Ransom

Ransom Albarino 2014 Matakana 13%
Fruity and varietal with aromas of sweet peach and pear; apple and gentle florals; there's a mineral component that appeals too.
On the palate - dry, crisp and fruity; medium+ acidity with a mealy texture and chalk-like suggestion as well; medium - weighted, balanced and well made. The finish is medium with a citrus peel flick. Keen to see this wine again in 6 months.
3.5 Stars

Ransom 'Clos de Valerie' Pinot Gris 2011 13%
A developing bouquet with aromas of yellow apple and poached pears, yellow plums and soft spices. On the palate - dry with flavors that reflect the nose; there's a lightly oily texture that enhances the fruit flavors and medium acidity. This wine has developed into a drink now style - so enjoy through 2014 and Summer 2015. Food oriented.
3 Stars

Ransom Vin Gris 2012 Matakana 12.5%
With a distinctive apricot and salmon color  the bouquet has  aromas of fresh and dried light red fruits, has a crisp and inviting fruity core.
On the palate - just dry with crisp acidity, light red fruit flavors - cherry and strawberry come to mind and a definitive bite to the texture.
Definitely a Summer lunch must - as it is very food oriented in style.

Ransom Carmenere 2011 Matakana 13%
Medium and darker red fruits lead the bouquet with blackberry and plum; plenty of brown spices from the toasty oak input, softer herb notes, but not invasive and a mild herbaceous layer. On the palate - dry with medium tannins and medium acidity; the herbaceous layer is now distinctive and competes with the red fruits for attention; still has the darker and lighter red fruits in play; dry finish with medium length; balanced and well made. Easy choice with food.
3 Stars

Ransom 'Dark Summit' 2011 Matakana 13%
Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc and Malbec
Hall marks of the Cabernet's are immediate with dark red fruits, oak spices and bitter chocolate; a touch of violet and red velvet completes the bouquet.
On the palate - dry with a mix of red and black fruits, dusty tannins, medium acidity and brown toasty spices; this is the signature red wine of Ransom and remains my favorite from their cellar.
4 Stars

Ransom 'Mahurangi' 2011 Matakana 12.5% 
Syrah, Malbec, Cabernet Franc Cabernet Sauvignon 
The bouquet has complexity and vibrancy with a mix of red and black fruits: wild raspberry, blackcurrant and blackberry; some toasty oak spices only add to the complexity from a little bottle age.
On the palate - dry with harmony and balance from all the various components, a touch of pepper with mild oak spices, medium acidity and tannins. Balanced, well made and has a medium+ finish. Good work! May be this is my new favorite from the ransom Cellar!
4.5 Stars