The Bourrel family inaugurated this solera of overripe, old-vine Macabeu grapes in 2005. Grapes are harvested by hand at 254 g/l residual sugar and, placed into the first of three barrels, are allowed to slowly ferment to dryness. Subsequent elevage in the partially-filled barrels creates an oxidative environment; bottled at an average of six years of age, the ‘Démon de Midi’ (noonday demon) takes on notes of almond, garrigue honey and leather, with a touch of salt emerging at the finish. Full details

Rothman & Winter Orchard Pear Liqueur combines juice from the seasonal harvest of Williams Pears with an eau-de-vie produced from the same fruit. The resulting liqueur captures the great aromatic of fresh pears, yet without the excessive sweetness of other producers. Destillerie Purkhart selects its pears each season from orchards in both South Tirol (Alto Adige) and the Danube Valley. Mix with flavorful white spirits, or drizzle into sparkling wine, wheat beer or soda. Full details