Chapoutier La Bernadine Chateauneuf
$64.99
Since Michel Chapoutier (one of the most highly regarded winemakers in France) took control of this long-established firm in 1988, quality has soared. All the vineyards are now run on biodynamic principles. Chapoutier's La Bernardine is quite unique in that it is made up of only 1 -3 grape varieties when 13 are allowed by AOC law. At such low yields, Michel produces a rich, flavorful wine with moderate tannins.
Argiolas Costera Cannonau di Sardegna
$32.99
The Argiolas Costera is made from 100% Cannonau (Grenache) and is testimony to the quality of wine produced from this varietal. This "beauty" from Sardinia is ripe and jammy, and loaded with mouth-filling flavours of kirsch, black cherry and truffle. A delicious choice for a myriad of dishes ranging from poultry and grilled meats to sausages.
Catena Alta Malbec
$78.99
Decanter Magazine's 2009 Man of the Year is Nicolas Catena. This is a huge honor and we'd like to do our part by recommending this huge wine. He made it! Here's a little piece of Malbec heaven with " glass-coating opaque purple color with an inviting perfume of balsam wood, clove, cinnamon, lavender, black cherry and black raspberry. It can be cellared for 5-7 years and will provide a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2022.
Glenlivet 15 Year
$95.99
Replacing the 12 year French Oak Cask is the Glenlivet 15 Year, matured in new French oak casks. It is beautifully structured with all the fruit and spice of the original, yet is slightly more woody and sweet. Well-balanced with a long, creamy finish. Very Nice!
Mulderbosch Sauvignon Blanc
$24.99
A bronze medal winner from the San Francisco International Wine Competition, and "commended" from the International Wine Challenge. And 88 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, too. The review: "The 2012 Sauvignon Blanc is blended with 8% Semillon and sees extended lees contact in barrel. It has plenty of green pepper, nettle and asparagus scents on the nose that has plenty of personality too. The palate is well-balanced with gooseberry and asparagus on the entry, a fine line of acidity and a slightly phenolic finish that just needs a little more tension. Otherwise, this is a fine Sauvignon Blanc. Drink now."
Torbreck Woodcutters Shiraz
$35.99
Torbreck is a new breed of winery making wine from very old vines in very small batches. This Woodcutters Shiraz is a bit of a departure. Rather than the battle hardened old warriors which make up the heart and soul of the established Torbreck range, this refreshing red was bottled under screwcap for the first time in 2003. You don't have to be a woodcutter to enjoy this one after a hard day's work!
Arran Gold Cream Liqueur
$39.99
An Arran Distillery twist on a cream liqueur for those looking to expand beyond Irish Cream and the like.
Distiller's Tasting Note
Nose: Chocolate, cassis, a wee touch of fresh mint
Palate: Sweetness, Honey.
Grand Marnier Centenaire 100th Anniv
$127.99
A special edition of Grand Marnier celebrating the 100th anniversary of the creation of the company by founder Jean-Baptiste Lapostolle. This special cuvee was created in 1927. A smooth and elegant blend of cognacs aged up to 25 years, distilled essence of wild tropical oranges and the "Marnier secret".
Caol Ila 12 Year
$99.99
The most overlooked of all the peated heavyweights, despite the fact that it out-produces all of them by a substantial margin, Caol Ila (pronounced 'cull-eela') is a not-so-hidden gem for malt lovers. It is a sister distillery to Lagavulin (and Port Ellen!) and produces whisky with the same level of phenols as Lag, though generally speaking Caol Ila is a tick more delicate. The distillery's general profile is usually fairly citrus-driven, with a strong maritime influence and clean herbal notes. The 12 year old is an icon, but if you ever get a chance to walk up the age-stated range into the 20s and 30s, do not pass up the opportunity.
43% abv
Producer Tasting Note
Nose: Subdued, citric fruitiness; a whiff of bath oil and dentist's mouthwash. A fresh and appetising nose, with little or no trace of smoke.
Palate: Drinks well at natural strength; sweet start; pleasant, light fragrant smokiness and a lengthy finish.
Finish: Sweet smokiness in the lingering, slightly sour finish.