scotch from the Isle of Arran. Adding water cools the singe of alcohol heat and brings out a hint of smoke. Finishes light; sip or mix. 90 points - wineenthusiast.com

  [Previous packaging] Launched in 2006 as the first mainstream Arran bottling with an age statement, it is sweet and malty on the nose, with fresh-planed wood and toffee apples. The palate is fruity, with ripe banana, honey, vanilla, coconut, and wood spices. Spicy orchard fruits and malt in the relatively long finish. Well-balanced and eminently drinkable at this age. The quality has improved since earlier bottlings.
  87 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Fall 2018)

  Gold Medal 2019 World Whiskies Awards

  Gold Medal - 95 points IWSC 2019

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  • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  Arran Sherry Cask The Bodega Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Isle of Arran, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $159.99

  $129. 99

  Bottle

  $1559.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 55.8%

  "...great surprise. Smart work on this one." - whiskyfun.com

  One of the highlights in the new-look range, this harkens back to some of the earliest Arrans which were mostly matured in Sherry casks. Ginger snaps, cinnamon and fruit'n'nut dark chocolate aromas follow with a lovely dried fruit aspect (figs, dates, apricots). Bold but balanced; drier in the mouth than the nose suggests with fresh dried fruit flavours, leaning towards apricots. Pepper, cinnamon and ginger bread spice up the medium long finish. A flavoursome 'contemporary' sherried style that's different to traditionalists like Glendronach or Macallan. 55.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

  Other reviews... The nose leans sweet with dulce de leche and dark berry jam, but it's countered with dark chocolate, dried rose petals, and a faint whiff of talc. The palate is thick with raisins, figs, candied ginger, orange peel, Concord grape jelly, rose oil, cocoa, and peppery spice, while the lengthy finish has persistent white pepper, dried ginger, chocolate, and burnt citrus. Dense with flavor thanks to its total sherry-cask maturation; give it time to fully reveal its depths. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com

  ...Apparently, this is some young (7 or 8) Arran that's integrally aged in first fill sherry. So, hit or miss… Colour: deep gold. Rather pale despite the pedigree. Nose: fully, totally and integrally on damson pie or, as we say here in Alsace, tarte aux quetsches. A handful of Smyrna raisins too, raisin rolls, sweet ale… Pretty simple, but flawless this far. With water: gears towards ripe plums and jams. Preserved greengages and mirabelles. A very tiny bit of sour wood in the background, which is just nothing. Mouth (neat): I'm reminded of some batches of A'Bunadh, if that rings a bell to you. A little rough and hot, but pleasantly raisiny. Stewed peaches, pepper, cinnamon, raisins, fruitcake. A classic variation everywhere in unpeated Scotland. With water: well it takes water very well. Lovely sweeter, fruitier spices, Szechuan pepper and all that. Also those cherries that we had also found in the 25. Finish: rather long, rather fresh, with more raisins, Szechuan pepper, and overripe damsons! Comments: great surprise. Smart work on this one. 86 points - whiskyfun.com

  Double Gold Medal - 98 points San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2024

  The nose brings notes of honey, orange, sweet raisins, cherries and sponge cake. On the palate, the fruitiness continues with added notes of dried figs and limes. Notes of cacao and sherry follow with a hint of soot and a spicy finish. Category Winner - World Whiskies Awards 2025

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  2021 Ata Rangi Pinot Noir

  Martinborough, NEW ZEALAND

  $110. 00

  Bottle

  $1320.00 Dozen

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  Cellar: 8 - 10 Years (2033-2035)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Stelvin

  Only fruit, from the oldest parcels of vines at Ata Rangi makes it into this wine. The fabled Abel clone, allegedly smuggled from Burgundy in the mid-70s, makes up 40% of the blend. Incorporates 40% whole bunch fruit with maturation taking place in French oak (30% new) for a period of 11 months.
  Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a dark red hue. Perfumed like aromas of violet, dark cherry, strawberry and plum captivate the olfactory senses with further sophistication drawn from some anise, vanillin cedar, forest floor and delicate spicy clove notes. Rich and concentrated yet structurally muscular in its feel, delicious dark cherry, strawberry and plum fruits are framed by graphite like tannins and agile acidity. Powerful yet somewhat understated at present, it’s supple on entry then tightens up towards the finish. Notions of anise, crushed rock, forest floor and spicy cedar lend further complexity. Concludes expansive yet tense and makes a long seductive exit.
  Cellar 8-10 years plus.
  Alc. 14%

  Other Reviews…..
  Lively and vibrant red fruits of wild strawberries and red cherries followed by rose hips, ground spices and a touch of citrus zest. Medium-bodied, finely grained velvety tannins with a delightful acid backbone. Zesty and layered wine with beautiful balance and complexity. It’s already enjoyable but will age gracefully.
  97 points
  JamesSuckling.com

  The 2021 Pinot Noir definitely reflects the vintage. Its good color and abundance of gravelly tannins display the smaller berried, smaller vintage. Its bright fruit, intense concentration and plentiful acidity accompany primary red fruit flavor, with an impressive show of ample black tea leaf-like tannins. It's a wine for the long haul that draws out on the extended finish. To be released in 2024. Drink 2025-2039.
  95-97 points
  Rebecca Gibb – Vinous

  The 2021 Pinot Noir is vibrant on the nose and totally precise and focused. The acid spools right from the front of the palate and has a mobile, agile way about it. The season may have had its challenges, but the wine is effortless, natural and shapely. It's great. The 40% whole bunch here sits well within the red fruit and creates a capacious mid-palate, without an impact of stalky flavor. Superb. A real pleasure to drink. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2023-2037.
  95 points
  Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

  This is impeccably composed and seductively expressed, showing dark cherry, clove, thyme and cedar characters on the nose with a gorgeous floral overtone. The concentrated palate is plush yet poised and refined with fleshy texture and perfectly pitched tannins. The wine exhibits stunning depth with layers of delectable flavours and meticulously structured mouthfeel, leading to a totally captivating, sensual finish.
  99 points
  Sam Kim – Wine Orbit

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  2021 Auld Family Wines Wilberforce Cabernet Shiraz

  Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

  $17. 99

  Bottle

  $215.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A rich, lush medium to full bodied blend with a long velvety, choc mint infused finish.

  A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Shiraz matured for 16 months in French oak (25% new). Midnight black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Sailing out of the glass with ample intensity are dark plum, liquorice and minty black currant aromas followed by spicy vanillin cedar and earthy tobacco notes. Rich and lush, the medium to full bodied palate features succulent blackberry, liquorice and blackcurrant fruits over a spicy vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and choc mint infused back drop. Polished tannins with a long velvety, choc mint infused finish.
  Drink over the next 4-5 years.
  Alc. 14.5%

  Other Reviews…..
  From the Barossa, and from a stellar vintage, this example of the great Aussie blend of Cabernet and Shiraz is a wine representing seriously good value. The colour is an opaque maroon. This is a fabulously fragrant red with the nose revealing notes of black cherries, florals, spices, blackcurrants, aniseed and violets. The wine is finely balanced, with a sleek texture, bright acidity and excellent length. Love it. Terrific now and any time over the next ten years. Such good buying. Drink 2025-2035.
  94 Points
  Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

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  2024 Babich Pinot Gris

  Marlborough, NEW ZEALAND

  $14. 99

  Bottle

  $179.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)

  ABV: 13%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A texturally rich and luscious Pinot Gris.
  
  Crafted from vineyards in the Waihopai & Wairau Valleys, this rich, full bodied Pinot Gris was tank fermented and spent 48 hours on lees to enhance it’s mouth feel. Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Drifting through the nostrils with plenty of intensity are aromas of pear, ripe apple and musk followed by hints of honeysuckle and quince. Mouth filling pear and apple fruits are complimented by musk, delicate honeysuckle and spice. Texturally rich and luscious, a lick of brisk acidity lends a dash of freshness to the long supple and juicy conclusion.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 13%

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  2024 Babich Sauvignon Blanc

  Marlborough, NEW ZEALAND

  $14. 99

  Bottle

  $179.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2024-2025)

  ABV: 12.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A classically styled Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc that regularly vies for New Zealand’s best value Sauvvy B. Brilliant very pale straw colour with subtle highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Pungent herbaceous gooseberry and passionfruit aromas combine with some complimenting grassy asparagus and citrus notes also evident. Zingy passionfruit, ripe gooseberry and citrus flavours are delivered with great intensity and have a mouth filling effect across the scrumptious palate. Crunchy acidity with some herbaceous grassy characters extending through the long finish.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 12.5%

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  Bakers 7 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

  Kentucky, UNITED STATES

  $124. 99

  Bottle

  $1499.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 53.5%

  Baker's is second of four super premium Bourbons released by Jim Beam in the “Small Batch Bourbon Collection.” Made from a 77% Corn, 13% Rye and 10% Malted Barley recipe preferred by Baker Beam, grand nephew of Jim Beam, this whiskey also utilises a special strain of jug yeast contributing a silky texture that remains consistent from batch to batch. In short, Bakers offers a flavour profile that's uniquely Beam. According to the boys at breakingbourbon.com, the new-look bottling maintains that precedent, delivering "...a pleasing above-average sip that is hard to find fault in."

  Other reviews... huge corn oil delivery, but then an avalanche of small grains finishes off the taste buds which aren't already salivating... 91 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024

  ...Rich, multi-layered nose: vanilla, cornmeal, berries (black raspberries, wineberries), and broad-shouldered oak. Powerful, but not overproof hot in the mouth; controlled. The berries sing a high counter-melody over the corn-oak beat as the whole experience rocks along. It’s powerful, sweet, authoritative, and finishes with a reprise of it all: berries, corn, vanilla, and stronger oak. Mature, complete bourbon with a 7 year age statement, and a real sleeper in the Small Batch Collection.
  92 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Lew Bryson (Fall 2014)

  Rich amber color. Sweet, buttery caramel, stone fruit, and nut aromas. A rich entry leads to a spicy, off-dry full-bodied palate with vibrant toffee, brown spice, and white pepper flavors. Finishes with a lingering wave of sweet vanilla and wood spice. Very even and straightforward. Try with a touch of water. 89 points - tastings.com

  Earlier bottling tasted... nose: excellent rye bite to firm and sweet nose. fruity with mature plums and over ripe banana star; palate: rye kicks off early and allows bitter and prickly, softly spiced, middle to ensure a characterful, multi-layered bourbon; finish: massively complex follow through with quite enormous and beautiful chocolate notes; comment: a chocoholic's bourbon with a bigger rye firmness. Tasty stuff. Rating: 8.5 - whiskymag.com

  Classic Cocktail: The Mint Julep
  Most likely originated in 1803, when John Davis, a traveler from Britain and a Virginia plantation tutor, defined a julep as 'a dram of spiritous liquor that has mint in it, taken by Virginians of a morning'. From there, it evolved into a putting mint and sugar into a tumbler, and then adding equal parts of peach and regular brandy. To this was added plenty of crushed ice. Traditionally, mint juleps were often served in silver or pewter cups, and held only by the bottom and top edges of the cup. This allows frost to form on the outside of the cup, which some would find a sign of gentility. Others merely find it pleasant to look at. It is well-known as the traditional beverage of the Kentucky Derby, a position it has held since 1938; during the event, more than 80,000 juleps are served at Churchill Downs.

  Bob Dylan described in his Theme Time Radio Hour episode #3 how to make, by his preferences, a perfect mint julep: 'First up, you take four mint sprigs, two and a half ounces of bourbon. I'd put three. A table spoon of powder sugar, and a table spoon of water. You put the mint leaves, powder sugar and water in a Collins glass. You fill the glass with shaved, or crushed ice, and then add bourbon. Top that off with more ice. And...I'd like to garnish that with a mint sprig. Serve it wih a straw. Two or three of those, and anything sounds good.'

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  • Reduced

  2017 Nicks Secret BALG Shiraz Cabernet

  Bendigo, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

  Reduced from $45.00

  $14. 99

  Bottle

  $179.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  This renown central Victorian producer was established in 1969 with the first vineyards planted in Bendigo to Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. With some decent bottle age behind it this well fleshed blend offers great value drinking over the next year or two.

  A rich, fleshy central Victorian blend that offers terrific everyday drinking.

  Midnight black dark red core with a dark red hue. An elevated combination of liquorice, blackberry and blackcurrant aromas greets the nostrils with complimenting notes of vanillin cedar, earth and choc mint like characters ensuing. Rich dark plum, liquorice and choc mint flavours are seamlessly integrated with vanillin cedar, earth and spice elements. Plush and fleshy in its feel, it carries medium to full body weight and possesses a silken yet underlying sturdy tannin structure. Finishes long and generous with traces of leather making an appearance on the aftertaste.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 14.5%

  Other Reviews….
  Oh boy, I really did love this wine. Despite now being seven years old, its ruby colour illustrates that there’s still a lot of life left in it. This is well and truly confirmed by the aromatics, which show an equal mix between primary and tertiary characters: blackberry, violets, raspberry, dried red and black fruits, dark chocolate, cigar box, and some well-integrated oak. The palate is glorious: silky, concentrated and vivid, with the alcohol never overwhelming but sitting firmly in the background. I also loved how it was great either to sip it by itself or to consume it with food (in my case, a juicy steak and roast veggies). I predict that with a bit more cellaring, the wine will improve even more.
  95+ points
  Brendan Black – WinePilot.com

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• • 95
  • 

  2021 Balnaves of Coonawarra Cabernet Merlot

  Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

  $27. 99

  Bottle

  $335.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot matured for 13 months in French oak (20% new). Fantastic depth of colour featuring an impenetrable inky black heart along with a deep black dark red hue. Intense blackcurrant and ripe mulberry aromas flood the nostrils with hints of choc mint, vanillin cedar, tobacco and spice also evident. Rich and full yet structured, the palate is awash with blackcurrant, mulberry and choc mint flavours which impart a plush mid palate feel. Backed by firm yet integrated tannins, vanillin cedar, subtle earthy tobacco and spice characters echo across the back half. Excellent concentration and depth concluding long and sturdy.
  Drink over the next 5-6 years.
  Alc. 14%

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