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95 Points! Aged nine months in 100% neutral oak barrels, the 2023 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills offers crushed citrus, oyster shell, white flowers, and a kiss of salty minerality. It's medium-bodied, has remarkable purity, vibrant acidity, and a great finish. As I've written many times, this appellation release can stand toe to toe with any Chardonnay from Santa Barbara County. - Jeb Dunnuck

93 Points! Shows harmony and intensity, with focused flavors of tangerine, Meyer lemon, lime and pomelo that are lovely at the core, plus aromatic notes of lemongrass, lemon thyme and oregano. A fresh thread of acidity and details of Himalayan sea salt gain momentum on the finish. Drink now. - Wine Spectator

From the winery: This bottling is comprised Chardonnay from four vineyards within the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. 3D, Machado, Hapgood, and Perilune vineyards all contribute to the wine which exhibits a drive, richness and pedigree expressive of our special growing area coupled with the purity of fruit and firm structure which have been the trademark of Brewer-Clifton.

3D The primary emphasis of the predominantly sandy 10 acre vineyard is chardonnay, with five clones planted. In addition to chardonnay, there is a smaller field of pinot noir planted to Swan, Pommard and 667 clones.

MACHADO 15 acre parcel on the Machado family land is located adjacent to Clos Pepe and immediately behind the Kessler-Haak vineyard. The site is marked by a gorgeous rolling terrain with sandy clay loam soils.

HAPGOOD In slightly richer soil, the vineyard is planted to the Mount Eden selection of chardonnay. The elevated clay loam content results in larger volume and a more dense palate expression. Our most recent installation, planted in 2010, is this small 2 1/2 acre section of pinot noir planted to Merry Edwards clone.

Only neutral barrels are employed. We strive for whole cluster fermentation. We farm with a focus of ripening the stems alongside the fruit, allowing the cluster to be in harmony. Working with the stems allows for wines that are structured, earthy and balanced with our beautiful Sta. Rita Hills fruit.

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95 Points! This opens with aromas of dried apricots and salted lemons, lifted by a floral note of chamomile. The palate is medium to full-bodied with tension, subtle salinity and pleasant fleshiness. A blend of fruit from the Adrianna and Domingo vineyards, this is a deeply comforting chardonnay combining a generous texture with incisiveness. Drink now. - JamesSuckling.com

93 Points! The 2023 Chardonnay Catena Alta Historic Rows was sourced from Villa Bastías and Gualtallary in Tupungato. Aged for up to 14 months in new and used French oak barrels, this bright yellow wine offers notes of pear and mint, complemented by subtle oak nuances. Dry, creamy and broad, the oak plays a significant role on the palate. However, it remains refreshing, with a long-lasting hazelnut finish. This is a classic continental-style wine. - Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous

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97 Points! Nervy and complex nose with excellent depth. Oranges, nutmeg, steel, mineral and a touch of white pepper and oyster shell. Broad and expansive on the palate with very structured, chalky tannins that extend to a lengthy, mineral finish. Long and youthful. From organically grown grapes. Can drink now, but better from 2027. - JamesSuckling.com

97 Points! The E. Pira e Figli - Chiara Boschis 2020 Barolo Cannubi is a fine and delicate wine, although there is a little more grit and richness in this warm vintage. The quality of the fruit is exceptional, especially its crisp ripeness. Dark cherry, blackcurrant, rose blossom, pink pepper and white limestone add considerable high-toned notes. The freshness is great and the fruit stays juicy, fueling a long, elegant finish. Only 4,000 bottles were made. - Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

 

 

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Mulholland California Gin is a handcrafted gin that embodies the spirit of California with its vibrant and complex profile. Distilled in small batches, it brings together traditional gin botanicals like juniper and angelica root with a selection of Californian ingredients such as Valencia orange, lemon, and lavender. The result is a smooth, balanced gin with a citrus-forward aroma and a hint of floral sweetness.

On the palate, Mulholland California Gin offers a crisp and refreshing taste with bright citrus notes at the forefront, complemented by a subtle herbal depth. The lavender and other botanicals give it a unique floral touch, while the finish is clean and lingering. This gin is versatile, making it an excellent base for classic gin cocktails or enjoyed simply with tonic. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a refreshing, aromatic spirit with a distinctly Californian character.

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Lagrimas del Valle is a Vintage, “Rancho Unico” (Single Ranch) Tequila — celebrating the unique and distinctive characteristics of the very best single ranches of Agave.

Lagrimas is produced in collaboration with the Rosales family, of Tequila Cascahuin, lead by current Master Distiller, Salvador “Chava” Rosales Trejo – the fourth generation of his family, their distilling tradition dating back to 1904 in El Arenal, Jalisco; within the heart of the “Valley” of Tequila. Lagrimas del Valle translates to “Tears of the Valley” – representing the tears that form both on a tasting glass from high quality Agave spirits, as well as the “tears” or condensed spirits falling into the still, the transformation of Agave into Tequila itself.

This Plata or Blanco "El Sabino" hails from Rancho Teuchitlan in Jalisco. Elevation is 1,261 Meters with an average agave brix at 40%. 

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95+ Points! Fruit selection for this wine casts a wider net in the celebrated Vorbeg vineyard that also fuels the exceptional Rarity bottling. This 52-hectare site has incredibly steep (70%) inclines at 450 to 650 meters above sea level with south and southwestern exposures. The 2022 Alto Adige Terlano Pinot Bianco Riserva Vorberg is a creamy, mid-weight expression from a warm and dry vintage. The wine offers pretty aromatic highlights of melon, Golden Delicious apple, pie crust and crushed oystershell. This is a beautiful and more accessible taste of the best of Alto Adige. - Monica Larner, robertparker.com

94 Points! Fairly neutral with vibrant apricot fruit, aromatic herbs and a touch of almonds. Tight and tense acidity on the medium-bodied palate, tingling and electric. The citrusy finish is long and salty. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com

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93 Points! Aromas of dark cherries and plums with dark spices, chocolate and dried flowers. Medium- to full-bodied, dense and structured with firm tannins and velvety texture. Dark-fruited and broad with a polished, lingering finish. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com

93 Points! Red with a garnet tinge, the 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva has a lovely nose of preserved red cherry, grenadine, rosemary, blood orange, fresh sage, and worn leather. It keeps lovely balance and structure on the palate, with ripe fruit but sweet tannins, and despite its ripe fruit, it has good levity and length, with its more sanguine underpinnings keeping its richness in balance. I’m quite impressed with this wine, which is going to age gracefully and show some more umami-rich tones as it ages over the next 15 years or so. - Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com

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94 Points! I loved the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, a vibrant white offering ample Meyer lemon, honeyed flowers, and crushed stone-driven aromatics, as well as a crisp, clean sense of reduction. Medium-bodied, nicely concentrated, and elegant, it might be my favorite of the lineup. I love it today, yet it should have at least a decade of longevity, if not more. - Jeb Dunnuck

94 Points! A solid sauvignon blanc with Meyer lemons, light grapefruit, peach stones and just a touch of flint on the nose and palate. Creamy texture. So caressing. Very Loire-like in a Touraine sort of way. Made from old vines planted in the 1940s and 1960s. Nine months or less in concrete tanks, used large barrels and 80-gallon stainless steel drums. Made by the fourth generation of the Mondavi family. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com

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95+ Points! Fruit selection for this wine casts a wider net in the celebrated Vorbeg vineyard that also fuels the exceptional Rarity bottling. This 52-hectare site has incredibly steep (70%) inclines at 450 to 650 meters above sea level with south and southwestern exposures. The 2022 Alto Adige Terlano Pinot Bianco Riserva Vorberg is a creamy, mid-weight expression from a warm and dry vintage. The wine offers pretty aromatic highlights of melon, Golden Delicious apple, pie crust and crushed oystershell. This is a beautiful and more accessible taste of the best of Alto Adige. - Monica Larner, robertparker.com

94 Points! Fairly neutral with vibrant apricot fruit, aromatic herbs and a touch of almonds. Tight and tense acidity on the medium-bodied palate, tingling and electric. The citrusy finish is long and salty. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com

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93 Points! A blend of 77% Malbec and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 Ilaria Malbec has a deep garnet-purple color. It needs a fair bit of swirling to unlock powerful notes of plum preserves, chocolate-covered cherries, and lilacs, leading to suggestions of clove oil and fallen leaves. The full-bodied palate is jam-packed with bright, energetic black fruits and captivating floral sparks, framed by velvety tannins and lovely tension, finishing with great persistence. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent

94 Points! Coming mostly from the Dr. Reid Vineyard in Coombsville, the 2021 Malbec is based on 77% Malbec and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon. A smoking wine, it offers juicy black cherry and blueberry fruits as well as some tobacco, chocolate, and graphite nuances. Medium to full-bodied, with ripe tannins, balance, and a great finish, it's a gorgeous wine. - Jeb Dunnuck

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Yamazaki 18-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky is a masterpiece of Japanese whisky, renowned for its deep complexity and refined balance. Crafted at Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery, this long-aged expression is matured in a combination of American oak, Spanish sherry, and Mizunara oak casks, creating a rich and layered profile.

The nose reveals dark fruit, dried berries, and rich sherry notes, complemented by hints of chocolate, cinnamon, and Japanese incense. On the palate, velvety textures unfold with flavors of plum, caramelized nuts, and dark chocolate, balanced by subtle oak spice and a whisper of Mizunara’s signature sandalwood. The finish is long, smooth, and warming, leaving lingering notes of sweet spice, dried fruit, and elegant oak.

A true collector’s whisky, Yamazaki 18 embodies the artistry and tradition of Japanese whisky-making, offering a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

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This is a special bottling released by the Shinshu Mars Distillery and is a vatting of malt from two distilleries, "Komagatake" and "Chichibu", which has been matured at Mars Shinshu Distillery in a variety of Bourbon Barrel, American White Oak and Sherry Oak for more than 5 years. In 2015, Mars Shinshu Distillery and Venture Whisky (Chichibu) Distillery began exchanging their new make spirit, which was subsequently matured in their respective locations. 10,918 Bottles were released. Nose: sweet maple syrup, oak spices and some notes of varnish along with plum and a hint of caramelised orange peel Palate: Sweet caramel, some brandy cake, cacao and nutmeg with a hint of smoke and spiciness Finish: Gentle tannins along with some black tea on the finish. With water, more caramel and toffee notes are evident along with oak spices. Learn More

95 Points! Winemaker (and vineyard manager) Daniel Estrin refers to the Jessie Vineyard Pinot as a velvet sledgehammer, saying ‘this site has power and intensity with smooth edges.’ Aromas kick off a sweet blue fruit note with turned earth and fresh herbs accented by plenty of violets. These east-facing slopes see no afternoon sun and retain great freshness. The palate reflects those lively blue fruits, showing real depth and texture. There is fresh mint and touches of balsamic and soy umami. Seriously structured to lay down for many years. - Decanter Magazine

94 Points! Scented nose with wild strawberries, spiced cherries, dried herbs, baking spices and a touch of leather. Medium-bodied with bright acidity. Vivid red currant and succulent sour cherry character on the mid-palate. Juicy and focused with harmonious structure and a long, intense finish. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com

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Eden Mill, located in Guardbridge near the historic town of St Andrews in Scotland, presents their 2024 edition of the Art of St Andrews series—an annual release that pairs craft whisky-making with local artistry. This edition is matured in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, finished in first-fill Amarone wine casks from Italy’s Veneto region, and bottled at 46.5% ABV.

Tasting Note:
In the glass it shows a rich copper hue. The nose opens with mulled wine aromas, vivid red fruits, and gentle clove spice, followed by hints of cherry bakewell tart and rum-and-raisin ice cream. On the palate red fruits give way to dark fruits such as blackberry compote and fig jam with a whisper of cracked black pepper. The finish lingers, offering glazed cinnamon bun and glacé cherries with sweet-spicy depth.

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Since 1984, each Master Distiller of Midleton Very Rare uses their eye for detail, their passion for quality whiskey and their exemplary skill to create the pinnacle of Irish whiskey—our special vintage release.

The latest chapter of this renowned collection is adorned with the signature of our Master Distiller, Kevin O’Gorman. After months of exploration, O’Gorman crafted a balanced blend of rare and hand-selected single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys from Midleton’s exclusive inventory to create this truly special release.

Matured in lightly charred ex-bourbon American oak barrels, the Midleton Very Rare 2023 Vintage Release delights with decadent flavours and a tantalising aroma. The aroma, taste and finish of this whiskey will enliven the palates of those new to this collection while taking the seasoned whiskey collector on a journey through an exciting exploration of taste.

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95 Points! The 2005 Les Pavots (3,600 cases of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot) is a sensational wine, with a style that suggests a hypothetical blend of a great St.-Emilion and Pomerol. Chocolatey cassis notes intermixed with incense, licorice, and a hint of black olive are present in this wine. When it hits the palate, it comes across as very Pomerol-like, with lushness, full body, and opulence. The tannins are sweet, the pH high, and the wine gorgeously full, pure, dense, and long. It’s a terrific example of non-interventionalist winemaking that has turned out a beautiful, silky-textured wine that should age effortlessly for 15+ years. Like so many 2005s, this wine has really put on weight since I tasted it last year. - Robert Parker, robertparker.com

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98 Points! The gem of the 2014s is the 2014 Pluribus, which comes from a 7-acre site on Spring Mountain. This incredible wine offers a full-bodied, seamless, perfectly balanced profile as well as heavenly notes of black and blue fruits, white chocolate, and licorice. With a world class texture, fine, fine tannin, and a great finish, it’s a tour de force in Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that’s as good as anything out there. - Jeb Dunnuck

97+ Points! Very deep purple-black colored, the 2014 Pluribus offers up notions of crushed black plums, black currant cordial and pencil shavings over a meaty core of chargrill and beef drippings plus hints of Chinese five spice and underbrush. Full-bodied and firmly framed with chewy tannins and a lively backbone, it features plenty of earthy and savory layers, finishing long and minerally. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, robertparker.com

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Lagrimas del Valle is a Vintage, “Rancho Unico” (Single Ranch) Tequila — celebrating the unique and distinctive characteristics of the very best single ranches of Agave.

Lagrimas is produced in collaboration with the Rosales family, of Tequila Cascahuin, lead by current Master Distiller, Salvador “Chava” Rosales Trejo – the fourth generation of his family, their distilling tradition dating back to 1904 in El Arenal, Jalisco; within the heart of the “Valley” of Tequila. Lagrimas del Valle translates to “Tears of the Valley” – representing the tears that form both on a tasting glass from high quality Agave spirits, as well as the “tears” or condensed spirits falling into the still, the transformation of Agave into Tequila itself.

This Reposado "El Sabino" hails from Rancho Teuchitlan in Jalisco. Elevation is 1,261 Meters with an average agave brix at 40%. Maturation takes place for 3 months in 3rd & 4th Fill Ex-Bourbon Casks.

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From the importer: Bush-trained Cannonau (also known as Grenache) from a vineyard called Sas de Melas, at 600 meters (about 2,000 feet) above sea level, near the village of Mamoiada. This altitude is unusual for red wines, and gives the wine uncommon freshness (cooler night-time temperatures at altitude mean higher acidity in the grapes). The vines were planted in 2004 and 2010 in soil based on decomposed granite.

The grapes are picked in late September or early October, de-stemmed and crushed, and fermentation begins using indigenous yeasts only, encouraged by a a ‘pied de cuve'* (Luca believes that cultured yeasts don’t give a wine that truly is representative of place.) The wine is left in contact with the skins for 10-12 days, then pressed off. The wine is aged for about 6 months in stainless steel tanks, lightly fined, then bottled without filtration.

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Gotha Spiriti Nobili is a vermouth and spirits maker based in Bologna, Italy, founded by Ergin Allko. He draws inspiration from his origins in Albania and his adopted home in Italy, using local herbs and botanicals, plus a signature touch of Adriatic seawater, to create products with distinct character. DOK ’61 was developed as a nod to history and craftsmanship, made with Sicilian wines (mainly Zibibbo and a bit of Frappato) and infused with botanicals like chinotto peel, dandelion root, wormwood, star anise, and a hint of plum distillate for roundness.

Tasting Note:
Fresh and delicately spicy, this vermouth opens with bitter orange and chinotto aromas edged by allspice and warm herbal roots. On the palate it is layered with sweet-tart plum, bright citrus peel, bitter herbal undertones, and a subtle saline minerality. The finish is long, balancing sweetness and bitterness with aromatic complexity and a touch of warmth.

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