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 Spectator (90)
This builds on your palate into super, well-constructed, balanced Port. Wonderful floral and fruit aromas, like walking into a lovely florist shop. Full in body, medium-sweet, loads of tannins and long, peppery, fruity finish. Give it time. Best after 2002. -JSInc. GSTSG$786.09 -
Wine Advocate (91)
The 1967 Colheita Tawny Port was bottled in 2012 with a long cork. I've seen this release before, but some time in bottle has certainly helped settle it down. It doesn't have a lot of intensity or concentration given its age, but its gentle demeanor, harmony and complexity make it very appealing. Relatively fresh, understated and lingering on the finish, this is easy to love, even if it is not quite a blockbuster. It's typically priced for a tawny this old—the only listing in the USA is at $260.Inc. GSTSG$1,536.03 -
Wine Advocate (97)
The 2011 Vintage Port hasn't been seen in a while. It begins our mini-vertical this issue. Showing rich and gorgeous fruit, this is pure, young and elegant. There is still plenty of power here, but decanting a small portion for about three hours gave me some hope that it would be approachable a bit sooner than anticipated. Noval has mid-palate finesse all the time—so, too, here. It makes this very graceful, despite the power and the first lush impression. The pure power does not detract from the feeling of elegance at all, as this comes together well. Dried herbs, eucalyptus and a long finish make this special, the complexity on the finish sealing the deal. This is early in this wine's evolution, but it is beginning to open its eyes and peek out at the world.Inc. GSTSG$1,006.33 -
James Suckling (98)
This is a superb baby Noval that reminds me of the 1966. Chewy yet so polished. The light sweetness suggests an overall dialing back of the sugar content. Stemmy and lightly green. A truly classic Noval. Almost all from Pinhao. Buy. Better in 2025.Inc. GSTSG$894.04 -
Vinous (97)
The 2017 Quinta do Noval Vintage Port was picked from August 21 to September 28 under perfect conditions. It has a tightly wound bouquet that requires a lot of aeration. Eventually it reveals fabulous, detailed aromas of cassis, bilberry jam, crushed stone and pressed violets, later hints of orange blossom and quince. The palate is pure class. Saturated tannins, wonderful structure but the headline is the intensity of fruit. I cannot remember a Noval with this penetration, almost overwhelming the senses as layers of effervescent black plum and cassis fruit segue into a spicy finish that fans out like there is no tomorrow. Is this the best Quinta do Noval ever?Inc. GSTSG$725.09 -
Decanter (96)
Made only in top years from the best lots, like all Noval's reds this is fermented in stainless steel then aged in French oak - in this case for 10 months in 35% new oak. Signature orange blossom riffs make for a delicate interplay of fruit and flower. A plume of fine, schistous tannins and bright acidity gently but persuasively anchor and extend its inky, perfumed black berry and plum fruits, with hints of bergamot, milk chocolate, clove, cedar and cinnamon. Very fine and such a great example of the variety, and nearly half the price of the Reserva!Inc. GSTSG$656.70 -
Inc. GSTSG$984.49 -
Wine Advocate (91)
The purple/black-colored 2007 Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port exhibits an alluring bouquet of mineral, pencil lead, espresso, violets, black currant, and fruitcake. Dense and structured on the palate, it has an excellent integration of alcohol, acidity, and tannin. It should be one of the longer lived wines of the vintage with 12-15+ years of aging potential and a drinking window extending through 2037.Inc. GSTSG$567.02 -
Dive into the world of high-quality spirits with the exquisite Springbank, Single Malt Local Barley 10YO Bottled 2022, Campbeltown 2011. Expertly made by Springbank Distillery, the only distillery in Scotland to perform the full production process on site, exuding traditional craftsmanship. This eloquent malt, distilled from barley exclusively harvested from the local Campbeltown farms, offers a window into the passion and unique terroir of this venerable whisky region.
Distilled in 2011 and bottled in 2022, this 10-year-old single malt is highly sought-after, leading you on a sophisticated gustatory journey with a beautiful palette of multifaceted flavours. It echoes the vibrant notes of honey, orchard fruits, vanilla and subtle smokiness, a hallmark of Springbank's signature style. Unquestionably, Springbank, Single Malt Local Barley 10YO Bottled 2022, Campbeltown 2011 is an epitome of fine whisky craftsmanship that will delight any discerning palate.
Inc. GSTSG$7,273.13 -
Wine Enthusiast (97)
Inky purple in color, this youngest Taylor vintage Port boasts a floral, wonderfully open and appealing bouquet, backed by layers of rich fruit. What makes this wine extra special is the seductive texture—somewhere between creamy and syrupy—and ample length. Hold.Inc. GSTSG$469.99 -
Wine Advocate (97)
Now with a couple years in bottle, I am erring to the Taylor’s over the Fonseca (although these can always change!) The Taylor’s show more delineation and refinement with pure black currant, cassis, pencil box, hints of marzipan and a hint of dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied and sumptuous with super-fine tannins, very pure blackberry and boysenberry notes interlaced with cedar, dried fig and a touch of black pepper on the beautifully refined finish. Excellent.Inc. GSTSG$718.51 -
Jancis Robinson (19.5)
This wine was placed immediately after the super-opulent Fonseca in the BFT tasting which may have been a mistake. This is restrained. Well mannered, discreet, keeps its powder very dry. But on the palate it opens out in the most superb, burgundian peacock's tail sort of way. Another wonderful wine from The Fladgate Partnership. Utterly different from the Fonseca. Upright and straight backed. But irreproachable. My gums are virtually impervious to sugar and acid but this wine set them vibrating a bit. Dried prunes ground up with rocks.Inc. GSTSG$729.41 -
James Suckling (100)
OMG. This is really the most amazing young Taylor's I have ever tasted. Full-bodied and lightly sweet with super power and intensity. So racy and focused. Yet this has such muscle and intensity. Needs at least eight years to show you everything it has to offer. Drink in 2025.Inc. GSTSG$705.45 -
Inc. GSTSG$696.73 -
Inc. GSTSG$2,486.49 -
Jancis Robinson (17.5)
Blackish crimson with medium rim. Heady and ripe on the nose. Subtle and savoury. Satin-smooth palate entry and a very dry end but really exciting and herbal in the middle. Very much in the Taylor's idiom. Neat and ambitious.Inc. GSTSG$572.45 -
Vecchio Magazzino Doganale Roger Amaro NV emanates from the storied heartland of Italy's Calabria. Born within a 19th-century customs warehouse, Roger Amaro is imbued with the spirit of the territory. Harvested and blended by the distillery 'Vecchio Magazzino Doganale', this non-vintage treat is a testament to their commitment to history, craftsmanship and love for fine spirits. The liquor is produced using an elaborate process that includes infusion and subsequent maturation of over 30 local, wild herbs, with a predominant note of rue. Ranging from sweet to bitter, Roger Amaro NV offers a complex, yet balanced depth of flavour that delights the palate and nostrils alike. A touch of honeyed sweetness is followed by a satisfyingly bitter finish, making it perfect as a digestif. Savour the fascinating experience that Vecchio Magazzino Doganale Roger Amaro NV affords - a veritable celebration of Calabrian tradition, natural bounty, and artisanal mastery.
Inc. GSTSG$993.64 -
Vinous (92)
Deep ruby. Vibrant, expressive aromas and flavors of kirsch, dark chocolate and flowers. Very dense, fat and sweet, with excellent inner-mouth energy leavening the impression of lushness. Finishes long and sweetly tannic, with a bit of brandy to be absorbed. This has the density and tannic clout for a graceful evolution in bottle.Inc. GSTSG$878.76 -
James Suckling (96)
Very complex with dried flowers and roses. Full-bodied, very layered and tightly wound. Chewy and powerful. Firm and off-dry. Needs five or six years to soften. Beauty. Try in 2024.Inc. GSTSG$758.86
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Wine Spectator (90)
This builds on your palate into super, well-constructed, balanced Port. Wonderful floral and fruit aromas, like walking into a lovely florist shop. Full in body, medium-sweet, loads of tannins and long, peppery, fruity finish. Give it time. Best after 2002. -JSIn BondSG$640.00 -
Wine Advocate (91)
The 1967 Colheita Tawny Port was bottled in 2012 with a long cork. I've seen this release before, but some time in bottle has certainly helped settle it down. It doesn't have a lot of intensity or concentration given its age, but its gentle demeanor, harmony and complexity make it very appealing. Relatively fresh, understated and lingering on the finish, this is easy to love, even if it is not quite a blockbuster. It's typically priced for a tawny this old—the only listing in the USA is at $260.In BondSG$1,330.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
The 2011 Vintage Port hasn't been seen in a while. It begins our mini-vertical this issue. Showing rich and gorgeous fruit, this is pure, young and elegant. There is still plenty of power here, but decanting a small portion for about three hours gave me some hope that it would be approachable a bit sooner than anticipated. Noval has mid-palate finesse all the time—so, too, here. It makes this very graceful, despite the power and the first lush impression. The pure power does not detract from the feeling of elegance at all, as this comes together well. Dried herbs, eucalyptus and a long finish make this special, the complexity on the finish sealing the deal. This is early in this wine's evolution, but it is beginning to open its eyes and peek out at the world.In BondSG$848.00 -
James Suckling (98)
This is a superb baby Noval that reminds me of the 1966. Chewy yet so polished. The light sweetness suggests an overall dialing back of the sugar content. Stemmy and lightly green. A truly classic Noval. Almost all from Pinhao. Buy. Better in 2025.In BondSG$743.00 -
Vinous (97)
The 2017 Quinta do Noval Vintage Port was picked from August 21 to September 28 under perfect conditions. It has a tightly wound bouquet that requires a lot of aeration. Eventually it reveals fabulous, detailed aromas of cassis, bilberry jam, crushed stone and pressed violets, later hints of orange blossom and quince. The palate is pure class. Saturated tannins, wonderful structure but the headline is the intensity of fruit. I cannot remember a Noval with this penetration, almost overwhelming the senses as layers of effervescent black plum and cassis fruit segue into a spicy finish that fans out like there is no tomorrow. Is this the best Quinta do Noval ever?In BondSG$588.00 -
Decanter (96)
Made only in top years from the best lots, like all Noval's reds this is fermented in stainless steel then aged in French oak - in this case for 10 months in 35% new oak. Signature orange blossom riffs make for a delicate interplay of fruit and flower. A plume of fine, schistous tannins and bright acidity gently but persuasively anchor and extend its inky, perfumed black berry and plum fruits, with hints of bergamot, milk chocolate, clove, cedar and cinnamon. Very fine and such a great example of the variety, and nearly half the price of the Reserva!In BondSG$551.00 -
In BondSG$824.00
-
Wine Advocate (91)
The purple/black-colored 2007 Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port exhibits an alluring bouquet of mineral, pencil lead, espresso, violets, black currant, and fruitcake. Dense and structured on the palate, it has an excellent integration of alcohol, acidity, and tannin. It should be one of the longer lived wines of the vintage with 12-15+ years of aging potential and a drinking window extending through 2037.In BondSG$441.00 -
Dive into the world of high-quality spirits with the exquisite Springbank, Single Malt Local Barley 10YO Bottled 2022, Campbeltown 2011. Expertly made by Springbank Distillery, the only distillery in Scotland to perform the full production process on site, exuding traditional craftsmanship. This eloquent malt, distilled from barley exclusively harvested from the local Campbeltown farms, offers a window into the passion and unique terroir of this venerable whisky region.
Distilled in 2011 and bottled in 2022, this 10-year-old single malt is highly sought-after, leading you on a sophisticated gustatory journey with a beautiful palette of multifaceted flavours. It echoes the vibrant notes of honey, orchard fruits, vanilla and subtle smokiness, a hallmark of Springbank's signature style. Unquestionably, Springbank, Single Malt Local Barley 10YO Bottled 2022, Campbeltown 2011 is an epitome of fine whisky craftsmanship that will delight any discerning palate.
In BondSG$6,435.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (97)
Inky purple in color, this youngest Taylor vintage Port boasts a floral, wonderfully open and appealing bouquet, backed by layers of rich fruit. What makes this wine extra special is the seductive texture—somewhere between creamy and syrupy—and ample length. Hold.In BondSG$350.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
Now with a couple years in bottle, I am erring to the Taylor’s over the Fonseca (although these can always change!) The Taylor’s show more delineation and refinement with pure black currant, cassis, pencil box, hints of marzipan and a hint of dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied and sumptuous with super-fine tannins, very pure blackberry and boysenberry notes interlaced with cedar, dried fig and a touch of black pepper on the beautifully refined finish. Excellent.In BondSG$578.00 -
Jancis Robinson (19.5)
This wine was placed immediately after the super-opulent Fonseca in the BFT tasting which may have been a mistake. This is restrained. Well mannered, discreet, keeps its powder very dry. But on the palate it opens out in the most superb, burgundian peacock's tail sort of way. Another wonderful wine from The Fladgate Partnership. Utterly different from the Fonseca. Upright and straight backed. But irreproachable. My gums are virtually impervious to sugar and acid but this wine set them vibrating a bit. Dried prunes ground up with rocks.In BondSG$588.00 -
James Suckling (100)
OMG. This is really the most amazing young Taylor's I have ever tasted. Full-bodied and lightly sweet with super power and intensity. So racy and focused. Yet this has such muscle and intensity. Needs at least eight years to show you everything it has to offer. Drink in 2025.In BondSG$568.00 -
In BondSG$560.00
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In BondSG$2,200.00
-
Jancis Robinson (17.5)
Blackish crimson with medium rim. Heady and ripe on the nose. Subtle and savoury. Satin-smooth palate entry and a very dry end but really exciting and herbal in the middle. Very much in the Taylor's idiom. Neat and ambitious.In BondSG$444.00 -
Vecchio Magazzino Doganale Roger Amaro NV emanates from the storied heartland of Italy's Calabria. Born within a 19th-century customs warehouse, Roger Amaro is imbued with the spirit of the territory. Harvested and blended by the distillery 'Vecchio Magazzino Doganale', this non-vintage treat is a testament to their commitment to history, craftsmanship and love for fine spirits. The liquor is produced using an elaborate process that includes infusion and subsequent maturation of over 30 local, wild herbs, with a predominant note of rue. Ranging from sweet to bitter, Roger Amaro NV offers a complex, yet balanced depth of flavour that delights the palate and nostrils alike. A touch of honeyed sweetness is followed by a satisfyingly bitter finish, making it perfect as a digestif. Savour the fascinating experience that Vecchio Magazzino Doganale Roger Amaro NV affords - a veritable celebration of Calabrian tradition, natural bounty, and artisanal mastery.
In BondSG$674.00 -
Vinous (92)
Deep ruby. Vibrant, expressive aromas and flavors of kirsch, dark chocolate and flowers. Very dense, fat and sweet, with excellent inner-mouth energy leavening the impression of lushness. Finishes long and sweetly tannic, with a bit of brandy to be absorbed. This has the density and tannic clout for a graceful evolution in bottle.In BondSG$727.00 -
James Suckling (96)
Very complex with dried flowers and roses. Full-bodied, very layered and tightly wound. Chewy and powerful. Firm and off-dry. Needs five or six years to soften. Beauty. Try in 2024.In BondSG$617.00
