Harking back to the
alliance of France with Scotland against England
in 1295, this wine is the Kernohan’s indulgence to their Scottish heritage and
Gladstone Vineyard’s best expression of their Bordeaux varieties planted. A product of an outstanding harvest, the 2006
‘Auld Alliance’ is 55% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot and 20% Malbec sourced from
the Dakins Road block, hand-plunged and given extended post-ferment maceration
and 12-14 months maturation in 90% French and 10% American oak barrels. This is no super-ripe, hugely extracted,
massively oaked monster, rather a soft, subtle, feminine wine that flows with
gentle violet perfumes and rosemary herb notes spiced with elements of cloves
and cinnamon on a velvety, even and rolling palate. Its harmony and balance make it a wine of
delicacy and subtlety, rather than one of power and strength. It is beautiful to drink. RC May 09
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Soft violet, tea leaf and a hint of oak sweetness from the Cabernet
Franc (55%) is followed by the ripe cherry and spicy fruitcake from the
Merlot (25%) and Malbec (20%). Ripe fruit and tannins on the palate
with a mouth filling structure and long savoury aftertaste. Drink now
or cellar for 6-8 years.
Source: www.gladstone.co.nz