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 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£719.38 |
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Wine Advocate (97)The 2004 Vintage Port Nacional is a declared Vintage Port aged for 18 months in wooden casks. An old vines field blend, it comes in at just 79 grams per liter of residual sugar, rather dry on paper and in perception. Typically graceful and leaning on elegance in the mid-palate, it is laced with some herbs and rhubarb up front. It is very aromatic and it opens with a distinctive flavor profile compared to others in the Vintage Port lineup that I had open. In the mid-palate, it seems like a very fine table wine in some ways, showing remarkable finesse and focus, and a rather dry finish. It is completely closed and gives little. The structure and the underlying concentration are all obvious, though. They are classic and they make this a cellar candidate from the get-go. Despite being over a decade old, this is tight, firm, powerful and too young. After playing around with it for several days, I saw it finally begin to blossom, to show fresh fruit and something besides austerity. By the end of the week, it was far more evolved, showing its wonderful concentration, increasingly interesting intensity of flavor and a long finish. It is never obvious, but it is always quite gorgeous. This is an old school Port on an old school schedule. It needs cellaring. If extended aeration makes it at least a bit approachable, it is not exactly showing all it has and all it can be. Be patient--even if it is more approachable in a decade or so, that won't be even close to its peak. If you're patient and young, give it a try around 2040. |
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Porto | 1 | 100 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£983.38 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The 2017 Vintage Port Nacional is a field blend, mostly Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinto Cão, Sousão and Tinta Roriz, aged for 18 months in old wood. It comes in at 99 grams of residual sugar and was bottled about a month before this tasting after 18 months in wooden vats. In 2016, I might've made an argument that the regular Noval was better. In this vintage, this seems to be a clear choice, granting that Ports change constantly in their youth. Its siblings at all levels in the last few vintages are very fine, but this is an indisputable benchmark that seems to better them all. Rich and vibrant, this has plenty of stuffing and flavor, more than the regular Noval. Then, it adds layer after layer of power. A couple of hours of air makes both the flavors and tannins more intense. It is simply gripping—yet also remarkably fresh. It's a great Noval, and one of the shortlist candidates for Wine of the Vintage. There were 200 cases produced. |
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Douro | 1 | 96 (DC) |
Inc. VAT
£375.49 |
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Decanter (96)Made only in top years from the best lots, like all Noval's reds this is fermented in stainless steel then aged in French oak - in this case for 10 months in 35% new oak. Signature orange blossom riffs make for a delicate interplay of fruit and flower. A plume of fine, schistous tannins and bright acidity gently but persuasively anchor and extend its inky, perfumed black berry and plum fruits, with hints of bergamot, milk chocolate, clove, cedar and cinnamon. Very fine and such a great example of the variety, and nearly half the price of the Reserva! |
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Porto | 1 | 99 (MS) |
Inc. VAT
£3,005.38 |
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Mark Squires (99)This old wine was acquired by Quinta do Vallado and said to be an 1866 Colheita (although Francisco Spratley Ferreira of the winery tells me he can't honestly say for sure if it is a true single-vintage Colheita, which is why it is marketed just as "Tributa"), pre-phylloxera vines. It was bottled for Antonia Adelaide Ferreira's 200th anniversary--a woman who built a lot of Douro and was the ancestor of Vallado's owners. Francisco told me (with some typos corrected) that "we think it is a true colheita, but it's impossible to be sure... We bought this wine and the owner said to me that [he] never touched ... this wine last 50 years! We believe that with this concentration and baume (13,5), this is really very old and wasn't "refrescado" (add young wines to fill the barrel).... At same time it' s amazing the acidity, especially thinking in this baume! The wine only was bottled last weeks!" I've run into my share of really old Ports recently--1863 Niepoort, Sequeira, the NV Wine and Soul "5G"--all were exceptional and all were very different. This would be my winner of that group. If you are really loaded, keep reading. Very dark in color and far thicker than the 5g (although not, perhaps, as vibrant), this is remarkably thick and viscous--there seems to be no question that it is old and concentrated. It is very complex, too. Laced with molasses and dark chocolate, and a touch of charcoal, it is enlivened by a big hit of acidity. The texture is quite caressing and sexy. Its age shows mostly in its thick demeanor. It reminds me of some century old Moscatels I've had in Southern Portugal. It is remarkably sweet and fresh in most other respects. It is a wonderful experience. There is bad news. You could predict this, huh? There were 1,300 bottles produced--and they are coming in special decanters running around $3,000 per 750ml bottle. (No, I didn't get one of those bottles, but I did get a sample taste!) |
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Porto | 1 | 96 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£364.27 |
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Wine Advocate (96)The 2016 Vintage Port is a blend of 43% Touriga Nacional, 25% Touriga Franca and 17% Alicante Bouschet, with Tinta Amarela and Sousão filling out the rest. It comes in with 115 grams of residual sugar. If this Quinta has a hallmark to me, it is the expressive, gorgeous fruit. It has a seductive feel, but it is also muscular and intense. It is one of the most muscular in the Symington stable this year, with the concentration to soak up the power. I'd give this the nod for the moment over the 2015, but they are pretty close, granting that I do not have them side by side. They may wind up in more or less the same place overall in the long run. We'll see. That said, this seems superb. Bottled in May 2018 and to be released in October 2018, there were 1,220 cases produced. |
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Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£7,050.47 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£32,267.96 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£83,849.93 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Cognac | 5 | 90-95 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£8,284.26 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£113,987.26 |
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|
Glen Grant Distillery is a renowned Scottish whisky producer located in the beautiful Speyside region. Founded in 1840 by brothers John and James Grant, the distillery has a rich history and is known for its high-quality single malt whiskies. The distillery is also recognized for its beautiful gardens, which were designed by John Grant himself. With over 180 years of experience, Glen Grant continues to produce exceptional whiskies that are loved by whisky enthusiasts worldwide. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£4,300.45 |
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|
The Springbank Single Malt Yokai Series Tiger & Dragon Edition Mizunara Oak Finish 28YO 1993 is an extraordinary product from Campbeltown, Scotland's oldest operating distillery. This limited-edition release forms part of the Yokai Series, yielding a unique pairing of East and West. The Tiger & Dragon Edition represents the vitality and strength of these mythical beasts, reflected in the spirit's complexity and depth. This 28-year-old single malt was matured using the finest Mizunara Oak, delivering a rich bouquet of dried fruits, cinnamon, and a hint of peat, followed by a long, satisfying finish with hints of ginger and clove. The nuances from the high-quality Japanese oak complement the intrinsic qualities of the Springbank malt, providing a distinctive flavour profile. Rich in character, steeped in heritage and meticulously crafted, the Springbank Single Malt Yokai Series Tiger & Dragon Edition Mizunara Oak Finish 28YO 1993 is a testament to Springbank's uncompromising commitment to excellence in whisky production. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£18,047.26 |
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Kentucky | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£129.60 |
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|
Immerse yourself in the rich, sumptuous flavours of the highly sought-after Stars & Stripes Straight Bourbon NV. This exceptional spirit embodies the true essence of American craft distilling, hailed from the heartland of bourbon, Kentucky. Notorious for its robust flavour profile, each bottle captures the essence of corn, rye, and malted barley specially sourced from local farms. This esteemed blend is meticulously cultivated in charred American oak barrels, endowing the bourbon with delectable notes of vanilla and toasted caramel and a smooth, lingering finish. In the hands of dedicated, time-honoured artisans, the Stars & Stripes Straight Bourbon NV is carefully distilled according to traditional methods, ensuring its consistent acclaim. Infused with a sense of pride and heritage, this spirit encapsulates classic American flavours, exuding sheer opulence and refinement, qualifying it as a favourite amongst discerning bourbon enthusiasts. Relish the complexity of Stars & Stripes Straight Bourbon NV - an emblem of American distinguished luxury and tradition. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£12,995.26 |
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|
Founded in the 1820s in the Speyside village of Keith, Strathmill is best known as the malt whisky at the heart of the J&B Rare blended scotch whisky, a role which has seen it included in one of the most popular whiskies on earth, though the single malt itself has long flown under the radar; a preserve of connoisseurs and an insider's secret. Only one official bottling has ever been released; the exquisitely balanced, classically Speyside 12 Year Old 'Flora & Fauna' edition, now sadly discontinued. Indie bottlings are also relatively rare, though the few we do see fetch surprisingly high prices at young ages. The rarity of Strathmill on the market coupled with the good value presented by these casks gives remarkable upside for those with the patience to wait. Strathmill's style is somewhat akin to Cragganmore, in our view; with a fair bit of sandalwood, incense and light woody spice on top of a delicate orchard fruit and citrus bouquet. This is a distillery which rewards Bourbon wood very well indeed so no re-racking necessary in this case. |
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|
1 | 93 (WHA) |
Inc. VAT
£10,715.72 |
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Whisky Advocate (93)Deep layers of vanilla and mizunara oak with sugar sprinkled pastries, incense sticks, oiled wood, tatami, dried apricot, golden sultana, and faint smoky spiciness. Nectarous mouthfeel with honey, barley sugar, dried citrus, orange peel, and delicate spices, it continues to sweeten beautifully showing vanilla, sugared almonds, banana custard, with hints of ginger and gentle oak. Slightly gummy finish as the vanilla quenches little eruptions of wood spices. |
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|
6 | - |
Inc. VAT
£309.88 |
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|
Revel in the elegance of Taketsuru Blended Pure Malt 17YO NV, a definitive blend crafted by the renowned Nikka Whisky Company in Japan. Epitomising mastery in distillation, this pure malt is achieved through a meticulous amalgamation of traditional pot stills from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. Matured for 17 years, it boasts an unparalleled harmony of rich, mature flavours. The nose introduces balanced oak, dark chocolate and ripe orchard fruits, followed by a robust palate with profound sherry richness, nuanced by delicate lashings of fruit and spice, culminating in an enduring, complex finish. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks, savouring every sip of this opulent Japanese whisky. For connoisseurs seeking quality, Taketsuru Blended Pure Malt 17YO NV delivers an indulgent drinking experience imbued with a commitment to heritage and expertise that is universally applauded. |
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Porto | 1 | 98 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£943.79 |
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Wine Advocate (98)Among the most saturated blue/purple/black-colored examples of the vintage, Taylor's 2000 tastes like a young vintage of Chateau Latour on steroids. Aromas of graphite, blackberry liqueur, creme de cassis and smoke jump from the glass. Spectacularly concentrated and enormously endowed, with sweetness allied to ripe tannin, decent acidity, and layer upon layer of fruit and extract, this is the leading candidate for the port of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2040. |
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Porto | 1 | 97 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£507.90 |
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Wine Enthusiast (97)Inky purple in color, this youngest Taylor vintage Port boasts a floral, wonderfully open and appealing bouquet, backed by layers of rich fruit. What makes this wine extra special is the seductive texture—somewhere between creamy and syrupy—and ample length. Hold. |
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Porto | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£284.70 |
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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. |
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Porto | 1 | 19.5 (JR) |
Inc. VAT
£367.50 |
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Jancis Robinson (19.5)This wine was placed immediately after the super-opulent Fonseca in the BFT tasting which may have been a mistake. This is restrained. Well mannered, discreet, keeps its powder very dry. But on the palate it opens out in the most superb, burgundian peacock's tail sort of way. Another wonderful wine from The Fladgate Partnership. Utterly different from the Fonseca. Upright and straight backed. But irreproachable. My gums are virtually impervious to sugar and acid but this wine set them vibrating a bit. Dried prunes ground up with rocks. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Porto | 1 | 97 (WA) |
In Bond
£595.00 |
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Wine Advocate (97)The 2004 Vintage Port Nacional is a declared Vintage Port aged for 18 months in wooden casks. An old vines field blend, it comes in at just 79 grams per liter of residual sugar, rather dry on paper and in perception. Typically graceful and leaning on elegance in the mid-palate, it is laced with some herbs and rhubarb up front. It is very aromatic and it opens with a distinctive flavor profile compared to others in the Vintage Port lineup that I had open. In the mid-palate, it seems like a very fine table wine in some ways, showing remarkable finesse and focus, and a rather dry finish. It is completely closed and gives little. The structure and the underlying concentration are all obvious, though. They are classic and they make this a cellar candidate from the get-go. Despite being over a decade old, this is tight, firm, powerful and too young. After playing around with it for several days, I saw it finally begin to blossom, to show fresh fruit and something besides austerity. By the end of the week, it was far more evolved, showing its wonderful concentration, increasingly interesting intensity of flavor and a long finish. It is never obvious, but it is always quite gorgeous. This is an old school Port on an old school schedule. It needs cellaring. If extended aeration makes it at least a bit approachable, it is not exactly showing all it has and all it can be. Be patient--even if it is more approachable in a decade or so, that won't be even close to its peak. If you're patient and young, give it a try around 2040. |
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Porto | 1 | 100 (WA) |
In Bond
£815.00 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The 2017 Vintage Port Nacional is a field blend, mostly Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinto Cão, Sousão and Tinta Roriz, aged for 18 months in old wood. It comes in at 99 grams of residual sugar and was bottled about a month before this tasting after 18 months in wooden vats. In 2016, I might've made an argument that the regular Noval was better. In this vintage, this seems to be a clear choice, granting that Ports change constantly in their youth. Its siblings at all levels in the last few vintages are very fine, but this is an indisputable benchmark that seems to better them all. Rich and vibrant, this has plenty of stuffing and flavor, more than the regular Noval. Then, it adds layer after layer of power. A couple of hours of air makes both the flavors and tannins more intense. It is simply gripping—yet also remarkably fresh. It's a great Noval, and one of the shortlist candidates for Wine of the Vintage. There were 200 cases produced. |
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Douro | 1 | 96 (DC) |
In Bond
£295.00 |
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Decanter (96)Made only in top years from the best lots, like all Noval's reds this is fermented in stainless steel then aged in French oak - in this case for 10 months in 35% new oak. Signature orange blossom riffs make for a delicate interplay of fruit and flower. A plume of fine, schistous tannins and bright acidity gently but persuasively anchor and extend its inky, perfumed black berry and plum fruits, with hints of bergamot, milk chocolate, clove, cedar and cinnamon. Very fine and such a great example of the variety, and nearly half the price of the Reserva! |
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|
|
Porto | 1 | 99 (MS) |
In Bond
£2,500.00 |
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Mark Squires (99)This old wine was acquired by Quinta do Vallado and said to be an 1866 Colheita (although Francisco Spratley Ferreira of the winery tells me he can't honestly say for sure if it is a true single-vintage Colheita, which is why it is marketed just as "Tributa"), pre-phylloxera vines. It was bottled for Antonia Adelaide Ferreira's 200th anniversary--a woman who built a lot of Douro and was the ancestor of Vallado's owners. Francisco told me (with some typos corrected) that "we think it is a true colheita, but it's impossible to be sure... We bought this wine and the owner said to me that [he] never touched ... this wine last 50 years! We believe that with this concentration and baume (13,5), this is really very old and wasn't "refrescado" (add young wines to fill the barrel).... At same time it' s amazing the acidity, especially thinking in this baume! The wine only was bottled last weeks!" I've run into my share of really old Ports recently--1863 Niepoort, Sequeira, the NV Wine and Soul "5G"--all were exceptional and all were very different. This would be my winner of that group. If you are really loaded, keep reading. Very dark in color and far thicker than the 5g (although not, perhaps, as vibrant), this is remarkably thick and viscous--there seems to be no question that it is old and concentrated. It is very complex, too. Laced with molasses and dark chocolate, and a touch of charcoal, it is enlivened by a big hit of acidity. The texture is quite caressing and sexy. Its age shows mostly in its thick demeanor. It reminds me of some century old Moscatels I've had in Southern Portugal. It is remarkably sweet and fresh in most other respects. It is a wonderful experience. There is bad news. You could predict this, huh? There were 1,300 bottles produced--and they are coming in special decanters running around $3,000 per 750ml bottle. (No, I didn't get one of those bottles, but I did get a sample taste!) |
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Porto | 1 | 96 (WA) |
In Bond
£276.00 |
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Wine Advocate (96)The 2016 Vintage Port is a blend of 43% Touriga Nacional, 25% Touriga Franca and 17% Alicante Bouschet, with Tinta Amarela and Sousão filling out the rest. It comes in with 115 grams of residual sugar. If this Quinta has a hallmark to me, it is the expressive, gorgeous fruit. It has a seductive feel, but it is also muscular and intense. It is one of the most muscular in the Symington stable this year, with the concentration to soak up the power. I'd give this the nod for the moment over the 2015, but they are pretty close, granting that I do not have them side by side. They may wind up in more or less the same place overall in the long run. We'll see. That said, this seems superb. Bottled in May 2018 and to be released in October 2018, there were 1,220 cases produced. |
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Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
In Bond
£5,855.00 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
In Bond
£26,852.00 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
In Bond
£69,799.00 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Cognac | 5 | 90-95 (WE) |
In Bond
£6,875.00 |
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Wine Enthusiast (90-95)The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent. Only minor rancio. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£92,950.00 |
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|
Glen Grant Distillery is a renowned Scottish whisky producer located in the beautiful Speyside region. Founded in 1840 by brothers John and James Grant, the distillery has a rich history and is known for its high-quality single malt whiskies. The distillery is also recognized for its beautiful gardens, which were designed by John Grant himself. With over 180 years of experience, Glen Grant continues to produce exceptional whiskies that are loved by whisky enthusiasts worldwide. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£3,572.00 |
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|
The Springbank Single Malt Yokai Series Tiger & Dragon Edition Mizunara Oak Finish 28YO 1993 is an extraordinary product from Campbeltown, Scotland's oldest operating distillery. This limited-edition release forms part of the Yokai Series, yielding a unique pairing of East and West. The Tiger & Dragon Edition represents the vitality and strength of these mythical beasts, reflected in the spirit's complexity and depth. This 28-year-old single malt was matured using the finest Mizunara Oak, delivering a rich bouquet of dried fruits, cinnamon, and a hint of peat, followed by a long, satisfying finish with hints of ginger and clove. The nuances from the high-quality Japanese oak complement the intrinsic qualities of the Springbank malt, providing a distinctive flavour profile. Rich in character, steeped in heritage and meticulously crafted, the Springbank Single Malt Yokai Series Tiger & Dragon Edition Mizunara Oak Finish 28YO 1993 is a testament to Springbank's uncompromising commitment to excellence in whisky production. |
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Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£13,000.00 |
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|
|
Kentucky | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£129.60 |
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|
Immerse yourself in the rich, sumptuous flavours of the highly sought-after Stars & Stripes Straight Bourbon NV. This exceptional spirit embodies the true essence of American craft distilling, hailed from the heartland of bourbon, Kentucky. Notorious for its robust flavour profile, each bottle captures the essence of corn, rye, and malted barley specially sourced from local farms. This esteemed blend is meticulously cultivated in charred American oak barrels, endowing the bourbon with delectable notes of vanilla and toasted caramel and a smooth, lingering finish. In the hands of dedicated, time-honoured artisans, the Stars & Stripes Straight Bourbon NV is carefully distilled according to traditional methods, ensuring its consistent acclaim. Infused with a sense of pride and heritage, this spirit encapsulates classic American flavours, exuding sheer opulence and refinement, qualifying it as a favourite amongst discerning bourbon enthusiasts. Relish the complexity of Stars & Stripes Straight Bourbon NV - an emblem of American distinguished luxury and tradition. |
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|
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Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£8,790.00 |
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|
Founded in the 1820s in the Speyside village of Keith, Strathmill is best known as the malt whisky at the heart of the J&B Rare blended scotch whisky, a role which has seen it included in one of the most popular whiskies on earth, though the single malt itself has long flown under the radar; a preserve of connoisseurs and an insider's secret. Only one official bottling has ever been released; the exquisitely balanced, classically Speyside 12 Year Old 'Flora & Fauna' edition, now sadly discontinued. Indie bottlings are also relatively rare, though the few we do see fetch surprisingly high prices at young ages. The rarity of Strathmill on the market coupled with the good value presented by these casks gives remarkable upside for those with the patience to wait. Strathmill's style is somewhat akin to Cragganmore, in our view; with a fair bit of sandalwood, incense and light woody spice on top of a delicate orchard fruit and citrus bouquet. This is a distillery which rewards Bourbon wood very well indeed so no re-racking necessary in this case. |
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|
|
1 | 93 (WHA) |
In Bond
£8,807.00 |
||||||
Whisky Advocate (93)Deep layers of vanilla and mizunara oak with sugar sprinkled pastries, incense sticks, oiled wood, tatami, dried apricot, golden sultana, and faint smoky spiciness. Nectarous mouthfeel with honey, barley sugar, dried citrus, orange peel, and delicate spices, it continues to sweeten beautifully showing vanilla, sugared almonds, banana custard, with hints of ginger and gentle oak. Slightly gummy finish as the vanilla quenches little eruptions of wood spices. |
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|
6 | - |
In Bond
£248.00 |
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|
Revel in the elegance of Taketsuru Blended Pure Malt 17YO NV, a definitive blend crafted by the renowned Nikka Whisky Company in Japan. Epitomising mastery in distillation, this pure malt is achieved through a meticulous amalgamation of traditional pot stills from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. Matured for 17 years, it boasts an unparalleled harmony of rich, mature flavours. The nose introduces balanced oak, dark chocolate and ripe orchard fruits, followed by a robust palate with profound sherry richness, nuanced by delicate lashings of fruit and spice, culminating in an enduring, complex finish. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks, savouring every sip of this opulent Japanese whisky. For connoisseurs seeking quality, Taketsuru Blended Pure Malt 17YO NV delivers an indulgent drinking experience imbued with a commitment to heritage and expertise that is universally applauded. |
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Porto | 1 | 98 (WA) |
In Bond
£730.00 |
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Wine Advocate (98)Among the most saturated blue/purple/black-colored examples of the vintage, Taylor's 2000 tastes like a young vintage of Chateau Latour on steroids. Aromas of graphite, blackberry liqueur, creme de cassis and smoke jump from the glass. Spectacularly concentrated and enormously endowed, with sweetness allied to ripe tannin, decent acidity, and layer upon layer of fruit and extract, this is the leading candidate for the port of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2040. |
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Porto | 1 | 97 (WE) |
In Bond
£395.00 |
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Wine Enthusiast (97)Inky purple in color, this youngest Taylor vintage Port boasts a floral, wonderfully open and appealing bouquet, backed by layers of rich fruit. What makes this wine extra special is the seductive texture—somewhere between creamy and syrupy—and ample length. Hold. |
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Porto | 1 | 97 (WA) |
In Bond
£209.00 |
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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. |
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Porto | 1 | 19.5 (JR) |
In Bond
£278.00 |
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Jancis Robinson (19.5)This wine was placed immediately after the super-opulent Fonseca in the BFT tasting which may have been a mistake. This is restrained. Well mannered, discreet, keeps its powder very dry. But on the palate it opens out in the most superb, burgundian peacock's tail sort of way. Another wonderful wine from The Fladgate Partnership. Utterly different from the Fonseca. Upright and straight backed. But irreproachable. My gums are virtually impervious to sugar and acid but this wine set them vibrating a bit. Dried prunes ground up with rocks. |
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