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.

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.

Vilaura Blanc de Blanc Methode Traditionelle 2019 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $59.99

It takes a lot of pluck to enter the rarified world of elite, New Zealand sparkling wine at any stage of your winemaking career, but launching a new brand with a $60 price tag for your first offering simply has to be applauded. Founded by Jascha Oldham-Selak and Sanne Witteveen, Vilaura has positioned itself as a methode traditionelle specialist and their inaugural 2019 release has set the bar very high indeed. Produced from 100% Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay, this is a richly weighted, bone-dry style that marries stonefruit, apple and citrus characters with underlying brioche / yeast flavours. It’s a complex, vibrant wine with layers of fine acidity and a finish that goes the distance. Given the price point, comparisons with Champagne are always going to happen, but Vilaura have front-footed this discussion with luxe packaging and a clear desire to maximise every detail of their production process. I take my hat off to them, and wish them every success. It’s a hard game they’re playing, and ambition of this level deserves strong support. Bravo.

Bijou Terre de Providence Rose 2023 - France

Available from $16.99

OIn a sea of pale Mediterranean Rosés, it takes a little bit of magic to stand out from the crowd and this 2023 Pays d’Oc release from Bijou brings both value for money and sheer deliciousness to the table. Vinted from grenache, this is a finely structured, dry wine with layers of tangy red summer fruits and a palate that is tinged with moreish mineral / saline notes. As you’d expect from rosé at this price point, it’s relatively uncomplicated and quite straightforward - but that light, easy drinking nature and crisp, crunchy palate is exactly what you’re looking for. It’s a perfect aperitif to kick off a long autumn lunch, but doesn’t need food to be seen at its best. Great buying.

Awakohu Sauvignon Blanc 2022 - Marlborough

Available from $12.99

Here’s a complete bargain. The calibre of sauvignon blanc emanating from Marlborough constantly climbs new heights, as growers and winemakers refine their processes and fine tune their craft. If you are prepared to avoid the usual ‘price fighter’ suspects and do your homework, there are some wonderful, very affordable labels on the market that defy their retail asking prices - and this is one of them. Vinted from fruit harvested from the central Wairau Plain and in the Waihopai sub-regions, this classic sauvignon opens with an exuberant nose of white stonefruits and sweet citrus. The palate is succulent and awash with the flavours that dominate the bouquet. It shows real weight and presence in the mouth before those zesty acids round out the finish – leaving the mouth salivatingly fresh. Truly satisfying wine – and cheap as chips.  What’s not to like about that ?!

Shelter Bay Pinot Noir 2022 - Marlborough

Available from $13.99

Carrying on with the bargain theme, here is another out and out winner that fights well above its weight. Vinted primarily for the export market, Shelter Bay has clearly been given the love and attention that would normally be reserved for wines that retail in the $25-$30 bracket. Aromatic and very enticing on the nose, this plush release shows layers of dark cherry that are complexed with earthy mushroom notes, fine tannins and nicely integrated spices. That rounded, fulsome palate came as quite a shock give the humble price point this wine sits at – making it a perfect option when you are looking for a glass of truly satisfying pinot noir, but don’t want to push the boat out too far. What a little gem this is. It’s one of the best ‘quaffer’ level pinot noirs I have tasted and, accordingly, it is highly recommended. 

Peregrine Pinot Noir 2021 – Central Otago 

Available from $49.99

A recent tasting of the Peregrine portfolio reiterated in my mind what a solid producer they are, and this excellent 2021 pinot noir was a terrific way to complete a review of their wines.  The nose was redolent with the aromas of Central Pinot – black cherry, plum, and stewed dark fruits mingled with notes of thyme / green herbage and the slightest hint of oak spice. The palate was supple and quite sumptuously weighted with touches of game, olive and baking spice entering the conversation – but the lasting impression here is harmonious and very balanced. I loved the way the finish had such softly expressed acidity - adding another layer of sumptuousness to this very complete expression of modern, Central Otago Pinot Noir.

Vieille Mule Rouge 2020 – France

Available from $21.99

From an area once known for insipid, bulk wines, the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southern France has become a hotbed of vinous value – and home to some of most user-friendly wines on the palate. Vinted from 100% old vine grenache by well-known negociant Jeff Carrel, this is a broody, darky fruited example of full-bodied grenache with plenty of grunty, serious character. Grenache at its simplest can be a glossy amalgam of juicy black and red fruits, but here we find heightened layers of savoury palate weight and loads of tannic structure. That sense of drive and purpose elevates this wine to a much higher plane, and anyone looking for a well-made, interesting red wine to enjoy with a hearty dinner should be drawn to this 2020 release.  I loved it - and can say with some authority it’s a banging match with rosemary spiked roasted lamb. It’s well worth a punt. Trust me.

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.

Grande Cuvee 1531 de Aimery Brut Rosé NV - France

Available from $24.99

Vinted from a blend of chardonnay, chenin blanc and pinot noir, and bottle-fermented using the trusted Méthode Traditionnelle process, this is a very good example of Crémant de Limoux Rosé from the foothills of the Pyrenees in the south of France. It’s all red summer fruits, peach and citrus on the nose with some yeasty characters adding a further quality note. The palate is very fresh and vibrant with those soft red fruits and fleshy strawberry flavours to the fore, while the finish is clean and long with layers of creamy acidity keeping things tight and in check. Crémant de Limoux comes with a reputation as a well-priced Champagne alternative, and this delightful rosé certainly lives up to that. Obvious value, and the quality presentation adds another layer of luxe appeal.

Durvillea Pinot Gris 2022 - Marlborough

Available from $15.99

Durvillea is the popular ‘entry level’ brand of Astrolabe, one of Marlborough’s finest and most critically lauded producers. Interestingly, the quirky Durvillea name comes from a seaweed variety that winemaker Simon Waghorn, a seaweed geek(!), studied at university – but there’s nothing quirky about the value driven Durvillea range. They give you access to the skill and precision of the Astrolabe team at a very reasonable price, and this 2022 release is a classic interpretation of modern Marlborough Pinot Gris. Brimming with off-dry, juicy pear and semi-ripe stonefruit characters, it’s a lightly textural style with plenty of zip and zing on the palate. It’s a whisker off-dry, bringing subtle spice and ginger to the party, and finishes very clean with some wet stone / mineral notes adding extra complexity.

Codici Rosato 2022 - Italy 

Available from $14.99

Here’s a bargain. Rosé doesn’t come much more crisp and refreshing that Codici, and this lovely wine is a textbook example of the dry Italian Rosés that are taking the world by storm. Vinted from negroamaro, this wine hails from the Puglia region in Italy’s south, and it shines with very attractive, light copper hues in the glass. On the nose you’ll find cherry, pomegranate, and raspberry notes that flow through to a dry, crunchy palate that opens up in the mouth to reveal some underlying juicier flavours. The finish is very long and zesty with plenty of acidity making this delightful wine a perfect partner to seafoods and salads or a charcuterie platter of salty, spicy meats. I urge you to give it a go. With New Zealand’s current obsession with the delicate flavours of southern French Rosé reaching overload, it’s time for Italian Rosato to have its time in the sun.

Tavernello Organico Sangiovese 2021 - Italy

Available from $16.99

Though a relative newcomer to our domestic market, Tavernello is the top selling wine brand within Italy and the #1 selling Italian wine brand in global markets. Given their consuming passion for wine, that’s a massive endorsement from the Italian wine buying public, and there have been some very impressive wines amongst the Tavernello range I have looked at to date. This is one of them. Vinted from handpicked, organic fruit, this 2021 sangiovese shows classic red fruits, dried herb and anise on the nose, and a savoury, well-weighted palate that shows real depth and balance for a wine in this price band. There is plenty of soft tannin on the finish with some lingering, savoury fruit notes. Given the tannic stricture, this wine is best served with food and, not surprisingly, is well suited to pizza, pasta and Mediterranean dishes.

Crimson Monster Shiraz 2022 – Australia

Available from $17.99

Crimson Monster is the latest label from the burgeoning Fourth Wave portfolio - a company who have certainly struck a chord with the New Zealand wine buying public. Snappy brand names and edgy labels may be the Fourth Wave hallmarks, but winemaking duties are overseen by Corey Ryan – a hugely experienced and respected vigneron who has always known how to put flavour and generosity into a glass of South Australian wine. Produced from McLaren Vale fruit, Crimson Monster is made in a fulsome, robust style that focusses on easy drinkability. It’s loaded with the classic flavours of good Aussie Shiraz but has been made to be sloshed into glasses and enjoyed with gusto – not pondered over and analyzed. It’s a charming mid-week option or a great red to open when friends gather for informal drinks. Match with loud conversation or a good Netflix binge session.     

Radburnd Cellars Syrah 2020 – Hawke’s Bay

Available from $84.99

Taking things up several notches, is this wonderful Hawke’s Bay Syrah from celebrated winemaker, Kate Radburnd. Her eponymous brand has given Kate an outlet to release the very best wines she can produce, and each vintage sees chardonnay, syrah and merlot cabernet blends of the highest order offered for sale. Volumes are small. The wines are made without compromise, and have enjoyed considerable praise from the media and, perhaps more importantly, from Kate’s winemaking peers. This 2020 is my pick of the Radburnd Syrah’s I have tasted to date. Fragrant and loaded with black fruits, this wine bursts with notes of toasty oak, baking spice, violets, and anise on the nose. The palate is vibrant and alive with flowing layers of plum and cherry sitting over that heady mix of oak and spice, and the finish is deep and rewarding with enough tannin to calm the conversation and keep the palate focused and long. I loved it. If you are looking for a fine example of the modern Hawke’s Bay Syrah style, this excellent release offers world class quality – and is bargain priced by premium French Syrah standards.    

Not many New Zealand retailers have sold more wine than Mac and his personal recommendations come from one of the industry's safest sets of hands. Regardless of the price point you like to shop in, Mac's Picks will always be great buying and totally delicious. You have his word on it.

Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2022 - Marlborough

Available from $32.99

This important wine will always feature in any discussion of the finest Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs and comes with an enviable reputation for its concentration and complexity. The 2022 vintage is another excellent expression that captures the maritime influences of the Wairau Valley. Wonderfully pungent with passionfruit, gooseberry, nettle and tomato leaf characters bursting from the nose, it’s a punchy wine that takes those characters from the bouquet and wraps them up in a lightly saline, herbal palate that shows plenty of tropical fruits and tangy layers of acidity. Full of energy and drive, it finishes long and enticingly fresh, with excellent tension between the fruit and acid components. If you want to taste one of the great New Zealand wines, grab a bottle and you’ll soon see what all the fuss is about. 

Locatour Creamy Chardonnay 2021 – California, USA

Available from $17.99

With the increasing popularity of Californian Chardonnays in our domestic market, few examples manage to sneak under the key $20 retail price barrier these days – so Locatour is sure to attract plenty of attention wherever it is sold. With ‘Creamy’ on the label, the scene is set for a rounded, fulsome wine - and that’s exactly what Locatour delivers. The nose is all about ripe peaches, pineapple and butterscotch, with some toasted oak characters playing a supporting role. The palate is rich and full-bodied with some fruit sweetness and vanillin oak adding to that stonefruit core – and the finish is soft and very creamy with some buttered popcorn / caramel flavours rounding things out. This is an uncomplicated, ‘midweek’ wine for those who like their chardonnay on the big and bold side of the street. No need to cellar. Match with lemon-spiked roasted chicken or your favourite carbonara pasta. 

Tread Softly Prosecco NV 

Available from $14.99

Another wine with some residual sugar that is fast developing a reputation with Kiwi buyers is Tread Softly Prosecco. Vinted from South Australian Glera (glera is the traditional prosecco grape), this is a soft, medium-bodied sparkling wine with flavours in the pear and apple spectrum and an underlying seam of honeysuckle. At just 9.9% alc/vol, it’s been designed to be a lighter style, but the palate delivers plenty of good fruit characters and the finish is clean and bright. Though not as crisp and vibrant as its Italian counterparts, it’s still very fresh and appealing with lost of juicy fruit action and a dash of soft acidity on the finish. Match with a drinks platter when the gang calls around.

Black Cottage Pinot Noir 2021 – Central Otago

Available from $19.99

This is good value. Vinted by Marlborough-based Black Cottage winemaker Dave Clouston, this 2021 release is looking very nicely integrated with a bouquet of red and black fruits, and a green herb / thyme note adding a direct link to the Cromwell and Alexandra vineyards that provided the fruit for this appealing wine. Two years on from harvest it is now entering its perfect drinking window, with primarily red cherry fruits driving things along. Some plum and spicy oak characters pick up that ball, adding further interest to a juicy palate that shows plenty of vibrancy and life. The finish shows some classic Central Otago game and forest floor nuances, and the closing tannins have enough grip to give this wine the structure it deserves. Enjoy over the coming 3-4 years with a venison casserole or duck tacos.

Perrin La Vieille Ferme Cotes du Ventoux 2020 – France

Available from $16.99

One of the great lessons to learn when you start looking more seriously at wine, is that wines don’t need to be big to be good. This lovely southern Rhone blend is the personification of that simple adage; a pleasure wine that puts sheer enjoyment and drinkability before palate weight and structure. It’s worth pointing out that Perrin are a very prestigious Rhone producer - the makers of the legendary Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape. They have been wine growers in the southern Rhone for centuries and are now recognised as the largest organic producer in the appellation. The Cotes du Ventoux sits towards the bottom of the Perrin brand hierarchy, but this deceptively simple blend of carignan, cinsault, grenache, and syrah is a very rewarding glass of wine. Enjoy it at the start of an evening with soft cheeses or a charcuterie selection.     

Jim Barry Lodge Hill Shiraz 2021 - Clare Valley, Australia.

Available from $19.99

This famous wine has long been one of the shiraz market’s best buys, but I thought that the newly released 2021 vintage is looking especially sharp. Fruit comes from Jim Barry’s renowned Lodge Hill vineyard in the Clare Valley – a region known for more elegant shiraz expressions that are typically fresher and more vibrant than their Barossa cousins. The palate is chock full of blueberry and cherry fruits with some blackberry notes and bramble spice adding further layers of complexity. There’s plenty of tannin but it is quite fine and integrated, and the oak component shows its presence but never tries to unbalance the equation. This is a mouth-filling, complete shiraz experience that defies this relatively humble price point. Excellent value.   

Not many New Zealand retailers have sold more wine than Mac and his personal recommendations come from one of the industry's safest sets of hands. Regardless of the price point you like to shop in, Mac's Picks will always be great buying and totally delicious. You have his word on it.

Main Divide Pinot Gris 2021 – North Canterbury

Available from $18.99

Main Divide is the highly successful entry-level label of celebrated North Canterbury producer, Pegasus Bay. There have been some notable wines released under the Main Divide banner over the years - with riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir the best-known performers – but over recent vintages Main Divide Pinot Gris has also been getting plenty of attention. The 2021 is a typically lush and opulent style with layer after layer of juicy Waipara fruits bringing spicy pear, ginger and honeysuckle flavours into play. While still operating in the off-dry spectrum, this vintage is drier than previous years and, in my book, that reduction in fruit sweetness was the right move. The finish is very clean with plenty of soft acidity keeping things fresh and bright - but those wonderfully rich Waipara fruits hang in there to the very end. Match with chilli-spiked Asian dishes or spicy baked salmon and enjoy over the coming 3 years.  

Hunter’s Chardonnay 2021 – Marlborough

Available from $22.99

This was a lovely example of middleweight barrel-fermented chardonnay from one of the stalwarts of the Marlborough wine industry. The nose was complex and full of interest for a wine in this price point, with stonefruit, grilled citrus and flinty / gun smoke notes supported by some subtle hints of oak spice. The palate took those characters and laid them over a bed of lightly creamy, sweet vanilla flavours, before a vein of fresh acidity kicked in, leading the way to a long and very satisfying finish. The oak component has been skillfully handed here - adding just enough weight to the conversation, without ever dominating the peach and citrus interplay of those ripe Marlborough fruits. This is the best rendition of this popular chardonnay that I can recall tasting – and an obvious bargain if you see it for under $25. Enjoy now over the coming 5+ years.        

Squawking Magpie The Chatterer Syrah 2021 – Hawke’s Bay 

Available from $24.99

As the style of mid-tier Hawke’s Bay Syrah is reinterpreted and redefined, I find myself drawn more and more to the supple and juicy examples, where concentration and structure are eschewed in favour of flowing mouthfeel and an almost ‘pinot noir like’ sense of palate weight. Squawking Magpie seems to agree with that thought and the 2021 Chatterer Syrah is a textbook example of this understated but utterly delicious syrah style. Sourced from Gimblett Gravels fruit, it is very fragrant, with notes of dark cherry and plums complexed with violet, lavender and anise. The palate effortlessly carries those characters through to a savoury finish with pillow soft tannins and gentle acidity, leaving the mouth refreshed and looking for more. This lovely wine is highly recommended. Seek it out. 

Thorn-Clarke Sandpiper Shiraz 2019 – Australia

Available from $17.99

This is another well-known, well-priced wine that is in excellent form. Now entering its perfect drinking window, the 2019 Sandpiper Shiraz from Thorn-Clarke is loaded with black fruits and baking spices on the nose and a medium to full-bodied palate that shows the dark plum and savoury cherry flavours that the Barossa delivers in good vintages. A dose of choco-berry / mocha and some vanillin oak on the mid-palate adds a luxe element but the fruits always remain on the savoury side of the street - and those classic South Australian flavours go on and on. Already enjoyable, this wine will continue to develop and become further integrated over the coming 4-5 years. 

Bodegas Piqueras VS Monastrell Grenache Tintorera 2017 – Spain

Available from $39.99

Here’s this week’s showstopper. Imported by the inimitable Stephen Bennett MW, this 2017 release from Bodegas Piqueras is produced from a 50/50 split of old vine Monastrell and Grenache Tintorera. This is a big, extroverted wine that fills the senses with the rounded fruit characters that are synonymous with premium Spanish reds. The nose offers layers of concentrated blackberry and damson plum, with violet and spice notes adding further complexity. The palate is very broad and concentrated with sturdy weight and an endless array of dark fruit characters. Spice and smoky oak provide the detail on a wine that shines with glossy exuberance, and the finish is very rich with savoury dried fruit characters sitting over gentle tannins and well-integrated acidity. This is powerhouse winemaking from one of my favourite Spanish producers and a guaranteed talking point whenever a bottle is opened. Match with a hearty casserole or wood-fired meats when you want to knock the socks off your guests.  

Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Port – Portugal

Available from $58.99

While Port seemingly doesn’t enjoy the popularity it once had in the New Zealand market, it remains a key fortified wine style that, thankfully, maintains a strong international following. Six Grapes has long been one of my favourite non-vintage expressions; this a wine that I have been enjoying for almost 40 years when a soothing nightcap is the order of the day. The bottle I opened last week showed plenty of charm with decadent dark fruits complexed with hints of just-burnt caramel and lots of sweet raisin. The rancio (a sort of nutty /raisin character) note that you look for in Port was there in full effect, and the lasting impression was mellow and very graceful. Match with an open fire and robust post-dinner conversation as soon as possible. 

Not many New Zealand retailers have sold more wine than Mac and his personal recommendations come from one of the industry's safest sets of hands. Regardless of the price point you like to shop in, Mac's Picks will always be great buying and totally delicious. You have his word on it.

Champagne Lanson Black Label Brut NV – France

Available from $59.99

Vinted from a blend of pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier, and with 35% reserve wine in the blend, Lanson has long been one of the top-selling Grand Marque Champagnes and brings a significant reputation for freshness and elegance to the table. This latest disgorgement is looking very good with a red apple and citrus nose sitting over a core of toasted brioche characters. The bubbles are fine and very persistent in the glass and the palate is broad and quite generous, with good drive and nicely poised tension between the fruit and mineral aspects. Having not tasted Lanson for a couple of years, I was impressed with the quality it offered – and with the price of Grand Marque Champagne steadily on the rise, it’s obviously good value in the current market.

Auntsfield Sauvignon Blanc 2022 – Marlborough

Available from $19.99

This was impressive 2022 wine from vigneron brothers, Ben and Luc Cowley. In classic Marlborough style, this expressive wine shows a complex array of punchy notes on the nose with citrus, green herbage, tropical fruits and tomato stalk all playing their part. It promises much, and the palate delivers a textbook assemblage of regional sauvignon flavours with some chalky minerality, and a gentle saline note adding a further touch of individuality. Far from being one-dimensional, this is sauvignon that unfolds with each taste. The lasting impression is balanced and fresh with salivating acidity and that mineral line shining on through. Classy wine that deserves to be served lightly chilled with fresh shellfish or a tangy garden salad.        

Babich Irongate Chardonnay 2022 – Hawke’s Bay 

Available from $34.99

Babich Irongate has always been an important label in the context of premium Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay and the 2022 is another fine effort from a challenging growing season. Vinted from Gimblett Gravels fruit, this release was shy on initial inspection before opening up in the glass as more air worked its way into the wine. Notes of grilled stonefruits, almond and sweet oak spice dominated a nose that also showed some subtle ginger and lemon spice. The palate flowed beautifully, bringing those characters together and adding a distinct ginger-cream flavour into the equation. The finish was long, with good acidity and understated hints of toasty French oak. In my book, this wine should be decanted before service if you plan to open a bottle over the coming 18 months, but its real beauty will be discovered if you can put some aside over the coming five years. I loved it. 

Babich Cabernet Merlot 2019 – Hawke’s Bay

Available from $17.99

Given its humble price point, this was another very impressive Babich wine. From the excellent 2019 vintage, this release shows plenty of blackberry and plum characters on the bouquet, with some leather / tobacco / eucalyptus notes from the cabernet aspect of the blend. There is also a very appealing Bordeaux-esque pencil lead aroma that carries through to a middleweight palate, showing layers of spicy blackcurrant underpinned by some creamy mocha flavours. There is good balance between the sweet fruit characters and the rounded acidity this wine displays, while the tannins are supple and very friendly. If you prefer to shop in the sub$20 bracket and you’re looking for a good example of blended Hawke’s Bay red, there is an awful lot to like here. Great buying. 

Tilia Malbec 2022 – Argentina

Available from $16.99

Here’s a wine to try if you’re looking for a softly rewarding red to keep you company on these colder winter nights. Budget conscious Kiwis have taken to Argentinian reds with great gusto, and the 2022 Tilia release is a showcase of the plush, dark fruits and juicy palate weight that South American Malbec is so well-known for. Medium-bodied and lightly oaked by Argentinian standards, this is a very approachable red that’s been made in an uncomplicated, drink-now style. Hints of vanilla and oak spice add some complexity to the primary plum and blackberry flavours, but this is wine to slosh into glasses on casual nights, while a hearty roast is ticking over in the oven. No need to cellar. It’s ripe and rearing to go.     

La Multa Old Vine Garnacha 2019 – Spain

Available from $18.99

Here’s this week’s obvious bargain. Produced from low yielding garnacha vines in the North-Easterly Spanish region of Calatayud, La Multa 2019 is a bit of showstopper. Packed with glossy, dark, mouthfilling fruits, it brings the generosity and ripeness of Spanish Grenache to the party, but some deeper, more savoury characters ensure that this lovely wine maintains a premium stance from start to finish. For the uninitiated, grenache tastes a bit like turbo-charged pinot noir, with amplified dark cherry fruits and supple palate flow. It’s a very reliable category for Kiwi wine buyers who have become disillusioned with entry level New Zealand Pinot Noir – and there some incredible buys if you shop around. This is one of them. Get some pizzas on the go as soon as possible and crack a bottle of this little beauty. You won’t regret it. I bought a case.   

Not many New Zealand retailers have sold more wine than Mac and his personal recommendations come from one of the industry's safest sets of hands. Regardless of the price point you like to shop in, Mac's Picks will always be great buying and totally delicious. You have his word on it.

Sherwood Estate Stratum Riesling 2022 – Waipara Valley

Available from $14.99

I have long admired the sheer value that Sherwood Estate’s Stratum label offers the wine buying public and this 2022 Riesling is another bargain release from this trusted North Canterbury producer. There is something magical about Waipara Valley Riesling and this example shows layers of lime and sweet citrus that dance over a juicy, medium-dry palate. Those fleshy, exuberant, sweeter characters are nicely balanced with fresh acidity and the finish is long and very refreshing. It’s hard not to like and is ideally suited to casual occasions when something zingy and vibrant is the order of the day. The sugar / acid combo makes it an excellent partner for spicy dishes but this wicked little over achiever would also work well paired with soft cheeses. Great buying.

Mount Brown Pinot Gris 2022 – North Canterbury

Available from $14.99

Here is another North Canterbury wine that clearly outperforms its humble price point. The juicy, succulent flavours of aromatic Waipara white wines are in full effect with this release and the 2022 pinot gris from Mount Brown shows plenty of swagger and confidence. Medium-dry with classic pear, pipfruit and melon on the nose, the palate shows good weight, lush texture and brings plenty of spiced nashi pear flavours to the party - with some honey / lime notes playing an excellent secondary role. I also noted a distinct ‘Juicyfruit’ chewing gum character before soft acidity rounded out this wine. Fans of off-dry pinot gris will find a lot to like here and those unmistakable Waipara fruits remain the star of the show from start to finish. Another absolute bargain from this wonderful growing region.       

Elephant Hill Chardonnay 2021 – Hawke’s Bay 

Available from $29.99

This is a fine example of barrel-fermented, coastal New Zealand Chardonnay. The nose is alive with regional stonefruits, citrus and oak spice, while a maritime, saline note adds both complexity and sense of place. The palate is rich and textured with lots of action in the glass. Nectarine and lemon flavours shine on a generous palate, with toasted nuts and spicy barrel-ferment notes adding further interest. The oak treatment has been deftly handled - adding weight and complexity to the conversation but never taking over proceedings – and the finish is long and supple with rounded acidity. This lovely wine is already a treat and well-priced for the quality it offers. Enjoy now with lemon spiked chicken dishes or over the coming 5+ years.

Craggy Range Rosé 2022 – Hawke’s Bay

Available from $29.99

This is the best Craggy Range Rosé I have tasted to date. Vinted predominantly from merlot (81%) with some tempranillo adding juiciness and spice, it is bright, light salmon-pink in the glass in the style of the classic Provence Rosés. The bouquet is delicately poised and very attractive, with red summer fruits, white florals and a subtle chalky note. These characters flow gracefully through to frame a dry palate that nonetheless has a juiciness to its core, and the instant impression is both charming and very moreish. From a challenging 2022 Hawkes Bay vintage, this release nails the interplay between dryness / acidity and the fleshy, berry fruit characters that have made ‘Provencesque’ New Zealand Rose’s such a hit in our local market. It’s a cracker. Match with some afternoon sun and a ham sandwich as soon as possible. 

Paritua Stone Paddock Merlot 2020 – Hawke’s Bay

Available from $19.99

My admiration for the winemaking skills of Jason Stent and his Paritua team is well known, and this is another excellent release from a producer who sits at the top table of Hawke’s Bay red wine production. Vinted from 100% estate grown merlot, this is a softy fulsome expression that has enjoyed an optimal growing season in 2020. The nose shows regional plum and oak spice, while the palate is supple and very smooth - with dark plum flavours and blackberry characters overlaying nuances of barrel notes and anise. The finish is very approachable with good tannic structure and layers of creamy acidity refreshing the mouth. I would decant it if serving it over the next year or two, to dial down those tannins and amplify those silky fruit flavours. Very good value.        

Chateau Saint-Roch Corbarol Cotes du Roussillon 2020 – France

Available from $22.99

I am a complete sucker for the dark, juicy reds of southern France and this grenache (65%) / syrah blend is right up my alley. Produced under the Saint-Roch label by Domaine Lafage, this is glossy, succulent wine with the plush flavours of the grenache component ably supported by the more serious and structured syrah aspect of the blend. Black cherry, dried herb and baking spike characters flow seamlessly from the nose through to a silky palate that works equally well with, or without food. It’s delicious - and a great option for those who like weighty Central Otago Pinot Noir but are looking for something a bit more full-bodied. I’d match this wine with a lazy Sunday and a good Spotify playlist, but a spicy vegetable bake would work equally well. 

Not many New Zealand retailers have sold more wine than Mac and his personal recommendations come from one of the industry's safest sets of hands. Regardless of the price point you like to shop in, Mac's Picks will always be great buying and totally delicious. You have his word on it.

Mount Riley The Bonnie Rose 2022 - Marlborough

Available from $15.99

With so many good New Zealand Rosés in the market these days, it takes something special to stand out from the crowd but The Bonnie from long-established Marlborough producer Mount Riley, does just that. Mount Riley has a strong reputation as a value seller and this 2022 rosé clearly fits into that category. It’s deliciously fragrant with a potpourri of white flowers and red summer fruits - and bright berry / watermelon characters flow through to a lightly creamy palate that shows a gentle kiss of sweetness. The finish is zingy and crisp, and the interplay between the acid and fruit structures in this wine is absolutely bang on. It is truly delicious. If you’re getting a bit tired of the bone-dry ‘Provence-esque’ Rose’s and want to return to a more classic interpretation of pink Kiwi wine, The Bonnie would be an excellent choice – and is highly recommended for Autumn enjoyment. 

Whitehaven Pinot Gris 2022 - Marlborough

Available from $24.99

After concentrating on global export markets for much of the last decade, Whitehaven has refocused their marketing efforts on wider domestic distribution over the last couple of years. It’s good to see their portfolio regaining a stronger foothold here in New Zealand. Whitehaven have always been a quality producer with chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot gris their strongest suits. This 2022 pinot gris is dry to taste and shows lifted notes of pear and honeysuckle on the nose and palate. It’s quite a serious style with good structure and some tannic grip - and some subtle spice characters emerge as the wine unfolds in your mouth. It’s a wine that has been made for the dinner table and really needs food to be seen at its best. Try it with a tangy rocket, pear and fennel salad for a match made in heaven. 

La Baume Le Grande Olivette Chardonnay 2021 - France 

Available from $19.99

Affordable wines from southern France continue to impress me. Gone are the days when Pays d’Oc and the Languedoc-Roussillon were hotbeds of mediocrity, and there are now plenty of good, sharply-priced wines from these southern regions that are worth seeking out. La Baume have been making wine in the heart of Languedoc-Roussillon for well over a century and this respected winery boasts an enviable track record for their graceful chardonnays and robust syrahs. Le Grande Olivette takes fruit from Pays d’Oc and it’s a very good example of modern French Chardonnay. Vibrant and fresh on the nose, it shows stonefruit, cashew and sweet citrus notes that flow through to a creamy palate with good texture and weight. It very comfortably operates in the medium to full-bodied chardonnay lane and a nice line of acidity keeps you focused and keen for more. If you’re shopping for a mid-tier chardonnay and want to start looking at some European options, Le Grande Olivette would be a nice place to start your journey to the fascinating world of French white wines. 

Tohu Awatere Valley Pinot Noir 2019 - Marlborough

Available from $19.99

This is great buying for Pinot Noir fans. Plush and fulsome by Marlborough standards, it shows an amalgam of red and black berry fruits on a nose that is complexed by subtle anise and green herbage characters. The palate is rounded and ripe with lovely flow in the mouth. The finish is long and graceful with refined tannins and soft acidity – and the lasting impression is about as good as you could ever hope for, from New Zealand Pinot Noir at this price point. It’s one of those wines where everything comes together beautifully, and the result far exceeds the sum of its parts. Enjoy now but tuck a few extra bottles away to open over the next 3-5 years.

Trinity Hill The Trinity Red Blend 2021 - Hawke's Bay

Available from $19.99

I take my hat off to Trinity Hill. Though deservedly best known for their flagship releases, their entry level / white label wines continue to impress, with the red wines from the 2020 and 2021 vintages particularly strong. Perhaps my favourite from their current offerings is the excellent 2021 The Trinity – a merlot blend that uses cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and a splash of petit verdot to add depth and tannic structure to the dominant merlot component. 2021 was a topnotch vintage for Hawke’s Bay reds and this wine is redolent with spicy plum and blackberry on the nose, while some subtle tobacco leaf notes add further interest. The palate is fleshy and ripe upfront but takes a more serious stance as the wine moves through the mouth. This finish is long and soft with friendly tannins and rounded acidity. Regardless of price, this is a very pleasant example of blended red and being able to buy Hawke’s Bay wine of this calibre under $20 is a gift for any wine enthusiast. 

Clos des Miran Cotes du Rhone 2019 – France

Available from $23.99

If you’re a fan of middleweight European red wines, it’s hard not to fall for the glossy, dark charms of a nice bottle of Cotes du Rhone. Grenache and syrah blends seem to strike a special chord with New Zealand wine buyers and Cotes du Rhone is a wine style that feels almost tailormade for Kiwis looking to expand into French reds. The grenache component brings amplified flavours reminiscent of dark Central Otago Pinot Noir- while syrah from the Rhone shares much in common with its younger Hawke’s Bay cousin. From the very good 2019 vintage, this low intervention release is fragrant and spicy with layers of black / red fruits and an underlying mocha character on the palate. It’s a typically supple style, in the medium-bodied spectrum, and the spice on the palate builds in the mouth as the wine moves across the palate. Enjoy by itself or partner it with a wide range of hearty foods. I had a couple of glasses last weekend with a replay of the Hurricanes – Chiefs game and found that combination to be an excellent match (apart from the fact that the Chiefs won).