$100 and over
Caves D’Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé
Chateau d’Esclans is situated in the heart of Provence, northeast of St. Tropez. With his acquisition of the Château in 2006, Sacha Lichine’s vision was to create the greatest rosés in the world, igniting the “Rosé Renaissance”. Château d’Esclans is home to Whispering Angel which is made from grapes sourced from amongst the most choice Vineyards in the vicinity of the Esclans Valley and nearby in the Cotes de Provence region. Harvesting is only conducted during at night time to avoid the heat of the day & to keep the crop of grapes fresh. Upon arriving in the Cellars, grapes are sorted for both health and quality ensuring that the selected grapes are assessed accurately in terms of overall quality. The harvest takes place each September, where grapes, at their ripest, are selected, picked and carefully placed in small crates, chosen in order to avoid too many grapes at the top crushing grapes at the bottom. Once the grapes arrive to the cellars all grapes which go into vinification are de-stemmed and resemble each of the physical characteristics dictated by the wine maker including shape, size, colour and condition. This is verified by an optical eye camera which is programmed to detect whether grapes correspond to the established criteria. The grapes are then sent through a soft crush mechanism which punctures them in order for the juice inside to flow followed by their entering a heat exchange system which reduces their temperature from what can be as high as 29 degrees celsius down to 7-8 degrees. Temperature reduction ensures that freshness and vivacity are locked in which is key to ensure consistent temperature control making the grapes ready for closed circuit (nitrogen) pressing ensues which produces 3 grades of what is primarily free run juice. Nitrogen pressing ensures no oxidation is taking place during the pressing process known as an accumulation of details that is carefully planned and monitored. Depending on which grade of juice the press produces, the wine makers determine which will be used to make barrel fermented (aged) wine or stainless steel fermented wine. The different grades of juice differ in terms of skin contact which pertains exclusively to the first press while the next two have no skin contact and increase in intensity from one to the next. The overall affect is a clear, clean tannin free juice which gives the wines an agreeable characteristic and taste profile while ensuring that the colour is quite pale. As the individual juices from corresponding Barrels and Vats are selected and placed into half bottles, the technical team will taste through these unique juices and they will start to form opinions for which wines they should be used to make the new vintage. The information which comes from this step in the process is noted for referential purposes related to the next step, the assemblage. The last step is the assemblage or blending for Chateau d’Esclans and Caves d’Esclans wines. While there is little variation vintage to vintage, percentage of different grape varieties that will make up the ultimate blend will differ with each new vintage, however the taste profile remains the same. Made from Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle (Vermentino) grapes, its pale colour is pleasing to the eye and draws one in. The rewarding taste profile is full and lush while being bone dry with a smooth finish. A blend of the best free run juices and press juices, fermented and aged in stainless steel with temperature control. A beautifully pale pink, which is pleasing to the eye and draws one in. Flavours of fresh red berry fruit characteristics with floral notes and a ripe and fleshy feel on the palate. This popular rosé wine has great concentration, a smooth and round finish and no astringent aftertaste.
Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky (Second Edition )
Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky embodies Kanosuke Distillery’s concept of "mellow land, mellow whisky. It was produced using all 3 of their pot stills, aged in several varieties of oak barrels, and blended together after 3 years of maturation. The Second Edition of the 2021 Kanosuke was distilled from unpeated malt in 2018, this release is largely matured in first fill re-charred ex-bourbon barrels for about 3 years. About 5,000 bottles have been released at a cask strength ABV of 57%. Citrus, Vanilla, Honey and Lemon Tea on the nose leading to a flavours of grapefruit with some cinnamon sweetness, sweet fresh fruits, vanilla and dark chocolate bitterness.
Yuza Second Edition Single Malt Japanese Whisky ( Bottling)
Yuza Distillery was established in 2018 and to date has released just two single malts (The First Edition has already picked up Gold at the San Francisco International Spirits Challenge) and is well on the way to becoming one of the country’s newest cult distilleries. Sitting at the base of Mount Chōkai in the heart of Japan’s snow country, Yuza is the first Whisky distillery in the country’s Yamagata prefecture. Operational since November 2018, from day one, Masaharu Sasaki and his young team have drawn on the example laid down by Chichibu’s Ichiro Akuto, to perfect an authentic Japanese Whisky that could compete with the world’s best, while remaining true to their sense of monozukuri and producing Whiskies that are uniquely Yuza. It’s early in the piece and yet all the signs — not least the meticulous attention to detail and limited production — point to Yuza becoming one of the brightest stars in Japan’s Whisky firmament. Yuza sits on the flats near the Sea of Japan and enjoys an abundance of soft water from snowmelt and underground springs fed by the sponge-like crevices of lava of the nearby volcano. Chosen for this purity of water and access to the port for their specialised equipment, the area also experiences a massive 40°C average temperature difference over the year. This is projected to super-charge the maturation of the Whiskies in barrel; Masaharu Sasaki estimates eight years maturing in Scotland will equate to just five years in Yamagata. To hone their craft, the Yuza Distillery team partnered from the start with Forsyths, world leaders in distillation equipment. Yuza’s entire distillery team is fresh to Whisky but nurtured and overseen by the Scottish still-makers, providing an essential blank slate to be moulded to a completely new formula, key to Yuza’s dedication to an unfettered style. Facility equipment is centred around five Canadian Douglas Fir washbacks and two stills, including a Glendronach-inspired spirits still with an extended line arm, designed for more surface contact to give cleaner flavours with fewer sulphites. Dedicated only to Single Malt production, this small operation (the distillery covers just 620 square meters) has passed up the opportunity to release any ‘newborn’ expressions. The wash is currently 100% barley from Crisp Maltings with plans to eventually include a local option. Early bottlings point to a non-peated house style, but several heavily-peated batches have also been laid down. While Yuza’s barrel program remains secretive - even when touring the facility, you’ll find all the barrelheads are painted over - the early signs pointed to a preference for ex-Bourbon barrels. Now there is a portion of Sherry cask in the mix and Masaharu Sasaki has spoken of his desire to increase his inventory, picking up stock whenever he can. This cask strength Whisky was carefully selected from barrels from the first season at Yuza Distillery from February to July 2019. It’s estimated, that this selection could contain up to 80% ex-Sherry barrels. As distinct from the First Edition - a very bright expression raised in ex-Bourbon cask - the Second Edition was blended for more complexity, depth and luxurious flavour. This has a very old-world flavour profile (slightly reminiscent of top-shelf Speyside) and the alcohol sits in excellent balance with the complexity of the spirit. There’s a whisper of peat on the nose, with fragrant cereal notes before a progression towards deeper stone fruits and fig. It’s luscious and oily in the mouth, round and slightly earthy with spice and oat notes. It finishes dry with traces of liquorice and a mineral tang.
Domaine Faiveley Chambertin Clos De Bèze Ouvrées Rodin Grand Cru
The Domaine Faiveley Chambertin Clos De Bèze Ouvrées Rodin Grand Cru 2020 is a wine of immense complexity and depth, representing the very best of Burgundy's winemaking tradition. This Grand Cru is crafted with meticulous attention to detail by the skilled winemakers at Domaine Faiveley. Based in Nuits-St-Georges, the famous Domaine Faiveley was founded in 1825 and in more recent times, the domaine has greatly expanded its vineyards across the entire Côte d’Or. The grapes are entirely de-stemmed and fermented in a mix of new wooden vats for the top end wines and stainless steel for the lesser cuvées. Once notorious for being fairly austere, there has been less emphasis on extraction over the last ten years and the wines show increased freshness, purity of fruit and more judicious use of oak. A contender for one of the most improved domaines in Burgundy over the last decade. Coming from a "Vieilles Vignes" parcel (60 years old), "Les Ouvrées Rodin" is characterised by its elegant tannins and delicate structure. Marthe Sirieys, Erwan Faiveley's great grandmother, had family links with art amateur Maurice Fenaille. In 1885, the latter became Auguste Rodin's patron. In memory of the unique relationship with Auguste Rodin and as a hommage to the timeless works created by him, Domaine Faiveley names this new gem of the Côte de Nuits: "Les Ouvrées Rodin" The grapes are harvested and sorted by hand however the proportion of de-stemmed grapes and whole clusters varies depending on the vintage. The wines are punched down daily in order to extract colour, tannins and aromas from the skin of the grapes. After this wine undergoes a 19 day vatting period, the alcoholic fermentation is complete. The free-run wine is run off using a gravity system whilst the marc is pressed slowly and gently in order to extract an exceptionally pure press wine. Then, the wine is aged for 16-18 months in French oak barrels (60% new oak and 40% one-wine barrels) which have been selected for their fine grain and moderate toast. Finally it is left to age in cellars at consistent, natural hygrometry and temperature. The vines for this wine were planted in 1966. Deep ruby red hue with purplish glimmers. The complex nose offers a combination of fruit, spice and floral notes. The lively palate displays exceptional tension, elegant tannins, a hint of white pepper and menthol notes. Les Ouvrées Rodin is an intense, deep, smooth, elegant and subtle wine and a perfect reflection the character of its historical terroir. Drink now or will age gracefully with careful cellaring until 2055.
Don Julio Ultima Reserva Extra Añejo Tequila
Don Julio Tequila is a revered and iconic brand that represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and dedication to the art of tequila production. Founded by Don Julio González in 1942, this Mexican tequila has become synonymous with exceptional quality and an unwavering commitment to tradition. Don Julio Tequila is crafted with utmost care and attention to detail, starting with the selection of the finest blue agave plants from the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. These agaves, grown for an average of seven to ten years are handpicked at their peak ripeness ensuring the fullest expression of flavour. The heart of Don Julio Tequila lies in its production process, which combines time-honoured techniques with modern innovation. The agave piñas are slow-cooked in traditional masonry ovens, allowing the sugars to develop and create a rich and complex flavour profile. After the cooking process, the agave is crushed and the juice is extracted, fermented and carefully distilled to perfection. The result is a range of tequilas that exemplify the essence of their respective expressions. From the vibrant and crisp Blanco, with its notes of citrus and agave, to the aged and refined Añejo and Reposado, which showcase the influence of oak barrels with hints of vanilla and caramel, each expression offers a unique and memorable tasting experience. Don Julio Tequila is not just a brand; it is a symbol of Mexican heritage and craftsmanship. It is a tequila that has been celebrated and enjoyed by tequila connoisseurs and enthusiasts around the world. The legend begins in 1942, when a young Don Julio González sees a once in a lifetime opportunity in tequila production. He didn't own much, but what he did possess was a dream and the singular devotion needed to bring it to life. After sharing his vision with a local businessman, he was granted a loan to start his first tequila distillery, La Primavera. Sitting 6500 feet above sea level in the highlands of Jalisco is where it all began. It's in this extreme climate, surrounded by rich volcanic soil, where the legendary distillery of La Primavera was founded and Don Julio Tequila was born. Since 1947, over three generations of the Jimador families have worked with Don Julio. Their devotion to Don Julio's process and methods is unmatched and their mastery in planting, farming and harvesting agave have been passed on for generations and can be traced back to Don Julio himself. In 2006, Don Julio, with his family, planted their final agave field. In honour of his devotion and craftsmanship, this agave harvest was carefully distilled, barrelled, and set aside for a special use. Now released in commemoration of the tenure of Don Julio Gonzalez’s at the distillery over the last 80 years. To preserve this tequila and the exquisite agave piñas behind it they implemented a Solera aging system. The Solera aging method combines and matures tequilas of different characteristics finished in unique casks, allowing the final agave harvest to remain at the heart of this rare Extra Añejo Tequila. Don Julio Ultima Reserva Extra Anejo has been rested in oak, previously used to age bourbon and finished in Madeira wine-seasoned casks. Don Julio Ultima Reserva Extra Añejo Tequila is a truly exceptional and limited edition expression that showcases the artistry of tequila-making. With a nose of toasted oak, caramel and crisp agave, it immediately entices the senses. Hints of apricot, lemon and orange add a delightful fruity complexity to the aroma. On the palate, this tequila offers a taste experience that is both sophisticated and harmonious. The flavors of crisp fruit and light toasted oak come together beautifully, creating a well-balanced profile. The fruit-forward notes are complemented by the richness of caramelized agave and a touch of sweet honey. The result is a complex and layered flavour profile that is sure to captivate the palate. The finish is smooth and satisfying, with the light, sweet honeyed agave lingering on the tongue. It is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating this extraordinary tequila. Don Julio Ultima Reserva Extra Añejo Tequila is a true collector's item and is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks to fully appreciate its depth and complexity. With its limited availability, it offers a unique and unforgettable drinking experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Dalmore 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
For over 150 years, the Dalmore has set the standard in multi cask maturation. Hand selected casks, from the world's finest bodegas and wineries are expertly curated to create a sumptuous and layered whisky of legendary finesse. The 2023 release of The Dalmore 21 Year Old was initially matured in American oak casks and finished in first-fill Matusalem oloroso sherry butts. The casks used to finish this exceptional dram were specially selected by Dalmore’s Richard Paterson. They rested for decades at González Byass in Jerez, where they were used to mature 30-year-old Matusalem Olorosso Sherry, before making the long journey to the Scottish Highlands. This is not the easiest way to source a whisky cask, but the extra effort makes perfect sense when the Dalmore 21 Year Old hits your glass. Seville oranges, bitter chocolate and Colombian coffee tantalise on the nose, while sweet liquorice, black forest fruits and roasted walnuts delight the palate, finishing with notes of peaches, ginseng and pear tarte tatin.
GlenGlassaugh Rare #5638 42 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Glenglassaugh is produced using the highest quality of Scottish barley and traditional distilling methods, their key focus being on quality. While many distilleries have become highly automated, at Glenglassaugh their spirit is still handcrafted by a small, highly skilled team dedicated to creating the highest quality product. Only the finest casks are selected to slowly mature their precious spirit in their coastal warehouses until it is ready. Since 1875, Glenglassaugh distillery has sat quietly on the edge of the picturesque Sandend Bay, breathing in the North Sea air which flows through its warehouses and invigorates its sweet Highland spirit with notes of the sea. Silent for a period of more than 20 years, the distillery was re-awakened in 2008 and its stills brought back to life. Unearthed from the coastal warehouses, a rare collection of vintage casks were discovered from before the distillery fell quiet. These forgotten whiskies can now be experienced as part of their Glenglassaugh rare cask series. Glenglassaugh rare single casks are a discovery to be made, each cask telling its own story. All casks are bottled without chill filtration, for natural character, with the pure colour drawn entirely from the wood of the cask. The latest release in the distilleries rare cask series, Batch 3, features whiskies that are no younger than 30 years old, and provides a unique glance into the history of the distillery and the heart of Glenglassaugh. These elegant old whiskies offer a lush, ripe Highland single malt Scotch whisky experience, evoking notes of tropical fruit and the sea, while each cask type offers a unique taste influence. This whisky was matured in an ex Bourbon barrel for forty-two long years. Hand selected by GlenGlassaugh's Master Distiller Billy Walker. A nose of roasted orchard fruits, fresh vanilla pods and gentle cinnamon and ginger notes. The palate is of pears poached in five spice with hazelnuts and dry cedar. Bottle Information Batch - 3 Cask No - 5638 Distilled Date 09/11/1973 Bottling Date - 11/2016 Bottle Number - 82 of 238 Note - the bottle number in the image does not reflect the correct bottle number.
Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky ( Edition)
Kanosuke Distillery is located along the beautiful white sands of Japan's longest beach. With a magnificent view of the East China Sea stretching out in front, this is the scenic location where 2nd generation president Kanosuke Komasa planned to build his dream distillery. Having inherited his desire to take on the next great adventure, it has become their home base for creating new whisky. Kanosuke 2022 Edition is a single malt Japanese whisky produced at Kanosuke Distillery between 2017-2019. Made with unpeated malt, it has been bottled at cask strength from a blend of barrels, with sherry casks as key. Enjoy the flavour as it lingers on your palate, like the sun setting slowly over the East China Sea.
Yamazaki Single Malt Japanese Whisky ( Release)
The Yamazaki Distillery is Japan’s first and oldest malt whisky distillery founded in 1923 by Suntory's founder Shinjiro Torii. Yamazaki is not only the soul place of Suntory Whisky but the birthplace of Japanese Whisky. Inspired by traditional Scottish whisky, it is said that Torii selected the land of Yamazaki at the foot of Mt. Tennozan, for its high-quality water source and natural environment ideal for whisky making. Yamazaki was born from the surprising, delicate yet profound experience of a Japanese single malt whisky. Multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara aromas, Yamazaki whiskies are complex and deep. Made at Yamazaki Distillery, the birthplace of Japanese whisky, its signature multi-layered taste is highly praised by whisky connoisseurs all over the world. The House of Suntory honors the birthplace of Japanese whisky, capturing and celebrating the pioneering roots of one of the world’s greatest whiskies from the place Shinjiro Torii chose to begin the illustrious journey of Japanese whisky. Fifth generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo has returned to the roots of what made Yamazaki Single Malt quintessentially Yamazaki: deep, complex and multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara notes. Yamazaki Whisky is Suntory's flagship single malt whisky, from Japan’s first and oldest malt distillery, multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara aromas. From Yamazaki was born the surprising, delicate yet profound experience of a Japanese single malt whisky. Spiritual and deep, made at Yamazaki Distillery, the soul place of Japanese whisky, its signature multi-layered taste is highly praised by whisky connoisseurs all over the world. Today, Suntory Single Malt Whisky Yamazaki Whisky is not only the No.1 single malt whisky in Japan, but is enjoyed in more than 35 countries. Between 2014 - 2017, the annual Yamazaki Limited Editions were some of the most sough after annual release from Japan. These whiskies were limited in numbers and contained some of the best Yamazki liquid. Once they realised there were shortages they took these released to the wayside, making room for other non-age statement whiskies such as Essence of Suntory Volumes 3 and 4 and the recent Yamazaki Cask Finish releases. Back in 2021 and now again in 2022 we have again the Yamazaki Limited Edition 2022. This release was matured in Mizunara wood, resulting in an aromatic and creamy expression delivering a fruity and lively tasting experience.
Piper-Heidsieck Brut Champagne Non-Vintage
Piper Heidsieck NV is a champagne with great fruit, a good mouthful and a harmonious balance. Fresh fruit dominates the nose, predominantly pear and russet apple with a few hints of citrus fruits such as star fruit. The finish evokes flavours of fresh grapes, and a touch of aniseed, followed by a structured and a full-bodied finish. A juicy, fleshy pear and golden grape texture in the mouth, and the finish narrows to citrus and grapefruit flavours.