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
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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|
Porto | 1 | 98 (WS) |
Inc. VAT
£363.07 |
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Wine Spectator (98)This packs a lot of fun, with a wallop of blackberry, fig, boysenberry and açai berry compote flavors working together, laced with a mouthwatering licorice snap note and driven by a fresh, well-detailed finish. A roasted apple wood accent is integrated as well, lending textural contrast through the vivacious finish. Best from 2030 through 2055. 350 cases made |
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Porto | 1 | 98 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£465.07 |
|||||
Vinous (98)The 2017 Dow’s Vintage Port showed a slight reduction and required more time to really open in the glass. Typical of Dow’s it has a more backward and introspective bouquet compared to its peers, scents of blackberry, clove, wild mint, cassis and vanilla, gradually gaining more intensity with aeration. The palate is simply glorious. It is built around a compelling tannic frame that seems finer than any Dow’s I have encountered apart from the ethereal 2011. There is so much energy coiled up in this Port, a sense of symmetry that is enthralling and yet you just know that it needs to be cellared for 15-20 years for it to reveal its full potential. For serious Port-lovers. One of the vintages most cerebral offerings. Total production is 5,250 cases. |
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Porto | 2 | 98 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£661.87 |
|||||
Vinous (98)The 2017 Dow’s Vintage Port showed a slight reduction and required more time to really open in the glass. Typical of Dow’s it has a more backward and introspective bouquet compared to its peers, scents of blackberry, clove, wild mint, cassis and vanilla, gradually gaining more intensity with aeration. The palate is simply glorious. It is built around a compelling tannic frame that seems finer than any Dow’s I have encountered apart from the ethereal 2011. There is so much energy coiled up in this Port, a sense of symmetry that is enthralling and yet you just know that it needs to be cellared for 15-20 years for it to reveal its full potential. For serious Port-lovers. One of the vintages most cerebral offerings. Total production is 5,250 cases. |
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Kentucky | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£153.60 |
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|
Experience the exquisiteness of Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Small Batch NV. This bourbon, renowned for its warm, russet colour and full-bodied aroma, hails from the revered terrains of Kentucky -- the heartland of American whiskey. The esteemed producer, Elijah Craig, implements meticulous craftsmanship at every step of production, from the selection of local corn and malted barley, through to the delicate maturation process. The spirit is distilled and aged in fresh charred oak barrels, giving it its rich, deep flavour profile laden with hints of caramel, vanilla and oak spice. It is bottled at a significant 47% ABV, preserving its intensity and charm. Imitative of the Elijah Craig legacy, every sip of this Small Batch NV seamlessly reconciles tradition with modernity. For enthusiasts of distinguished spirits, this bourbon provides an authentic glimpse into the essence of Kentucky. Revel in the luxuriance of Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Small Batch NV – a testament to iconic American whiskey. |
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|
3 | - |
Inc. VAT
£341.95 |
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|
Savour a taste of Cuba with the Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000. Adroitly crafted by Cuban Maestro Ronero, César Martí, this super-premium rum represents a fine blend of timeless tradition and innovatory craftsmanship. The Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000 boasts a rich, complex flavour profile, with distinguished notes of coffee, chocolate, and tobacco—synonymous with the fertile Cuban terroir. Assemblage consists of precious distillates matured for seven years in white oak casks, emanating remarkable depth and character. Its unique 'Aguardiente' style, reminiscent of 19th-century Cuban rum, emanates from the lush sugar cane fields of Villa Clara. Honoured with the Gold Medal at the Global Rum Masters 2021, the Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000 is a discerning choice for connoisseurs seeking authenticity and sophistication in fine spirits. Experience the refined charm of Cuban heritage and exceptional rum-making expertise in each decanter of the Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000. |
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Kentucky | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£210.00 |
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|
Indulge your palate in the beguiling elegance of Evan Williams Straight Bourbon Smooth Mellow 8YO NV. This superior quality Bourbon, originating from the esteemed Old Evan distillery in Kentucky, USA, exemplifies skilled craftsmanship and tradition. The distillate matures for eight years, accruing unparalleled depth and finesse. The stock is distilled at a lower proof to allow a higher retention of original flavours, yielding a resplendently smooth and mellow finish. The spirit boasts a caramel and vanilla bouquet twined with whispers of antique oak, procuring a complex, yet balanced taste profile. It flourishes with the rich sweetness of honey upon first sips, seamlessly transitioning into a warm and soothing finish tinged with subtle spice. Evan Williams embodies a testament to detailed refinement and quality – a connoisseur's delight indeed and an essential piece of each bourbon lover's collection. Revel in the exquisite experience of the Evan Williams Straight Bourbon Smooth Mellow 8YO NV – a symphony of superior taste. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£18,566.60 |
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|
Founded in 1824 in the east Highland foothills of the Grampian Mountains, Fettercairn is a distillery that is very much on the up in recent years. A redeveloped brand at the distillery and an increased focus on prestige bottlings, it is beginning to be more recognised around the world for the unique spirit that comes off it’s elegant stills.
More Info
A whisky of renowned purity and finesse, Fettercairn’s classic style is achieved courtesy of a unique still cooling process by which irrigation tubes drench the stills in cool, pure water, cooling the copper causing the harsher oils and phenolic in the vapour to fall back into the still, rather than proceed into the spirit safe. With ineffably fine spirit and patient devotion to maturation, Fettercairn is best at older age statements, making casks with in-built age a particularly compelling proposition. A stable mate of Dalmore, one of the most sought-after malts in the world, Fettercairn is a no-brainier to buy into while its still available at reasonable prices. Much like Glenrothes followed Macallan into the realm of rarefied for exclusivity, Fettercairn is sure to follow Dalmore into the stratosphere given time. We are pleased to have secured this superb 12-year-old cask of Fettercairn at an excellent price and with a classic, delicate nutty malt profile it is exactly what you want from a Bourbon-aged Highlander. Still above 60% at this age, look for this to age gracefully for many years to come. Really no need to rush this one. |
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Cognac | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£429.94 |
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|
Marvel in the splendour of Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1976, a true gem for any discerning cognac afficionado. This extraordinary elixir is produced within the smallest of the Cognac crus, the renowned Borderies region. Our distiller, known for their century-old savoir faire, exclusively employs Ugni Blanc grapes and traditional pot stills. Meticulously aged in fine grain French oak barrels for over four decades, this velvety blend has hatched into a premier example of a well aged borderies cognac. Notes of dried flowers and honey meld harmoniously with hints of cinnamon and vanilla, culminating into an impeccable lingering finish. Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1976 is as much an experience of the history and terroir of Cognac, as it is a delicious delight to the palate. Indulge in this prodigious and timeless journey, glorifying the sophistication of age and the bounty of nature. |
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Cognac | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£332.74 |
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|
Discover the elegant opulence of the Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1990, a robust embodiment of perfected cognac craftsmanship. Sourced from the illustrious Borderies region in Cognac, France, this exquisite blend exhibits vibrant floral notes harmonised with the distinct touch of nutmeg. It's a proud product of meticulous ageing in seasoned oak barrels under the stern vigilance of skilled French cellar masters. Borne from the expert distilleries of house Maison Cognac, this 1990 vintage is testament to its distinguished lineage. A rare offering, collected and carefully bottled at the most opportune moment to capture its rich, nuanced character. The Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1990 is an unrivalled example of fine spirits, offering an unparalleled tasting experience that continues to unfold long after the last drop. Take the excursion into time-honoured elegance; savour the unrivalled beauty of the Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1990 and add this masterful gem to your collection today. |
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Cognac | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£365.14 |
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|
Unearth the exquisite pleasure of the finest indulgence in the realm of spirits, Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1999. This distinguished libation is an exemplification of patience and mastery, sourced from France's elitist terroir, the Borderies. This scant block of verdant land famed for its exclusive clay and flint rock soils imparts the Cognac a unique floral bouquet and characteristic nutty aftertaste. Courtesy of artisanal producers, who have painstakingly preserved century-old traditions, the spirit reflects a quintessential French pedigree. Taken in by oak barrels in 1999, this matured spirit was allowed to meditate on its pre-eminence for decades while acquiring the perfect equilibrium of flavours. Afforded the luxury of time, this luminary elixir blossomed to its full potential, rendering an unparalleled taste. A single sip of the Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1999 reveals quince, walnut, and a delicate hint of the Borderies' signature violet notes, taking you on a transcending voyage into a world of refined sophistication and nuance. |
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|
|
Porto | 2 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£938.40 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97)Fonseca has scored in both the 1991 and 1992 vintages. The 1992 is a majestic young port that should ultimately rival, perhaps even surpass this house's most recent great efforts (1985, 1977, 1970, 1963). This colossal vintage port reveals a nearly opaque black/purple color, and an explosive nose of jammy black fruits, licorice, chocolate, and spices. Extremely full-bodied and unctuously-textured, this multi-layered, enormously-endowed port reveals a finish that lasts for over a minute. It is a magnificent port that will age well for 30-40 years. Importer: Kobrand, Inc., New York, NY; tel. (212) 490-9300. |
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|
|
Porto | 1 | 96 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£757.79 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (96)The 2000 Fonseca continues to exude finesse and focus on the nose, with pure blackberry, juniper berries, licorice and a touch of sloes, perhaps as Adrian Bridge remarked, just beginning to close after ten years in bottle. The palate is underpinned by very fine tannins, a sensual, svelte texture with wonderful acidity. The harmony and symmetry is alluring, the finish precise and demonstrating the persistency to suggest a long future ahead. Drink 2020-2060. |
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|
|
Porto | 1 | 97-99 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£1,188.89 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97-99)The Fonseca 2011 is typically more forthcoming on the nose compared to the bashful Croft: a strident bouquet with lifted scents of freshly picked blackberries, kirsch, crushed stone and a dash of Hoi Sin and oyster sauce. It is very well-defined, very focused and direct. The palate is silky smooth with not a rough edge in sight, though not a typically voluptuous Fonseca because of the keen thread of acidity and the structure that lends this mighty Port wonderful backbone. A slight viscosity on the finish lacquers the tongue and indicates a core of sweet fruit is ticking away underneath that will surely explode several years after bottling. A tincture of salted licorice on the aftertaste is very attractive. This will turn out to become an outstanding Fonseca, the growing season taming its exuberance with spectacular results. So much potential, but just 6,000 cases were produced. Tasted May 2013. |
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|
|
Porto | 1 | 97-99 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£375.07 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97-99)The Fonseca 2011 is typically more forthcoming on the nose compared to the bashful Croft: a strident bouquet with lifted scents of freshly picked blackberries, kirsch, crushed stone and a dash of Hoi Sin and oyster sauce. It is very well-defined, very focused and direct. The palate is silky smooth with not a rough edge in sight, though not a typically voluptuous Fonseca because of the keen thread of acidity and the structure that lends this mighty Port wonderful backbone. A slight viscosity on the finish lacquers the tongue and indicates a core of sweet fruit is ticking away underneath that will surely explode several years after bottling. A tincture of salted licorice on the aftertaste is very attractive. This will turn out to become an outstanding Fonseca, the growing season taming its exuberance with spectacular results. So much potential, but just 6,000 cases were produced. Tasted May 2013. |
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|
Porto | 1 | 98 (JS) |
Inc. VAT
£394.60 |
|||||
James Suckling (98)Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025. |
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Porto | 11 | 98 (JS) |
Inc. VAT
£305.10 |
|||||
James Suckling (98)Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025. |
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|
|
Porto | 3 | 98 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£447.07 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (98)The 2017 Vintage Port, not quite bottled when originally seen, has now been in bottle for a couple of years. It is a field blend (with typical grapes like Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesca, Tinto Cão, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca) aged for approximately 20 months in used French oak. It comes in with 98 grams of residual sugar. This is a great Fonseca, distinctive, with a touch of eucalyptus and plums, but also loaded with delicious fruit. Like its Taylor's siblings, there is also a fine backbone. I'd say it is a step behind the Taylor's duo this year, but not by much. It will age well, to say the least. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Porto | 1 | 98 (WS) |
In Bond
£275.00 |
|||||
Wine Spectator (98)This packs a lot of fun, with a wallop of blackberry, fig, boysenberry and açai berry compote flavors working together, laced with a mouthwatering licorice snap note and driven by a fresh, well-detailed finish. A roasted apple wood accent is integrated as well, lending textural contrast through the vivacious finish. Best from 2030 through 2055. 350 cases made |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 98 (VN) |
In Bond
£360.00 |
|||||
Vinous (98)The 2017 Dow’s Vintage Port showed a slight reduction and required more time to really open in the glass. Typical of Dow’s it has a more backward and introspective bouquet compared to its peers, scents of blackberry, clove, wild mint, cassis and vanilla, gradually gaining more intensity with aeration. The palate is simply glorious. It is built around a compelling tannic frame that seems finer than any Dow’s I have encountered apart from the ethereal 2011. There is so much energy coiled up in this Port, a sense of symmetry that is enthralling and yet you just know that it needs to be cellared for 15-20 years for it to reveal its full potential. For serious Port-lovers. One of the vintages most cerebral offerings. Total production is 5,250 cases. |
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|
|
Porto | 2 | 98 (VN) |
In Bond
£524.00 |
|||||
Vinous (98)The 2017 Dow’s Vintage Port showed a slight reduction and required more time to really open in the glass. Typical of Dow’s it has a more backward and introspective bouquet compared to its peers, scents of blackberry, clove, wild mint, cassis and vanilla, gradually gaining more intensity with aeration. The palate is simply glorious. It is built around a compelling tannic frame that seems finer than any Dow’s I have encountered apart from the ethereal 2011. There is so much energy coiled up in this Port, a sense of symmetry that is enthralling and yet you just know that it needs to be cellared for 15-20 years for it to reveal its full potential. For serious Port-lovers. One of the vintages most cerebral offerings. Total production is 5,250 cases. |
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|
|
Kentucky | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£153.60 |
|||||
|
Experience the exquisiteness of Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Small Batch NV. This bourbon, renowned for its warm, russet colour and full-bodied aroma, hails from the revered terrains of Kentucky -- the heartland of American whiskey. The esteemed producer, Elijah Craig, implements meticulous craftsmanship at every step of production, from the selection of local corn and malted barley, through to the delicate maturation process. The spirit is distilled and aged in fresh charred oak barrels, giving it its rich, deep flavour profile laden with hints of caramel, vanilla and oak spice. It is bottled at a significant 47% ABV, preserving its intensity and charm. Imitative of the Elijah Craig legacy, every sip of this Small Batch NV seamlessly reconciles tradition with modernity. For enthusiasts of distinguished spirits, this bourbon provides an authentic glimpse into the essence of Kentucky. Revel in the luxuriance of Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Small Batch NV – a testament to iconic American whiskey. |
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|
|
3 | - |
In Bond
£226.00 |
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|
Savour a taste of Cuba with the Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000. Adroitly crafted by Cuban Maestro Ronero, César Martí, this super-premium rum represents a fine blend of timeless tradition and innovatory craftsmanship. The Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000 boasts a rich, complex flavour profile, with distinguished notes of coffee, chocolate, and tobacco—synonymous with the fertile Cuban terroir. Assemblage consists of precious distillates matured for seven years in white oak casks, emanating remarkable depth and character. Its unique 'Aguardiente' style, reminiscent of 19th-century Cuban rum, emanates from the lush sugar cane fields of Villa Clara. Honoured with the Gold Medal at the Global Rum Masters 2021, the Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000 is a discerning choice for connoisseurs seeking authenticity and sophistication in fine spirits. Experience the refined charm of Cuban heritage and exceptional rum-making expertise in each decanter of the Eminente Reserva 7YO 1000. |
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|
|
Kentucky | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£210.00 |
|||||
|
Indulge your palate in the beguiling elegance of Evan Williams Straight Bourbon Smooth Mellow 8YO NV. This superior quality Bourbon, originating from the esteemed Old Evan distillery in Kentucky, USA, exemplifies skilled craftsmanship and tradition. The distillate matures for eight years, accruing unparalleled depth and finesse. The stock is distilled at a lower proof to allow a higher retention of original flavours, yielding a resplendently smooth and mellow finish. The spirit boasts a caramel and vanilla bouquet twined with whispers of antique oak, procuring a complex, yet balanced taste profile. It flourishes with the rich sweetness of honey upon first sips, seamlessly transitioning into a warm and soothing finish tinged with subtle spice. Evan Williams embodies a testament to detailed refinement and quality – a connoisseur's delight indeed and an essential piece of each bourbon lover's collection. Revel in the exquisite experience of the Evan Williams Straight Bourbon Smooth Mellow 8YO NV – a symphony of superior taste. |
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|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£13,392.00 |
|||||
|
Founded in 1824 in the east Highland foothills of the Grampian Mountains, Fettercairn is a distillery that is very much on the up in recent years. A redeveloped brand at the distillery and an increased focus on prestige bottlings, it is beginning to be more recognised around the world for the unique spirit that comes off it’s elegant stills.
More Info
A whisky of renowned purity and finesse, Fettercairn’s classic style is achieved courtesy of a unique still cooling process by which irrigation tubes drench the stills in cool, pure water, cooling the copper causing the harsher oils and phenolic in the vapour to fall back into the still, rather than proceed into the spirit safe. With ineffably fine spirit and patient devotion to maturation, Fettercairn is best at older age statements, making casks with in-built age a particularly compelling proposition. A stable mate of Dalmore, one of the most sought-after malts in the world, Fettercairn is a no-brainier to buy into while its still available at reasonable prices. Much like Glenrothes followed Macallan into the realm of rarefied for exclusivity, Fettercairn is sure to follow Dalmore into the stratosphere given time. We are pleased to have secured this superb 12-year-old cask of Fettercairn at an excellent price and with a classic, delicate nutty malt profile it is exactly what you want from a Bourbon-aged Highlander. Still above 60% at this age, look for this to age gracefully for many years to come. Really no need to rush this one. |
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Cognac | 2 | - |
In Bond
£344.00 |
|||||
|
Marvel in the splendour of Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1976, a true gem for any discerning cognac afficionado. This extraordinary elixir is produced within the smallest of the Cognac crus, the renowned Borderies region. Our distiller, known for their century-old savoir faire, exclusively employs Ugni Blanc grapes and traditional pot stills. Meticulously aged in fine grain French oak barrels for over four decades, this velvety blend has hatched into a premier example of a well aged borderies cognac. Notes of dried flowers and honey meld harmoniously with hints of cinnamon and vanilla, culminating into an impeccable lingering finish. Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1976 is as much an experience of the history and terroir of Cognac, as it is a delicious delight to the palate. Indulge in this prodigious and timeless journey, glorifying the sophistication of age and the bounty of nature. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cognac | 2 | - |
In Bond
£263.00 |
|||||
|
Discover the elegant opulence of the Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1990, a robust embodiment of perfected cognac craftsmanship. Sourced from the illustrious Borderies region in Cognac, France, this exquisite blend exhibits vibrant floral notes harmonised with the distinct touch of nutmeg. It's a proud product of meticulous ageing in seasoned oak barrels under the stern vigilance of skilled French cellar masters. Borne from the expert distilleries of house Maison Cognac, this 1990 vintage is testament to its distinguished lineage. A rare offering, collected and carefully bottled at the most opportune moment to capture its rich, nuanced character. The Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1990 is an unrivalled example of fine spirits, offering an unparalleled tasting experience that continues to unfold long after the last drop. Take the excursion into time-honoured elegance; savour the unrivalled beauty of the Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1990 and add this masterful gem to your collection today. |
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|
|
Cognac | 2 | - |
In Bond
£290.00 |
|||||
|
Unearth the exquisite pleasure of the finest indulgence in the realm of spirits, Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1999. This distinguished libation is an exemplification of patience and mastery, sourced from France's elitist terroir, the Borderies. This scant block of verdant land famed for its exclusive clay and flint rock soils imparts the Cognac a unique floral bouquet and characteristic nutty aftertaste. Courtesy of artisanal producers, who have painstakingly preserved century-old traditions, the spirit reflects a quintessential French pedigree. Taken in by oak barrels in 1999, this matured spirit was allowed to meditate on its pre-eminence for decades while acquiring the perfect equilibrium of flavours. Afforded the luxury of time, this luminary elixir blossomed to its full potential, rendering an unparalleled taste. A single sip of the Finest Aged Cognac Borderies Vintage 1999 reveals quince, walnut, and a delicate hint of the Borderies' signature violet notes, taking you on a transcending voyage into a world of refined sophistication and nuance. |
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|
|
Porto | 2 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£938.40 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97)Fonseca has scored in both the 1991 and 1992 vintages. The 1992 is a majestic young port that should ultimately rival, perhaps even surpass this house's most recent great efforts (1985, 1977, 1970, 1963). This colossal vintage port reveals a nearly opaque black/purple color, and an explosive nose of jammy black fruits, licorice, chocolate, and spices. Extremely full-bodied and unctuously-textured, this multi-layered, enormously-endowed port reveals a finish that lasts for over a minute. It is a magnificent port that will age well for 30-40 years. Importer: Kobrand, Inc., New York, NY; tel. (212) 490-9300. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 96 (WA) |
In Bond
£575.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (96)The 2000 Fonseca continues to exude finesse and focus on the nose, with pure blackberry, juniper berries, licorice and a touch of sloes, perhaps as Adrian Bridge remarked, just beginning to close after ten years in bottle. The palate is underpinned by very fine tannins, a sensual, svelte texture with wonderful acidity. The harmony and symmetry is alluring, the finish precise and demonstrating the persistency to suggest a long future ahead. Drink 2020-2060. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 97-99 (WA) |
In Bond
£954.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97-99)The Fonseca 2011 is typically more forthcoming on the nose compared to the bashful Croft: a strident bouquet with lifted scents of freshly picked blackberries, kirsch, crushed stone and a dash of Hoi Sin and oyster sauce. It is very well-defined, very focused and direct. The palate is silky smooth with not a rough edge in sight, though not a typically voluptuous Fonseca because of the keen thread of acidity and the structure that lends this mighty Port wonderful backbone. A slight viscosity on the finish lacquers the tongue and indicates a core of sweet fruit is ticking away underneath that will surely explode several years after bottling. A tincture of salted licorice on the aftertaste is very attractive. This will turn out to become an outstanding Fonseca, the growing season taming its exuberance with spectacular results. So much potential, but just 6,000 cases were produced. Tasted May 2013. |
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|
|
Porto | 1 | 97-99 (WA) |
In Bond
£285.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97-99)The Fonseca 2011 is typically more forthcoming on the nose compared to the bashful Croft: a strident bouquet with lifted scents of freshly picked blackberries, kirsch, crushed stone and a dash of Hoi Sin and oyster sauce. It is very well-defined, very focused and direct. The palate is silky smooth with not a rough edge in sight, though not a typically voluptuous Fonseca because of the keen thread of acidity and the structure that lends this mighty Port wonderful backbone. A slight viscosity on the finish lacquers the tongue and indicates a core of sweet fruit is ticking away underneath that will surely explode several years after bottling. A tincture of salted licorice on the aftertaste is very attractive. This will turn out to become an outstanding Fonseca, the growing season taming its exuberance with spectacular results. So much potential, but just 6,000 cases were produced. Tasted May 2013. |
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|
|
Porto | 1 | 98 (JS) |
In Bond
£310.00 |
|||||
James Suckling (98)Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025. |
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|
|
Porto | 11 | 98 (JS) |
In Bond
£226.00 |
|||||
James Suckling (98)Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 3 | 98 (WA) |
In Bond
£345.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (98)The 2017 Vintage Port, not quite bottled when originally seen, has now been in bottle for a couple of years. It is a field blend (with typical grapes like Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesca, Tinto Cão, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca) aged for approximately 20 months in used French oak. It comes in with 98 grams of residual sugar. This is a great Fonseca, distinctive, with a touch of eucalyptus and plums, but also loaded with delicious fruit. Like its Taylor's siblings, there is also a fine backbone. I'd say it is a step behind the Taylor's duo this year, but not by much. It will age well, to say the least. |
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