Welcome to this week’s column – a down to earth look at some interesting local and international releases that I have come across over the last few weeks.

Black Cottage Pinot Gris 2023 - Marlborough

Available from $17.99

This is fresh and vibrant Marlborough Pinot Gris from Black Cottage winemaker Sanna Stander. Vinted in a dry style, it’s a bright, clean expression with tropical fruit notes dancing over the main flavours of semi-ripe pear and quince.  In typical Black Cottage fashion, this is an elegantly styled wine considering the humble price band that it operates in. The crisp palate makes it appealing both as a cleansing aperitif or to serve alongside lighter foods and salads. There can be no denying that this wine offers very good value now and I will enjoy revisiting this 2023 release in a year or so when those subtle fruits have fully integrated and broadened the palate a touch.

Ant Moore A+ Sauvignon Blanc 2023 - Marlborough

Available from $19.99

After predominantly focusing their sales efforts on offshore markets, well-known Marlborough producer Ant Moore have returned to their roots with renewed interest in local distribution. Their small batch A+ range remains the driving force for New Zealand retailers, with the 2023 sauvignon blanc a good expression of Marlborough’s signature varietal. On the nose this is a typically punchy release, with the tropical fruits and citrus notes that sauvignon fans adore. Those exuberant characters flow easily through to a very fresh and crunchy palate that brings some mineral elements into play, while the finish is salivating with plenty of citrus acidity. A subtle saline touch adds another layer of interest, and the lasting impression is balanced and vibrant.

Matawhero Irwin Chardonnay 2021 - Gisborne

Available from $52.99

Named as a tribute to the Irwin family who founded Matawhero, this is flagship Gisborne Chardonnay from a winery who are constantly stepping up their game. 100% barrel-fermented in a combination of French and American oak, this is a typically powerful Irwin from Matawhero. This is clearly a chardonnay that has been built for the long haul, and while it is already a wonderful glass of wine, there is a majestic outcome for those who choose to cellar this important Gisborne release over the coming 5-6 years. Those heady peach and baked fig flavours will amplify. The fresh acidity that is now apparent will fully meld into those punchy Gisborne fruits and the spicy oak and brioche notes on the palate will further integrate. If you’re a fan of premium New Zealand barrel-fermented Chardonnay, and Irwin isn’t on your ‘must try’ list, it’s time to refocus.

Beach House Syrah 2020 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $31.99

Beach House have developed quite the reputation for their stable of Gimblett Gravels reds and this quality syrah will do nothing but enhance that view. Produced from the excellent 2020 vintage, it’s a highly aromatic release with layers of spicy red and black fruits sitting over a central core of blueberry notes. Those classic syrah characters flow though to a boldly weighted, powerful palate that shows plenty of charm. To my mind, the palate weight here is near perfectly pitched. There is generosity and rounded mouthfeel, but the acid / tannin components keep proceedings in check and never let the wine look too confident or brash. If you can imagine ‘controlled swagger’ in a glass of syrah, this is what’s been captured here.  Lovely wine.

Bodegas Aragonesas Castillo De Fuendejalon Crianza 2018 - Spain

Available from $18.99

Here’s a wine where slick packaging is an obvious drawcard -  but while the glossy, paper wrapped bottles make such a bold statement, the contents within stand up to the hype. Produced from grenache and tempranillo from Campo de Borja fruit, this is very attractive middleweight wine showcasing Spain’s two most important red varietals. Grenache brings those famous glossy dark fruits to the party, while the red fruits of the tempranillo component contribute vibrancy, freshness and some extra zing. Spain does easy drinking red wine better than almost anyone, and this is a perfect ‘one size fits all’ option when you need something cool and different on your table, but you want it to be truly user-friendly at the same time.  Great value.

Helio Pinot Noir 2021 - Martinborough

Available from $39.99

This is a lovely expression of thoughtful pinot noir from the Helio 'passion project' conceived by Clearview winemaker Matt Kirby, his wife Sarah Little (ex Felton Road) and filmmaker / wine empresario, Dave Nash. When the stylistic direction of Helio Pinot Noir was being conceived, Martinborough was always top of the list of possible regional sites. The team wanted to capture those savoury notes that are a calling card of good Martinborough Pinot, and this 2021 release has gathered those classic, earthy tones in spades. Aromatically it’s very inviting with dark berry fruits, plum, baking spices and hard green herbs all making themselves known. The palate is bright and vibrant with those dark savoury fruits in full effect, and ably supported by fine tannins and a lovely line of integrated acidity.  Quality all the way here– and very well-priced by premium New Zealand Pinot Noir prices.

Welcome to this week’s column – a down to earth look at some interesting local and international releases that I have come across over the last few weeks.

Starborough Sons of the Soil Pinot Gris 2023 - Marlborough

Available from $19.99

I have long been singing the praises of the Starborough aromatics, with the Sons of the Soil Pinot Gris a particular favourite. Plush and quite full in the mouth, it opens with aromas in the spiced nashi pear and honeysuckle spectrum. Those clean pear flavours flow seamlessly through to a fleshy, just off-dry palate where they are joined with layers of ripe citrus. Some subtle seasoned oak treatment brings another textural element, without adding noticeable wood spice into the mix. If you’re a pinot gris fan who is looking for a rock-solid recommendation in the sub twenty-dollar bracket, you’ll go a long way to find better value than this.

Sherwood Estate Stratum Riesling 2022 - Waipara

Available from $14.99

Stratum Riesling has always been one of the great aromatic buys in our local market and the 2022 release from Sherwood Estate is another great value proposition from this excellent producer. Waipara is a brilliant region for riesling production. It typically produces examples that are fuller and plusher than anywhere else in the country, with a ‘juicy-fruit’ chewing gum note as a hallmark flavour. As you would expect, Stratum is all about showcasing those plush juicy fruits and the 2022 shows a floral nose with honeysuckle / citrus notes and a medium-dry palate which is laden with lemon / lime characters and plenty of soft acidity. This friendly, appealing wine is a well-priced option for anyone looking to reacquaint themselves with the joy that a good glass of riesling can provide. Enjoy as an aperitif or match with spicy Asian dishes.

Squawking Magpie Counting Crows Chardonnay 2020 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $29.99

Gavin Yortt was a pioneer of the famed Gimblett Gravels.  He has been growing grapes there since 1981 and Squawking Magpie has evolved into a highly respected stable of wines that are currently made under the watchful eye of celebrated winemaker, Jenny Dobson. This single vineyard release comes from a very good vintage and carries the label’s chardonnay signature of understated power. 100% barrel fermented in a mix of new and old oak, it’s all classic Hawkes Bay peach, citrus, brioche and oak spice on the nose. Those characters flow through to a sophisticated palate that builds generosity in the mouth. It’s vibrant, ‘alive’ wine and those bursts of citrus energy are nicely balanced with a softer, creamier element, before fresh acidity and lingering notes of spicy lemon zest close the show. You must never forget that Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay of this calibre is an absolute bargain by global standards. Match with a classic roast chook and wait for the angels to sing.

Mount Edward Ted Pinot Noir 2022 - Central Otago

Available from $29.99

Under the steady hands of Duncan Forsyth – one of the great characters of the New Zealand winemaking fraternity - Mount Edward has become one of the darlings of the Central Otago trade, with Ted acting as a drink young counterpoint to the more structured and serious Mount Edward range. The 2022 Ted Pinot Noir certainly delivers the goods. Vinted from estate grown fruit, this organic offering brings soft and juicy dark fruits to the party in an approachable package that is detailed with herbal notes, spicy oak and a subtle lick of anise. It’s a fresh, appealing offering that’s been made to enjoy whenever the mood strikes, but your first glass will reveal an underlying savoury character that remains the calling card for any Mount Edward Pinot release.

Quarisa Carpone Durif 2020 - South Australia

Available from $18.99

Here’s something quirky that Aussie red fans simply must try. For over 30 years, Johnny Quarisa has made a name for himself as the creator of some of Australia’s best value red wines. In fact, if I was asked to name my favourite Aussie red producer in the key under $20 bracket, I think I’d say ‘Johnny Q’. All his reds share a common thread of generosity, silky palate flow, and good old-fashioned drinkability. Durif is a spicy red that is mainly grown in Australia and the USA (where it is also known as Petit Sirah). Quarisa has carved out a big reputation as a durif producer across the Tasman and Carpone 2020 is a typically fulsome release that is packed with rich characters of plum, cassis, chocolate, coffee and liquorice, with a lovely vanillin finish - thanks to partial aging in American oak. It's bold, glossy and loaded with spice – and those plush chocolate / mocha flavours bring a luxe character to the palate. It’s one of those perfect anytime reds if you’re looking for something big and rewarding but don’t want to go down the traditional cabernet or shiraz path. It comes very highly recommended.

Gnarly Head Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 - USA

Available from $21.99

The Gnarly Head range is all about Californian affordability. Like the Quarisa label discussed above, they come with a reputation for being well made, full-bodied, and varietally correct. Certainly this 2021 release gives you everything you can ask for from Californian Cabernet in this price band. It brims with dark fruits, leather and tobacco / anise on the nose and those classic cabernet characters push on to a boldly weighted palate that shows good flow and mouthfeel. It’s softly structured and supple by cabernet standards and has clearly been vinted to be enjoyed in its youth. The tannin structure is dialed down and the acid component that rounds out the finish is soft and creamy. Match with a hearty casserole on a cold, mid-week winter’s night. It’s great value.

Welcome to this week’s column – a down to earth look at some interesting local and international releases that I have come across over the last few weeks.

Nautilus Albarino 2023 - Marlborough

Available from $26.99

Albeit coming off a very small base, we are seeing a surge in albarino labels in our local market, with a few enthusiastic wineries keen to pronounce this lesser-known varietal as ‘the next big thing’ in New Zealand white wine production. Albarino’s spiritual home is in Galicia in Northwestern Spain. There it is typically a bone-dry style that shines with tension and racy acidity. It’s a food wine that is known as a great match with seafood – especially shellfish – and the same can be said for the Kiwi versions I have tasted to date. Nautilus 2023 is a very good example of what I now see as the New Zealand Albarino model. It’s a bit softer and more fruit driven than its Spanish counterparts, with a noticeable floral aspect to the nose and a rounder expression of citrus and green melon on the palate. Plenty of fresh acidity cleans up the finish while a touch of mineral salinity balances out some of those fleshy melon characters. Open a bottle with some fresh oysters for a special treat or match with a simple fish crudo for an elegant entrée.

Rockford White Frontignac 2023 - Australia

Available from $38.99

The Barossa isn’t the first place the springs to mind when you’re thinking of delicate white wines, but Rockford – a much-storied Australian winery – have carved out quite the reputation for their White Frontignac, and this writer has been a fan of this quirky release for over 20 years. Proudly medium in style and weighing in at a low 9.3%alc/vol, the nose is laden with muscat, white flowers, orange zest and citrus.  The palate is lush and juicy with the sweetness you’d expect from a low alcohol wine – with a zesty core of ripe citrus fruits and crunchy apple flavours in full effect. There’s enough acidity on the finish to balance the equation and the lasting impression is bright, vibrant, juicy and fresh. It’s delicious. It’s moreish. And it’s just great fun. Open with a late afternoon platter of fruit and cheese, and watch as everyone jostles for a second glass.

Robert Mondavi Vint Buttery Chardonnay 2022 - California

Available from $23.99

Here’s one for fans of ‘the bigger the better’ American Chardonnay, from the famed Mondavi stable of Californian wines. Golden in the glass, and bursting with aromas of pineapple, peach, vanilla and sweet lemon tart, it promises a rich palate that amplifies those characters – and that’s exactly what you get in the glass. Oak aging and full malolactic fermentation has brought waves of creamy richness to a fulsome palate that fills the mouth with lemon brulee flavours. There’s a decent lick of acidity on the finish, but it’s those creamy fruits that remain centre stage from go to whoa. Even by Californian standards, this is full-on chardonnay. It carries some residual sugar and lacks any sort of elegance, but fans of this over-the-top style will find plenty to enjoy here.  Open a bottle with a grilled salmon dish to match those creamy characters but be warned: this showstopper isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for refinement, best look elsewhere.

Novum Pinot Noir 2020 - Marlborough

Available from $46.99

This is the real deal; an excellent example of premium, small batch pinot noir from one of my favourite South Island producers. Under the watchful eye of William Hoare, Novum has delivered a very consistent series of wines since their inception, with their chardonnay and pinot noir both high on my list of the very best from Marlborough. This 2020 pinot looks especially sharp 4 years on from harvest. It shows classic regional pinot characters on the nose, with dark cherry and plum characters spiked with oak spice, and woody herbs opening the conversation. The palate is generously expressed and packed with detail. Savoury cherry and spicy red fruits fill the mouth, with slinky tannins and softly expressed acidity leaving a calming, soulful impression. It’s so accessible that you can happily enjoy it without food - and I’d suggest that you pair this lovely wine with a roaring open fire and great company.

Boccantino Susumaniello 2022 - Italy

Available from $21.99

Hailing from Salento in the southern ‘heel’ of Italy, this wonderful wine is definitely worth seeking out. Susumaniello is one of the rarer of the Italian grape varietals, which is hard to fathom given the immediate charm and sheer user-friendliness that the examples I have tasted to date have shown. Certainly this 2022 release from Boccantino is packed with flavour. It’s all spicy plum and black fruits on the nose, while the palate is broad and soft with those flavours ramped up and warmly expressed. It’s upfront and very attractive. It’s soft, smooth and supple – but dive a little deeper and you’ll see hints of barrel spice and woody herbs emerge. I loved it. Wines like this are right in my wheelhouse for a casual pasta dinner and a six pack of this well-priced Puglia red will be going home with me tonight.

Linden Estate Merlot 2020 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $17.99

Here’s this week’s bargain. 2020 was a very good vintage in Hawke’s Bay and Linden Estate has captured the potential of straight merlot with this well-made wine.  Aromatically it is very inviting, with a glossy amalgam of red and black fruits dominating a bouquet that is complexed with cocoa and spice / anise notes. The palate is very smooth and comforting – with the classic fruit flavours of good Hawke’s Bay Merlot supported by a luxe layer of mocha / chocolate. The finish shows soft acidity that keeps those luscious chocolate flavours ticking over, and the lasting impression here is very together and complete.  Wine of this calibre for $17.99 is a great find for careful shoppers. Open a bottle whenever you feel the need.

Welcome to this week’s column – a down to earth look at some interesting local and international releases that I have come across over the last few weeks.

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 12 Gewurztraminer 2023 - Marlborough

Available from $17.99

Following on from the wonderful Block 28 Pinot Blanc discussed in my last column, here is another striking release from Saint Clair’s excellent, single vineyard Pioneer Block series. Sadly, gewurztraminer is a varietal that doesn’t garner a lot of attention these days, but it remains a captivating style when the stars align, and this 2023 small batch release bursts with a classic medley of tropical fruits on the nose and palate. Look for a bouquet of lychee, ginger and Turkish Delight, and wait for those characters to flood a nicely textural palate that holds some residual sweetness and lingering spice. The finish is long and harmonious – with lemon zest and soft acidity playing off against those juicy, off-dry fruit flavours. Excellent wine. Match with chili spiked Asian dishes at the next available opportunity.

Awakohu Pinot Gris 2023 - Gisborne

Available from $12.99

Here’s another bargain from the value-driven Awakohu range. Vinted in a clean, fresh style, this 2023 release brings punchy layers of pear, red apple and semi-ripe peach together in a just off-dry palate that shows good texture and presence in the mouth. Those generous Gisborne fruits turn up the volume, while a crisp vein of zingy acidity keeps the conversation focused and on point. There are some subtle hints of baking spice if you go looking for them, but this is pinot gris to enjoy in casual settings without too much contemplation. Like any wine operating in the Quaffer Zone, it’s designed to be a relatively straightforward ‘crowd pleaser’ – but with so many of the pinot gris options I see in this price point looking flabby and lifeless, it’s refreshing to see some vibrancy and vigour in the glass. I’d match it with a rocket, pear and walnut salad with some panfried gurnard on the side. Or book club. Your choice.

Brunton Estate Grace Chardonnay 2020 - Gisborne

Available from $18.99

This is a very good example of barrel-fermented chardonnay and another wine that showcases the amplified fruit weight that Gisborne grapes bring to the party. On the nose it’s all about those peachy Gisborne Chardonnay fruit characters, with some barrel spice and sweet citrus making themselves known. The palate is fulsome, creamy and packed with detail. Winemaker Mark Thompson has done a great job here, and while those ripe peach flavours do most of the heavy lifting, flavours of baking spice, almond, and butterscotch all have their part to play.  Already looking very integrated for a relatively young wine, this 2020 release will continue to develop over the coming 5+ years – when those gorgeous lemon-butter and crème brûlée flavours will really make themselves known. Chardonnay is one of the most versatile food wines on the planet, but I’d go for a traditional roast chook with this little winner.

McArthur Ridge Brassknocker Pinot Noir 2022 - Central Otago

Available from $23.99

The rise of the McArthur Ridge brand has been nothing short of stratospheric since Matt Connell took over the head winemaker role. His wines have been cleaning up major awards on both local and international stages and no one could possibly argue that McArthur Ridge are now in any conversation of the hottest producers in Central Otago. The 2022 Brassknocker Pinot definitely walks the talk. The wine is very aromatic with notes of black cherry, redcurrant, cocoa and sweet oak to the fore. The palate is supple and flowing – but elegantly expressed – and the lasting impression is very balanced and complete. Available under $25, it is tremendous value. Match with good company, an open fire and a slinky soundtrack. Cellar over the coming 3-5 years to see a deeper broodiness emerge.

Alpha Domus The Navigator Merlot Cabernet 2019 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $29.99

It’s always a pleasure to revisit some of the classic Hawke’s Bay labels – especially when Navigator has long been a sentimental favourite for me. For my money, it has always been stonking good buying – with levels of complexity and character that far exceed the bottle price – and the 2019 undoubtedly lives up to that mantra with this well-rounded release. Merlot dominant (with cabernet sauvignon, malbec, and petit verdot completing the blend), it shows an amalgam of red and black fruits on the nose, with hints of anise and tobacco adding a spicy touch. The palate is medium-bodied and softly expressed – with slinky tannins and creamy acidity bringing things to a very rewarding close. Only now entering its ideal drinking window, this well-made wine would be a fine partner for roasted meats and vegetables on a cold winter’s night.

Pontifex Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2018 - Australia

Available from $36.99

Regular readers of this column will know how enamoured I am with GSM blends. The Holy Trinity of grenache, syrah and mourvèdre comes in many forms, from many countries, and I love them all.  Australia arguably produces the most powerfully weighted GSMs - and this 2018 Pontifex release is an ‘all guns blazing’ style that comes packed to the hilt with flavour and charm.  It’s a lovely expression that marries the upfront, glossy fruits of the grenache component with the drier and more structured inputs of shiraz and mourvèdre. It’s soft, smooth and immediately appealing, but maintains your interest throughout. Deep dive past those dazzling red and black fruits and you’ll find nuances of woody herbs, green tobacco, and oak spice. Match with a smoky beef burger and your best zingy barbecue sauce immediately.

Welcome to this week’s column – a down to earth look at some interesting local and international releases that I have come across over the last few weeks.

Combe Rocher Reserve Pays d'Oc Rosé 2022 - France

Available from $19.99

This is a lovely example of modern Mediterranean Rosé from the Pays d’Oc region of Southern France. Vinted from grenache, this is a crunchy, vibrant expression with a textbook bouquet of red fruits, white flowers and citrus. The palate is just a kiss off bone-dry, and the central core of semi-ripe red fruits is balanced with a juicier element from those glossy grenache grapes. That ‘glossiness’ brings a luxe feeling to proceedings, elevating this 2022 release above the vast majority of the French Rosés I have tasted in this price band this year. Fresh acidity and a touch of mineral salinity rounds off the finish, and the result is both deliciously fresh and very well balanced – a perfect rosé option to enjoy with or without food. It comes highly recommended.

Waimea Sauvignon Blanc 2022 - Nelson

Available from $12.99

Never fall into the trap of thinking that good New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc doesn’t have the ability to age gracefully. Two years on from harvest this lush 2022 Waimea release is looking particularly sharp and still has years of gas left in the tank. Personally, I far prefer Kiwi Sauvignons with at least a year’s bottle age, when that initial, overt acidity has dialed down a bit and the wine takes on a softer, less aggressive stance. That’s definitely what’s going on here. The zip and zing of Nelson Sauvignon remains in full effect, but the passionfruit and tropical fruits the region is so well known for shine a bit clearer with that racy acidity running less interference. Some subtle herbal and tomato leaf tinges add a complexing touch on the nose and palate – and there is certainly a lot of good things going on in the glass here. An absolute bargain for sauvignon disciples to seek out.

Calmel & Joseph Collection Chardonnay 2022 – France

Available from $19.99

The explosion of quality winemaking in southern France over the last two decades has revolutionised French wine exports - with Pays d’Oc and the wider Languedoc-Roussillon region responsible for a plethora of truly rewarding labels.  And it’s not just ‘Provence-esque’ Rosé making waves in the international market. Rock solid releases like this lovely Calmel & Joseph Chardonnay are gaining wide attention as a value alternative to the more expensive Burgundian options. From the 2022 vintage, this is a fine example of middleweight French Chardonnay with plenty of creamy palate weight and detail packed into the glass. Oak aging in seasoned barrels has added plush texture and spice to the wine, but those clean chardonnay fruits remain the star of the show. It's warm and friendly chardonnay with the generosity that New Zealanders are typically drawn to, while a touch of minerality on the finish brings a layer of extra sophistication.

Anciano Tempranillo Classico 2020 - Spain

Available from $16.99

The Anciano range, imported into New Zealand by the inimitable Steve Bennett MW, has a well won reputation with Spanish wine fans in the New Zealand market, and this juicy tempranillo is another Anciano wine to add to your must try list. Vinted from 30-year-old vines, this is a middleweight expression made for any occasion drinking. The inherent ‘user-friendliness’ of tempranillo’s spicy, fleshy red and black fruits is immediately apparent, making it a great ‘one size fits all‘ option to open on a mid-week night when you’re after something interesting and satisfying - but you don’t want to push the boat out too far. While this is technically a dry wine, those supple tempranillo fruits and mellow tannins mean you don’t need food to pour yourself a glass but match it with Mediterranean dishes for added enjoyment. Great value.

Theory & Practice Merlot 2020 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $16.99

Produced by respected Hawke’s Bay based winemaker Ant Mackenzie, this is polished, highly detailed merlot from the excellent 2020 growing season.  Notes of blackcurrant, plum, vanilla and graphite show on the nose and flow through to a silky, full-bodied palate that brims with character and charm. Touches of ‘pencil lead’ and sweet mocha bring complexity and further interest to the party, while the finish is long and fresh, with slinky tannins and layers of creamy acidity. This is good wine – and no one could argue that buying wine of this calibre under the key $20 mark is a godsend for fans of small batch Hawke’s Bay reds. Put a couple of bottles on the table the next time you have the family around for a classic roast and wait for the compliments on your wine choice to come your way.

Taylors Historical Collection Reserve Tawny Port – Portugal

Available from $68.99

A decadent glass of Port at the end of a memorable meal is a fast-dying ritual in this part of the world, so I wanted to remind you of the sheer joy that a glass of decent Port can offer.  The Taylor's Historical series is a collection of specially blended, cask-aged Ports presented in exclusive bespoke bottles inspired by historic bottle moulds.  ‘The Mallet’ is the third wine in the series and is an assemblage from Taylor’s extensive aged tawny stocks. Opulent, rich and mellow, it comes loaded with plum and raisin characters that are complexed with oak spice and cashew / hazelnut notes. It fills every crevice of your palate with these flavours – with a warming finish that moves into the caramel, sweet toffee spectrum. Match with roasted nuts and hard cheeses at the end of the night and wait for the angels to chime in.

Welcome to this week’s column – a down to earth look at some interesting local and international releases that I have come across over the last few weeks.

The BoneLine Sauvignon Blanc 2023 - Waipara

Available from $28.99

If you’re looking for a new sauvignon blanc to try, and don’t mind paying a bit extra for something extra good, this 2023 release from The Boneline gets two thumbs up from me. I have a long-held love affair with the aromatic wines of North Canterbury’s Waipara sub-region. Fruit from this special place carries a generosity and lushness that few other places in New Zealand can match - and while this Boneline Sauvignon has been fermented to dry, those juicy Waipara fruits shine like a diamond here. Partial fermentation in seasoned oak has added extra weight and texture, but the tropical flavours the world loves in New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc are kept fresh and pristine. Some herbal tinges and mineral salinity add a complex touch on the finish. The fruit / acid balance is very harmonious. Everything is pushing in the same direction. This is lovely wine from a quality producer, and well worth seeking out.

Waimea Sauvignon Gris 2023 - Nelson

Available from $19.99

Sauvignon gris has its spiritual home in Bordeaux, where it was discovered as a clonal mutation of sauvignon blanc. It has a pink tinge to the grapes – like pinot gris - and in our local vineyards it typically produces crisp, dry wines that are full of vibrant fruit characters, but without the overt exuberance that New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is so famous for. This example from Waimea certainly follows those guidelines, adding plenty of crisp apple and white stonefruits to a palate that is complemented with herbal and white flower aromas. Texturally, it carries a bit more palate weight than the ubiquitous sauvignon blanc model, and this example has a nice waxy, honeysuckle note that adds an extra bit of magic. A soft line of fresh acidity rounds things out, and if you’re looking for a sauvignon blanc alternative, this delicious wine is well worth a punt. Match with a deli-platter laden with soft cheeses the next time the gang call around.

Empirical Chardonnay 2019 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $29.99

Here’s a real showstopper. Produced by the international Constellation Brands conglomerate, this is an all-out attempt to capture the power that Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay is capable of. Certainly, the heavy, tissue-wrapped bottles and lavishly embossed labels create a big first impression – and the palate lives up to the hype with a tour de force display of small batch chardonnay winemaking. The nose is full of the classic characters of barrel fermented chardonnay. It’s loaded with lemon, sizzled butter, and yeasty characters with some reductive gun smoke / flinty notes and obvious oak spice adding complexity. The palate is full-bodied and looking very harmonious 5 years on from harvest – but maintains a good sense of dignity and isn’t too ‘showboaty’ or over the top. This luxuriously framed Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay is sure to find an adoring audience with ‘old school’ chardonnay fans. That includes me, by the way. I grabbed a six pack.

Cognoscente Pinot Noir 2020 - Marlborough

Available from $16.99

Well-known Hawke’s Bay Winemaker Ant Mackenzie has a knack for putting lots of flavour in the wines he oversees, and this 2020 Marlborough Pinot Noir is another release that carries his signature touch. It’s a broody and savoury release that, in my book, could easily be confused for an upper end Martinborough label. It’s full of dark cherry and game flavours with some darker black and blue fruit characters entering the conversation as the wine moves through the mouth. Elements of baking spice and hard green herbs bring in some extra interest, and sit above a supple palate that flows with good weight and plenty of ready charm. Excellent value. 

Azabache Organic Rioja 2020 - Spain

Available from $21.99

You have to love a good Rioja. It’s such a lovely ‘one size fits all’ wine style that brings the sheer user-friendliness of tempranillo to centre stage – and in this case Azabache adds a supporting act of garnacha and graciano into the performance. This 2020 release is very aromatic with layers of spicy dark fruits, oak and toasted nuts on the nose. Those flavours transition to a dry, medium-bodied palate that sees lots of tannin and acid action, and a satisfying finish that really goes the distance.  Those firm tannins make this a wine that should be enjoyed with food, and this solid expression would be a fine match for hearty mediterranean dishes - or hard cheese at the end of a meal.

Calmel and Joseph Collection Syrah 2022 - France

Available from $19.99

This is very rewarding southern French Syrah from Calmel and Joseph - who have been making wine in the Languedoc-Roussillon sub region since 1995. This is an instantly appealing, unashamedly modern style with lots of sweetly ripe flavours framed in a very generous, rounded palate that brims with strawberry, blackberry and spicy dark fruits. I picked up some subtle mocha and vanilla hints in the mix, but more obvious is a creamy texture that brings a luxe character not normally seen in French reds at this price point. The tannins are integrated and softly expressed, making this a lovely choice for casual, any occasion drinking – especially when you are looking for something truly satisfying but don’t want to push the boat out too far.