Spirits
Spirits are the highest ABV products of the alcohol family and as a result have the greatest capability to age, far beyond most fine wines. Cognac and other types of Brandy have long been collectible, with a bottle from the 1762 vintage selling at auction in 2020 for $1,500,000, and rare, aged Rums have started breaking into the mainstream but fine whisky is certainly the most desirable spirit on the world right now.
Whisky can be made in a variety of styles and is mostly produced in Japan, Ireland, the United States and most prominently, Scotland. Single malt Scotch Whisky is extremely collectible and is one of the most sought-after in the world, with the The Macallan's top releases being the pinnacle.
Fortified wines are not categorised as spirits, yet they contain a distilled spirit, usually brandy, to stop fermentation and “fortify” the wine. Port and Sherry are two of the most well-known and popular examples of fortified wines.
Spirits
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Wine Advocate (96)
The 2000 Fonseca continues to exude finesse and focus on the nose, with pure blackberry, juniper berries, licorice and a touch of sloes, perhaps as Adrian Bridge remarked, just beginning to close after ten years in bottle. The palate is underpinned by very fine tannins, a sensual, svelte texture with wonderful acidity. The harmony and symmetry is alluring, the finish precise and demonstrating the persistency to suggest a long future ahead. Drink 2020-2060.$768.00 -
(12x75cl) 2003Wine Spectator (95-100)
Wild aromas, with flowers, blackberries and passion fruit. Full-bodied, massive on the palate. Medium-sweet. The finish goes on for minutes. A mega young Port. Fonseca. What do you expect? Score range: 95-100$751.00 -
(6x150cl) 2007Wine Enthusiast (96)
Dense and serious, a powerful vintage, as would be expected from Fonseca. The whole emphasis of the wine pushes the tannins forward, but this structure is based on black plums with dark fruit skins and a solid, chunky character. The finish is juicy and bold.$718.00 -
(12x75cl) 2009Wine Spectator (95)
This is gorgeously vibrant and grapey, with good cut to the luscious dark fruit and cedar flavors that are flanked by zesty acidity and tannins. A touch brooding midpalate, with a minerally rush and a finish of slate and iron. Best from 2016 through 2036. 7,000 cases made. -KM$456.00 -
(6x75cl) 2009Wine Spectator (95)
This is gorgeously vibrant and grapey, with good cut to the luscious dark fruit and cedar flavors that are flanked by zesty acidity and tannins. A touch brooding midpalate, with a minerally rush and a finish of slate and iron. Best from 2016 through 2036. 7,000 cases made. -KM$280.00 -
Wine Advocate (97-99)
The Fonseca 2011 is typically more forthcoming on the nose compared to the bashful Croft: a strident bouquet with lifted scents of freshly picked blackberries, kirsch, crushed stone and a dash of Hoi Sin and oyster sauce. It is very well-defined, very focused and direct. The palate is silky smooth with not a rough edge in sight, though not a typically voluptuous Fonseca because of the keen thread of acidity and the structure that lends this mighty Port wonderful backbone. A slight viscosity on the finish lacquers the tongue and indicates a core of sweet fruit is ticking away underneath that will surely explode several years after bottling. A tincture of salted licorice on the aftertaste is very attractive. This will turn out to become an outstanding Fonseca, the growing season taming its exuberance with spectacular results. So much potential, but just 6,000 cases were produced. Tasted May 2013.$1,275.00 -
Wine Advocate (97-99)
The Fonseca 2011 is typically more forthcoming on the nose compared to the bashful Croft: a strident bouquet with lifted scents of freshly picked blackberries, kirsch, crushed stone and a dash of Hoi Sin and oyster sauce. It is very well-defined, very focused and direct. The palate is silky smooth with not a rough edge in sight, though not a typically voluptuous Fonseca because of the keen thread of acidity and the structure that lends this mighty Port wonderful backbone. A slight viscosity on the finish lacquers the tongue and indicates a core of sweet fruit is ticking away underneath that will surely explode several years after bottling. A tincture of salted licorice on the aftertaste is very attractive. This will turn out to become an outstanding Fonseca, the growing season taming its exuberance with spectacular results. So much potential, but just 6,000 cases were produced. Tasted May 2013.$381.00 -
James Suckling (98)
Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025.$414.00 -
James Suckling (98)
Lots of ripe fruit here with raisins and wet earth that turn to violets and hot stones. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful with fantastic grip and intensity. Grabs you. Impressive. Drink in 2025.$302.00 -
Wine Advocate (98)
The 2017 Vintage Port, not quite bottled when originally seen, has now been in bottle for a couple of years. It is a field blend (with typical grapes like Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesca, Tinto Cão, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca) aged for approximately 20 months in used French oak. It comes in with 98 grams of residual sugar. This is a great Fonseca, distinctive, with a touch of eucalyptus and plums, but also loaded with delicious fruit. Like its Taylor's siblings, there is also a fine backbone. I'd say it is a step behind the Taylor's duo this year, but not by much. It will age well, to say the least.$461.00 -
(6x75cl) 2017Wine Advocate (98)
The 2017 Vintage Port, not quite bottled when originally seen, has now been in bottle for a couple of years. It is a field blend (with typical grapes like Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesca, Tinto Cão, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca) aged for approximately 20 months in used French oak. It comes in with 98 grams of residual sugar. This is a great Fonseca, distinctive, with a touch of eucalyptus and plums, but also loaded with delicious fruit. Like its Taylor's siblings, there is also a fine backbone. I'd say it is a step behind the Taylor's duo this year, but not by much. It will age well, to say the least.$433.00 -
(6x50cl) NV$524.00 -
$728.00 -
(6x75cl) 2012$195.00 -
$357.00 -
(12x75cl) 2013$675.00 -
$102.00 -
$576.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018Richard Mayson (18.5)
The second label for Fonseca, a blend fromQuinta do Panascal in the Távora Valley and Fonseca’s estates in the Pinhão Valley. Lovely, ripe expressive dark chocolate concentration on the nose, this really sings from the glass; dense and voluptuous on the palate, super-ripe and plummy with luscious texture backed by firm, gravelly tannins that extend to a broad, gripping finish. Glorious. This will be a keeper.$150.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022Wine Advocate (94)
Once again, I tasted the 2022 Guimaraens Vintage Port, which is again very expressive and aromatic, open and quite tasty, corresponding to the style of the brand. It's less concentrated and more approachable. The grapes come from their properties in the Douro planted with the traditional grape varieties and with a significant number of grapes from mixed varieties that correspond to the old vines. It has 20% alcohol, 4.6 grams of acidity and 98 grams of sugar. It has nice structure and integrated alcohol, the tannins are nicely coated by the fruit and the flavors are focused, clean and precise. 26,400 bottles produced. It was bottled in 2024 after 18 to 24 months in large oak containers.$195.00 -
$93.00 -
(1x70cl) NVExperience the transcending allure of the Four Roses Straight Bourbon Small Batch Barrel Strength 130th Anniversary Limited Edition Bottled 2018 NV. Birthed in the illustrious Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, this American bourbon is a profound tribute to 130 years of expertise and innovation. Employing a meticulous blend of 10-16 year old bourbons of four separate recipes, this speakeasy standout is a symphony of rich caramel and ripe red fruit on the nose. On the palate, it conveys an orchestra of flavours, from succulent cherry to toasted oak, underlined by seductive spicy undertones. These bourbons have been maturing in the socio-economic climate of the United States Midwest, imbuing the year's weather and terrain into the complex profile. The Four Roses Straight Bourbon Small Batch Barrel Strength 130th Anniversary Limited Edition Bottled 2018 NV is a rich composite of American history, a timeless vintage reserved for the discerning connoisseur.
$420.00 -
(1x70cl) NVUnderscore your refined palate with the laudable Foursquare Principia Single Blinded Rum NV, a remarkable spirit originating from the famed Foursquare Distillery in Barbados. Enigmatic in execution, this distinctive expression delights with its nuanced fusion of pot and column distilled spirits.
Meticulously aged for three years in ex-bourbon casks before basking for an additional six years in ex-sherry casks, the rum's invigorating maturation process imparts a delightful character. The Foursquare Distillery, helmed by master distiller Richard Seale, is renowned for its adherence to traditional methods, eschewing flavour additives and colourings. This hands-on approach ensures the exquisite authenticity of Foursquare Principia Single Blended Rum NV.
Nose notes of ripe bananas and soft spice intensify to reveal layers of rich caramel, toasted almonds, and hints of dried fruits on the palate. This beautifully balanced blend crafts a memorable tapestry of taste, presenting a harmonious journey to distillation excellence.
$529.00 -
From the revered Foursquare Distillery in the paradisiacal realms of Barbados, comes a remarkable rum testament - the Foursquare Single Blended Rum Double Maturation Patrimonio Bottled 2019 2004. This select rum shows the meticulous blending prowess of the distillery. Matured in both Kentucky bourbon barrels and Spanish sherry casks, it offers a sensational balance of two contrasting worlds.
Aged for 14 years, this double-matured wonder is a high-proof delight brimming with opulent notes of treacle, dried fruits, vanilla and oak. Produced by Richard Seale, a fourth-generation Master Distiller, this presentation epitomises legacy and innovation. The natural climate of Barbados ensures an astoundingly deep maturation process, imbuing the rum with unrivalled complexity and maturity. Revel in the rich ensemble of flavours presented by the award-winning Foursquare Single Blended Rum Double Maturation Patrimonio Bottled 2019 2004. A bona fide connoisseur's choice.
$424.00 -
Famed for its exquisite flavour profile, the Foursquare Single Blended Sassafras Bottled November 2020 NV eloquently captivates the senses. Originating from the world-renowned Foursquare distillery in Barbados, this stunning blend is meticulously matured for a period of 12 years—3 years in ex-bourbon casks and a further 9 years in ex-Madeira casks.
Characterised by its unique sassafras notes, this single blended rum beautifully marries the flavours of treacle, red fruits, vanilla and oak, creating a remarkable palate experience. This is testament to Master Distiller Richard Seale's unwavering commitment to quality and sophistication. Reflective of its artisanal production, the Foursquare Single Blended Sassafras Bottled November 2020 NV is bottled at natural cask strength and devoid of any added sweetness, showcasing the distillery's devotion to genuine rum expressions.
Exuding tropical warmth and elegance, the Foursquare Single Blended Sassafras Bottled November 2020 NV is an extraordinary addition to any connoisseur's collection.
$535.00 -
Experience the renowned Foursquare Single Blended Plenipotenziario Heavy & Light 12YO Bottled 2019 2007 crafted with skill and precise precision. This divine spirit, made from a blend of heavy and light distillates, originates from the highly-acclaimed Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados. The distillery, led by Master Distiller Richard Seale, adheres to a traditional method of distillation, encompassing a long fermentation process and premium quality sugar cane. Matured for 12 years and uniquely bottled in 2019, it carries a coveted age statement that signifies the youngest rum within the blend is 12 years old. Expect divine essence and heavenly tasting notes, including notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, and subtle spice. The Foursquare Single Blended Plenipotenziario Heavy & Light 12YO Bottled 2019 2007 wonderfully represents Foursquare's distinctive artistry in producing world-class spirits. Imbibe this top-tier spirit to indulge in an unprecedented taste and aromatic experience.
$494.00 -
(1x70cl) NVExperience the essence of Barbadian tradition with the Foursquare Single Blended Triptych NV. This truly exquisite spirit is curated by the critically acclaimed Foursquare Rum Distillery, recognised globally for its exceptional craftmanship. Unlike standard distilleries, Foursquare utilises a blend of both copper double retort pot and column still distillates, culminating in a richly complex spirit. Triptych NV, meaning composed of three parts, expertly amalgamates heritage, expertise, and authenticity, showcasing three uniquely distinctive vintages. Each cask contributes a distinct character, including bourbon, Madeira and virgin oak, with each element collaborating seamlessly for a harmoniously balanced finish. On the palate, one may find a delicately balanced myriad of vanilla, tropical fruits and warming spices, underscored by a smooth, lingering finish. The Foursquare Single Blended Triptych NV is indeed a testament to time-honoured Bajan distilling practices, blended to perfection by master distiller Richard Seale. Here emerges a spirit that truly offers an unparalleled Caribbean rum experience.
$540.00 -
(1x70cl) 1930```htmlFrancis Darroze Bas Armagnac Peyrot 1930 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Bas Armagnac region. Crafted with meticulous attention, this 1930 vintage is distilled using traditional column stills, preserving the rich and robust character synonymous with Peyrot's heritage. Sourced from the lush vineyards of Gascony, the eau-de-vie undergoes an extended maturation in oak barrels, allowing it to develop complex flavours of dried fruits, spices, and subtle oak nuances. Francis Darroze, a venerable name in fine spirits, ensures each bottle embodies the legacy and craftsmanship of nearly a century-old tradition. This rare Armagnac stands as a testament to the enduring quality and expertise that defines the Peyrot lineage, making it a prized addition for connoisseurs seeking unparalleled elegance and depth in their collections.
```$1,045.00 -
(1x70cl) NVFrapin Extra Cognac NV exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship from the heart of the Grande Champagne region. Esteemed by connoisseurs, this non-vintage blend is meticulously assembled from a selection of eaux-de-vie aged for a minimum of six years in French oak barrels. Frapin, a family-owned producer with a legacy spanning generations, harnesses the unique terroir of their vineyards to create a harmonious and sophisticated spirit. The careful distillation process preserves the delicate floral and fruity notes, while extended ageing imparts rich complexity with hints of spice and vanilla. The result is a velvety smooth Cognac, showcasing Frapin's dedication to quality and tradition. Ideal for savouring neat or enhancing refined cocktails, Frapin Extra Cognac NV is a testament to the art of fine Cognac making.
$409.00 -
Gantenbein Vieux Marc 2007 epitomises exceptional Swiss distillation artistry. Crafted in the renowned Valais region, this distinguished spirit begins with carefully selected grape pomace, meticulously fermented to extract maximum flavour. Gantenbein employs traditional copper pot distillation, ensuring purity and depth in every batch. The Vieux Marc 2007 is then aged for over a decade in French oak barrels, allowing it to develop a rich, amber hue and a complex aroma of dried apricots, honeyed spices, and subtle vanilla notes. The esteemed Gantenbein family has upheld their legacy of quality and craftsmanship for generations, emphasising sustainable practices and terroir expression. On the palate, this exquisite marc delivers a harmonious blend of robust flavours and smooth textures, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Perfect for the discerning connoisseur, Gantenbein Vieux Marc 2007 stands as a testament to unparalleled quality and sophisticated refinement.
$218.00
