K&L Wine Merchants - Will Blakely Reviews

1997 Ardmore 25 Year Old "Old Particular" K&L Exclusive Cask Strength Single Refill Hogshead Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 11-15-2023

I cannot get enough of these Ardmore casks from independent bottlers, and this one features everything I want. Though technically unpeated, some of that woodsy highland smoke remains, smelling like a distant wood fire burning in a log cabin in a pine forest. The palate presents seamless creme brulee, dried apricot and honeycomb but with that smoldering oak kindling remaining present throughout. Drinking this reminded me of an incredible brunch I recently had: thick cut French toast rolled in butterscotched cornflakes. That's the sort of density and decadence at play here. Well worth the price, this bottle is a must-have for anyone looking to break into next level Scotch.

Price: $199.99

New Riff "K&L Exclusive Single Barrel #14585" Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 11-10-2023

This was the first time we've been offered a single barrel of Rye from New Riff, and I could not be more excited. Uniquely smoky, savory and woodsy on the nose, this boasts a tremendously complex array of herbs and spices backed up by rich caramel, oaky vanilla and a touch of cola. There's a note of maple-coated bacon here that has me hooked, but there's a wealth of incredible flavor on display. Sassafras, allspice, clove, cinnamon, coriander and nutmeg all play off each other beautifully, with a hint of sage on the back end. I don't notice any menthol on the palate, but I feel that unmistakable cooling sensation in my chest, like getting a lungful of crisp, alpine air on a cool, clear morning. The finish retains a fair amount of that spice, but settles easily on a sweet note that makes each sip a delight. Though many will be drawn to the straightforward appeal of the bourbon, I think the rye is the real MVP from this round of picks.

Price: $59.99

New Riff "K&L Exclusive Single Barrel #18611" Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 11-10-2023

These highly anticipated barrels from our trip to Kentucky in May have finally arrived, and they're even better than I remember. Jay and his team at New Riff always manage to overdeliver on flavor and character even after a scant 4-5 years of age. Here inviting aromas of vanilla, nougat and sweet toasted oak float effortlessly out of the glass. Orange oil, sticky toffee, baked apple and roasted chestnuts on the palate make this feel warm and immensely satisfying, with clove, nutmeg and just a dash of cinnamon adding nuance and length to the finish. What's truly impressive here is the seamless integration of wood and fruit flavors, creating a decadent, sumptuous texture that is so gratifying to drink. The key to New Riff's success, and the hallmark of all barrels we select, is that perfect balance; the wood is present but never bitter, and the proof makes this feel full and concentrated but not hot or boozy. Just a smashing success across the board, and a real testament to what craft whiskey has to offer.

Price: $54.99

2020 Mas de Sainte Croix "Passion d'Une Terre" Côtes-du-Rhône Villages Valréas

Review Date: 09-15-2023

This release from Mas de Sainte Croix consistently outperforms everything else at the price point. Since I started at K&L more than 5 years ago, it has remained one of my go-to weekday wines and a must-have for any customer who likes the savory character of reds from the southern Rhone. Wild blackberry and strawberry meld effortlessly with smoked meat, pepper, and herbes de Provence. A healthy portion of Mourvedre provides savory, earthy undertones, ramping up the garrigue and bringing fresh tobacco into the mix. Effortless concentration and a velvety texture make it endlessly enjoyable to drink, and its elegant structure makes it a surprising candidate for cellar aging; I still have a couple of bottles from 2015 that I keep coming back to, and I'll be sorely disappointed when they're gone. Whether you love Gigondas but want something half as expensive, or you just want a red that overdelivers for the price, you need to put at least a few bottles of this in your cart.

Price: $14.99

JD: 93

JS: 93

2018 Château de Montfaucon "Baron Louis" Lirac

Review Date: 09-13-2023

So much to say about Chateau de Montfaucon and their seminal Lirac that I don't know where to start. Along with Xavier, Montfaucon produces some of my favorite wines coming from the southern Rhone Valley, and this might represent the best value of any wine in that category. I love that they house a plethora of back vintages in their cellar and only release the wine when it's ready to drink. In this case, that patience is rewarded handsomely as ripe, concentrated red fruits flow generously from the glass, balanced by focused acidity, fine grain tannins, and the trademark herbal garrigue that comes with everything surrounding Chateauneuf du Pape. And this drinks very much like a Chateauneuf for half the price. The finesse and length on display here will impress and entice without fail, and having recently had the pleasure of tasting the 2009 and 2010 vintages again, I cannot wait to see how this one develops. Though lacking the in-your-face intensity of the 2017 vintage, it is without question a bottle worthy of buying by the case and revisiting frequently over the course of the next decade.

Price: $24.99

Wine Club

$21.99

DC: 92

2001 Rum Co Of Fiji 20 Year old "Plantation" Rozelieurs Single Malt Cask Finished Single Cask Pot Still Jamaican Rum (750ml)

Review Date: 09-08-2023

One of the most complex and flavorful spirits on the shelf, this unique cask is a must-try for high-ester rum fans everywhere. On the nose, there's an explosion of tropical fruit- pineapple, passion fruit, papaya, and loads of citrus, all doused in gasoline and set aflame. The flavors on the palate boast an incredible concentration, as cherry and plum enter the fray. Sticky dark sugar and exquisite French oak round out the profile, with delightful Tahitian vanilla providing lift. There's an enchanting sea salt umami character that makes this mouthwatering and addictive - just thinking about it now makes me want to pour another glass and get lost in its enticing but alarming aromas. Even proofed down, it seems silly that we can have 20 year-old spirit of this caliber for under $150. And if you feel particularly crazy, you could turn this into the best Mai Tai of your life.

Price: $139.99

2009 Long Pond (VRW) 12 Year old "Plantation" Spanish Orange Wine Cask Finished Single Cask Pot Still Jamaican Rum (750ml)

Review Date: 09-08-2023

This exquisite cask should win over most any connoisseur of aged spirits, particularly those who enjoy well-crafted Cognac. I highly recommend letting this air out, as much of the latex/paraffin character will dissipate quickly. The Wedderburn style means a somewhat restrained aromatic profile, but what lies underneath is a bombshell. Crackling brown sugar and bright candied citrus make strong first impressions, and there is an unmistakable air of Cognac about it. The texture is rich and sumptuous, with a velvety mouthfeel once again reminiscent of fine French brandy. The brilliant citrus from the nose is joined now by ripe mango, papaya, stewed plum and figgy pudding. The depth of flavor here makes it seem older the 12 years, but without the hard edge of wood tannin that can come with extended barrel aging. Truly a masterpiece of cask finishing, and easily one of the most compelling spirits in-store right now. Don't let the low proof fool you; this bottle is worth every penny.

Price: $89.99

Nashville Barrel Company 8 Year Old "K&L Exclusive" Single Barrel #2770 Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 08-09-2023

Dynamite in a bottle! Sourced Kentucky single barrels are practically extinct at this point, and to have something as special as this offering from Nashville is an increasingly rare treat. With massive plants like Bardstown Bourbon Company and Wilderness Trail flooding the market with good but young whiskey, holdouts like this barrel bring me endless joy. Though we still cannot dial in to remove all doubt about its provenance, the quality and flavor here scream old-school Kentucky. When we first opened the bottle, herbal and floral aromas exploded from the glass, prompting one staff member to posit Willett had a hand in its production. Now that it's seen some air, caramel-drizzled, roasted nuts took center stage, dancing around shaved coconut and cherry syrup. The primary aromas are still present, but fading into the background now. Could it be Beam? On the palate, it delivers a mule kick of spice and lacquered wood, not unlike some Booker's bottlings of yesteryear. Vanilla, caramel, toasted oak, and kirsch are all present, along with more of that warming spice. What strikes me most is the finish, which lingers for an eternity with a rich, nutty umami character that keeps me yearning for just one more sip. The texture borders on uncanny. My brain vacillates between labeling it dense, almost chewy, and finding it impressively lifted and vibrant. A dash of water ramps up the sweetness, vaulting it ahead of that hot spice and bringing toffee and peaches & cream into the foreground, rounding it all out nougat and honey. That savory nutty quality remains through the finish, making the whole package an utter delight to the senses. Anyone missing the bygone days of Kentucky spirit being as plentiful as it is delicious should pick this up without hesitation. It's well worth the investment.

Price: $119.99

2008 Bunnahabhain 14 Year Old "Old Particular" K&L Exclusive Single Hogshead Cask Strength Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 08-09-2023

Another stunner in our Bunnahabhain lineup, this unusual cask brings unexpected delight, and should fit nicely into any Scotch fan's collection. Mild peat on the nose does not convey the smoky malt on the palate, but instead offers dried herbs and a tinge of green apple candy. It's incredibly inviting, and the flavors deliver on the promise the aromas make. Much more rich and earthy peat now, riding high atop hearty golden malt and some of that same apple fruit. Drizzled with treacle and dusted with cocoa powder, the fruits come into play more as my taste buds acclimate to the peat- stewed nectarine and candied citrus sprinkled with sea salt and flambeed. The finish simply won't quit, retaining so many savory flavors but complimented by the sweetness of the fruit. This might be the perfect bridge for folks looking to cross into Islay malt but not wanting to dive headfirst into Laphroaig. The smoke remains ever-present, but at no point overwhelms. You absolutely owe it to yourself to try this special bottling before it disappears.

Price: $109.99

2009 Blair Athol 13 Year Old "Old Particular" K&L Exclusive Single refill ex-Bourbon Barrel Cask Strength Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 07-28-2023

Blair Athol consistently outperforms other highland distilleries that command higher price points, yet never receives the recognition it's due. This fine cask offers incredible depth and concentration of flavor for less than a bottle of similarly aged whisky from one of Diageo's facilities, plus it's bottled at cask strength. I must note that this particular spirit loves air, so let it sit for a while in the glass when you first open it. Your patience will be rewarded with enticing aromas of orchard fruit and baking spice. The palate bursts with quince, persimmon, lemon peel, green mango, nutmeg and allspice. The rich, oily texture brims with sticky toffee, coffee cake and butterscotch drizzle. But far from feeling heavy and overbearing, it remains taught, fresh and lifted, with a spice reminiscent of ginger snaps and candied citrus peel. Truly an outstanding dram worthy of any malt-lover's collection, this is a tremendous value and a must-have from our Old Particular selections this year.

Price: $64.99

Casco Viejo Blanco Tequila (1L)

Review Date: 07-28-2023

To make a long story short, not only is this is the best blanco tequila under $30, but it also outperforms most brands at twice the price or more. The long version involves going back to the beginning of tequila as a regional style of spirit. Jose Cuervo was the first major tequila producer in the middle of the 18th century, and at the time, most of the agave was coming from the lower lying regions now known as El Valle. One hundred years later, the valley was saturated with agave fields owned by large companies, so producers trying to enter the market were increasingly looking to plant agave in the previously undeveloped mountain areas. The Camarena family began doing so in the 1880's, ultimately leading to building their distilleries and the brands we see today. El Tesoro de Don Felipe and G4 are headed by two Camarena brothers who struck out to build their own tequila brands, while the main family estate makes Casco Viejo, and they do it in the most traditional style you'll find at an everyday price point. Roasted in brick ovens rather than high-pressure steam vats, fermented over the course of days and weeks rather than hours, and bottled without the use of chemical additives, this is pure and authentic tequila. As we typically get from the highland style, the flavor cooked agave comes accented with lifted citrus and subtle floral tones. A hint of pepper and dried mountain herbs brings some savory influence, and the finish is clean and refreshing. It hits all the right notes. Not just margarita fodder, it's unbelievably enjoyable to sip neat, even more-so to serve as ranch water. When the cost of everything coming from Jalisco is only increasing, treat yourself to something that turns back time, delivering historic quality at a long-forgotten price point.

Price: $21.99

Barrell Craft 9 Year Old K&L Exclusive Single Barrel #Z6B4 Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 07-21-2023

Offering incredible quality from an odd mashbill, this honestly surprised me. I am generally skeptical of such high corn recipes; this barrel, however, drinks like classic MGP with a twist. Cherries jubilee dusted with cocoa and cinnamon plus scorched citrus make their expected appearances. What sets this apart is the huge dollop of gooey caramel and a bit of honeyed cornbread. Baked apple and nutmeg round it out nicely, and the texture is full and mouthwatering. I really preferred it without water, but if you do decide to cut the heat a bit, the pastry dough and caramel aspects take on a bigger role, though less dense and now more lifted and fragrant. At the end of the day, this is simply delicious, as good bourbon should be. You won't reach the heights of a Stagg or W.L. Weller, but for something this available and approachable, it is a hell of a deal.

Price: $99.99

2010 Auchroisk 12 Year Old "Old Particular" K&L Exclusive Single Refill Sherry Butt Cask Strength Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 07-21-2023

It's no secret that I am a sucker for Auchroisk bottlings, and this example makes it pretty clear why. Though the texture is viscous and toothsome, the flavors are bright and summery. Get some air into this dram and you'll be rewarded with stewed peaches, Seville orange, and marmalade on brioche toast, dusted with cocoa. But wait- there's more! A second pass reveals coffee cake, ginger chews, apricot, minced nuts and honey. There's a healthy salinity at play, as with most Speyside Scotches, and that Auchroisk hallmark whipped frosting character abounds. A dash of water makes this a perfect summertime aperitif, softening and lengthening the profile, ultimately leading to peaches and cream and a delicate, sweet malt profile. Heather honey lingers on the finish, retaining a snappy spice and gorgeous texture. This is not the bold, brooding style that seems to be popular these days, but rather a fresh and friendly entry point for people looking to take the plunge into cask strength single malt. Get it while it lasts!

Price: $59.99

2011 Highland Park 10 Year Old "K&L Exclusive" Cask #5434 First Fill European Oak Sherry Butt Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

Review Date: 07-14-2023

This cask ticks every box I have for a Highland Park bottling, and at the current price, it's simply too good to pass up. Right away, dense sherry hits the nose with sticky fudge, dried fruit and Seville orange peel. The peat marries beautifully with that dark sherry character, all carried to a heavenly crescendo by the rich malt profile. Perfectly roasted barley brings voluptuous dark chocolate, toffee, hazelnut, caramel and just a touch of iodine. A touch of water frees up the ocean moss character and makes the sea salt and savory flavors of the malt shine. We now see dried heather and marjoram accompany that intensely flavored malt. Truly this cask has everything you could want. Get yours before they're gone!

Price: $119.99

Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Cask Strength Nevada Estate Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 07-14-2023

The highly anticipated release is finally here! Every time I taste Frey Ranch, it gets better and better. What a wealth flavor from such a unique distillery. Deep aromas of stewed plum and varnished wood immediately leap out of the glass. Cocoa, fig, nougat and warming spice comingle marvelously on the palate. The finish brings a bit of bananas foster and some burnt orange peel to round things out. With the addition of water, the spice profile explodes, and the palate takes on a higher tone. Candied citrus peel, honey roasted peanuts and lemon curd come up ahead of just-ripened nectarine. I actually prefer it without water though; the mouthwatering concentration makes every sip a delight. Hopefully we will have plenty of this going forward, but don't miss your chance to try it now!

Price: $79.99

Croftengea (Loch Lomond) 15 Year Old "Hart Brothers" Single Hogshead Cask Strength Peated Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 07-07-2023

Croftengea remains one of the most underappreciated and least known malts on the shelf. Loch Lomond's peated line offers tremendous depth and exquisite concentration in a humble and easily overlooked package. The nose alone fascinates and captivates, with a tangy manzanita wood smoke, diesel fumes and mulched lemon peels. The mouthwatering malt comes with a brilliant heat. White pepper and chili powder dust pecans coated in brown sugar, while cherries jubilee rounds out the finish. There's a thread of salt-flecked chocolate as well, and a sweet nougat adorned with dried apple, all wrapped up in that rich, smoky malt character. Any fan of peated whisky should waste no time in grabbing this. It might be your new favorite bottle.

Price: Hidden

2013 Glen Scotia 8 Year Old K&L Exclusive Cask #20/329-3 Demerara Rum Cask Finished Cask Strength Non Chill Filtered Campbeltown Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

Review Date: 07-07-2023

What a fabulous marriage - the pristine golden malt of Glen Scotia with the sticky molasses and dried fruit of Demerara rum. Candied citrus, pear, and sultana awash with treacle and turbinado sugar make the first impression, while a subtle heat lingers. The spice lands somewhere between fresh ginger and white pepper. Mocha and piloncillo come in to remind you of the rum cask finish, along with just a hint of pot still funk. But the malt here is definitely the star of the show. While typing this, I had to pour more to revisit its glory. At once richly flavored and elegant, this is a treat to the senses. It feels bright and light on its feet to counteract the dense and sticky flavors at play. Glen Scotia fans will find a lot to love here, but I think there's something for everyone here. You'll fall in love with its sweet heat and gorgeous concentration, but you'll stay because it continues to challenge you while remaining lively and inviting.

Price: $89.99

2008 Orkney's Finest (Highland Park) 14 Year Old "Old Particular" K&L Exclusive Single Refill Hogshead Cask Strength Orkney Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 06-23-2023

Deals like this are the reason our customers have come to love our Old Particular barrel selections. Needless to say, if the words "Highland Park" were printed anywhere on the label, this bottle would cost at least twice as much, even without the heavy sherry character of the distillery's own single barrel releases. Yet here we have classic malt for fans of good, no-nonsense whisky for well under $100. I can't wait to get into it. Right away, aromas of mossy, oceanic peat, and wet loam greet me along with smoked meat, golden raisin and bergamot. The palate boasts sweet grain and delectable custard, adorned with crisp apple, anjou pear skin and heather honey. The sea salt flavor lingers and enhances everything it touches, wrapping it all up in a lip-smacking finish. This should satisfy anyone looking for high quality Scotch at a reasonable price, and with its modest ABV, there's no barrier for entry.

Price: $79.99

2012 Laphroaig 10 Year Old "Old Particular" K&L Exclusive Single Ex-Bourbon Barrel Cask Strength Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 06-23-2023

I've had several people ask me how we're able to get true single cask Laphroaig, especially at this price, and it is a bit of a mystery in the current climate. Speculation on its quality abounds, so let me remove any doubt: this bottling is truly exceptional and hits like classic Laphroaig cask strength. If anything, the first pour and sip strike a bit too intensely for my taste, so I had to give this one some air in the glass. My patience was definitely rewarded. A note on the aroma from Douglas Laing reads, "spent fireworks," and there is an unmistakable scent of combusted gunpowder atop peppercorn, candle wax and thyme. At times it smells like a brewery in full swing, then the smoke, spice and herbs come roaring back. First taste brings that trademark seaweed and iodine along with robust and intense malt and a bonfire of garden clippings. With a dash of water, the sweetness ramps up, giving vanilla and sarsaparilla their turn in the spotlight and showing the quality of the malt. Yes, there's briny olive, but there's also an immensely satisfying buttered biscuit quality here. It achieves a remarkable balance between sweet, savory, umami and herbal flavors that keeps me coming back for just one more sip until suddenly the glass is empty. Deceptively captivating, this will be an instant favorite with people who miss the unabashed and untamed Laphroaig that has grown increasingly hard to find.

Price: $89.99

Hakata 12 Year Old Sherry Cask Aged Fukuoka 100% Barley Japanese Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 05-16-2023

One of the most exciting and promising Japanese whiskies in years, Hakata should be on everyone's radar going forward. With the insane and continued price increases on age-stated Suntory offerings, it's refreshing to find something that's actually worth the price it commands. Honestly, this is the sort of whisky Yamazaki 12 wishes it could be. Pure barley with full sherry flavor, and at a price that almost feels nostalgic. What's not to love? But this stands on its own merit independent of comparisons to the over-hyped names you're familiar with. What sets it apart is the unique process to break down the barley; rather than a traditional malting process, which can create funky, savory flavors, they use koji (not the berry, but a microorganism commonly used in sake production) to break down the barley more efficiently. An added benefit of this method is how it allows more of the clean, fruity character of the barley to come through, while retaining the mouthwatering umami of the grain. Complimented by rich sherry, it is a true delight to drink. If you like those higher-priced items and lament the bygone days when you could buy them with no hesitation, you owe it to yourself to try this.

Price: $99.99

Aberlour 11 Year Old "Hart Brothers Finest Collection" K&L Exclusive Cask Strength First Fill Sherry Butt Unchillfiltered Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 05-06-2023

Those who missed out on our Speymalts from Gordon and Macphail have something of a consolation prize here, but separate from that, this barrel definitely stands on its own merit. This impresses on every level, hitting all the notes I love in a bottle of Aberlour. The nose alone is entirely captivating, boasting meadow flowers and a whole grove of citrus and apples. On the palate, singed orange peel, dark chocolate, biscuity malt and clover honey envelope your taste buds in a tender embrace. The sherry character is perfectly on point, providing just enough flavor without masking or overshadowing the malt. Make no mistake- this is a serious dram for people who want to remember the heights that Scotch used to reach regularly before mass consumption and excessive blending turned everything flat and hollow. I am smitten, and I think a great many people will agree with me.

Price: Hidden

Dalmore 10 Year Old "Hart Brothers Finest Collection" K&L Exclusive Cask Strength First Fill Sherry Butt Unchillfiltered Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Review Date: 05-05-2023

Without question, single casks of Dalmore have become something of a legend in recent years. The distillery has cloistered and held back stock to go into their top end releases, leaving us to languish and yearn for some morsel to slip through the cracks. This bottling from Hart Brothers has answered our prayers, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have such a fine specimen in-store once again. From first pour, you're greeted by mouthwatering aromas of honey, marmalade, apricot and raspberry preserve. The first sip rewards you with nougat, candied citrus, flaky pastry, heather and salted peanuts. Something I always love from Dalmore - a winsome flavor and texture like rich custard - makes this feel nostalgic and supremely satisfying. It hits everything I miss about barrels that used to be much more readily available. I will note that the sherry here feels a lot less like Oloroso and much more like Fino - it's delicate and integrated rather than fudgy and sticky, and the flavors tend more toward lemon peel, stone fruit and sea salt. Regardless, this undeniably presents tremendous quality for the price, and I would be surprised to see this last more than a month or two on the shelves. Grab as many as you can before they disappear.

Price: Hidden

Smooth Ambler 6 Year Old "Old Scout" K&L Exclusive Barrel #24778 Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 04-28-2023

Time and again, these Old Scout single barrels offer incredible value and distinct character in a world flooded with 6-year bourbon. This one especially creeps up on you, starting with an unassuming nose of charred sugar, subtle sandalwood, peach skin and pleasant baking spice. First sip, however, grabs your attention instantly with sweet grain, apricot, vanilla, heavy caramel and some serious heat. Cracked pepper, candied ginger and cashew create further depth, keeping your taste buds thoroughly engaged. The addition of water reveals softer fruit - banana and papaya - as well as brazil nuts. While I normally prefer these at full strength, I actually enjoy how a dash of water gives it a rounder mouthfeel and expands the flavor. It doesn't feel diluted at all; instead, the texture feels more settled and full, removing the hard edge that can be so polarizing in these cask strength offerings. If you're looking for something complex and refreshingly different, I definitely recommend picking this up. Remember to give it plenty of air, and see if you like it better with a splash of water.

Price: Hidden

Wild Turkey 12 Year Old 101 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Japanese Export) (700ml)

Review Date: 04-28-2023

I wish more bourbon tasted like this. Or perhaps more accurately, I want more bourbon to feel like this, because while the flavors are nothing new - toasted vanilla, savory oak, candied nuts and subtle spice - the concentration and integration of all these flavors remains unrivaled in bottlings at this proof. And the purity of it is similarly uncanny. I see a parallel between this and the Evan Williams 12, the Japanese export of which we also get from time to time. Where the EW shows herbs and pepper and at times feels a bit disjointed and hot, this Wild Turkey is seamless, immaculate and soft. Though it is by no means simple or boring. Poached pear, roast chestnut and pecan praline round out the range of flavors and aroma, while a distinctly honeyed and toasty finish makes every sip a soothing delight. Such a rare treat, this bottle should be a top priority for every whiskey drinker right now.

Price: $200.00

Rebel "K&L Exclusive" Single Barrel #7755780 Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 04-21-2023

With everyone clamoring for the big names in wheated bourbon like Pappy, Weller and Larceny Barrel Proof, or even Jefferson Sweet Wheat, I'm surprised these bottles haven't already vanished. Honestly, these single barrel selections that our discerning buyers have picked up are more approachable and enjoyable than most of the Weller Full Proofs and Larceny Barrel Proofs that I have tasted. At 60% abv, these are by no means shy, with sticky caramel apple flying out the glass and into your nostrils. The flavors are beautifully integrated, with sticky sugar, nougat, baked apple and citrus with perfect, warming spice mingling with savory oak to create an immaculate and charmingly sweet profile. While a bit hot without dilution, it drinks like a dream with a splash of water. Still far softer and less overtly woody than several offerings from the Buffalo Trace lineup. Whether looking to fill a void in your collection or simply aiming to get top quality for your dollar, these should be on your short list. And at this price, I would definitely grab it sooner rather than later.

Price: Hidden

Rebel "K&L Exclusive" Single Barrel #7755966 Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 04-21-2023

With everyone clamoring for the big names in wheated bourbon like Pappy, Weller and Larceny Barrel Proof, or even Jefferson Sweet Wheat, I'm surprised these bottles haven't already vanished. Honestly, these single barrel selections that our discerning buyers have picked up are more approachable and enjoyable than most of the Weller Full Proofs and Larceny Barrel Proofs that I have tasted. At 60% abv, these are by no means shy, with sticky caramel apple flying out the glass and into your nostrils. The flavors are beautifully integrated, with sticky sugar, nougat, baked apple and citrus with perfect, warming spice mingling with savory oak to create an immaculate and charmingly sweet profile. While a bit hot without dilution, it drinks like a dream with a splash of water. Still far softer and less overtly woody than several offerings from the Buffalo Trace lineup. Whether looking to fill a void in your collection or simply aiming to get top quality for your dollar, these should be on your short list. And at this price, I would definitely grab it sooner rather than later.

Price: Hidden

2020 Antech "Emotion" Brut Crémant de Limoux Rosé

Review Date: 10-28-2022

Luxurious and captivating, this wine makes a strong case for drinking more pink bubbles. With luscious red berries, subtle citrus and heavenly aromatics, the Emotion is the sort of bottle one should always have on-hand, chilled and ready to pop at a moment's notice. Sublimely refreshing yet full-flavored enough to stand up to almost any snack or meal, it feels just as at-home during a summer beach day as at the Thanksgiving table. The crisp finish and mouthwatering acidity cut through rich gravy like a knife, while the fruit and toast character will match perfectly with cranberry and stuffing. I for one can't wait to have this at this year's feast. Bon appétit!

Price: $16.99

Antech Brut Nature Blanquette de Limoux

Review Date: 10-28-2022

Guilt-free bubbles for any occasion - from celebratory dinner to average Wednesday night - the Blanquette presents possibly the best value in sparkling wine. Perfectly crisp and refreshingly light, it pairs with virtually any hors d'oeuvres or light proteins, and it's equally as pleasurable to simply sip on its own. With flavors of fresh apple, subtle lime skin, and a finish that leaves you thirsting for more, it's the sort of wine to buy by the case and open liberally. Santé!

Price: $14.99

2021 Château de la Noblesse Bandol Blanc

Review Date: 10-07-2022

Evidence that some of the best values in French wine can be found in the South, this exceptional white marries the weight and richness of the Southern Rhone with the elegance and finesse of Burgundy. Impeccable structure holds the intense flavor in perfect balance, with just enough salinity to counter the bright apricot, tangerine and floral character from the ugni blanc and vermentino. Though the pairing possibilities are endless, I definitely encourage you to bring this to one of the many upcoming fall or winter gatherings. It will be warmly welcomed at any Thanksgiving table.

Price: $24.99

Mezcal de Leyenda "Maguey Tobasiche" (A.Karwinskii) K&L Exclusive Batch Doña Maria Garcia Santana Miahuatlan Mezcal (750ml)

Review Date: 09-30-2022

A wonderful expression of authentic, traditional mezcal, and instantly one of my favorites on the shelf, this bottling is an increasingly rare treat in the world of agave spirits. With a wealth of cooked agave and dried herbs on the nose, it entices immediately. It's at once rich and textural yet elegant and refined. Stewed persimmon and sweet tubers lay the groundwork to which gentle pepper and spice add further. The dense, oily feel of this belies an extremely satisfying mineral character that refreshes the palate after each sip. In truth, I cannot get enough of this- it is the sort of thing I want to drink haphazardly until I'm desperately shaking the last drops out of the bottle, aiming to get one more taste. Great for both the casual drinker looking to venture into the premium tier as well as hardcore fans looking to stock up on these tiny batches while they can. Whatever your experience, I defy you to find something of this quality and character at a lower price anywhere in the US.

Price: Hidden

Daniel Bouju Tres Vieux "Brut de Fut" Premier Cru de Cognac Grand Champagne Cognac 700ml

Review Date: 05-13-2022

I have never beheld a cognac with a color as dark and dense as this. It pours like very old rare sherry, and it shares some similar attributes on the nose. But the similarities end there, as this is something entirely singular and distinct. Cocoa and molasses join dried figs and old, lacquered wood in this unnervingly powerful expression of Grande Champagne fruit. Despite its intensity, it shows a deft hand, albeit without a modicum of restraint. This is the sort of spirit that renders everything around it bland and tasteless by comparison- it is a black hole of flavor that sucks you in the moment you cross that invisible threshold. There is no escape. Fans of well-aged spirits across the board will adore this. Whether you miss old-school, age-stated bourbon, love intensely sherried malt, or have been collecting Cognac for years, you will surely want a bottle of this.

Price: $199.99

Wattie Boone & Sons 9 Year Old K&L Exclusive Single Barrel #1136 Cask Strength American Whiskey

Review Date: 02-25-2022

Wattie Boone comes to us from the people behind the Preservation Distillery and the Very Olde St. Nick brand. Though not much information is currently available about its mash-bill or distillery of origin, its Tennessee roots and maple-tinged sweetness would suggest to me a partnership with Jack Daniels. The re-used, re-charred barrel disqualifies it from being considered bourbon or Tennessee whiskey, but the spirit is immediately compelling. Nougat and vanilla upfront give way to pleasant cinnamon spice, a healthy dollop of maple syrup and subtle citrus peel. Though the flavors at first seem big and primary, the whiskey displays nuanced notes of nutmeg, dusty cocoa and a touch of fennel. The warming spice remains a common thread from start to finish, even after a couple of drops of water. That said, the spirit feels remarkably soft and approachable for 118 proof. Purists and die-hard bourbon acolytes may not be thrilled by this stranger at such a steep price-point. However, the broader whiskey fans and folks looking for something new and friendly will find a lot to love here.

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Cascahuin "Tahona" Blanco Tequila (750ml)

Review Date: 02-18-2022

Cascahuin has been one of my favorite producers in tequila since I first sipped tasted their entry level offerings years ago. Their traditional process creates spirits leaps and bounds ahead of most competitors in terms of quality and flavor. Effortlessly balanced and expressive, this entirely tahona-pressed bottling in particular exhibits everything that most blanco tequilas aspire to be. Rustic aromas of dusty herbs and dry earth instantly evoke the region from which this hails. The taste is unbelievably refined, with pure agave sweetness taking center stage, supported by fresh white pepper and chamomile. The finish shows darker fruit tones and a satisfying earthy counterpoint to the ethereal flavors up front. A lingering hint of roasted meat makes this endlessly satisfying to drink. Purists should always have this on the shelf, and those looking to take a step up in the category should look no further.

Price: $89.99

Rivers Antoine Estate "Rivers" Royal Grenadian Rum (700ml)

Review Date: 11-19-2021

Rivers is more than unaged rum; it is nectar from the gods themselves. Marking the pinnacle for production of this mystifying spirt, calling it "rum" seems almost silly. A perfect culmination of technique and patience, it packs endless, joyous flavor and texture into its unassuming bottle. Intensely fruity and grassy on the nose, you almost forget it's 69% alcohol. Pepper, cardamom, lychee, and tamarind as well as the typical banana, it goes down incredibly smoothly despite its intense concentration. Vanilla and date meld perfectly with its deep, earthy sugarcane tones with a healthy dose of that dusty funk you would expect from a John Dore pot still. Fresh cut grass and thyme add to its already eye-popping complexity and round out the flavors with a lip-smacking freshness that keeps me coming back for more. Be careful with this one, as its grace belies its power, but if you treat it with its due reverence, you'll be handsomely rewarded.

Price: $69.99

Inverroche "Amber" Gin (750ml)

Review Date: 11-18-2021

Whenever people ask for unique gins either to offer as gifts or expand their collections, my first instinct points immediately to Inverroche. The amber especially offers a complex and intriguing profile that you won't find elsewhere. Somewhere between an Old Tom style gin and a barrel aged dry (though there is no wood involved here), it offers all the juniper and floral character of the brand's Classic gin but with added weight, fruit and spice. Golden apples, teak wood, cinnamon, anise, and honey all meld together to create something indescribably satisfying and wonderfully distinct. Though the cocktail applications are nigh endless, I would love to have this in a modified cobbler where it replaces the amontillado.

Price: $44.99

St. George "Baller" Single Malt California Whiskey (750ml)

Review Date: 11-12-2021

This whiskey marks a particular milestone for me in my spirits journey, as it was one of the first esoteric bottlings that challenged my preconceptions about the category. At once delicate and brash, this project showcases the creativity and innovation at work in St. George's oeuvre. Salty, sweet and tart all at once, it boasts nectarine and pluot tang appointing a body of golden cereal malt with a savory and satisfyingly smoky finish. The first sip takes you past the fruit, revealing its softer floral tones that compliment that rich malt, all the while warming the palate with pleasant spice. A cocktail enthusiast's dream, to be sure, this also makes a great gift for any fan of fun whiskey who is looking to branch out.

Price: $49.99

2000 Xavier Vignon "2000" Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Review Date: 08-18-2021

Truthfully, I could not contain my excitement when I saw these wines had arrived from France. Aged Chateauneuf in and of itself is always a treat, but to see multiple library releases from such an esteemed producer felt like Christmas. This 2000 vintage is the most muscular and youthful of the three, displaying firm structure and still-taut tannins despite being old enough to legally drink itself. That said, its impressive strength belies its polish and sophistication. Dense, savory and chocolatey at first, it opened up generously in time, showing a soft core of dark cherry, brambly berry, Chinese five spice and lacquered wood. A tremendous bottle for any occasion, this would pair best with a meat dish that matches its power and grace.

Price: $74.99

JS: 94

Compass Box "Artist Blend" Blended Scotch Whisky (750ml)

Review Date: 04-02-2020

I think blended Scotch gets a bad rap these days. It may lack some of the distinctive traits of the more coveted single malts, when you consider how much cask blending occurs in the massive production at big-name distilleries, you might reconsider any prejudice you may have for the category. Especially because some of it is damn delicious. Enter the Artist's Blend from Compass Box's Great King Street line. Though it's perfectly suited for a wide variety of cocktails (I recently used it for the base in a batch of Penicillin) it's endlessly enjoyable on its own. Vanilla, sweet cream, stewed peach and golden grain meld seamlessly with savory malt, ample spice and a hint of minty peat. The name of the game here is balance - something the blenders at Compass Box are exceptionally skilled at maintaining. That same artistry is at work in all the nationally available single malts, but you can get a bottle of this for a fraction of the price.

Price: $34.99

WE: 96

WA: 91

Leopold Bros. "Summer" Limited Edition Gin (750ml)

Review Date: 08-09-2019

Personally, I remain adamant that if you're going to use a gin in cocktails, it should be perfectly palatable without adulteration. Leopold's Summer Gin accomplishes that feat with aplomb. It smells like a summer breeze through a picturesque garden complete with citrus trees on the outskirts. The juniper here is ever-present, but by no means aggressive. Clean, fresh, and right on the mark in every respect, it carries its weight with poise and finesse, but there's nothing pretentious about it. This gin would do just as well with a single ice cube as in an extravagant cocktail that looks like a peacock in a Collins glass and costs you an arm and a leg in Hollywood. I highly recommend picking up a bottle before it hibernates for the winter.

Price: $34.99

Compass Box "Story of the Spaniard" Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

Review Date: 10-18-2018

This latest release from Compass Box reflects the mastery of their blending techniques in a bottle everyone can enjoy. Cozy scents of sea air, marzipan and apricot greet you immediately, imploring you to sit and savor the dram. Though relatively light in body, it provides impressive concentration of flavor. Its complex charactger pairs candied citrus and salty caramel with delicate spice and a savory finish. I consider myself fortunate to sample such a friendly, generous whisky; I encourage you to treat yourself to a taste.

Price: $64.99

WE: 93

Gilbert Jacquesson "Cuvée Tradition" Blanc de Noirs Brut Champagne

Review Date: 08-23-2018

An easy pick for any fan of Blanc de Noirs, the Cuvée Tradition presents opulence at a beyond reasonable price. The smell alone conveys the Pinot Meunier's richness exuberantly. Unctuous flavors of dried fruit and candied almonds envelop the palate but finish cleanly. Instantly appealing for anyone who wants more body in their bubbles, this makes a strong case for being one of the best values in Champagne right now.

Price: $24.99

Auchentoshan "Three Wood" Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

Review Date: 06-22-2018

The Three Wood beautifully showcases the movement away from age statements and toward creative cask finishes. On the nose, it immediately offers enticing aromas of dried fruit, orange peel, caramelized sugar and ample spice. On the palate, it tastes full and complex despite its three distillations. Vanilla and dry sherry dominate at first but give way to soft tones of toffee and raisins. Typical of lowland malts, the finish brings a lingering nutty sweetness, but with a hint of charred wood. Altogether, it makes for an endlessly enjoyable dram that satisfies most any palate. I highly recommend this bottle for fans of bourbon or Irish whisky trying to break into Scottish single malts. It's also a great pick for scotch drinkers looking for something new in a sherry-focused style.

Price: $69.99

WE: 94

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