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The UK's No.1 Australian Wine Specialist
Let’s begin with a little housekeeping…. We have been in regular contact with the UK importer for Zalto this year and the updates have remained rather miserable. Austria has been hit by ongoing lockdowns and these have had a catastrophic impact on production at Zalto. This may come across as being a little exaggerated however, read on and you will learn that we are being far from melodramatic.
Zalto have always kept reserve stocks, normally a buffer of enough for 4 months’ sales but this dropped to zero last year following both increased global demand and six weeks of total lockdown. To compound this issue, they have also had to complete a full reconstruction on one of their two furnaces which additionally reduced capacity to 40%.
The update we received on Tuesday was no more positive than our previous conversations over the past seven months. Our order was placed at the beginning of March with a planned lead time of 6 weeks. We are now hoping this stock will be ready to leave Austria within the next 2-3 weeks, although certain glass shapes (Universal being one) remain unavailable. We pressed for clarity and were met with a shrug of dejection from their UK man.
Zalto are doing everything within their power to catch up on this enormous backlog, but it is clearly evident, they are struggling. To find balance and to service regular customers, they have sensibly cut supply to all but key retailers and restaurants and have suspended all sales to new business channels. Moreover, and if they do not turn the corner (in terms of manpower and lack of raw material) soon, they genuinely fear their recovery from the past year could take them a further two years, which is a frightening thought.
Given the demand to availability ratio, we have received lots of requests to offer the option to purchase on a pre-arrival special – simply, to secure some glassware however, and until our order has physically left Austria, we do not believe this to be a sensible option. Of course, once our three pallets are en route, we will set all the products live on our website (delivery usually takes a week or two). Naturally, we will inform you all with a general announcement.
More out of hope, we have placed another order (same volume) as we expect our current order to sell-out quickly. We hope this may arrive at some point during November. As you can tell – there is a lot of ‘hope’ taking place…
There have also been some difficulties in the paper board industry, leading to price increases of the ‘raw’ materials to packaging manufacturers, in turn leading to our packaging costs increasing at the start of July by 7%. It has been tough since the beginning of the year for suppliers to meet demand, and lead times have been as much as 8 to 12 weeks. However, our suppliers are fantastic and have been ensuring they hold significant stock levels across their range. We have also ensured that we keep more stock than normal. Although we may see delays in Q4 with deliveries, they have guaranteed supply if we place our orders in plenty of time, and that equates to this month, which is crazy. Some manufacturers have predicted that Q4 will be extremely poor in terms of supply, due to issues resulting ultimately from both Covid, Brexit and the worsening shipping (sea freight) problem which everyone is enduring. Thankfully, we have the funds and the room to place a large order which will cover the remainder of 2021 and the lead into the New Year. Essentially, we would be crippled without packaging as DPD will not accept our orders in their original cardboard cases (most are flimsy and would not survive the rigours of domestic transport).
We have all seen how the hospitality industry has been affected by Covid and despite the UK fully unfurling mid-month, they will continue to struggle for a long time. We are also thankful to have been one of the lucky merchants who were able to operate within the safe confines of our Kentish HQ and warehouse. Our business model helped, but luck played a major part too. Today, The Vinorium is feeling the pinch of both the pandemic and Brexit. A poor exchange rate against the Aussie dollar (albeit slightly improved), the inability to send great wines to all our private customers in the EU, the lack of Zalto glassware – we are one the largest stockists in the UK, the enduring shipping problems of ‘forever delays’ which is not only having a profound impact on our ability to sell and deliver wine, but we are super-tired with all the chasing. I will say that you have all been utterly marvellous – we rarely receive a grumpy email. I must thank you for being so patient.
We are far from indulging in our own self pity – This is more of a cathartic exhalation of frustration as we are champing at the bit to deliver a perfect collection of wine, glassware and a full EU service. Roll-on 2022, he says optimistically…
Our cathartic cleanse has swept across our social media channels too – We’ve deleted our Twitter account! Why? It is fast becoming a platform for bitterness and arguments which I am tired of. I have read posts which appear acceptable, to me anyway however, others end up misinterpreting what has been penned and take offense at statements where none was intended. The ensuing barrage, which many jump on, has become tedious and often unnecessary. Instead, we are placing our efforts into Instagram which has a much healthier feel to it. Interestingly, it is the home to many of our winemakers who never use Twitter… Come and follow us / them as you will start to see lots of new wines / samples appearing, and often daily. I will provide a little insight into what may be coming to the UK.
Despite the niggles, commercially, at the half-year point, The Vinorium is in a healthy position. Sales compared to the same period 2020 have increased by 21% and 28% against 2019. Online orders fell slightly (-5%) against 2020 which was expected given the volume of ‘lockdown’ sales. We also look at our position in 2019 as this offers life and business outside of the pandemic and Brexit – website sales increased by 50.6% which is a marvellous result.
These figures prove that the combination of hard work, a great team, dedication and a fabulous list of wines is part of the winning formula. You, our marvellous group of customers are the other half and I will never tire of thanking you all. The 2019 Standish collection and physical 2017 / 2018 vintage sales have bridged the gap between missing Zalto sales, our inability to deliver to all of our EU customers and the collapse of Asian trade business (China imposed tariffs of up to 212% on Australian wine for five years). At the half-year point, Standish sales have increased by 626% compared to 2020.
The average order value is hugely different too - £265.95 in 2020 compared to £313.33 in 2021. Despite the easing of lockdown, I wonder if our customers are preferring to enjoy their own gastronomic delights and great wine rather than dining out. The second half of 2021 will be challenging but we are equipped. Our new website is coming along nicely and remains on track to be launched late September. This is the biggest, single investment and one which we hope will reward us all. We are excited to share the technology!
Our annual sale is coming to a close (9:00am Wednesday 14 July) which we are looking forward to as we have lots of new wines to introduce including the new collections from Gemtree and Jaysen Collins (JC’s Own). We plan to re-sample both collections in a week or two along with the much anticipated 2019 Utopos collection which has finally docked (I believe I could have cycled the distance in half the time it’s taken to dock!). We have a full, twenty-foot container on the water filled with the new single vineyard and garden series range(s) from Two Hands – we have also shipped their Love Over Gold project. A little Standish fills the remainder of the container, but much of this has been pre-sold to our UK trade customers. We hope to see the vessel docking on or around the 4 August. ETA into our HQ and bond being late August as we are hearing news of prolonged delays at our UK ports. We also have news from Gallo – Our / your Orin Swift wines remain on track to be delivered week of 19 July which includes Mercury Head (26 bottles remain of our annual allocation) and 8 Years in the Desert (currently sold out however, we may purchase a little more – shout if you would like some). The Machete is arriving the following week. Thank goodness we are not regular shippers from the US as our business would be in tatters…
Fingers crossed for the boys on Sunday (Lions too) and isn’t Mark Cavendish enjoying his fairytale return to the Tour de France. Currently, his third stage win on this year’s Tour leaves him only one short of equalling the record of Eddy Merckx. I have faith in the Manx rocket…
Right, time to pour myself a glass of chilled Marsanne from Gemtree (what a beauty).
As ever, keep safe and well (and avoid Majestic wine – only teasing!).
Best wishes,
Stu
OB Terroir Pinot Noir 2015 – Buy 5 and get 1 FREE
• By 5 bottles and get the 6th with our vinous love (RRP £31.95)
• Standard six-pack price £191.70
• Special six-pack price £139.75
• This equates to £23.29 per bottle
Walsh Block Syrah 2016 – Buy 5 and get 1 FREE
By 5 bottles and get the 6th with our vinous love (RRP £27.50)
• Standard six-pack price £165.00
• Special six-pack price £117.50
• This equates to £19.58 per bottle
Intrinsic Pinot Noir 2016 – buy 5 and get
1 bottle of 2007 Intrinsic Pinot Noir FREE
• 2007 Intrinsic Pinot Noir is worth £35.95, but you receive one with our love
• Standard six-pack price £173.45
• Special six-pack price £117.50 including a free bottle worth £35.95
Mount Block Pinot Noir 2016 – buy 5 and get
1 bottle of 2016 Intrinsic Pinot Noir FREE
2016 Intrinsic Pinot Noir is worth £27.50, but you receive one with our love
• Standard six-pack price £177.25
• Special six-pack price £134.75 including a free bottle worth £27.50
Dr Edge Pinot Noir Tasmania 2018
96 Points - James Halliday "This wine comes from vineyards with MV6 and/or 115 clones, and was whole berry open-fermented with the exception of some whole bunch and/or carbonic. Ethereal spice, flower and berry aromas lead into a relatively light-bodied palate, with flawless line, length and balance; a juicy red fruits finish.
Was £39.95 per bottle
NOW £30.75 per bottle
Soumah Equilibrio Pinot Noir 2019
97-98 Points - Stuart McCloskey “The most intense Pinot Noir of the trio. The dark fruit is lightly spiced and the most seductive of the trinity – sweet cherry and orange peel are unmistakable. The palate is incredibly fresh and juicy. I love the infusion of cranberry and redcurrant combined with the iron rich finish. Ripe and showing a more exotic side to Soumah’s winemaking. Lots of finesse and already showing bags of charm and character, but its glory years are yet to come. I am going to be harsh and award 97-98 points. It’s not there yet but I have no doubt it will be within 5-8 years”.
Was £35.95 per bottle
NOW £31.50 per bottle
Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2019
97+ - 98 Points - Stuart McCloskey “This is a serious step up from Floris, as you would expect. I will be truthful and declare that all three bottles (since arriving in the UK last week) have been significantly more enjoyable than our sample bottle pre-Christmas 2020 (I will add that we purchased 360 bottles from our first sample!) At first, the bouquet provides a nostalgic twist of popcorn which dissipates with a little aeration. We move onto a nutty savouriness - toasty, a touch tropical (more caramelised). Savoury transitions to Yuzu and sea spray which in turn moves onto a delicate floral character. I detect a little bitter orange peel on the finish – I could be wrong? The flavours are built around perfect structure with everything being aligned and unforced. The fruit sides with citrus – lemon, Yuzu and lime with delicate oak spices providing a point of difference. The palate feel is luxurious, ripe but far from being overripe. There’s an honest purity to the feel and flavours. Citrus clean acidity and minerally fruit. Ambitious, but keeping one hand on the Margaret River style. That said, I am pleased to see a move away from some of the more ‘slender’ examples. Wonderfully bright, balanced and dances on the palate with mouth-watering acidity and a dusting of spices… Extremely long and will provide ten years of cellaring. This will be fascinating in five (note to keep a few cases back). Decant for 20-30 minutes. Do not overchill. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware.”
Was £31.50 per bottle
NOW £26.50 per bottle
Ghost Rock Bonadale 2cl Pinot Noir 2018
97++ Points - Stuart McCloskey “It takes time to unfurl, but when it does, it’s a dreamboat of aromatics. From the outset, the French oak (38% new) is obvious and adds a pencil shaving freshness. With aeration (decant for an hour or so) the aromatic fruit develops with orange zest, raspberry and a lovely brightness from red berries - there’s a pretty savoury complexity too. The palate is tensile, medium bodied – the tannins providing a cloaking hug to the fruit. It feels natural and unforced. I find the harmony and elegance particularly enjoyable. All-in-all, a wine which offers supreme elegance without being sparing on fruit. The finish is super long with a slight tingle coming from an almost sorbet like blood orange finish. Delicious now but will only get better with time in the cellar (10 years maximum). Served using Zalto Burgundy glassware”
Was £29.50 per bottle
NOW £25.50 per bottle
Idda Etna Rosso 2017 by Gaja
Magdalena Sienkiewicz “This is Gaja’s first release from their Sicilian sites located on the ridges of Mount Etna. It was Angelo’s dream to produce wine from those ancient, volcanic soils and finally, we have the thrilling unveiling.
What a gorgeous perfume! The glass bursts with sweet mulberry, figs and tantalising sour cherry. Interestingly, I sampled this wine using both Zalto Bordeaux and Universal glasses. The Bordeaux glass reveals more complexity on the nose with gentle earthiness, violets and blue ink underlining the cascading fruit, while the Universal glass emanates with sweet berries and figs. The wine is such a joy to swish around the palate with Morello cherry and dried herbs. I love the gentle tart delight the IDDA brings. The tartness balances the array of berry fruit retaining great freshness on the palate. It’s impressively long, as its persistency delivers in a fine, soft caress. It’s utterly delicious and a perfect accompaniment to the long summer evenings. A real treat from Gaja without the extravagant price tag that many of their superb and fine wines retail at.”
Was £31.50 per bottle
NOW £28.00 per bottle
Thomas Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
97 Points - James Halliday "The bouquet provides a perfect idea of what is about to follow on the full-bodied palate: towering blackcurrant fruit with bay leaf, black olive and earth all dripping from the fruit where they meet implacable tannins and a poultice of French oak."
Was £37.50 per bottle
NOW £29.00 per bottle
Shadowfax Midhill Chardonnay 2019
97-98 Points - Stuart McCloskey “The bouquet is explosive but does require a little aeration (30 minutes in a decanter will do the job nicely). Lemon oil, citrus, limestone and chalk aplenty – it’s so fresh and taut (the zippy acidity really crackles), which are all terroir indicators referencing this wine’s elevated (550m) site in the Macedon Ranges. The palate feel, fruit, structure and acidity are all in harmonious chorus. Similar to the bouquet, the palate strides forward with citrus in abundance – almost lip smacking. The texture is deeply satisfying with satiny ribbons of lemon curd and Yuzu. The vineyard was planted back in 1993 which aids the wine’s tremendous concentration. The finish is racy and super long… A wonderful Chardonnay that speaks of its surroundings. One for the cellar and I very much look forward to revisiting the wine over the coming years. Drink now to 2035. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware.”
Was £34.95 per bottle
NOW £29.95 per bottle
Shadowfax Macedon Ranges Chardonnay 2019
97+ Points – Magdalena Sienkiewicz "The perfume is so inviting with an abundance of citrus and minerals infused to perfection. The aromas are super pure but intense at the same time (give it a few minutes in the glass). Notes of lemon oil, chalk and oyster shell build up with aeration, together with a lovely touch of nougat, ginger and nashi pear. The flavours follow suit with elegance. It is generous, but equally composed, super smooth and even slightly viscous (amazing texture). No wonder this is the go to wine of team Shadowfax. Sampled using Zalto Bordeaux glassware following 30 minutes of decanting."
Was £23.75 per bottle
NOW £20.50 per bottle
Wild Duck Creek Cornella Shiraz 2018
97+ Points - Stuart McCloskey “A subregional blend, produced in tiny quantities and will bring a huge smile to those seeking a wine which delivers on flavour (which it does in bucket loads) and drinkability. The aromatics are explosive and take no coaxing. Warm earth, camphor, tobacco, cedar, ink and coal blend perfectly with a heady mix of dark berries and plums. The palate opens to a rush of sweet fruit which provides a wonderfully sensual gloss and mouthfeel. The tannins support but are supple. The sense of symmetry is deeply impressive which is a nod to a great winemaker. The wine builds and builds in the mouth… I would categorise the wine as sensual, structured and showing some masculinity. Black fruits, tobacco and smoke lead to a very long finish. Excellent and a real charmer with grip. Decant for 2-3 hours. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware.”
Was £24.95 per bottle
NOW £21.95 per bottle
Wild Duck Creek The Dabbler Cabernet Carmenere 2018
97 Points - Stuart McCloskey “A single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (67%) with Carménère taking up the remainder of the blend. The small addition of new oak aligned with the blend reminds me of a young Bordeaux. The wine opens with beautifully expressive notes of black cherries, blackberries, touches of redcurrants, a little menthol, dark, bitter chocolate and cloves. Despite its age, the mid palate provides richness and heaps of sweet black and red fruits, all tinged with dried herbs (sage). The palate is vivid with perfectly balanced fine, pillowy tannins. I detect a little graphite and tobacco infused black fruit on the long finish. This is really going to blossom over the next 5-10 years. This one comes highly recommended. Decant for 1-2 hours. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware.”
Was £22.50 per bottle
NOW £19.15 per bottle
Vinden Estate Reserve Semillon 2015
Gold Medal – Sydney International
Gold Medal – Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Show
96 Points - James Halliday "Vines planted '69 on fine clay-loam soil, the juice fermented with fine solids, extended lees contact before bottling. Full to the brim with flavours in a lemon circle - zest, grass, mineral."
Was £26.95 per bottle
NOW £23.95 per bottle
Wild Duck Creek Springflat Shiraz 2013
Huon Hooke, The Real Review - “Very deep red-purple colour. Inky colour and nose; tremendous concentration, black fruits and coconut. Licorice; espresso coffee. Trademark depth and power, with masses of supple tannins, so that it's easy to enjoy young.”
Winemaker Notes - "Springflat Shiraz is our original flagship wine having been made every vintage since 1991. Springflat Shiraz is a blend of 4 distinct estate grown vineyards in the Heathcote region. Parcels of fruit are made separately, utilising a small amount of whole bunches in the ferments for added texture, hand plunged, basket pressed and then matured in French and American oak hogsheads for up to 22 months, 40% of which are new."
Was £31.50 per bottle
NOW £26.50 per bottle
JC's Own Bluebird Grenache 2019
Jaysen Collins (winemaker) - I always get mesmerised when I see a flock of birds floating and drifting in the wind. It brings a sense of freedom and joy to me. I knew the bluebird is the symbol of happiness so I had a concept for the label – I just needed the wine!
So with this idea floating about in my head, I set out to make a great drink that brings a true sense of delight. I found an east facing vineyard in the shallow soils of the Adelaide Hills that just gets the morning sun – no baked flavours here. I got rid of the stalks and just fermented this as whole berries. Just before coffee in the morning and after a cold beer in the afternoon I quickly give it a plunge by hand, nothing too serious or strenuous. It’s bottled early to catch the brightness I’m looking for, meaning it’s dangerously drinkable whenever you need a pick me up.
Was £21.50 per bottle
NOW £18.50 per bottle
Planta Circa Ancestor Vine Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Top Rated Cabernet Sauvignon - 2020 Wine Companion Awards
98 Points - James Halliday "From a single vineyard owned by the Zerk family, planted 1880 to 1890, making it one of the oldest cabernet vineyards in Australia (and the world). Wild yeast-open fermented, hand-plunged, 8 days on skins, pressed to French hogsheads (44% new), on lees 17 months. This is pure and simple cabernet, elegant, long and finely structured. A great cabernet vintage for this great vineyard."
Was £42.95 per bottle
NOW £38.95 per bottle
Flowstone Queen of the Earth Chardonnay 2017
97-98 Points - Stuart McCloskey “My primary piece of advice is to decant for at least 30 minutes as the wine needs some aeration and for Pete’s sake, do not overchill. The bouquet is sensational and juxtaposes between oyster shell, quartz, saline and underlying aromas of citrus fruit - it flows with minerality. Spiced orchard fruit after 20 minutes in the glass. Warmed, fresh bread after 30 minutes. The salinity and minerality follow through to the palate. The palate is perfectly balanced with a killer streak of acidity, running north to south. Texturally, the wine offers some broadness, but it does require a further 5-10 years before reaching its peak. From a structural perspective, this reminds me of Leeuwin Art Series Chardonnay. In fact, I am not entirely sure I would be able to tell the difference in a blind tasting. The flavours fan out with touches of spiced apple and pear, this is glorious in a restrained sense. The potential is palpable… one for the cellar with the occasional bottle served over the coming 5-7 years. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware.”
Flowstone Queen of the Earth Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
98 Points - Stuart McCloskey “This is so suave and effortless, very St Julien if I were to draw a comparison. The bouquet unfurls with such grace, it is rather hypnotic. The palate is fresh and equally graceful – the tannins are ultra-fine. I am sampling this with a beautiful piece of music (Vide Cor Meum – you must try the combination as it’s a wonderful pairing). I suggest finding a quiet corner, a good book and several hours to appreciate the sense of symmetry. The palate gently reveals crème de cassis, liquorice and a little sweet raspberry – superbly ‘classical.’ I detect orange peel developing towards a perfectly dignified finish. With time, the melioration in the glass is breathtaking… A genius bottle of mesmerising Cabernet Sauvignon. Delightful and ready to enjoy now. Decanted for 2-3 hours and served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware."
Was £41.95 per bottle
NOW £36.25 per bottle
Pooley Wines Riesling 2018
James Halliday "While predominantly from estate vineyards, the wine was also sourced from vineyards in other districts - and was also fermented bone dry. There is more obvious structure and texture, the acidity balanced but with a grainy texture. Paradoxically, in the broader scheme of things, Tribute is the better wine because of the depth of its fruit canvas."
Gary Walsh (The Wine Front) "There’s a little bit of Tassie meets Rheinhessen about this wine, or that could just be me. Floral, ripe green apple, a little fennel and assorted stony stuff. It’s ample in flavour, and texture, crushed rock texture, again the lilting mouth-perfume, firm acidity, though it’s not sour or raw. Finish is long, replete with texture and pretty green apple. Excellent."
Was £21.95 per bottle
NOW £20.55 per bottle
Clarendon Hills Romas Grenache 2006
99 Points - Lisa Perrotti-Brown
(RobertParker.com)
"Medium garnet-purple in color and displaying a beautiful nose of violets, orange peel and black cherries alongside notes of spice cake, white pepper and lavender, the full-bodied 2006 Romas Vineyard Grenache is big, rich and gorgeous with a crisp acid backbone draped with layer upon layer of concentrated fruit flavor. The medium-firm, very fine tannins carry it through to a long finish. Drink it now to 2025+."
Soumah Single Vineyard Wild Savagnin 2015
Winemaker "This is an ancient variety having been around since the first Millennium and is a parent of many of today’s modern grapes. We have been successful making our Savarro from this variety but wanted to see what a wine made from this ancient grape would have tasted like a thousand years ago. So we set forth to create a minimal intervention wine with 100% full solids, wild barrel fermentation. This natural process has developed a degree of untamed attitude. The wine still has the trademark citrus acidity but is fused with the brooding flavours of age old tradition."
Was £21.95 per bottle
NOW £19.75 per bottle
Shadowfax Minnow Roussanne 2019
96 Points – Stuart McCloskey “If there were a wine that screams of summer, this is it. The bouquet is a heavy profusion of sun-drenched, baked apricots, fresh vanilla pod, creamy fresh yoghurt and lemon oil. Aromatically perfect! The palate is riveting and offers a wonderful sense of energy. This is not a mouth filling viscous illustration. Instead, it’s high toned on the palate, light on its feet – the fruits and acidity are framed perfectly. Touches of baked apricot combines with a little saline character adding an extra layer of complexity. I detect pear after a minute or two – such a long finish. This is sampling much better than the first bottle shipped across the pond. Sadly, I have made a huge mistake as I should have purchased much more. Superb value. Drink now to 2025. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware.”
Was £19.95 per bottle
NOW £17.50 per bottle
Cristom Vineyards Estate Viognier 2016
The 2016 Cristom Vineyards Estate Viognier exhibits the pure, and nearly textbook, characteristics of this varietal, with aromas of orange blossoms, honeysuckle, clover, and anise as well as the ripe fruit aromas of peach, apricot, and lychee. Slightly viscous on the palate, with bright and mouth watering acidity that support the fruit structure of the wine, it is well integrated and perfectly balanced.
Elderton Barossa GSM 2018
95 points - Nick Butler, The Real Review 2019 "Dark, ripe plums, cedary oak, graphite and charcuterie - plenty to consider when swirled in the glass. It's ripe and balanced - built on the sure foundation of quality fruit. The shiraz portion dominates the blend and it is all the better for it. Great work at the blending table. Delicious."
Was £18.50 per bottle
NOW £15.95 per bottle
19.5 Points - Raymond Chan "Very dark, full, near saturated black-hued purple-red colour, a little lighter on the rim. The nose is tight and concentrated with rich and sweetly ripe aromas of black berried fruits and black plums with a fine and integrated amalgam of black pepper, and black and violet florals, unveiling subtle layers of spicy and nutty oak and nuance of iron-earth. This is beautifully proportioned and refined in expression. Medium-full bodied, the fruit is tightly bound but clearly rich and succulent, showing flavours of ripe blackberries and black plums with hints of blueberries along with liquorice melded with black pepper, iron-earth and subtle black florals. This has a concentrated core with linear drive and energy, the fruit balanced by fine-grained, significant tannin structure and fresh, integrated acidity. The wine flows with textural finesse and succulence, leading to a long and sustained, vibrant finish. This is a concentrated Syrah with ripe black fruits along with complex black pepper and iron-earth nuances balanced by fine structure."
Was £34.50 per bottle
NOW £30.50 per bottle
De Martino Reserva Legado Pinot Noir 2018
Medium ruby red in colour, this wine presents complex aromas of red fruit and cherries with notes of violets and forest floor. In the mouth, it is medium-bodied with excellent acidity and very fine tannins, balanced with an intense, fresh fruity note and long finish. This wine can be enjoyed young and has excellent cellaring potential for the next 6 to 8 years.
Was £14.50 per bottle
NOW £13.45 per bottle
Valli Vineyards Waitaki Pinot Noir 2017
Sam Kim (Wine Orbit) "Engaging and complex, the inviting bouquet shows red/black cherry, fragrant spice, thyme, nutmeg and floral characters. The palate is wonderfully weighted and rounded, delivering sweet berry flavours and silky texture, magnificently complemented by spicy nuances and fine tannins. Elegant, stylish and delicious. At its best: now to 2025."
Was £42.50 per bottle
NOW £37.95 per bottle
Valli Vineyards Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2017
Sam Kim (Wine Orbit) "It is irresistibly expressed on the nose showing dark berry, raspberry, dried herb, toasted almond and olive characters. The palate is equally engaging and gratifying with sweet berry flavours and multi-layered mouthfeel, finishing superbly long and flowing. Sophisticated, comforting and stunning. At its best: 2019 to 2027."
Was £42.50 per bottle
NOW £37.95 per bottle
Browse over 90 wines that have nearly sold out!
This stunning Syrah comes from the singular Cobaw Ridge Estate, the only biodynamically farmed vineyard in the Macedon Ranges. This high-altitude site sits at 610m above sea level, yielding Syrah imbued with floral aromatics and spicy flavour profile. The fruit is always impeccable when it enters the winery, every effort taken in the vineyard by the Coopers to ensure little needs to be done in the winery to bottle a pure expression of their unique vineyard.
Was £29.50 per bottle
NOW £22.50 per bottle
SAVE £7.00
Cobaw Ridge Pinot Noir 2017
97 Points - Magdalena Sienkiewicz "Tasted throughout the day which is such a lovely way to discover a wine’s true character. It was a touch cold when first opened however, after two hours of aeration, it unfurled beautifully. Evocative aromas of bramble, sour cherries, hedgerow fruits and sweet spices are lifted by elegant herbal notes and a whiff of undergrowth. Pristine fruit shines on the palate with wonderful purity before the textures expand to reveal its deep and earthy complexities. The balance is retained throughout and the savoury finish is delectable. Excellent and a unique Pinot Noir with a difference. Thoughtful, not a hair is out of place and its friendly character is most appealing. Sampled using Zalto Burgundy glassware. Enjoy now and over the next 5-7 years."
Was £29.50 per bottle
NOW £22.50 per bottle
Gemtree Wines Phantom Red Blend Ten 2019
97-98 Points - Stuart McCloskey “A blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon and 39% Mataro, which and despite its tender age is singing wonderfully from the decanter (we sampled after 6 hours). The bouquet is incredibly pure and defined by sweet blueberry, mulberry, dried spice, violet, pen ink and a flicker of mint. The palate is wonderfully structured with grippy tannins – a slight huskiness which will soften with some bottle age. Without stating the obvious, there’s a lovely natural feel to wine. There’s a succulence and coolness to the fruit which I find particularly attractive. Dark plums are in abundance – I detect a little cold metal too. Clearly, a super-classy wine filled with pedigree. Not only a triumphant Biodynamic wine, but a wine which exemplifies modern Aussie winemaking. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware. Drink now to 2035+”
Was £32.95 per bottle
NOW £27.75 per bottle
Greenock Creek Alice's Shiraz 2017
Winemaker "Cranberry red with brick red hues. Blackberry and prune with savoury spices. Aromatic and spicy. Red currants and bitter cherries are supported by a high and defining tannin profile creating a flinty aspect the wine. Black berry fruits evolve towards the finish and are meet by anise and sage flavours carried by a cranberry acid line. Hand harvested and de-stemmed without being crushed. Fermented in concrete open fermenters for 7-10 days with 4 pump overs to maintain a fermentation temperature of 20-22’C. Drained and pressed though our wooden basket press before being transferred into seasoned American oak for 27 months. Bottled un-fined and unfiltered.
Was £34.95 per bottle
NOW £26.95 per bottle
Topper’s Mountain unique terroir arises from its high elevation location on the western edge of the Great Dividing Range and deep, volcanic soils.
Topper's Mountain Wild Ferment Tempranillo 2013
96++ 97 Points - Stuart McCloskey “Tempranillo is a temperamental beauty which places so many demands on the winemaker - from warmth and sun for perfect ripeness as well as cooling evenings to retain freshness. AKA, perfect conditions. Topper’s sits 900 metres above sea level which aids the deliverance of daytime warmth and cooling air of the night time. The nose is fully mature and alluring with saddle leather, tobacco, cedar, rose hip, blood orange and dark cherry cola. The palate texture is perfecto – crushed velvet with ribbons of sweet and sour cherry, cola, smoke and sweet spice. The tannins are svelte and the acidity adds a judicious slap of freshness. There is much to like - superb energy and a very long, sappy finish. We sampled in Zalto’s Bordeaux and Universal glassware with the latter being our preference. It’s in its prime, but will keep for a few years longer (although I really don’t see the point personally).”
Was £22.95 per bottle
NOW £16.50 per bottle
Topper's Mountain Bricolage Blanc 2014
96+ Points - Magdalena Sienkiewicz "Although Bricolage blends are a permanent feature of the Topper’s Mountain range, the composition varies from vintage to vintage. The 2014 Blanc is a fascinating blend of Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc.
The Gewürztraminer influence is clear
as it takes centre stage with its highly aromatic profile.
Rich citrus and lychee dominate the perfume however, the aromatics are incredibly complex nevertheless. Wet stones, sweet vanilla, red grapefruit, cantaloupe melon and sea spray. Wholly unique. The palate is much more savoury than the perfume suggests but the freshness prevails. An abundance of citrus and minerals are delectable and they linger with impressive length. Such a distinctive wine. Unusual blends often present wacky styles however, Bricolage Blanc is rather fine and incredibly textural. Hats off! Bottle age served this wine well – there is no need for further cellaring and you should enjoy this beauty on the day of opening."
Was £22.95 per bottle
NOW £17.75 per bottle
Topper's Mountain Bricolage Rouge 2014
96++ - 97 Points - Stuart McCloskey "The blend changes with each passing vintage. The ’14 includes Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Tanat, Shiraz and Viognier. The perfume is brooding and laced with fauna and flora complimented with ribbons of dark, ripe red fruits (Very much reminds me of red fruits found in high quality, bitter chocolate). The palate is incredibly fine, the tannins silken, the structural element wonderfully feminine. All-in-all, exquisitely balanced, refined and full of charm. The rose hip / petal, wild mint and liquorice combination is a joy to taste. Profound it is not, but I am truly smitten by its overall charisma. This would be wonderful if paired with rare loin of venison served with a sweet berry and juniper sauce. En pointe now and will keep for a few more years, but this is one to be enjoyed sooner rather than later… We sampled using Zalto’s Universal glassware."
Was £24.95 per bottle
NOW £18.50 per bottle
JC's Own Sierra Nevada Foothills Chardonnay 2018
97+ Points - Stuart McCloskey “A mere 552 bottles produced which, and save for our small offering, the remainder of his barrel is sold out. The bouquet is fascinating and I am scratching my head to pinpoint the exact aromatics (given the kaleidoscopic range on display). Citrus, yuzu, salt / saline, minerals fall into breathtaking jasmine. Vivid, immaculate and so, so pure… As planned, there is noticeable phenolic grip but the overriding texture glides on a sheet of silk. The flavours range from a delicate floralness, a little green apple, citrus peel, pangs of grapefruit, chalk and a lovely, warming sense of freshly grated ginger which lasts for minutes. The palate feel is outstanding, fresh and beautifully balanced. So vivid and full of energy… This beauty served with a large bowl of fresh west coast langoustine and lemon mayonnaise would be nirvana. Do not overchill. Drink from now to 2028. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware.”
Was £27.50 per bottle
NOW £21.95 per bottle
"The palate is concentrated, full bodied with waves of honey and buttered fruits..."
"Emphatically long; never-ending to be perfectly honest and will continue to provide an extraordinary wine experience for many years to come."
Stolpman Vineyards L'Avion Roussanne 2017
98+ Points - Stuart McCloskey “In the late summer, team Stolpman pull every leaf away from the fruit to allow for full sun penetration. A month prior to harvest, when the sun exposed side of each cluster tans, but the inside remains green, every grape cluster is gently hand rotated 180 degrees to facilitate an even suntan. The focus, determination and attention to detail provides one of the best new world Roussannes, in my opinion. Spiced pear, apple, buttered citrus, tangerine skin, orange blossom and honey unfold majestically from the glass. There’s theatre, with golden hues whilst the viscous intensity grips the side of my glass with all its life. The palate is concentrated, full bodied with waves of honey and buttered fruits covering every facet. There’s a spiciness (fresh ginger) which gently starts at the tip of my tongue and continues to lay a path of warmth all the way back. Intensity is the core of this wine, with minerality and acidity providing some welcome relief. With time, honeysuckle and peach emerge, but so too does the spiciness, which I love. Emphatically long; never-ending to be perfectly honest and will continue to provide an extraordinary wine experience for many years to come. Do not overchill. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware”.
Was £35.95 per bottle
NOW £30.50 per bottle
Domaine Simha Beauregard Amphora Pinot Noir 2016
Living wine relying on ancient knowledge and intuition. Energetic wine of expressive character and lo-fi technique. Domaine Simha Amphorae wines are crafted in white clay fermentation vessels. Derived from the cosmic golden ratio, the ovoid shape promotes a gentle passive convection current. Wine is energised by constant motion and naturally maintains a stable temperature. Micro porosity allows wine to breathe and evolve over time. Intricate geometric patterned Amphorae labels reference the exquisite architectural beauty of jali screens carved in stone.
Was £36.95 per bottle
NOW £31.50 per bottle
Domaine Simha Nature Pinot Noir 2018
Pinot noir shaped by terroir and season. Sheer, elemental nature. A story of terroir; five clones from across a single Derwent Valley vineyard make this a complex, aromatic, spicy style. Raspberry, spice, bushland perfume, riberry, musk. Unbridled and fresh with fine, rounded tannins.
Was £34.95 per bottle
NOW £29.50 per bottle
Hurry, only a few days left!
Sale closes 9:00 am
Wednesday 14th July
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