We all know how popular single malts are these days, but the innovation and leap in quality hasn’t just been confined to whisky’s aristocracy.

In the wake of announcing its increased profit, Treasury Wine Estates (TWE) has revealed a new strategy to elevate the Penfolds brand. The new approach will see Australia’s most respected wine brand increasing in price across the range, supported by more availability of matured vintages and a staggered release strategy. Previously Penfolds was released in a double hit between March and May each year, with the junior part of its bin range launched first, followed by the stars of Grange, St. Henri, Bin 707 et al.

We knew we’d get a good turn out when we announced we were doing a vodka tasting, but we weren’t expecting it to turn into a marathon.
Click Here to download the tasting notes from The Panel.

From November Hospitality Magazine. Download 

Spring is upon us – hopefully by the time of publication, you’ll be enjoying the longer, golden evenings, and your thoughts will be turning to celebratory matters (I’m not going to mention the Oval Ball). Click here to download the tasting notes.

It’s not the biggest bar in the world. It doesn’t offer big screens, loud music or flashing lights, but The Corner Store is a landmark on the Auckland bar scene.

Click here to read more as a .PDF

 The following wines were also Peter’s Picks.  Some of the tasting notes only appear here. Plus a PDF version for you to download. Check 'em out.

It might have started as the fuel for a century long crimewave, but gin is fast becoming one of our most beloved spirits. In this month’s Panel tasting, we look at some excellent examples and try them in specially prepared cocktails

It doesn’t seem that long ago that cider was something of a red-haired stepchild among drinks. Both here and overseas it was deemed to be something somehow unworthy and the province of those who were looking for quantity over quality.