Selection with Condition Photos
At Cru World Wine, we understand that bottle condition is crucial when it comes to purchasing wine, especially when buying back vintage wines. That's why we've created our "Selection with Condition Photos" page - a curated selection of wines that includes detailed photos of each bottle, so you can make an informed decision before making a purchase. Our photos show the condition of the bottle, including any signs of wear or damage, giving you the confidence to make an informed purchase decision.
Selection with Condition Photos
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Scotland | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£3,496.22 |
|||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£161,671.55 |
|||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£90,006.91 |
|||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£3,623.83 |
|||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£1,499.39 |
|||||
|
A truly exquisite exemplar amongst fine wines and spirits, the Martell Cordon Bleu Bottled 1970s NV emanates sophistication and refinement. This expertly crafted cognac hails from the heart of the distinguished Martell House, located in Cognac, France. Their esteemed tradition of viniculture, dating back to 1715, is gloriously embodied in this timeless product. The Martell Cordon Bleu Bottled 1970s NV blends eaux-de-vie from exclusive crus in the Borderies region. The meticulous distillation process exudes a unique complexity, indicating its distinct terroir. Embodying the quintessence of Borderies cognacs, this spirit radiates a captivating appeal, offering an intense burst of spicy, fruity flavours amalgamated with subtle hints of crystallised plums and apples. Its distinctive taste is complemented by the rich texture, achieved through expert ageing in French oak barrels, yielding a cognac of unparalleled depth. Relish in the opulent experience offered by the Martell Cordon Bleu Bottled 1970s NV - a testimony to the Maison's exceptional craft in the world of spirits. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£1,927.79 |
|||||
|
The Martell L'Or de Jean Martell NV is a luxurious embodiment of Martell’s celebrated savoir faire. This distinguished blend originates from the Prestige collection and bears the name of the founder, Jean Martell. Born in the revered vineyards of Cognac, it artfully melds over 400 extremely old eaux-de-vie from the four grandest growths. Each carefully selected, these contribute to the sophisticated palate, marked by elusive hints of black currant, gingerbread, and precious woods. Alluringly complex, this spirit showcases the quintessence of the Martell style, a testament to their 300-year legacy in the craft. Double distillation of clear wines and lengthy maturation in fine-grained oak barrels yield the rich, indulgent taste. A touch of Borderies alongside the robustness of Grande and Petite Champagne encapsulates the harmony savoured in every sip of the Martell L'Or de Jean Martell NV. As the epitome of elegance, the Martell L'Or de Jean Martell NV serves as a captivating experience for the discerning connoisseur. |
|||||||||
|
|
Kentucky | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£129.60 |
|||||
|
Delightfully unique, Michters Kentucky Bourbon Small Batch US 1 NV originates from meticulously curated selections, aimed at delivering the utmost quality to discerning drinkers. This bourbon reveals its charm in its voluptuous texture and complex flavour profile. Born of lush corn, malted barley, and rye from the illustrious Kentucky distillation region, it embodies the essence of its heritage. After a cautious fermentation, the spirit endures patient aging in bespoke white oak barrels. The process, supervised by master distillers at Michters, infuses it with a rich spectrum of vanilla, caramel, and fruit undertones combined with a distinctive oaky taste. The judiciously handpicked Small Batch US 1 NV epitomises craftsmanship and displays Michters' dedication to the craft. Whether you're a bourbon veteran or exploring fine spirits, the captivating smoothness of Michters Kentucky Bourbon Small Batch US 1 NV will sway your palate and leave a lingering appreciation for its outstanding quality and subtlety. |
|||||||||
|
|
1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£1,289.15 |
||||||
|
Crafting an exquisite blend of traditional Irish whiskey, Midleton Blended Very Rare Bottled 1995 NV is truly a radiant jewel in the crown of Ireland's spirits industry. This matchless distillate is masterfully produced, flawlessly capturing the sumptuous complexity and grandeur of Irish whiskey heritage. The key to its sagacity is the unparalleled dedication of the Midleton Distillery situated in County Cork. The selective maturation process in American Oak lends a subtly sweet, vanilla-infused character, while the meticulous triple-distillation process enhances the smooth, delicately balanced notes. This unique spirit is enriched with carefully chosen aged grain whiskeys, elevating its status to a magnanimously elegant and flawlessly balanced spirit. Under the adroit craftsmanship of Master Distiller Barry Crockett, the Midleton Blended Very Rare Bottled 1995 NV represents an exceptional standard in Irish whiskey, rendering it a must for every connoisseur's collection. Its visitation upon the palate is nothing short of a divine encounter. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 7 | 89 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£540.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (89)The 1991 Vintage Port is flattering and precocious for its vintage. It offers generous levels of sweet black fruits, full body, a velvety, supple texture, and a fine finish. Drink it over the next 20 years. |
|||||||||
|
|
Armagnac | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£884.40 |
|||||
|
The Nismes-Delclou Armagnac 1947 is a distinguished vintage spirit, lauded by connoisseurs as an embodiment of refinement and sophistication. This Armagnac originates from France's Gascony's esteemed Armagnac producer, Nismes-Delclou - a distillery steeped in history since 1832. Our Nismes-Delclou Armagnac 1947 is a testament to their heritage and passion. Exquisite selection and slow distillation of local grapes, followed by decades of maturation in black oak barrels, has allowed this masterpiece to develop its rich complexity and deep amber hue. The masterpiece features an alluring bouquet of prunes, dates, and vanilla, ideally balanced with the tertiary aromas of cinnamon and leather acquired over the ageing years. The palate reveals a splendid richness, balanced by the tannic heft imparted by the wood. Intense, yet with an undeniably smooth finish, this rare Nismes-Delclou Armagnac 1947 offers an unforgettable tasting experience for the discerning spirits aficionado. |
|||||||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£4,075.55 |
|||||
|
Experience a rare treasure with the exquisite Oban Highland Single Malt Natural Cask Strength 32YO Bottled 2002 1969. Originating from the renowned Western Highlands of Scotland, this superior single malt is crafted by the skilled distillers at Oban, a prestigious distillery with a legacy dating back to 1794. The whisky, matured for a lengthy 32-year spell in carefully selected oak casks, was bottled in 2002, encapsulating the spirit of its prime vintage, 1969. This dram intrigues with a remarkable symphony of flavours, dominated by notes of spice-laden dried fruits, sherry, and toasted oak, underpinned by a gentle hint of coastal air. The Oban Highland Single Malt Natural Cask Strength 32YO Bottled 2002 1969 whisky, presented in its pure, undiluted form, offers a rich, full-bodied profile that even the most discerning whisky lovers will relish. An absolute delight for those seeking a classic, old-school malt experience. |
|||||||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£17,782.06 |
|||||
|
Highland Park Distillery is one of the world’s greatest single malt whiskies. In 2018, Highland Park ranked 2nd behind only Macallan in volume of auction sales. Located on the island of Orkney, the distillery was founded in 1798 by Magnus Eunson. Eunson was a colourful character who was a butcher and church warden by day and an illicit whisky smuggler by night! |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£589.20 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97)The 2011 Vintage Port hasn't been seen in a while. It begins our mini-vertical this issue. Showing rich and gorgeous fruit, this is pure, young and elegant. There is still plenty of power here, but decanting a small portion for about three hours gave me some hope that it would be approachable a bit sooner than anticipated. Noval has mid-palate finesse all the time—so, too, here. It makes this very graceful, despite the power and the first lush impression. The pure power does not detract from the feeling of elegance at all, as this comes together well. Dried herbs, eucalyptus and a long finish make this special, the complexity on the finish sealing the deal. This is early in this wine's evolution, but it is beginning to open its eyes and peek out at the world. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 99 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£5,365.20 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (99)Amazingly, the importer still has tiny stocks of such legendary ports as the 1970, 1963, and 1962 Nacionals. In most vintages the production of Quinta do Noval Nacional is no more than 250-275 cases. The 1970,1963,1962 and 1994 are candidates to achieve perfect scores. The 1963 Nacional's opaque purple color is remarkable, looking more like a 1992 than a 33-year old port. The wine possessed a fabulously smoky, cassis, black-cherry, peppery nose. After thirty minutes in the glass, fruitcake notes and more evolved aromas emerged. This port is so concentrated it defies belief, with extraordinary balance, and, like its two siblings, well-integrated alcohol and tannin. The impression is one of a silky, succulent, voluptuously-textured mouthful of exceptionally extracted port. This is a legend in the making. In 30-40 years it may well be considered, along with the 1931, as one of the greatest ports ever produced. Those lucky few with a bottle or two should plan to hold onto them for another decade before pulling the cork. It, too, is a hundred-year port. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£884.40 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 100 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£1,097.00 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£6,539.98 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£2,206.80 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Kentucky | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£190.80 |
|||||
|
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£2,451.02 |
|||||
|
Strathisla Speyside Single Malt 1957 Bottled 2007 1957 is a captivating testament to the timeless art of whisky distillation. Produced in the famed Strathisla Distillery located in the heart of the Speyside region, this exceptional malt has been expertly aged for 50 years in oak casks, resulting in a spirit that brims with rich, complex flavours. The bottling in 2007 has preserved the perfectly aged malt at its peak, offering connoisseurs a rare taste of 1957. Revered for horizontal fermentation tanks and curiously shaped stills, Strathisla imparts a signature creamy texture and fruit-laden profile to its whiskies. Upon tasting, the Strathisla Speyside Single Malt 1957 Bottled 2007 1957 tantalises the palate with notes of ripe orchard fruit, warm spices and a smooth oak finish. Crafted with utmost care and precision, this single malt embodies the heritage and prowess of Strathisla, one of Scotland's oldest operating distilleries. Indulge in this extraordinary whisky, an inimitable benchmark of Speyside single malt expressions. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£572.40 |
|||||
Vinous (96)The 1963 Taylor's Vintage Port is lucid in colour, very well defined with wild strawberry, Clementine, leather and tobacco scents, one of the few to contain a floral element. The palate has a cashmere texture with wild strawberry, cherry and a touch of liquorice, leading to a dense and structured finish. Over several bottles encountered, the palate always seems to offer more than the aromatics. Tasted in the Factory House in Porto for Taylor's - The Story of a Classic Port House book. |
|||||||||
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Scotland | 2 | - |
In Bond
£2,904.00 |
|||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£134,713.00 |
|||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£74,994.00 |
|||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£3,011.00 |
|||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | - |
In Bond
£1,240.00 |
|||||
|
A truly exquisite exemplar amongst fine wines and spirits, the Martell Cordon Bleu Bottled 1970s NV emanates sophistication and refinement. This expertly crafted cognac hails from the heart of the distinguished Martell House, located in Cognac, France. Their esteemed tradition of viniculture, dating back to 1715, is gloriously embodied in this timeless product. The Martell Cordon Bleu Bottled 1970s NV blends eaux-de-vie from exclusive crus in the Borderies region. The meticulous distillation process exudes a unique complexity, indicating its distinct terroir. Embodying the quintessence of Borderies cognacs, this spirit radiates a captivating appeal, offering an intense burst of spicy, fruity flavours amalgamated with subtle hints of crystallised plums and apples. Its distinctive taste is complemented by the rich texture, achieved through expert ageing in French oak barrels, yielding a cognac of unparalleled depth. Relish in the opulent experience offered by the Martell Cordon Bleu Bottled 1970s NV - a testimony to the Maison's exceptional craft in the world of spirits. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | - |
In Bond
£1,597.00 |
|||||
|
The Martell L'Or de Jean Martell NV is a luxurious embodiment of Martell’s celebrated savoir faire. This distinguished blend originates from the Prestige collection and bears the name of the founder, Jean Martell. Born in the revered vineyards of Cognac, it artfully melds over 400 extremely old eaux-de-vie from the four grandest growths. Each carefully selected, these contribute to the sophisticated palate, marked by elusive hints of black currant, gingerbread, and precious woods. Alluringly complex, this spirit showcases the quintessence of the Martell style, a testament to their 300-year legacy in the craft. Double distillation of clear wines and lengthy maturation in fine-grained oak barrels yield the rich, indulgent taste. A touch of Borderies alongside the robustness of Grande and Petite Champagne encapsulates the harmony savoured in every sip of the Martell L'Or de Jean Martell NV. As the epitome of elegance, the Martell L'Or de Jean Martell NV serves as a captivating experience for the discerning connoisseur. |
|||||||||
|
|
Kentucky | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£129.60 |
|||||
|
Delightfully unique, Michters Kentucky Bourbon Small Batch US 1 NV originates from meticulously curated selections, aimed at delivering the utmost quality to discerning drinkers. This bourbon reveals its charm in its voluptuous texture and complex flavour profile. Born of lush corn, malted barley, and rye from the illustrious Kentucky distillation region, it embodies the essence of its heritage. After a cautious fermentation, the spirit endures patient aging in bespoke white oak barrels. The process, supervised by master distillers at Michters, infuses it with a rich spectrum of vanilla, caramel, and fruit undertones combined with a distinctive oaky taste. The judiciously handpicked Small Batch US 1 NV epitomises craftsmanship and displays Michters' dedication to the craft. Whether you're a bourbon veteran or exploring fine spirits, the captivating smoothness of Michters Kentucky Bourbon Small Batch US 1 NV will sway your palate and leave a lingering appreciation for its outstanding quality and subtlety. |
|||||||||
|
|
1 | - |
In Bond
£1,061.00 |
||||||
|
Crafting an exquisite blend of traditional Irish whiskey, Midleton Blended Very Rare Bottled 1995 NV is truly a radiant jewel in the crown of Ireland's spirits industry. This matchless distillate is masterfully produced, flawlessly capturing the sumptuous complexity and grandeur of Irish whiskey heritage. The key to its sagacity is the unparalleled dedication of the Midleton Distillery situated in County Cork. The selective maturation process in American Oak lends a subtly sweet, vanilla-infused character, while the meticulous triple-distillation process enhances the smooth, delicately balanced notes. This unique spirit is enriched with carefully chosen aged grain whiskeys, elevating its status to a magnanimously elegant and flawlessly balanced spirit. Under the adroit craftsmanship of Master Distiller Barry Crockett, the Midleton Blended Very Rare Bottled 1995 NV represents an exceptional standard in Irish whiskey, rendering it a must for every connoisseur's collection. Its visitation upon the palate is nothing short of a divine encounter. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 7 | 89 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£540.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (89)The 1991 Vintage Port is flattering and precocious for its vintage. It offers generous levels of sweet black fruits, full body, a velvety, supple texture, and a fine finish. Drink it over the next 20 years. |
|||||||||
|
|
Armagnac | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£884.40 |
|||||
|
The Nismes-Delclou Armagnac 1947 is a distinguished vintage spirit, lauded by connoisseurs as an embodiment of refinement and sophistication. This Armagnac originates from France's Gascony's esteemed Armagnac producer, Nismes-Delclou - a distillery steeped in history since 1832. Our Nismes-Delclou Armagnac 1947 is a testament to their heritage and passion. Exquisite selection and slow distillation of local grapes, followed by decades of maturation in black oak barrels, has allowed this masterpiece to develop its rich complexity and deep amber hue. The masterpiece features an alluring bouquet of prunes, dates, and vanilla, ideally balanced with the tertiary aromas of cinnamon and leather acquired over the ageing years. The palate reveals a splendid richness, balanced by the tannic heft imparted by the wood. Intense, yet with an undeniably smooth finish, this rare Nismes-Delclou Armagnac 1947 offers an unforgettable tasting experience for the discerning spirits aficionado. |
|||||||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£3,383.00 |
|||||
|
Experience a rare treasure with the exquisite Oban Highland Single Malt Natural Cask Strength 32YO Bottled 2002 1969. Originating from the renowned Western Highlands of Scotland, this superior single malt is crafted by the skilled distillers at Oban, a prestigious distillery with a legacy dating back to 1794. The whisky, matured for a lengthy 32-year spell in carefully selected oak casks, was bottled in 2002, encapsulating the spirit of its prime vintage, 1969. This dram intrigues with a remarkable symphony of flavours, dominated by notes of spice-laden dried fruits, sherry, and toasted oak, underpinned by a gentle hint of coastal air. The Oban Highland Single Malt Natural Cask Strength 32YO Bottled 2002 1969 whisky, presented in its pure, undiluted form, offers a rich, full-bodied profile that even the most discerning whisky lovers will relish. An absolute delight for those seeking a classic, old-school malt experience. |
|||||||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£12,920.00 |
|||||
|
Highland Park Distillery is one of the world’s greatest single malt whiskies. In 2018, Highland Park ranked 2nd behind only Macallan in volume of auction sales. Located on the island of Orkney, the distillery was founded in 1798 by Magnus Eunson. Eunson was a colourful character who was a butcher and church warden by day and an illicit whisky smuggler by night! |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£589.20 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (97)The 2011 Vintage Port hasn't been seen in a while. It begins our mini-vertical this issue. Showing rich and gorgeous fruit, this is pure, young and elegant. There is still plenty of power here, but decanting a small portion for about three hours gave me some hope that it would be approachable a bit sooner than anticipated. Noval has mid-palate finesse all the time—so, too, here. It makes this very graceful, despite the power and the first lush impression. The pure power does not detract from the feeling of elegance at all, as this comes together well. Dried herbs, eucalyptus and a long finish make this special, the complexity on the finish sealing the deal. This is early in this wine's evolution, but it is beginning to open its eyes and peek out at the world. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 99 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£5,365.20 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (99)Amazingly, the importer still has tiny stocks of such legendary ports as the 1970, 1963, and 1962 Nacionals. In most vintages the production of Quinta do Noval Nacional is no more than 250-275 cases. The 1970,1963,1962 and 1994 are candidates to achieve perfect scores. The 1963 Nacional's opaque purple color is remarkable, looking more like a 1992 than a 33-year old port. The wine possessed a fabulously smoky, cassis, black-cherry, peppery nose. After thirty minutes in the glass, fruitcake notes and more evolved aromas emerged. This port is so concentrated it defies belief, with extraordinary balance, and, like its two siblings, well-integrated alcohol and tannin. The impression is one of a silky, succulent, voluptuously-textured mouthful of exceptionally extracted port. This is a legend in the making. In 30-40 years it may well be considered, along with the 1931, as one of the greatest ports ever produced. Those lucky few with a bottle or two should plan to hold onto them for another decade before pulling the cork. It, too, is a hundred-year port. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£884.40 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 100 (WA) |
In Bond
£910.00 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
In Bond
£5,431.00 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cognac | 1 | 90-95 (WE) |
Inc. VAT
£2,206.80 |
|||||
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Kentucky | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£190.80 |
|||||
|
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. |
|||||||||
|
|
Scotland | 1 | - |
In Bond
£2,033.00 |
|||||
|
Strathisla Speyside Single Malt 1957 Bottled 2007 1957 is a captivating testament to the timeless art of whisky distillation. Produced in the famed Strathisla Distillery located in the heart of the Speyside region, this exceptional malt has been expertly aged for 50 years in oak casks, resulting in a spirit that brims with rich, complex flavours. The bottling in 2007 has preserved the perfectly aged malt at its peak, offering connoisseurs a rare taste of 1957. Revered for horizontal fermentation tanks and curiously shaped stills, Strathisla imparts a signature creamy texture and fruit-laden profile to its whiskies. Upon tasting, the Strathisla Speyside Single Malt 1957 Bottled 2007 1957 tantalises the palate with notes of ripe orchard fruit, warm spices and a smooth oak finish. Crafted with utmost care and precision, this single malt embodies the heritage and prowess of Strathisla, one of Scotland's oldest operating distilleries. Indulge in this extraordinary whisky, an inimitable benchmark of Speyside single malt expressions. |
|||||||||
|
|
Porto | 1 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£572.40 |
|||||
Vinous (96)The 1963 Taylor's Vintage Port is lucid in colour, very well defined with wild strawberry, Clementine, leather and tobacco scents, one of the few to contain a floral element. The palate has a cashmere texture with wild strawberry, cherry and a touch of liquorice, leading to a dense and structured finish. Over several bottles encountered, the palate always seems to offer more than the aromatics. Tasted in the Factory House in Porto for Taylor's - The Story of a Classic Port House book. |
|||||||||
