Pask Gimblett Road Cabernet Merlot Malbec 2013, $22
Brace yourself for pepper, leather, plum, fresh boysenberry and leafy aromatics, which lead to a palate loaded with red berries, cranberry, pomegranate, dried sage and a dusting of dark cocoa powder. Super-fresh, youthful acidity combined with attractive grip on the finish makes this an affordable wine worth cellaring for a year or four.
pask.co.nz
Folding Hill Ballasalla Central Otago Pinot Noir 2013, $35
Ballasalla is the name of the village on the Isle of Man where owner Tim Kerruish grew up. It's appropriate, as the wine has a homely feel to it, immediately comforting and approachable. Attractive red rose, red cherry, tea, black guava and bouquet garni herbs are all packed into this pinot, which finishes slippery and succulent. It will be interesting to see how this wine develops over the coming years.
cellarwise.co.nz
Richmond Plains Blue Moon Sauvignon Blanc 2014, $24
This is a fully certified organic, biodynamic sauvignon from Nelson that winemaker Steve Gill has fermented cool and long over 10 months in French hogsheads. It has exotic aromas of lemongrass, fresh fig, soft citrus and almond meal. The acidity is lifted, zesty and fresh, meaning it's incredibly clean and vibrant with a hint of white pepper and smoke. Lovely.
organicwine.co.nz
Elk Cove Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris 2014, $33
Hands down, this one of the best American pinot gris I've tried. Okay, so it's the only American pinot gris I've ever tried - and it's darn gorgeous. Sourced from Oregon's Willamette Valley, it's exceptionally clean and precise and boasts quince and nashi notes alongside a mineral-edged, beautifully structured acid spine. Superb length of flavour also makes this a must-sip for anyone after great gris. To find stockists email amanda.ross@kono.co.nz
Whitecliff Pinot Noir 2014, $8.99
A local supermarket budget brand that's been around for eons, the Whitecliff pinot is actually an Australian wine. But that's okay because, let's face it, you're seriously up against it to make pinot noir in this country for that sort of price.
It has some sweet, spicy notes on the nose, a smidge of berry, herb and tea-like flavours in the mouth and it finishes with an odd, creamy character. Does it taste like pinot? Yes, sort of, but it's more like a wine you'd give to your friend who says she doesn't like red.
Jacob's Creek Classic Pinot Noir 2013, $7.90
On the upside, this wine is very fruity on the nose, with all sorts of strawberry, raspberry leaf and cherry things going on. In the mouth there are pinot-like flavours, hints of spice and plum - but sadly it's all a bit watery and there's an odd, metallic edge. Does it taste like pinot noir? Not really.
Old North Road Pinot Noir 2013, $8.99
It's a local brand, from out West Auckland way, but the label doesn't say where exactly the fruit has come from, so it's anyone's guess. On first sniff there are baked berry aromas edged with leafy, herbal notes and a whiff of something spicy. On the palate there's a sweet, fruity character but a slightly watery mouthfeel and finish. Does it taste like pinot? Sort of. But it's okay for a cheap quaffer.
Fuedo Zirtari Nero d'Avola Syrah 2011, $20
This is a super-savoury little Italian sipper, loaded with liquorice, pepper and leather notes, meaty, black olive and prune layers and rich, roasting pan juices flavour on the finish.
Velvety, smooth and dangerously easy to drink.
winesale.co.nz
