Japan’s whiskies went from unknown to insanely coveted to unavailable seemingly overnight. Apparently this even caught Japanese distillers off guard. Stocks of aged whiskies literally evaporated, leaving producers with a void to fill; a hole that has been plugged largely by malt and grain whisky blends. This, however, is not a bad thing, as Japanese blends are more approachable - in both price and profile - than age-specific single malts. Suntory’s Toki is a good example. This is a complex, fruity dram, with herbal notes; Asian pear, green apple, sweet grain, mint, and vanilla nuances. Impeccably balanced, with toasted grain, ripe pear, subtle honey, and a gentle smoky note. Blended whiskies often get ignored. Don’t ignore this.
Dark colour. Oak hits your nose first, followed by notes of black fruits. Full-bodied but velvety, the tannins have melted somewhat, but they remain firm and a little astringent. The finish is tight and clean with notes of ripe fruits, lifted by acidity. Very reasonable price given the vintage.
Made in the ripasso style by adding the Merlot to the leftover lees from the Rennie “G” wine. The nose shows expressive aromatics of ripe raspberry, super-concentrated cherry, anise, liquorice, bramble, blueberry and oak spices. It is highly structured with evident tannins but backed up by rich, flavourful fruits and spice.
Rich nose with generous notes of butter, hazelnut, vanilla, toast and lemon rind that mingle. Equally bold on the palate but refined and elegant with fresh acid, a full body and a long lingering finish. A big congrats to Thomas Bachelder. History was made again by reviving Le Clos Jordanne. Limited edition.
Fresh, juicy and bright characteristics throughout reflect the style for this region. Fragrant scents of fresh herbs, violets, wild raspberry and black cherries. The light-bodied palate accentuates flavours of tangy strawberry and tart cherry, but finishes with lingering pepper. Superb with smoked salmon.
Medium-deep gold with lots of fine bubbles. Nose of fresh French bread and lemon peel, with a hint of apricot. Refreshing lemony acidity in the mouth, this is light, fruity and invigorating: a wine for all foods.
A nose of zippy lime, grapefruit, tropical fruit and fresh-cut grass. It’s racy and zingy on the palate with citrus, star fruit, herbs and a touch of mango. Pair with chicken or seafood dishes.