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- 96
2024 A. Rodda Whitlands Chardonnay

Whitlands, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$46. 99
Bottle
$563.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)

ABV: 13%

Closure: Stelvin

Rich, concentrated and beautifully shaped.
Winemaker Adrian Rodda spent more than 10 years at Oakridge wines before moving to Beechworth to set up his own operation. Formally labelled as Baxendale, the 2024 release has been renamed Whitlands and is sourced from a site planted in 1995. Fermented and matured in 500 litre French oak puncheons (35% first use) for a period of 12 months on lees, it was then transferred to tank for a further 3 months on lees prior to bottling.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with green highlighted edges and a watery hue. White peach, nectarine and dried honey scents drift though the nostrils with plenty of intensity. Lending further complexity are notes of biscuity oak, cashew, nougat and gun flint. Rich, concentrated and beautifully shaped, mouth filling white peach, pear and ripe nectarine fruits are layered across the palate with a fresh, creamy feel. Biscuity nougat, dried honey, cashew and gentle gun flint elements extend across the back half. Perfectly pitched acidity lending energy to the long, powerful and textured finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%

Delivery Information
- 90
- Nick's Import
A.D. Rattray Cask Orkney 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Orkney Islands, SCOTLAND
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

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.

Delivery Information
- 92
- 91
- Nick's Import
A.D. Rattray Cask Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

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

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Aberlour Forest Reserve 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $99.99
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

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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- 94
2021 Ad Hoc Avant Gardening Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec

Frankland River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

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

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

A rich, deeply fruited Cabernet with a bright robust feel and long finish.

Sourced from The Riversdale vineyard planted in 1997, this excellent blend was matured for a period of 10 months in a combination of new and 1-2 year old French oak barrels.
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Elevated scents of blackcurrant, plum and red liquorice fill the nostrils complimented by spicy vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and dried herb notes. Rich blackcurrant, fleshy plum and ripe mulberry fruits are delivered with excellent intensity across the mid weighted palate. Some red liquorice, cedary tobacco, earthy dried herb and spice elements also chime in. Sturdy tannin structure with a long deeply fruited finish that has a bright robust feel to it.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
This is such a pretty wine. The cooler vintage has contributed to its elegance and charm. Opens with a perfumed African violet and red berry combination on the nose. And then the palate provides such an exquisitely integrated, balanced mix of bright and lively red fruits with the support of fine, silky tannins and perfectly weighted oak.
92 points
RayJordanWine.com.au

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- 94
2025 Ad Hoc Nitty Gritty Pinot Grigio

Pemberton, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

An uber delicious Pinot Grigio that boasts outstanding concentration and textural volume.

Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Pear, red apple and lime scents jump out of the glass followed by some subtle musk and delicate honeysuckle notes. Boasting outstanding concentration and textural volume, this uber delicious Pinot Grigio is engulfed with fleshy pear and red apple fruits. Subtle lime, musk and wet stone elements sit in the background. Finishes dry with a lick of crisp acidity cutting through the very long, generously endowed conclusion.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13.5%

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- 94
2024 Ad Hoc Hen & Chicken Chardonnay

Pemberton, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

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

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Winemaker Larry Cherubino has fashioned a generously flavoured Chardonnay from the favourable 2024 vintage in Pemberton. Aged in a combination of new and two year old French oak barrels, it has a level of concentration and depth that’s hard to match at this price.

A rich, beautifully shaped Chardonnay that delivers outstanding value.

Brilliant pale straw colour with flashes of green to the edges and a watery hue. Flowing through the nostrils with impressive intensity are attractive white peach, nectarine and dried honey scents followed by some nougat, cashew and spice notes. Rich and concentrated, fleshy white peach, nectarine and dried honey flavours carry beautiful shape across the mid weighted palate. Notions of citrusy nougat, cashew and spice lend further interest. Good underlying freshness with a creamy textural feel building across the long finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%

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- 94
2024 Ad Hoc Cruel Mistress Pinot Noir

Pemberton, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

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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- 94
2024 Alamos Malbec

Mendoza, ARGENTINA
$21. 99
Bottle
$263.88 Dozen

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

ABV: 13%

Closure: Stelvin

A juicy, flavour filled Malbec that makes for super everyday drinking.
Alamos is the entry level label for Argentinian giant Catena offering the best of Mendoza’s high altitude vineyards at an incredible price. Grown on foothills of the Andes Mountains at elevations of 3,000 to 5,000 feet, the intense sunlight, cool evening temperatures and mineral-rich irrigation from melted mountain snow translates to a rich wine with intense flavour characteristics.
A blend of 90% Malbec and 10% Bonarda aged for between 6-8 months in French oak. Deep black dark red core with a dark red hue. Elevated dark to black cherry, ripe blueberry and liquorice scents make their way out of the glass followed by some dried herb, scorched earth and spice notes. The juicy, mid weighted palate is filled with rich dark to black cherry, liquorice and blueberry fruits. Sitting in the background are spicy dried herb and scorched earth elements. Fine grained tannins with a long, ripe, well fleshed finish. One of the best Alamos Malbecs to date.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13%

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- 93
2024 Allegrini Corte Giara Pinot Grigio

Veneto, ITALY
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

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

ABV: 12.5%

Closure: Stelvin

A delicious, beautifully shaped Pinot Grigio that’s irresistible drinking.
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 watery hue. Enticing pear, red apple and honeysuckle aromas flood the nostrils with some trailing musk and quince notes. Delicious pear, red apple and lime fruits slip across the palate with a supple textural feel. Delicate musk, honeysuckle and wet stone elements linger underneath. Brisk acidity with a long, fresh and beautifully shaped finish. Irresistible summer drinking!
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5%

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- 95
- 93
- Packaging may vary
- Reduced
Andre Clouet Silver Brut Nature Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
Reduced from $99.99
$79. 99
Bottle
$959.88 Dozen

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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- 95
- 92
- 93
- Reduced
Andre Clouet Grande Reserve Brut Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
Reduced from $89.99
$74. 99
Bottle
$899.88 Dozen

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)

Delivery Information
- 94
- Australian Exclusive
Angel's Envy Single Barrel 241218 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) - Whiskey Hunt Australia Selection

Kentucky, UNITED STATES
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 55%

The first-ever Australian exclusive Angel’s Envy Single Barrel.
Since Angel's Envy debuted in 2010, they've been synonymous with a finishing process that's become the heart and soul of the brand. Founder, Lincoln Henderson began ground-breaking experiments using sourced Bourbons and x-Port casks with his son, Wes. Lincoln passed away in 2013, however the success of their research culminated in a global brand and a US$27 million distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Because the age of this bottling is said to be around 4-6 years old, it's reasonable to assume we're now drinking Angel's Envy' own liquid, instead of out-sourced Bourbons. If you're enamoured by the brand's entry level offering, this is based on the same profile (72% Corn, 18% Rye and 10% malted barley), while delivering extra bite and concentration. Bottled straight from the rickhouses after a four month finishing in Port wood, the result is a full-bodied bourbon with a thick texture and a slow, melt-in-your-mouth flow; The feature notes of cherry chocolate and vanilla are accompanied by lively rye spices that pick up the finish and give the sugars a ride. Compared with the standard expression, it's also slightly drier and more savoury, but shows better persistence. Limited to a 40ml sample, personal preference was to soften it with a single ice cube. This is the kind of whiskey that opens up after extended air contact, and needless to say, the bottle will make a stunning addition to any bar shelf. 276 units were secured for Australian fans, the importer already sold out. Our offer represents some of the last in the country. 55% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the importers... Sandalwood, roasted chestnuts, bitter orange. Crème brûlée, maple syrup, grilled peaches. Graham cracker crust, burnt caramel, touch of tobacco leaf.

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
Appleton Estate 15 Year Old Black River Casks Rum (700ml)

JAMAICA
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

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

Delivery Information
- 94
- Reduced
Archie Rose Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)

Sydney, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
Reduced from $119.99
$109. 99
Bottle
$1319.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Awarded Australia's Best Single Malt Whisky - Eight times!
Launched in late September 2020, Archie Rose's first single malt arrives almost six years after the Sydney based distillery began producing spirits. Says Master Distiller, Dave Withers, “We’ve spent an enormous amount of time in research and development and, as is obvious from the six-year gap from commencing distilling to releasing this whisky, we had no intention of rushing a spirit to market as quickly as possible. We took our time, refined our processes, waited for the spirit to be at its best and believe we have made something truly unique, that speaks to the land and materials it was created from.”
The whisky employs not one but six malts, each with a unique profile and character to provides a richer and more expressive flavour. These include Australian Pale Malt, Peated Malt, Amber Malt, Caramel Malt, Aromatic Roasted Malt and Local NSW Chocolate Malt. The whisky is matured predominantly in 100, 200 and 300-litre Australian apera (sherry) casks, complemented by a selection of x-bourbon barrels and Archie Rose’s own 36-month air dried ex-rye casks, each coopered with a specific balance of both char and toast. “Toasting casks is well understood in the wine world but less thoroughly explored in distilling. The lower heat and longer duration toasting process penetrates further into the oak of the cask and offers an entirely different level of complexity than casks that only feature a more traditional char” says Withers.
Clearly Archie Rose have gone beyond the call of duty in the creation of this malt. Even a 15ml sample impresses. Charged with aromas of roasted coffee bean, dark chocolate and toasted barley along with a vaguely grainy / herbal / dried fruit lift (probably from the maturation that includes x-rye whisky barrels). Loaded with similar notes on the palate, it boasts a thick, chewy delivery glazing the tongue with sweet malt, caramel fudge and vanilla, tempered by zippy spices in a lengthy aftertaste that adds hints of toasted oak, rye and liquorice. Complex and full of personality, it's unquestionably one of Australia’s best singles. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Expectations were high when the single malt was released, and it doesn’t disappoint. The signature chocolatey, cocoa character comes from the unique six malt mash bill. Top that with maturation in ex-apera, Bourbon and Archie Rose’s own ex-rye whisky casks, and this is a delicious experience. Fascinating to see just how influential this whisky becomes over the next few years. - ozwhiskyreview.com
Australia's Best Single Malt - San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Australia's Best Single Malt - World Whisky Masters London.

Delivery Information
- 94
- Reduced
Archie Rose Rye Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)

Sydney, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
Reduced from $99.99
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%
This is the World's Best Rye! - World Whisky Awards 2020
Dave Withers has preferenced malted rye (and malted barley) over the far more commonly used unmalted rye to create a 'halfway' style. Why? "Using malted rye creates a more mellow rye flavour." explains Withers. "Some American rye whiskies [which use unmalted rye] are really big spice bombs. We wanted to bring that back a little bit and make something that sat between a single malt and something with that big, spicy intensity. We call this a ‘rye-malt whisky’ because it’s halfway between the two.”
Matured in custom-made, virgin American oak casks, the wood used here is air dried, meaning the cut timber is left in the open for three years in order to break down some of the harshness. "It gives this really lovely, integrated oak flavour” says Withers. Sydney's wide diurnal temperature range works the casks hard, so the whisky achieves near perfect balance at a relatively young age - around 2.5 years.
While Wither's admits rye is a pain in the neck to work with - difficult to mash and difficult to distil - he's adamant there's something special about it. Instant success has encouraged further batches, so expect this to be an ongoing series.
Franz Scheurer, of Australian Gourmet Pages and Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine describes the new whisky as “Layered and complex and a pure joy to drink. The best bloody rye whisky in today’s world.” We received a small sample of Batch #6. It has the mouthfeel of a single malt, but with a Bourbonesque profile. There are gorgeous aromas of Castlemaine Rock (peppermint & honeycomb), vanillan oak and honey cornflake crackles. Mouth coating and moreish; Lots of wood pick up too, but in the best possible way; buttery, long, perfectly balanced. Hints of caraway and dark bread, then whisps of toasty oak and oily grains ring through the aftertaste. Normally aggressive rye spices are tamed, so this is softer and sweeter than traditional styles - somewhere between old-school rye and a rich Speyside single malt. It's already won a host of awards, not least, World's Best Rye at the World Whisky Awards in London 2020. Critical acclaim continues to roll in. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... An apple-led nose with dried apples and dry cider, some anise, caraway and toasted bread crust. Palate has a thick, almost creamy texture. Spiced sponge, light ginger and star anise. Initial sweetness dries out with a medium, nutty, dry fruit finish.- World Whisky Awards London 2020
...Unless you have access to some very unusual whiskies I can guarantee that this is unlike any rye you have tasted before. It is like a mix of 3/4 crisp, clean, sherried scotch and 1/4 soft bourbon, with just a hint of rye. It has virtually no prickle, sharpness or spice but it is far from bland. It's a sweetly elegant rye with no bombast and it is bottled at moderate abv. The mashbill is a secret but the creamy, honeyed tones it displays are not due to minimal rye content, but rather the fact that they use malted rye instead of an unmalted rye mash. This is effectively a single malt whisky made with a mixture of Australian La Trobe barley and lightly kilned German rye, and it's absolutely delicious. I'd go so far as to say it is one of the best Aussie whiskies I've tasted and considering the reasonable price I'd highly recommend it. - distiller.com
- Best Grain Whisky - 2025 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirit Awards
- Australia's Best Rye Whisky - Drink Easy Awards
- Australia's Best Rye Whisky - New York Wine & Spirits Competition
- Double Gold - 2024 Sip Awards
- World's Best Rye Whisky - World Whisky Masters (London)
- Australia's Best Rye Whisky - San Francisco World Spirits Competition (USA)
- Australia's Best Rye Whisky - International Wine & Spirits Competition (London)
- Australia's Best Rye Whisky - Los Angeles International Spirits Competition (USA)
- Australia's Best Rye Whisky - SIP Awards (USA)
- Best Rye Whisky - International Review of Spirits
Delivery Information
- 93
Ardbeg Anthology The Beithir’s Tale Very Rare 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

The final release in the Ardbeg Anthology Collection involves the use of custom-made casks (a first for Ardbeg), air-dried in the USA rather than kiln-dried, and then subjected to heavy toasting and light charring before being seasoned for at least four years with bourbon. Master Blender, Gillian Macdonald states the intention was to create a smoother, creamier profile. Whiffs of earthy peat, iodine and kelp bring a fresh, sea-spray vibe to the nose leaving hints of smoked meats. Semi-sweet and savoury, the oils and phenols take charge on the palate, creaming-up with air contact; baked citrus flavours are followed by a grassy finish, trailing off with liquorice root, menthol tobacco ash and white pepper heat. The lingering salt'n'pepper aftertaste is a strong point. This invigorating style of Ardbeg reminds us of bourbon-casked Kilchoman. 46% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... The final chapter in the Ardbeg Anthology Collection has reared its smoky head. Introducing The Beithir’s Tale, a rare and elusive dram inspired by one of the most fearsome creatures ever said to stalk the Distillery’s shores. Aged for 15 years in special designer charred bourbon casks, these barrels have been air-seasoned, heavily toasted, and then lightly charred. This whisky is inspired by the tale of the Beithir* – a fearsome serpent that slithered into the Distillery (or so the story goes). Spotted among the barrels, it had three prized casks lodged in its belly. Charmed away by an enchanting melody piped from a chanter, the hypnotised beast fled into the Atlantic, leaving the barrels bobbing on the waves. This bold dram crackles with notes of peat smoke, treacle, coffee grits, citrus and spice. Long, meandering flavours of vanilla and smoked butter burst forth in a finish that slithers across the palate and sings to the senses.
Gold at both the International Spirits Challenge and the International Wine and Spirit Competition.

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml) with Free Ardbeg T-shirt

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $310.00
$249. 99
Bottle
$2999.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

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

Delivery Information
- 93
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Arran Machrie Moor 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Isle of Arran, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $149.99
$129. 99
Bottle
$1559.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Note: The Machrie Moor range often arrive in to our store suffering from minor damage in transit. This is out of our control. When we dispatch to you we will re-pack to avoid further damage in transit but you should allow for possible dents and scratches to the metal tins.
Arran ten year old now comes with a puff of smoke: It's the newly presented Machrie Moor matured for a decade in first-fill bourbon casks, and the third in a series of light to medium peated styles offered by the distillery. Described as a bit of a chameleon that changes in the glass, it is something like a Port Charlotte only with less smoke and more fruit - or perhaps more like a Campbeltowner? The nose delivers what the label suggests - peat, only in a dry, non-confrontational manner that becomes more polite and fruity after air contact. The most likeable thing about this whisky is the twist on the palate. Expecting something peaty, instead you get a delicious fruit-salad; the juiciness of the malt makes for a sweet, succulent finish before leaving you with an oily, warming, brine and pepper tang. Nice coastal vibe. We're heading towards Springbank rather than Laphroaig. Tasted from a 30ml sample. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Delivery Information
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- 90
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Arran 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Isle of Arran, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $109.99
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

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

Delivery Information
- 93
- 94
- 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

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

Delivery Information
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- 95
- 97
- 95
2021 Ata Rangi Pinot Noir

Martinborough, NEW ZEALAND
$110. 00
Bottle
$1320.00 Dozen

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

Delivery Information
- 94
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Aultmore of the Foggie Moss 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $250.00
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Launched in 2015 as part of John Dewar & Son's 'Last Great Malts' range, there have been two variants of Aultmore 18 year old on the market. This one is the "Foggie Moss" label, which Jim Murray enthused over. Review below. Unpeated. Comes non chill filtered.

Other reviews... so satisfying when the sweetness and spices of a malt combine for near perfect harmony. Flattens towards the finish, but this is high grade malt.
94.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2020
You really got to like the lovely new all-white packaging, that sits right between lovely Laphroaig and lovely Balvenie. Colour: straw. Nose: IPA! Lagunitas or something – I’m still dying to find Lagunitas in France, but I digress – plus some toasted malt, apricot pie that spent a little too much time in the oven, some kind of grassy leather, and some green cardamom and green tea. Rather less fruity than I had expected. Mouth: solid body, and a much balanced arrival, between apples and juicy golden raisins, plus a touch of banana. Rather goes on what we already found in the nose, that is to say green tea, and even raw barley, not too ripe. A feeling of sugarcane (white rum agricole) and, once again ale that reminds me of the 12. Finish: rather long, always quite toasted and grassy at the same time, with some honeyed apple juice in the aftertaste, as well as a salty/peppery touch. Comments: less easy-easy than I had expected, this is pretty firm and even tense. Kind of ‘un-official’, you’d almost believe this is a small-batch bottling by some good indie bottlers. 85 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

Double Gold San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019

Category Winner Speyside Single Malt 13 to 20 Years - 2020 World Whiskies Awards

Delivery Information
- 93
2024 Babich Pinot Gris

Marlborough, NEW ZEALAND
$14. 99
Bottle
$179.88 Dozen

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%

Delivery Information
- 93
2024 Babich Sauvignon Blanc

Marlborough, NEW ZEALAND
$14. 99
Bottle
$179.88 Dozen

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%

Delivery Information
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- 95
- Reduced
2017 Nicks Secret BALG Shiraz Cabernet

Bendigo, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
Reduced from $45.00
$14. 99
Bottle
$179.88 Dozen

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

Delivery Information
- 87
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- 82
- Reduced
Balvenie Doublewood 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $124.99
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

It's been over a decade since we've revisited the Balvenie range. From the 12 Year Old, right up to the venerable 30 year old expression, the house style emerges as one of the lightest and most delicate to be found from Speyside with almost no peat evident. 'Doublewood' gains its character from maturation in two woods, transferred from traditional x-Bourbon American oak to a Sherry oak casks for its final maturation. It's sometimes described as the classic, "essential" expression in Balvenie’s core range. From a 30ml sample, the nose is lifted with vanilla, dilute honey and dried fruits. The entry is featherweight, unfolding into a medium-weight dram with moderate flavours of dried fruit and a warm mouthfeel. An aftertaste of dried grass and drying oak sustains a little prickle. All up, this is uncomplicated and typical of the distillery style, but even at 12 years old, Doublewood still tastes surprisingly young. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The whisky has not much changed in recent years. As noted in 2022, the whisky leans heavily on the bourbon barrel, offering a nose with lots of sweet almond and banana notes, backed up by fresh cereal and granary characteristics. That said, it’s less overtly woody than I recall, coming across instead as rather grassy and hay-like. Citrusy sherry notes are present, but as more of an afterimage. On the palate, again the whisky favors the bourbon influence, with ample vanilla dominating flavors of sweet breakfast cereal, namely Frosted Flakes. It’s extremely mild and approachable, though things can get a little leathery on the back end before the orange-driven sherry character finally appears. It’s mild and gently spicy, and nothing if not harmless. While not the most memorable whisky on the market, I expect you’ll finish your dram just fine. - drinkhacker.com

Delivery Information
- 97
- 98
2021 Barr-Eden Estate Mengler’s Hill Avenue to Gold Shiraz

Eden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$54. 99
Bottle
$659.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)

ABV: 14.4%

Closure: Diam Cork

Sitting across the Eden Valley and Barossa Valley at a high elevation on Mengler’s Hill, Barr Eden Estate is owned by Michael Twelftree (of Two Hand’s fame) and a Frenchman by the name of Pierre-Henri Morel who comes from the Northern Rhone. From the outstanding 2021 vintage, one of the world’s pre-eminent wine critics, Antonio Galloni’s Vinous Media, recently scored this wine a whopping 98 points. To put this into context, they scored the 2021 Penfolds Grange 97 points and 2021 Henschke Hill of Grace 98 points, both priced at around $1000 per bottle. At just $54.99, that makes this wine a vinous bargain by any measure.
Rich, plush and incredibly long yet not overbearing, this is a superb marriage of opulence and finesse.
Pitch black heart with a very deep dark purple black tinged hue. Wafting through the nostrils with great potency are aromas of dark plum, liquorice and dark chocolate which are complemented by some blackberry, vanillin cedar, earthy mocha and spice notes. Rich, plush and incredibly long, cascading waves of dark plum, liquorice, blackberry, blueberry and dark chocolate fruit saturate the full bodied palate. Layered across the back half are notions of spicy vanillin cedar and earthy mocha elements. Exceptionally concentrated and powerful yet refined it has seamlessly integrated, velvet smooth tannins. The expansive finish, a marriage of opulence and finesse.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.4%
Other Reviews….
The 2021 Shiraz Avenue to Gold slowly reveals beautifully composed and even aromas of dark cherry, raspberry, red licorice and touches of dried herbs, all wrapped up in a cocoon of fine French oak. Its seamless, satiny texture enhances powerful and energetic flavors that are both youthful and refined. Firm yet fine tannins drive the long, impressive finish. This is absolutely great but needs time to flower. Drink 2032-2042.
98 Points
Angus Hughson - Vinous

Delivery Information
- 94
- 94
- 94
2021 Best’s Great Western Bin No. 1 Shiraz

Great Western, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$21. 99
Bottle
$263.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

A rich, juicy, mid weighted Shiraz that’s long, elegant and peppery.
Introduced due to the relative scarcity of Best’s Thomson Family and Bin No. 0 Shiraz wines, the Bin No.1 Shiraz aims to provide an introduction to Great Western Shiraz style at a price point that gives the wine broader market access. Made predominantly from Best’s own vineyards it combines the varietals generosity with the region's cool climate elegance.
Deep midnight black colour with a dark red hue. Elevated dark plum and liquorice aromas mix with gently smoked vanillin cedar, earthy fennel and peppered dried herb notes. Rich, juicy and fleshy textured, the mid weighted palate is flooded with pepper infused dark plum and liquorice fruits which meld into a spicy vanillin cedar, scorched earth and fennel back drop. Polished fine grained yet structured tannins. Concludes long, elegant and peppery with an abundance of succulent fruit.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews....
This release is on song. Black pepper and peppercorn characters float through cherry and plum fruit flavour. It's lively, it has enough depth, it finishes well and it charms throughout. The fine-grained, savoury aspect of the tannin here is of particular note. If you like the Great Western style, you can buy this with confidence. Drink by 2033.
94 Points
Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
This is good. A cooler climatic expression that remains distinctly Australian, rather than playing the reductive hand of an ersatz Rhone. An exceptional nose of mace, clove, blue fruits, olive and briar, backed by a wave of beef bouillon and iodine-umami warmth. The tannins, a clatter across the middle, with a bow of dutiful acidity drawn to just the right degree of tension. Some scrubby menthol dries the finish ever so slightly. This said, this is a delicious wine of immense personality and soul. Drink or hold.
94 Points
JamesSuckling.com

Delivery Information
- 95
2020 Best's Great Western Sparkling Shiraz

Great Western, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$31. 99
Bottle
$383.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Crown Seal

Sparkling Shiraz is a unique Australian wine that’s synonymous with the Great Western region having been in production since the early 1900’s. The base wine for this cuvee is left on yeast lees in bottle for 24 months or more and disgorged in the traditional method. The dosage liqueur contains a small quantity of very old Best’s Liqueur Muscat.

Sparkling Shiraz at Christmas is an Australian tradition and few producers do it as well as Best’s

Carries a fluffy dark red tinged mousse with aplomb. Midnight black dark red coloured base with a fine bead flowing through it. Lusty scents of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry sail from the glass complimented by some vanillin oak, dark chocolate and subtle spicy earth notes. Rich, concentrated and powerful, the mouth filling palate carries a plush texture with dark plum, liquorice, dark chocolate and blackberry flavours plentiful in their volume. Vanillin cedar, light earth and spice characters lie underneath. Long exuberant cream tinged finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews….
Deep colour with a trace of purple in the meniscus, the bouquet sweetly spicy and blackberry scented, with a lift of pepper-spice and fresh herbs. In the mouth it's full and rich, again discreetly spicy, with a modest level of sweetness which leaves the mouth refreshed. Long aftertaste, super satisfying and delicious. The value is amazing. Drink now to 2034.
95 Points
Huon Hooke – The Real Review

Delivery Information
- 95
Billecart-Salmon Le Rose Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
$165. 00
Bottle
$1980.00 Dozen

ABV: 12%

Closure: Diam Cork

Billecart-Salmon Le Rose is considered the reference point for non vintage Rose Champagne. It consistently outshines other houses in terms of both quality and value for money. Previously labelled as simply Brut Rose Champagne, the blend has been fine tuned and now consists of 45% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir and 20% Pinot Meunier. Aging takes place on lees for 36 months and the blend includes 50% reserve wines (an increase of 10% on it’s former incarnation) sourced across 15 different vintages. It is also slightly drier with the dosage reduced down from 9 g/l to 4.7 g/l
Your go-to Rose Champagne for this festive season.
Pours with a frothy mousse that slowly subsides into a salmon pink coloured base that’s finely threaded by a steady stream of bubbles. Buoyant aromatics of strawberry, yeast lees and citrus fill the nostrils followed by hints of baked bread and chalky mineral notes. A chorus of mouth watering yeast lees, strawberry and white peach flavours are sculptured by vivid acidity which lends a racy feel. Baked bread, delicate almond, ginger and mineral elements sit in the background. The lingering dry, chalk tinged finish providing plenty of stimulation for the senses.
Alc. 12%

Delivery Information
- 96
- Packaging may vary
Billecart-Salmon Le Reserve Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
$110. 00
Bottle
$1320.00 Dozen

ABV: 12%

Closure: Diam Cork

What was one of the best value non vintage Champagnes on the market has just got even better. Previously labelled as Brut Reserve, the team at Billecart, have made a number of quality improvements to the core elements of this Cuvee and have rebranded it ‘Le Reserve’. The key changes being as follows:-
- Extended aging on lees, increased from an average of 30 months to 50 months.
- Reduced dosage (extra brut, 3g/l) for greater purity and expression of terroir.
- More depth with 15 different vintages in the bottle
- Larger proportion of wines vinified in barrels, adding richness and density.

A rich, mouthfilling yet tense and stimulating Champagne that delivers remarkable complexity for the price.

A blend of 43% Meunier, 29% Chardonnay and 28% Pinot Noir with over 50% reserve wines included in the blend. A buoyant, satiny mousse floats over a pale straw to straw coloured base that has pale gold tinged edges. Fine, nimble bead with alluring aromas of baked bread, yeast lees, oily toast, citrus and brioche wafting through the nostrils. Rich and mouth filling yet simultaneously tense and stimulating, the palate is laden with baked bread, yeast lees and citrus flavours which sit over an oily toast and almond back drop. Crisp acidity finishing very dry, long and remarkably complex for a house non vintage cuvee. A definite step up on its previous incarnation.
Alc. 12%

Delivery Information
- 97
- Nick's Import
Cuesta Pedro Ximenez Sherry (750ml)

Jerez, SPAIN
$29. 99
Bottle
$359.88 Dozen

ABV: 17%

Closure: Cork

'Cuesta' is a brand owned by the prestigious Sherry house, 'Lustau', produced and bottled from a selection of butts in the Lustau Bodega. The concept is to offer high quality sherries under a separate brand in markets where Lustau is already represented. Yet given the exceptional standard set by the Cuesta PX, one has to wonder whether they've shot themselves in the foot. Aged for a minimum of ten years, this superb solera is produced from sun dried Pedro Ximenez grapes.

A seriously good example of PX and an absolute steal at this direct import price.

Pours a viscous sienna brown colour with a deep green olive tinged hue. Potent scents of raisins, honey and Christmas cake engulfs the nostrils with hints of toffee, marmalade and walnut also present. Exceptionally concentrated and rich, a thick luscious dollop of raisin, honey and Christmas cake like flavours are draped across the palate with notions of marmalade, toffee and subtle dried nuts the back drop. Warm, mellow spirit with an oil like consistency to the mouthfeel. Long sweet, textured aftertaste. An ideal match with vanilla ice cream and Christmas pudding.
Alc. 17%

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2015 Bollinger La Grande Annee Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
$299. 00
Bottle
$3588.00 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)

ABV: 12.5%

Closure: Diam Cork

A blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay sourced from 11 different crus, mainly Ay and Verzenay for the Pinot Noir whilst for the Chardonnay Chouilly and Avize. Fermented entirely in aged oak barrels.
Pours with a fine satiny mousse which sits over a pale straw to straw coloured base that has gold tinged edges and a fine, energetic bead flowing through it. Heady aromatics of baked bread, oily toast like characters and yeast lees waft through the nostrils, seamlessly integrating with notions of brioche, subtle honeyed almond and citrus notes. Rich, voluminous and full across the palate yet remarkably fresh and energetic, mouth filling flavours of pear, baked bread and oily toast like elements are shaped by vivid acidity. Flashes of citrus, cashew and chalky mineral accents linger across the back half. Concludes long, expansive and satiny with a buttered toast element to the finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%
Other Reviews....
Bollinger's 2015 Brut Grand Année is an intriguing wine in that is clearly reflects the decision to pick on the later side in order to avoid vegetal notes derived from the mismatch of alcoholic and phenolic ripeness. "Balance was hard to achieve in 2015," Chef de Cave Denis Bunner notes. "At 10% in sugar, the fruit was simply not ripe. We had to wait to reach the optimal window of ripeness." Bunner also opted to increase the Chardonnay, so the blend is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, as opposed to the more typical 70/30 blend, with more Verzenay than Aÿ in the Pinots. Dried citrus peel, sage, menthol, sage, tangerine peel and spice build with some coaxing. Light tropical overtones develop with aeration. There's real density and textural richness here. This will be a fascinating vintage to follow. Stylistically, it is the complete opposite from the much more linear 2014 that precedes it. Dosage is 8 grams per liter.
96 points
Antonio Galloni – Vinous
This expressive Champagne features a rich, well-spiced range of flavors chiseled by well-honed, integrated acidity, which lends a racy feel to the ripe black cherry and mulberry fruit and notes of salted almond, pink grapefruit granita, crystallized honey and pickled ginger that ride the raw silk–like mousse. Hints of chalk and spring blossoms play on the clean-cut, lasting finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Disgorged May 2023. Drink now through 2040.
96 points
WineSpectator.com
The 2015 Brut La Grande Année was disgorged last year with eight grams per liter dosage. The wine has turned out beautifully, exhibiting a more muscular, old-school Bollinger profile in contrast to the unusually racy, fine-boned 2014 that preceded it. Wafting from the glass with notes of pear, orange oil and white flowers mingled with notions of mocha, toasted hazelnuts and fino sherry, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and textural, with a dense core of fruit framed by chalky structuring extract, concluding with a long, sapid finish. Drink 2025-2045.
95+ points
William Kelley – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate
Enticing, fragrant aromas of toast, lemon zest and an earthy-smoky nuance lead to a palate of subtle Bosc-pear, mango, papaya, even pineapple flavors. Lifted by fresh acidity on the medium-bodied palate, the wine keeps unfolding in toasted walnuts, honey and a dash of bitter marmalade. It’s mouth-filling, alive with acidity and full of finesse. Drink or hold.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.com
A forward vintage for La Grande Année, with warmth evident in its roasted orange, Comice pear and Mirabelle plum, all polished with a sense of savoury maturity that is very Bollinger at heart. There’s a little more oxygen influence seemingly at play than in the 2014, with brine, nuts and a little dried leaf character already taking this far beyond fruit. The food-friendly chewiness of 2015 is there, but the mousse is supple and the Chardonnay brings the wine to a close with a fine, cooked lemon snap. This will start to show its best integration from 2025 onwards, although it is open for business now. 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay from the Montagne de Reims, Grande Vallée de la Marne and Côte des Blancs, all fermented in small oak barrels and disgorged in May 2023 after seven years on lees. Drink 2025 - 2034.
94 Points
Tom Hewson - Decanter

Delivery Information
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- Reduced
Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
Reduced from $99.99
$84. 99
Bottle
$1019.88 Dozen

ABV: 12%

Closure: Diam Cork

Bollinger’s trademark depth and richness are on full show here. A blend of 60% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Meunier with over 85% of the blend sourced from Grand and Premier crus.
Pours with a fluffy white mousse.The base colour is pale straw with tinges of gold around the edges. Very fine bead with a steady stream of bubbles. The nose exhibits Bollinger’s hallmark richness with pronounced aromas of baked bread, yeast lees and oily toast like characters followed by cashew, almond and citrus notes. Rich, mouthfilling flavours of baked bread, yeast lees, oily toast like characters, citrus and cashew. Creamy textural feel with good freshness on the finish. Long aftertaste of baked bread, oily toast like characters, yeast lees and cashew.
Alc 12%
Other Reviews....
Surely the most underpriced champagne on the market today, yet one of the most complex. The 60/25/15% pinot noir/chardonnay/pinot meunier blend is of scant importance compared with the 400 components with 60% reserves, the oldest 8+ years old. Majestically complex and layered in a jewelled crown of freshness.
96 points
James Halliday's Top 100 2020

This harmonious Champagne is wonderfully vibrant as it dances across the palate, with the satinlike mousse carrying flavors of white cherry, Marcona almond and ground coffee that show accents of candied kumquat, ginger, aromatic verbena and graphite. A streak of racy salinity emerges on mouthwatering finish. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Drink now through 2025
93 points
Wine Spectator
A rich though youthful golden hue, the NV Champagne Special Cuvée Brut is classic and ripe with lush, rounded, and complex aromas of golden apricot, hazelnut, wet stone, and black cherry. Made with 45% of the wine coming from the 2019 vintage, with 55% reserve wine, it’s full-bodied yet elegant and light on its feet, with a ripe and luxurious feel and just a hint of warmth on the finish. The mousse is refined and rounded. Long on the palate, it's inviting now but will have plenty of life ahead of it if stored property. This exceptional cuvée with its distinctive personality continues to be one of the best entry wines to the range from this house and is a benchmark wine for them.
93 points
Audrey Frick - JebDunnuck.com
Fine bubbles combine nicely with the cooked apples, pie crust and lemon rind. Some biscuit, too. Full body. Layered and creamy with a crisp finish. Always delicious. Drink now.
92 points
JamesSuckling.com

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Bowmore Aston Martin Dark & Intense 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $114.99
$109. 99
Bottle
$1319.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

The first in a series of re-packaged Travel Retail single malts featuring the Grand Marque, Aston Martin. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Come on, really, an Aston Martin at 40% vol.? That's neither a straight-6 nor a V12, it's more a Cygnet (remember Google is supposed to be your friend). It's still advertised as being 'Dark & Intense', let's check that… Colour: golden amber. Nose: some walnut wine at first, plus horse saddle and old leather jacket, tamarind jam, marmalade, a little spent engine oil (and voilà), then ras-el-hanout and a little ginger tonic. Blood oranges. This rather leathery smoke works well I have to say, even at 40% vol. There's also the obligatory lapsang souchong and cocoa. Mouth: nice salty arrival, with lots and lots of walnuts and a cup of oversteeped lapsang souchong. Some grapefruit then, chicken bouillon, orange zests dipped into chocolate (orangettes), smoked oysters… All nice, the problem is that it would tend to nosedive after ten seconds, and that's strictly because of the minimal strength. An Aston Martin with an empty petrol tank (which is not an unseen situation). Finish: pretty short, what a pity. Some toffee. Comments: I'm absolutely sure that even at 43% vol. this would have been a winner. One solution though, find a young indie Bowie at 50-60% vol. and pour a few drops into this one. I'm sure it'll be fantastic. 84 points - whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- 94
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Bowmore Deep & Complex 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $210.00
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Double Gold Medal & awarded the top expression in the travel retail segment at the 2019 San Francisco Spirits Competition.
This is the duty free version of Bowmore's 18 year old classic and comes with a heavier sherry imprint due to maturation in x Oloroso and x Pedro Ximenez casks. It shows in the richer colour. Not long after it was launched in the first half of 2017, it became the distillery’s darling, picking up a double gold for its combination of ripe fruit, dark chocolate and Islay smoke at the 2019 San Francisco Spirits Competition. That's no mean feat, given that there were more than 3000 entries (the largest number in the competition's history), all blind tasted in a controlled environment. A majority almost certainly would have been whisky. David Turner, Manager at Bowmore Distillery acknowledged that the accolade was “...one of the top awards for the industry" , adding that "it's an honour to have picked up so many medals across our range. Travel retail is a major market for Bowmore, testament to the high esteem that the distillery is held in across the globe."
Of the plentiful customer reviews posted on global retailer's sites, many now seem to preference this bottling over the general release 18 year old (selling for upwards of $180 in Australia). Put it all together and it looks like a bargain. If you revel in the richness and maritime complexity that these sherry-peat hybrids express so eloquently, this should tick almost every box. Limited availability at this direct import price. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The nose is redolent of a damped-down bonfire, with stewed fruit, wood spice, and pipe tobacco. There are red berries, subtle peat, a hint of iodine, and soft oak on the complex palate. The finish yields more tobacco, oak, rich peat, and spicy dark chocolate. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith, 2020
Notes from the producers... Breathe In: Rich dark chocolate, treacle toffee and date oil. Sip: Bitter-sweet orange peel and peat-smoke roasted coffee. Savour: Velvet mocha and macadamia nut chocolate.

Delivery Information
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Bowmore 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $109.99
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

"Easily by far the truest Bowmore I have tasted in a long while with myriad complexity. Even going back a quarter of a century, the malt at this age rarely showed such relaxed elegance." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible
Other reviews… A great introduction to Bowmore's single malts, and one of the best 12 year old single malt scotches around. The nose offers tropical fruit, sweet smoke, a hint of brine, new leather, and floral notes. Peaches, honey, vanilla, and more full-on smoke on the rounded palate. Brine, cocoa powder, citrus fruits, and fading woodsmoke in the finish. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
"...far more representative of Islay and the old distillery style. Easily, by far, the truest Bowmore I have tasted in a long while, with myriad complexity... Most enjoyable. 91 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2019
Nose: Emphatic burnt grass. Peaty. Soft smokiness. Palate: Fragrant smokiness seems to waft against an oily, earthy, background. Some seaweed. Some sherry. Finish: Not only is the smokiness sustained all the way through, it surges in the finish. Lots of salt, too. Comment: Glad to see a Bowmore with an age rather than a brand-name. 8.5/10 - whiskymag.com
The unabashedly briny opening bouquet is all peat, sea salt and salted focaccia; time in the glass serves to bring out a refined Sherry scent. In the mouth, it’s lean, surprisingly sweet and acutely resiny. Ends pine-like, resiny, moderately salty, fruity (yellow fruit, like yellow plum or banana) and semisweet. 85-89 points - wineenthusiast.com
San Francisco World Spirits Competition Gold award 2018

Delivery Information
- 95
2021 Brand's Laira Blockers Cabernet Sauvignon

Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$18. 99
Bottle
$227.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Established by Captain Stentiford in 1893 the Laira Vineyards was purchased by Eric Brand and his wife Nancy in 1950. Throughout the 1950’s and 1960’s they sold their fruit to larger wineries before releasing the first Brand's Laira wine in 1966. Eric and his sons continued to produce wine at Brand’s Laira until 1994 when the McWilliam’s family purchased the property. Casella wines now own the vineyard.
Rich, beautifully fleshed and refined, this is a prime example of Coonawarra Cabernet.
Outstanding colour saturation featuring an impenetrable inky black core and a near equally deep dark red black hue. Streaming out of the glass are delightful blackcurrant, mulberry and vanillin cedar aromas which are complimented by some tobacco, subtle earthy black olive and bay leaf notes. Rich blackcurrant and mulberry fruits flow effortlessly across the mid weighted palate with subtle dark chocolate, vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and spicy bay leaf accents lending further nuance. Seamless tannin integration concluding long and refined.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
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2023 Brave Souls The Whaler Shiraz

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$21. 99
Bottle
$263.88 Dozen

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

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

The Whaler is a blend of Barossa Valley (49%) and Eden Valley (51%) fruit. The Barossa Valley vineyard is situated on the heavy red soils of the warm northern sub-region of Moppa. Grapes from the cooler Eden Valley are sourced from two vineyards situated at either end of the valley, in Moculta and Craneford.
The Barossa Valley component providing fleshy dark berry fruit characters and density, while the Eden Valley component contributes elegance and bright wild berry fruited aromatic lift. A small percentage of whole bunch fruit was included in the ferment with maturation taking place in a mix of new and seasoned hogsheads for a period of 14 months.

Rich, seductive and plump, this is a whaler of a Shiraz.

Midnight black heart with a dark purple black tinged hue. Captivating scents of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry show plenty of intensity out of the glass and are followed by faintly smoked vanillin cedar, fennel, blueberry and peppered earth notes. Rich seductive and plump, the full bodied palate is saturated with gorgeously fleshed dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, fennel and subtle peppered earth elements the undercard. Possessing silky smooth tannins and excellent power, it finishes long, plush and sumptuous.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews.....
Bright magenta-splashed crimson with aromas of juicy plum, blueberry and boysenberry fruits with hints of baking spices, violets, citrus blossom, ironstone, licorice and earth. The tannins are powdery fine, filtering down through the pure dark and black fruits. I really enjoyed the last release of this wine and it's more of the same this year. Super value again. Drink by 2037.
94 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Delivery Information
- Reduced
Brockmans Gin (700ml)

UNITED KINGDOM
Reduced from $79.99
$49. 99
Bottle
$599.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

"...something truly stunning, albeit not for everyone." - ginobsessions.com
Read random reviews from around the web and you'll quickly work out that Brockman's is one of those disruptive, divisive contemporary gins, far from traditional London Dry. Positive comments are in the majority, but there's another group who don't quite get it. Beyond the obvious allure of the sleek black, textured bottle, the gin inside is produced using a high-quality grain spirit and infused with ten botanicals (Juniper, Coriander, Blackberries, Blueberries, Orris Root, Cassia Bark, Liquorice, Orange & Lemon, Angelica root and Almonds). Arguably, the berries make the strongest contribution. As one taster explains, "The mids are where the notes that make Brockman’s stand out come to life. Raspberry lemon cake, a distinct sweetness, bright and robust. It begins to take on a more dry tone with blackberry and coriander, ripe berry. And then where it all ends up, its remarkably dry...The Gin and Tonic was exquisite, with notes that reminded me strongly of a blackberry bramble." It's also said to be a heavenly match with Ginger Beer!
Other reviews... something truly stunning, albeit not for everyone. I personally love Brockmans Gin, but I am generally (not always) drawn to gins which are less London Dry and have more sweet, floral tones. On the nose there are strong berry tones with a hint of lemon. To taste, there is initial heat followed by warming berries and finishing with a delicious flavour which reminds me of lemon meringue pie…mmmmm. I find this gin incredibly drinkable neat, which is unsurprising as according to the website, “The aim was to create a gin so smooth and sensual, you would want to drink it neat over ice.” It also makes a mean gin and tonic, thirst quenchingly refreshing and dangerously moreish! - ginobsessions.com
...If you’ve already made up your mind about contemporary style gins, this is one I suggest at least trying. The dry finish sets it apart and it may win you back over. For those who already enjoy the contemporary style, this is one that I think stands head and shoulders above the vast majority. It’s bright, fresh, and fruity, without being too over-the-top. I’d recommend this wholeheartedly to anyone who’s looking for an upgrade from their Hendrick’s, or looking for a Nolet’s that’s more cocktail friendly. There’s a lot to like here, and all but the most hardcore juniper-only gin drinkers will find something worthy of their time here. I highly recommend Brockman’s Gin. 4.7 / 5 points - theginisin.com
"Very interesting flavors with very soft finish. Taste of very mellow floral accents. Could drink over ice for sure. Could see this mixed with Fresca soda on a sweltering day and oh my." - distiller.com
Our notes from 2020... Atypical gin aromas of ribena cordial and raspberry jube with little to zero juniper. Berry flavoured until the finish where light coriander seed and pine enter, balancing the sweetness. Like a flavoured vodka. Try it with ginger ale. 40% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
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2023 Buckshot Vineyard Heathcote Shiraz

Heathcote, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$29. 99
Bottle
$359.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)

ABV: 14.3%

Closure: Stelvin

Rich, succulent Heathcote Shiraz that carries a plush yet vibrant feel.
Established in 1999 by Rob and Meegan Peebles, this small Heathcote vineyard consists of 5 acre planting of Shiraz and 1 acre plot of Zinfandel that are grown on Heathcote’s famed Cambrian quartz and ironstone soils. Small, low yielding crops of 2 to 2.5 tons per acre ensure great flavour intensity.
Midnight black heart with a deep dark purple hue. Freshly crushed blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and ripe blueberry scents elevate their way out of the glass with plenty of intensity. Some spicy vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes are also evident. Rich and succulent the palate is awash with blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Opulent yet fresh, it’s both intense and powerful. Spicy vanillin oak, blueberry, earth and peppered fennel characters are layered across the back half. Polished tannins with a long plush yet vibrant finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.3%

Delivery Information
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- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Campbeltown Loch Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $169.99
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

"...a fully naked Campbeltowner, undisguised and maskless. Very cool proposition, and certainly a true 'regional malt'." - whiskyfun.com
This Springbank novelty could easily be mistaken for the Campbeltown Loch Blend, as the label looks almost identical - only the age statement has been dropped. It is, actually, a little more exciting than that. Instead of blending malt with grain whisky, Springbank have re-invented the label using Campbeltown single malts sourced from the district's five distilleries (or distillates): Unpeated Kilkerran forms the base, followed by Springbank, Glen Scotia, Hazelburn and Longrow. The upgrade promises a genuine celebration of Campbeltown character, and the distillates all get a showing - from the dirtiness of Glen Scotia to the minerality and citric fruits of Springbank, the chalkiness, saltiness, and florality of Kilkerran, to the peat of Longrow and the clean honeyed notes of Hazelburn. All were drawn from ex-Bourbon and x-Sherry casks and combined and bottled at Springbank, although the whisky's deep colour suggests more of the latter.
If you want to get your head around Springbank without emptying your wallet, Campbeltown Loch is about your only option. The peated elements do most of the heavy lifting, balanced by a lovely malt and sherry richness. That combination, capped off by a salivating salt and pepper tang recalls certain peatier bottlings of Springbank 10 year old (which is reasonable to assume as the inspiration for this whisky). Also bottled at 46%, there's no shortage of Campbeltown chutzpah on offer: Sweet and sooty with a coastal bite, it firmly ranks amongst the most flavoursome, characterful blended malts of recent years. Buy it whenever the price is right.
Other reviews... ...Now, I just see that this is actually a blended malt – I used to believe Campbeltown Lochs were blended Scotch, no? Looks like this one's made out of all single malts in Campbeltown, namely Springbank, Glen Scotia, Hazelburn, Macallan, Kilkerran/Glengyle and Longrow (spot the odd one out!) Colour: white wine. Nose: young, starting citric and chalky, with some lemonade and kiwi juice. Then there's sourdough, a fresh pack of lemon drops, yellow Haribos and a little lime grass. This one should repel any mosquitos, perhaps even Campbeltown's famous – and voracious - midges. Mouth: very good, with a similar chalky, doughy and lemony development, supplemented with a little fresh mint, green pepper and tiny roots and saplings (quinoa?) Finish: rather long, on pretty much the same flavours and with a smokier signature. Longrow, I presume. This wee chemicalness too… Comments: a fully naked Campbeltowner, undisguised and maskless. Very cool proposition, and certainly a true 'regional malt'. Perhaps for your favourite hipflask rather than for your most expensive crystal sniffer (a.k.a. fishbowl). 86 points - whiskyfun.com
...There’s a fruitier freshness and a slightly peppery grip added with a mineralic fizz that makes things a little more pleasing for me. Yet objectively, this remains good, easy sipping whisky and regardless of which batch you grab, you’ll be in good company. The rumours have moved towards this being mostly Glengyle malt (Kilkerran) in the mix here and that would make a lot of sense, despite that distillery only running 25% of the year (from the same team - and malt - as Springbank) they’ve been making whisky since 2004 ,and a lot more since 2018, they’ve gotta free up that precious warehouse space somehow. Why not step in to alleviate some of the demand for Campbeltown whisky with a good honest malt blend?...Very good indeed. - dramface.com
Notes from Springbank... Nose: A distinct buttery note and characteristic hint of sea salt introduce this dram, along with notes of ginger loaf and pecan pie. Palate: Creamy coffee, salted caramel, date syrup and crystallised brown sugar on the palate, with a subtle hint of peat smoke. Finish: The peat smoke builds in the finish, with a leathery note developing over time.
Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies.

Delivery Information
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2024 Cantina Tollo Rocca Ventosa Pinot Grigio

Terre di Chieti, ITALY
$11. 99
Bottle
$143.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2025-2026)

ABV: 12%

Closure: Stelvin

A shapely Pinot Grigio that shows fabulous flavour intensity for the price.
Cantina Tollo is located in the Italian village of Tollo which forms part of the Abruzzo region and is renown for delivering terrific value across its entry level range of Rocca Ventosa wines.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Pear and red apple aromas drift from the glass with hints of dried honey, quince and wet stone also evident. Delicious pear and green to red apple fruits carry a shapely feel across the palate with some quince and wet stone elements the undercard. Showing fabulous flavour intensity for the price it finishes dry and slippery textured with a lick of brisk acidity.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 12%

Delivery Information
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2023 Catena High Mountain Vines Chardonnay

Mendoza, ARGENTINA
$32. 99
Bottle
$395.88 Dozen

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

ABV: 13%

Closure: Diam Cork

For over four generations, the Catena family has grown vines in the foothills of the Andes Mountains in Mendoza, Argentina. Laura Catena, great-granddaughter of winery founder Nicola Catena, is currently at the helm. Produced from a blend of four vineyards harvested at different times, this excellent Chardonnay is matured for 10-12 months in French oak barrels of varying ages.
Rich and concentrated yet fresh with a wonderfully textured, stony like feel.
Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Elevated white peach and pear scents stream out of the glass complimented by hints of dried honey, wet slate and an oyster shell like minerality in what is a Chablisique like sniff. Rich and concentrated yet stony like in it’s feel, the palate is layered with delectable white peach, pear and lime fruits. Wet slate, infusions of fresh herbs and a smoky oyster shell like minerality ensue. Wonderfully textured and fresh it has a long wet stone laced finish that also has a dash of spice to it.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13%
Other Reviews....
Fresh and creamy notes of pie crust, lemon curd and toast. Bright, juicy and elegant on the palate with a fluid, lengthy finish. A very good value here. Drink now.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com

Delivery Information
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2021 Catena Zapata Angelica Zapata Malbec Alta

Mendoza, ARGENTINA
$69. 99
Bottle
$839.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Diam Cork

Rich and generous yet elegant and fresh, this superb example of Mendoza Malbec is brimming with red and blue fruit.
Catena’s Angelica Zapata Malbec is named as a tribute to Nicolas Catena Zapata’s mother and family matriarch, Angelica Zapata. Sourced from two high altitude vineyards, it’s matured for a period of between 18-24 months in Frenck oak barrels, 70% of which are new.
Midnight black heart with a vibrant dark red hue. A fragrant mix of blueberry, red currant, red liquorice and violet scents blossom out of the glass complimented by some dark cherry, earth, dried herb and spice notes. Rich and generous yet elegant and fresh, the mid weighted palate is brimming with red currant, blueberry, dark cherry and red liquorice fruits. Very fine grained tannins with infusions of fresh herbs, delicate earthy dark chocolate and spicy cedar elements lying underneath. Concludes with a refined, cool toned feel to the long red and blue fruited finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews….
Fresh yet ripe nose with blackberries, chocolate mint, dark cherries, minerals and fine spices. Juicy, full-bodied and compact, with a flavorful center palate loaded with fine, dusty tannins. Long and even, with rich but fresh fruit and cocoa powder at the end. Drink or hold.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com

Delivery Information
- 96
2021 Chaffey Bros. Wine Co. Synonymous Shiraz

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$22. 99
Bottle
$275.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

So named as Shiraz is synonymous with the Barossa, Chaffey Bros is a collaboration of brothers in law Daniel Chaffey Hartwig and Theo Engela who are at the forefront of the new wave of Barossa winemakers. From a benchmark year this sumptuous Barossa Shiraz delivers all you could wish for in a bold Shiraz at a price that delivers terrific bang for your buck.
Rich, powerful and plush, this is one super seductive Barossa Shiraz.
Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Wafting out of the glass are heady scents of ripe blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and blueberry which are complimented by some fennel, subtlety smoked vanillin cedar and peppered earth notes. Rich, plush and deeply concentrated, the weighty palate is flush with succulent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits. Lending further interest across the back half are notions of spicy vanillin cedar, earthy dark chocolate and peppered fennel. Opulently textured, it has velvet smooth tannins yet there’s an underlyingly sturdy structural presence. Boasting superb power, the finish is long and super fleshy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 96
- 96
- 94
Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne

Champagne, FRANCE
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 12%

Closure: Cork

This blend of 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Meunier is sourced from up to 60 different Crus in order to maximise complexity and is made up of 50% reserve wines, many of them more than 10 years old to provide additional richness. Pours well with a creamy white mousse and pale gold base wine colour. Very fine delicate bead showing excellent persistence. Refined aromas of yeast lees and brioche are overlaid by some toastiness with following notes of baked bread and cashew. Showing both richness and finesse the palate has seamlessly integrated flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and toastiness over some almond and brioche. Clean dry finish with a moderately creamy mouthfeel. Long aftertaste of baked bread, yeast lees, cashew and toasty brioche.
Drink this outstanding Champagne over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12%
Other Reviews....
Charles Heidsieck might be nicknamed Poor Man’s Krug given the astonishing number of vintages in the reserve wines, their age (10 years in tank), and the seven years the wine spends on lees once blended and bottled. It is an exceptional wine in the mouth, supple, layered, complex and long.
96 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion
Very impressive for a "regular" non-vintage Brut, not only in terms of aromatic complexity - candied citrus, dried peach and fresh mirabelle plus a hint of bread dough - also in terms of texture, the creamy, rich and crisp sides of the wine neatly interlocking. Long, structured finish. A cuvee that's half 2018 and half reserve wines, some of which are a couple of years old, but many of them are five- to 10-years-old, with several over 10-years-old. Drink or hold.
94 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com

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