With the release of this exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, we honour Dr Gladstones’ contribution to the Margaret River region.  Sourced from 37-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon vines in the Wilyabrup vineyard, this is a truly classic Margaret River wine, with structure and complexity, rich tannins and only the best French oak to enhance the fruit flavours.

Named in honour of Dr John Gladstones, whose vision led to the first vines being planted in Margaret River in 1967. Still holds a youthful, clear purple-crimson hue; from the Wilyabrup area, this is as near a perfect evocation of this part of Margaret River as you can find, with an all too rare purity to the cassis/blackcurrant fruit, framed by perfectly balanced and integrated French oak and fine, persistent tannins. From Margaret River, WA; Drink to 2030 with herbed rack of lamb; 97 points, $70, Screwcap, 14% alc; Top 100 Wines of 2011; James Halliday

The oak is a bit floaty at first but then violet and currant fruit whelms up getting dark chocolate and fruitcake scented. Masses of deep fruit in the mouth, and builds and builds towards the back. Huge fruitcake flavours, in fact hedonic with lip-smaking juicy currants and creaminess. This is one powerful Cabernet Sauvignon, and with no doubt will evolve over many years. Great mid-palate: powerful; yet so mouth-watering and lush. Great now, will be sublime in 10 years. 10/10 Hedonic Rating. 95(97)/100, Tim White; The Australian Financial Review

Deep red, purple tints. Black fruits and blackberries, with nice oak balance. Bright fruit, lovely blackcurrant and blackberry fruit, hints of blueberry; very fresh and vital, with ample tannins and extract, great flavour, an outstanding wine. Great balance, length and texture. 96 Points Huon Hooke

Aromatic with bay leaf perfume, mulberry and mixed berry fruit and a fair amount of spiced mocha oak. Medium weight, smooth and supple with gracious fine grained graphite tannin, excellent clarity of fruit and balanced acidity. Touch of roasting herb flavour on the finish. Has an even handed composure and charm – not a thumper – a smooth operator. It looked a little contrived and sweet at first, but given time the baby fat melted away to reveal a wine of, I suspect, significant ageing potential. Rated : 94+ Points Tasted : Nov11 Alcohol : 14% Price : $70 Closure : Screwcap Drink : 2018 - 2028; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front