Wine Advocate (95)

The Heymann Lowenstein Winninger Uhlen Laubach Riesling Grosses Gewächs 2019 epitomises the pinnacle of Rheinhessen's esteemed Riesling craftsmanship. Sourced from the renowned Winninger Uhlen Laubach vineyard, this Grosses Gewächs benefits from the steep, calcareous slopes that impart exceptional minerality and precision to the grapes. Hand-harvested with meticulous attention, the Riesling undergoes a gentle fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving its vibrant acidity and intricate aromatic profile. The 2019 vintage showcases intense notes of citrus, green apple, and subtle floral undertones, complemented by a refined mineral backbone. Heymann Lowenstein, a family-owned estate with a legacy of sustainable viticulture, ensures each bottle reflects their unwavering commitment to quality and terroir expression. This Riesling Grosses Gewächs delivers exceptional ageing potential, making it a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking elegance and depth in every sip.

The Heymann Lowenstein Winnninger Uhlen Roth Lay Riesling GG 2019 epitomises the pinnacle of Nahe terroir expression. Cultivated in the esteemed Winnninger Uhlen Roth Lay vineyard, this Grosses Gewächs Riesling is crafted with meticulous precision by the renowned Heymann-Löwenstein estate. Hand-harvested from organically managed vines, the 2019 vintage benefits from a perfect balance of ripeness and acidity. Fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve its pristine mineral character, the wine unveils a complex bouquet of citrus, green apple, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, it showcases vibrant acidity intertwined with flavours of stone fruit and a distinctive slate minerality, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Ideal for pairing with fine seafood or aged cheeses, this Riesling GG exemplifies sophistication and the exceptional quality synonymous with Heymann Lowenstein. A true masterpiece for the discerning connoisseur seeking unparalleled finesse and heritage.

Few producers of spirit, Scotch or other can claim as dynamic a history as Tullibardine. Tullibardine’s modern history begins in 1949 though there was a brewery on the site dating back to 1488 which made ale for the coronation of James VI, (later James I of England). Originally part of the Whyte & MacKay portfolio it was under-appreciated and mothballed in 1995, until it was bought by independent investors setting up the Tullibardine Distillery Ltd. who resumed production and rejuvenated the brand.

A classic Highland gentleman, it is a whisky of fine character and a good example of the terroir of whisky as the distillery draws its water from the Danny Burn flowing from the Ochil Hills, known as some of the purest in the country (the same source of Highland Spring water). This splendid source gives Tullibardine its soft generosity, not to mention its agreeable nature, affording it a remarkable propensity to take to wine finishes better than most. We've even had a very fine rosé-tinted Banyuls finish!

A strikingly designed distillery set among picturesque farmland at the foot of the Ochil Hills in Auchterarder it is in many ways the modern heir of the Perthshire farm distilleries of centuries past. It is a genuine marvel for many insiders that Tullibardine's elegant, gentle spirit has not attracted the attention it deserves. That will not remain the case for long, in our view.

Tasting Note

True to the distillery's style there is a gentle, fine-grained oak influence and a soft, refined perfume to this cask of Tullibardine. It is maturing slowly and the colour is currently akin to a young german Riesling rather than a white Burgundy. The nose is just so pretty and engaging even considering the youth of this cask. A touch of pear rather than apple, some honeysuckle and melon with a subtle floral perfume. Patience is a virtue, but one this makes me struggle to employ. Give it at least 5 years before checking in on it and probably bottle at 15 or above.

The exquisite Hirtzberger Riesling Smaragd Singerriedel 2021 is sourced from the prestigious Singerriedel vineyards, set upon Wachau's dramatic, terraced landscape. Fostering purity and elegance, Hirtzberger's dedicated focus on each vine's individual needs results in this masterpiece of white wine. The 2021 vintage speaks of Hirtzberger's meticulous craftsmanship, displaying a radiant golden-yellow hue, indelibly imprinted with ripe apricots, delicate floral notes and an exquisite minerality. The palatial intensity of this wine dazzles upon your first sip, demonstrating superb ageing potential. Traditional dry farming, hand-picking and selection underpin the wine's purity and finesse, coupled with fermentation in large oak barrels, enhancing complexity.

Produced by Weingut Franz Hirtzberger, a family-owned Austrian estate, the winery's rich heritage is reflected in the Hirtzberger Riesling Smaragd Singerriedel 2021, a definitive testimony to their artisanal prowess within the Wachau region. Experience the pinnacle of Riesling, in this profound expression of Hirtzberger's dedication to terroir and tradition.

The exquisite Hirtzberger Riesling Smaragd Singerriedel 2021 is sourced from the prestigious Singerriedel vineyards, set upon Wachau's dramatic, terraced landscape. Fostering purity and elegance, Hirtzberger's dedicated focus on each vine's individual needs results in this masterpiece of white wine. The 2021 vintage speaks of Hirtzberger's meticulous craftsmanship, displaying a radiant golden-yellow hue, indelibly imprinted with ripe apricots, delicate floral notes and an exquisite minerality. The palatial intensity of this wine dazzles upon your first sip, demonstrating superb ageing potential. Traditional dry farming, hand-picking and selection underpin the wine's purity and finesse, coupled with fermentation in large oak barrels, enhancing complexity.

Produced by Weingut Franz Hirtzberger, a family-owned Austrian estate, the winery's rich heritage is reflected in the Hirtzberger Riesling Smaragd Singerriedel 2021, a definitive testimony to their artisanal prowess within the Wachau region. Experience the pinnacle of Riesling, in this profound expression of Hirtzberger's dedication to terroir and tradition.

The Hofgut Falkenstein Krettnacher Euchariusberg Riesling Kabinett Kugel Peter 2020 epitomises elegance and precision. Grown in the esteemed Krettnacher vineyards on the Südliche Weinstraße, this Riesling benefits from the unique microclimate of the Euchariusberg region. Handpicked grapes undergo gentle pressing, ensuring the preservation of delicate aromas and vibrant acidity. Fermented in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperatures, the wine retains its fresh minerality and nuanced fruit profile. Produced by Peter Hofgut Falkenstein, whose family legacy spans generations, this Kabinett offers a harmonious balance of ripe citrus, green apple, and subtle floral notes, underscored by a persistent finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood or light poultry dishes, it exemplifies the finesse and terroir-driven character synonymous with Hofgut Falkenstein’s renowned portfolio.

Indulge in the true sensation of the Saar vineyards with the Hofgut Falkenstein Krettnacher Euchariusberg Riesling Spatlese 2019. Cultivated on steep, south-facing slopes in Germany's renowned Mosel region, this is a creation of father-son duo, Erich and Johannes Weber of the esteemed Hofgut Falkenstein estate. Esteemed for nurturing a vein of old vines, they employ traditional viticulture methods, paired with low-yielding, hand harvested fruit.

The meticulous winemaking processes involve cool fermentations in ancient, large wooden casks, yielding the vivacious, attention-grabbing Riesling. The wine shimmers in the glass releasing complex notes of green apple, citrus zest, and white florals with an intriguing slate-like minerality. The 2019 vintage, whilst deeply fragrant and rich, maintains a fresh and vibrant character balanced with an elegant sweetness. Truly, the Hofgut Falkenstein Krettnacher Euchariusberg Riesling Spatlese 2019 encapsulates the quintessential, exhilarating expression of Saar Riesling. Salute to a wine that dances on the palate, leaving a lasting, compelling aftertaste.

Indulge in the exquisite Holdvolgy Tokaji Aszu Culture 2006, a masterpiece from Hungary's esteemed Tokaj region. Crafted meticulously from hand-picked Furmint and Hárslevelű grapes affected by noble rot, this Aszu exemplifies the pinnacle of sweet wine artistry. Fermented under controlled temperatures, it preserves the vibrant acidity and complex flavours characteristic of Tokaji. Aged gracefully in French oak barrels, the 2006 vintage reveals a deep amber hue with enticing aromas of dried apricots, honey, and subtle spices. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of sweetness and freshness, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Produced by Holdvolgy, a venerable family estate renowned for its dedication to traditional viticulture and sustainable practices, this wine reflects decades of expertise and passion. Perfect for pairing with rich desserts or savoury foie gras, Holdvolgy Tokaji Aszu Culture 2006 is a timeless treasure for the discerning connoisseur.

The Holyrood Distillery is the first malt distillery to open in Edinburgh in nearly 100 years and its founding comes amidst a truly exciting time for the whisky industry in Scotland. With an innovative and ambitious spirit sweeping the country buttressed by steadily growing global demand for the world’s most famous distillate, Scotch whisky has been reinvigorated by new start-ups and micro distillers placing the ancestral homeland of whisky back at the forefront of this global industry.

Founded by Canadians Rob & Kelly Carpenter and Scot David Robertson, it is in many ways remarkable that Holyrood is the first malt distillery for so long to make a home in Edinburgh (Glenkinchie is well out of town in Pencaitland and North British is single grain only). The city has a long and proud history of brewing and distilling (legal and otherwise) and the city’s natural underground water supply is known through history as “the Charmed Circle” for its purity and abundance.

The focus in this casks is the barley variety; distilled from a mash bill of 100% pure Golden Promise barley - the same type used in the distillation of The Macallan and Glengoyne single malts, and filled them into 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry hogsheads (in which Golden Promise has shown excellent success at both the aforementioned distilleries) of the highest possible quality.

Filled in April of this year, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to follow the development of a new distillery with one of their earliest distillations. Imagine having a cask of 2001 Port Charlotte bought for under £17 IB per bottle when casks now go for £60,000-plus! The one difference being that Port Charlotte is just a sub-brand from the Bruichladdich distillery which had been running for many years already; here we have a new distillery entirely founded with a commitment to making the best possible whisky in the heart of Scotland’s capital.

The Holyrood Distillery is the first malt distillery to open in Edinburgh in nearly 100 years and its founding comes amidst a truly exciting time for the whisky industry in Scotland. With an innovative and ambitious spirit sweeping the country buttressed by steadily growing global demand for the world’s most famous distillate, Scotch whisky has been reinvigorated by new start-ups and micro distillers placing the ancestral homeland of whisky back at the forefront of this global industry.

Founded by Canadians Rob & Kelly Carpenter and Scot David Robertson, it is in many ways remarkable that Holyrood is the first malt distillery for so long to make a home in Edinburgh (Glenkinchie is well out of town in Pencaitland and North British is single grain only). The city has a long and proud history of brewing and distilling (legal and otherwise) and the city’s natural underground water supply is known through history as “the Charmed Circle” for its purity and abundance.

The focus in this casks is the barley variety; distilled from a mash bill of 100% pure Golden Promise barley - the same type used in the distillation of The Macallan and Glengoyne single malts, and filled them into 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry hogsheads (in which Golden Promise has shown excellent success at both the aforementioned distilleries) of the highest possible quality.

Filled in April of this year, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to follow the development of a new distillery with one of their earliest distillations. Imagine having a cask of 2001 Port Charlotte bought for under £17 IB per bottle when casks now go for £60,000-plus! The one difference being that Port Charlotte is just a sub-brand from the Bruichladdich distillery which had been running for many years already; here we have a new distillery entirely founded with a commitment to making the best possible whisky in the heart of Scotland’s capital.