Spirits
Spirits are the highest ABV products of the alcohol family and as a result have the greatest capability to age, far beyond most fine wines. Cognac and other types of Brandy have long been collectible, with a bottle from the 1762 vintage selling at auction in 2020 for $1,500,000, and rare, aged Rums have started breaking into the mainstream but fine whisky is certainly the most desirable spirit on the world right now.
Whisky can be made in a variety of styles and is mostly produced in Japan, Ireland, the United States and most prominently, Scotland. Single malt Scotch Whisky is extremely collectible and is one of the most sought-after in the world, with the The Macallan's top releases being the pinnacle.
Fortified wines are not categorised as spirits, yet they contain a distilled spirit, usually brandy, to stop fermentation and “fortify” the wine. Port and Sherry are two of the most well-known and popular examples of fortified wines.
Spirits
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Wine Advocate (97)
Now with a couple years in bottle, I am erring to the Taylor’s over the Fonseca (although these can always change!) The Taylor’s show more delineation and refinement with pure black currant, cassis, pencil box, hints of marzipan and a hint of dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied and sumptuous with super-fine tannins, very pure blackberry and boysenberry notes interlaced with cedar, dried fig and a touch of black pepper on the beautifully refined finish. Excellent.Inc. VAT£439.55 -
Vinous (92)
Deep ruby. Vibrant, expressive aromas and flavors of kirsch, dark chocolate and flowers. Very dense, fat and sweet, with excellent inner-mouth energy leavening the impression of lushness. Finishes long and sweetly tannic, with a bit of brandy to be absorbed. This has the density and tannic clout for a graceful evolution in bottle.Inc. VAT£535.98
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Wine Advocate (97)
Now with a couple years in bottle, I am erring to the Taylor’s over the Fonseca (although these can always change!) The Taylor’s show more delineation and refinement with pure black currant, cassis, pencil box, hints of marzipan and a hint of dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied and sumptuous with super-fine tannins, very pure blackberry and boysenberry notes interlaced with cedar, dried fig and a touch of black pepper on the beautifully refined finish. Excellent.In Bond£340.00 -
Vinous (92)
Deep ruby. Vibrant, expressive aromas and flavors of kirsch, dark chocolate and flowers. Very dense, fat and sweet, with excellent inner-mouth energy leavening the impression of lushness. Finishes long and sweetly tannic, with a bit of brandy to be absorbed. This has the density and tannic clout for a graceful evolution in bottle.In Bond£421.00