Gladstone Vineyard

Gladstone Vineyard 'Auld Alliance' Reserve 2010 14.5%
Suggested as a Bordeaux styled wine - so there be Cabernets and Merlot here
A distinctive bouquet of aged Cabernet and Merlot with a moss-wood and cigar-like herbal character; well integrated too with the red fruit aromas well blended into the oak.
On the palate - old School - with some sweet fruit and sweet oak layers alongside a savory and well integrated expression. A dry wine with medium tannins and acidity; medium+ length and moderate complexity; there is a rose-like finish that I find quite appealing - this wine does grow on you if you give it a chance.
3.5 Stars

Gladstone Vineyard 'Sophie's Choice' Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2012 13%
This barrel fermented and barrel aged wine's bouquet suggests green melon and peach alongside sweet apple and citrus aromas; the barrel-ageing shows with a savory/herbal/sweaty/angelica combination.
On the palate - dry and again savory with flavors of citrus and peach then lightly toasted barrel notes; that fresh herb - angelica note returns; medium+ acidity and medium length; balanced and well made. Take note of the silty soil terroir layer - pretty cool.
Another surprising wine form the Gladstone stable.
3.5 Stars

Gladstone Vineyard  PInot Gris 2013 13%
White spices and white fleshed stone fruits lead the bouquet; sweet red apple and pear follow; a light savory quality adds to the overall moderate complexity.
The palate is fruity and just dry; there are a few phenolics to tame with food, but the overall expression of this Gris is solid. Balanced with medium+ acidity and medium length a well made wine.
3 Stars