Glenmorangie Nectar D'Or is a 46% ABV Highland single malt, initially aged in American oak bourbon casks and finished in French Sauternes dessert wine casks. It offers a dessert-like profile with notes of lemon tart, honeycomb, ginger, and toasted almonds. The palate is creamy and silky, featuring citrus and a long, sweet, and nutty finish.

Patrón Extra Añejo is an ultra-premium, 100% Weber Blue Agave tequila aged for at least 3 years in American, French, and Hungarian oak barrels. It features a bright, dark gold color with a rich, complex flavor profile, boasting notes of caramel, vanilla, dried fruits, and light agave. It is known for a smooth, velvety texture and is ideal for sipping or replacing whiskey in cocktails.

A cask strength variant of Kaiyo Whisky, a Japanese teaspooned malt which has endured a maturation in mizunara casks - known for being expensive though difficult for coopers to work with. These whiskies also spend part of their maturation at sea, to help develop their flavour profiles.

Rich in red and blue flowers giving pleasure in the notes of lavender, passionflower, magnolias and gardenias. A lot of citrusy hints describe the secondary scene. Medium to full bodied, extremely light, gentle tannins of very fine grain and a harmonic, balanced finale with a smooth, progressive closure.

A rosé created by a long, gentle infusion of Pinot noir that extracts its juicy ripeness while preserving its tremendous saline freshness. In this process, some Chardonnay juices are added to the Pinot noir maceration, to ferment together and achieve the perfect integration of the two grape varieties.

The Bowmore Distillery, established in 1779 and located on Islay is so close to the sea, the Atlantic waves smash against the iconic sea-facing wall. This salt spray of this No. 1 Vaults release is a key tasting note. The aromas will give you bright orange zest and marmalade drizzled with the sea and the palate will give you salted honeycomb, iodine soaked blood orange, ocean spiced blackberry and kumquat. Ageing in ex-bourbon casks adds greater depth to this spirit.

The AROMA: Sweet red berries, Seville oranges, plummy fruits, and sticky toffee pudding
The PALATE: Nectarines, creamy caramel, roasted chestnuts, and Java coffee
The FINISH: Rich plums, sultanas, Sanguinello blood oranges, and macerated cherries

The nose is élégant and offers power (in finesse/controlled), a beautiful racy grain and a good definition. It reveals notes of boysen berry, fleshy/juicy strawberry, small notes of small wild fruits associated with fine touches of cornflower, pulpy/juicy violet plum as well as fine hints of tobacco, very discreet hints of cuben pepper, tonka bean, caramelized almond and an imperceptible hint of coffee (in the background). The palate is elegante, very finely tight, racy and offers a good definition, complexity, a beautiful silky/delicate touch, a beautiful finesse of the suavity/fat, tension, a racy power (in finesse/controlled) as well as a good guideline and finesse of the tension. On the palate this wine expresses notes of blackberry, cassis, small notes of wild strawberry associated with small touches of small ripe/crushed red berries as well as hints of mild tobacco, tonka bean, mocha, cardamom, a subtle hint of zan, juicy violet plum, discreet hints of coffee, vanilla and an imperceptible almost saline hint (in the background). Tannins are precise, structuring, coating. Good length. Like a square of silk, we perceive thousands of small grains/threads that melt in the mouth.

This wine is smooth, ripe with fine tannins and red plum and black-currant fruits that are soft and gentle. Acidity dominates at this stage, supported by the tannins. It brings out the fruit and freshness of the year while also keeping some structure from the high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. Drink from 2025.

The 2019 Château Lafite Rothschild is a complex, elegant, and powerful Pauillac blend (94% Cabernet Sauvignon) known for its deep garnet color, velvety texture, and seamless integration of ripe dark fruits (blackberry, cassis, plum) with graphite, cedar, cocoa, and spice notes, all framed by polished tannins, minerality, and a long, perfumed finish, offering both immediate charm and significant aging potential. 

A blend of 54% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, the deep garnet-purple colored, 2017 Palmer gives a very serious nose of pronounced blackcurrant cordial, warm plums and blackberry preserves with hints of cedar chest, pencil shavings, violets, dark chocolate and star anise plus exotic wafts of sandalwood and cassia. Medium-bodied, the palate features fantastically vibrant, crunchy black fruits with a firm texture of ripe, grainy tannins and tons of freshness, finishing very long and mineral laced. It will need a good 5-7 years to really blossom with all those tightly wound nuances, but it should be a stunner!

The 2014 L'Evangile comes racing out of the blocks on the nose with plenty of black cherry, blueberry, cold stone and black truffle scents, quintessentially Pomerol with impressive delineation and focus. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly grainy texture, lovely black fruit here laced with Earl Grey, spice and sage, quite intense and fanning out gloriously towards the long finish. This seems to have gained precision after bottling and I did warn that it may merit a higher score. This is a deeply impressive L'Evangile that might challenge Lafite-Rothschild in the long term. Chapeau!

From the Domaine of Clarence Dillon, this is the second label for the Chateau La Mission Haut Brion. (Not to be confused with Chateau Haut-Brion). Dillon purchased this famous vineyard in 1983 and has brought it to the fame it has today, situated next to its famous neighbour notwithstanding. The terroir is similar and the 26.6ha of vines features about half/half Cabernet Sauvigon/Merlot with a small amount of Petit Verdot. In 2007 a new cellar, bottling centre and tasting room were built, combining modern technology with tradition. The wine itself for this vintage is 54% merlot, 45% cabernet sauvignon and 1% cabernet franc. Great structure with fine-grained tannins that provides the backbone to flavours of blackberry, raspberry, vanilla and spice. It's almost ready to go - try in 2026 or hold for another 5-10 years.

Composed of 56% Merlot, 37.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 6.5% Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Haut-Brion is deep garnet in color. The nose beings with simple licorice notes before slowly unfurling to deliver growing scents of creme de cassis, plum preserves, dark chocolate, and lilacs, followed by suggestions of crushed rocks, tar, black truffles and cardamom. The full-bodied palate is a tightly coiled spring, taut with black fruit preserves and earthy layers and framed by very firm, grainy tannins, delivering a burst of freshness to carry the long, long, long finish. This will need a good 7-10 more years to fully blossom, and it will be well worth the wait.

A Night on Earth - The Journey celebrates cherished moments spent with loved ones, embodying the spirit of the New Year. This annual release offers a unique expression crafted from a harmonious blend of first-fill American ex-bourbon barrels, alongside European and American sherry-seasoned oak casks. Collaborating with acclaimed Chinese artist, Nini Sum, the release showcases innovative multi-layered packaging, enhancing the unboxing experience and adding to the celebration of shared memories and future aspirations.

Eucalyptus, woodland berry, rose and baking spice aromas take shape in the glass. This is all about finesse and energy, doling out flavors of juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and licorice alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. Still young and tightly wound, it will benefit from more time in the cellar. Kerin O’Keefe

Classically crafted, this opens with earthy aromas of forest floor, woodland berries, leather, violet and crushed black olive. Savory and elegantly structured, the lithe palate features ripe Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, star anise, truffle and the same black olive note from the nose. Taut, polished tannins and fresh acidity keep it balanced.

Nose: Rich and complex with notes of dried fruits, vanilla, and oak.
Taste: Smooth and velvety, with flavors of caramel, toffee, and dark chocolate.
Palate: Well-balanced and full-bodied, with hints of spice, roasted nuts, and a long, lingering finish.

Nose: Intense aromas of blackberry, cassis, and dark chocolate.
Taste: Rich flavors of black cherry, plum, and vanilla.
Palate: Full-bodied with velvety tannins and a long, lingering finish.

Kaiyo The Sheri Third Edition is a premium 46% ABV Japanese whisky, matured in rare Mizunara oak and finished in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, often aged at sea for depth. It features a rich, complex profile with notes of dried fruit, toasted oak, caramel, and spice.

Fresh wood barrel dominates the spirit with a touch of vanilla and flowers that lead to a breath of nectar. Maltose, a little bit tones of fruits citrus, Mizunara oak, coffee beans. Medium, woody, back to sweet aftertaste of maltose.

The flavor from alcohol is not that strong, compared to its labeled year, which tastes smooth and easy to drink. Award-winning : Shinobu Single Malt 10 Year spent most of its days in bourbon and sherry casks before it was transferred to Japanese Mizanura oak for a finish, imparting earthy, woody notes to the whisky.

A suitably well-rounded expression.

E. Pira & Figli Chiara Boschis Via Nuova is a red wine from the Barolo region of Italy. The wine is made from the Nebbiolo grape variety, which is known for its high tannins and acidity. The wine is aged for a minimum of 38 months before release, which is longer than the minimum aging requirement for regular Barolo wines. The wine has a complex bouquet, with notes of red fruit, cherry, rose and tar, it also has a spicy and balsamic aftertaste. 

This is the inaugural release of this wine, very different in style from the Bin 707 Cabernet, coming from a single district and aged in French, not American, oak. The fruit is from two prized blocks of Penfolds' own vineyards, and is aged for 14 months in new French oak hogsheads. At first it is quite closed, but there's a delicate, almost floral and mint leaf edge here, then a rush of cassis begins to fill in. The oak adds a smoky incense note. The palate has a really firm backbone, the tight, powerful tannins framing really juicy fruit that bursts onto the mid-palate with sweet blackcurrant. Savoury and fresh on the finish, this is concentrated but long and elegant too.

The 2019 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru has a bit of SO2 reduction on the nose, though this gradually blows away. It doesn't reveal much, and I find others convey more personality. The palate is well balanced with a fine lime and orange pith entry and good weight, yet it needs more detail and mineralité towards what feels like a rather conservative finish.

Pairs well with: Shellfish, Lobster and Crab

Carte Blanche reflects the traditional style of the fine wines from Champagne of the 19th century. It is a soft and creamy Champagne, releasing a pure fruit that gives it a lovely vibrant character. After a few years ageing in the cellar, it has reached perfect maturity and, thanks to the Louis Roederer art of blending, shows astonishing freshness and subtlety. Aged between 3 and 4 years in their cellars, Carte Blanche expresses itself with a rich, creamy texture that contrasts with its freshness. It unleashes a succession of delectable notes of cooked fruit, baked apple, white flowers, almond and frangipane. This lovely, well-balanced epicurean champagne is an instant hit.

Jane Eyre, a winemaker originally from Australia, now works with small vineyards in Burgundy and is making a name for herself with quality, non-intervention wines. This wine is aged in oak barrels for about 12 months, resulting in a wine with a beautiful balance of fruit and oak flavours. On the nose, the wine displays aromas of dark cherry, black raspberry, and a touch of earthiness. The palate is medium-bodied, with flavours of red and black fruit, a subtle minerality, and smooth tannins. Jane Eyre Gevrey-Chambertin Villages 2020 is a wine that can be enjoyed now but has the potential to age gracefully for a few more years. This wine pairs well with roasted or grilled meats, mushrooms, and strong cheeses.

Not just Barolo, but single vineyard Barolo which makes these wines even more special. The typical flavours of roses and dried cherries is evident in this powerful Nebbiolo and of course these wines will age for decades, into 2040. On the nose, the wine exhibits rich, intense aromas of red fruits, such as cherries and raspberries, alongside hints of licorice, tobacco, and leather. On the palate, it is full-bodied with firm tannins, a great structure, and a long, persistent finish. The wine has a complex flavor profile that includes dark berries, plums, and black pepper, with subtle hints of vanilla and spice. The oak aging process adds a layer of complexity and depth to the wine, while the high acidity gives it a vibrant freshness. This is a well-balanced wine that showcases the elegance and power of the Barolo region. It can be enjoyed now or aged for several years to come.

From the Bolgheri DOC, the Poggio Al Tesoro is owned by the Allegrini family of Valpolicella fame. The Sondraia is the flagship wine made with a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Full bodied and intense with aromas and flavours of black currant, blackberry and spice, it's an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats and wild game.

Casa Raia was purchased in 2006 by Frenchman Pierre Jean Monnoyer who restored the old vineyards and began producing natural wines with three labels, the "supertuscan" Bevilo, a Sangiovese Rose and this Brunello di Montalcino. Made with 100% Sangiovese (as required by law) this ageable beauty is elegant with a nose of cherry, cinnamon, thyme and hints of pencil shavings and earth. Certainly one of the best "natural" wines out there.

Big and rich, with expressive beef and earthy notes to the dark plum and roasted dark cherry flavors, which are backed by firm tannins and acidity. Creamy in the midpalate, with hints of dried green herbs and dark chocolate on the finish.

94 points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate" Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it absolutely sings of red roses, black tea and tilled black soil with a core of crushed blackberries, Morello cherries and cassis plus a hint of cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied, the palate delivers a great intensity of ripe black berries and floral layers, framed by soft, silken tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. (LPB)" (11/2018)

94 points - James Suckling

93 points - Wine Enthusiast

98 points -Robert Parker's Wine Advocate "Deep purple-black colored, the 2016 Pavie Decesse bursts boldly out of the glass with confident blackcurrant preserves, baked blackberries, baked plums and sandalwood notes with touches of Indian spices, mocha and lilacs plus touches of cedar chest and pencil lead. Big, concentrated and voluptuously fruited in the mouth, it has a truly impressive structure of very firm, finely grained tannins and racy freshness lifting all that densely packed fruit to a very long, multilayered finish. Wow! (LPB)" (3/2019)

99 points - James Suckling

94 points - Wine Spectator

Chateau Gazin is a high quality winery located in the Pomerol AOC on the right bank of Bordeaux, representing five generations of owners and growers. With 23ha of vineyards, the clay-gravel plateau is perfect for merlot and cabernet franc. The 2019 is a blend of 89% merlot, 7% cabernet sauvignon and 4% cabernet franc. A solid Pomerol that has spicy red and black cherry fruit, notes of cedar, violets and plum with a vull-bodied, velvety and textural palate. This will no doubt age incredibly over the long haul!

A blend of 44.7% Merlot and 55.3% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion has an alcohol of 14.3%. It rolls effortlessly out of the glass with seducing notes of warm black plums, black cherry compote and blackberry pie, plus suggestions of lavender, crushed rocks and underbrush with a hint of sassafras. The medium bodied palate is delicately played and refreshing, offering lots of soft spoken black fruit and earthy layers with a soft texture and seamless acidity, finishing with a spicy kick.

The 2016 Palmer is a blend of 47% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot. Opaque garnet-purple colored, it slowly glides out of the glass with compelling notes of blueberry compote, warm cassis and kirsch with emerging hints of violets, cigar box, black tea, sandalwood and Sichuan pepper.

"Aromas of fragrant blue flowers mingle with perfumed berries and roasted coffee bean in this plush red. The supple palate reflects the nose, offering fleshy black cherry, star anise and espresso alongside velvety, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2028. Kerin O’Keefe" - 92/100, Wine Enthusiast

Critic tasting note: "Generous, deep, black-fruit flavors are wrapped in a warm blanket of velvety tannins in this dark, concentrated wine while cocoa, graphite and mint nuances animate the aroma and stick around through the lingering finish. It's elegant and balanced despite its powerful intensity. " - 95/100, Wine Enthusiast

Lively, aromatic, and grain-forward, with bright notes of red fruits, black currant, and roasted caraway seeds. Lots of depth on the palate, with baked raspberry and blackberry notes. It’s hot and spicy, but water quells it without losing the spice explosion, red berry notes, and roasted rye. Warm and more mellow on the finish, with excellent integration of oak, coffee, and bitter chocolate. Spice and tartness, with ably balanced fruit.

PATRÓN EL CIELO undergoes a meticulous distillation process, distilled four times to unveil the naturally sweet and subtle agave flavors. The result is an unparalleled taste experience, boasting a light, fresh, and ultra-smooth finish that captivates the palate. For a refreshing twist, indulge in an EL CIELO Over Ice with a Slice cocktail, serving the tequila over ice with a slice of orange to enhance its vibrant flavor profile. Radiantly clear in color, this tequila offers aromas of cooked agave, sweetness, and fruitiness, while the palate delights in the flavors of cooked agave, sweetness, fruity notes, and hints of citrus, culminating in a smooth and long-lasting finish.