Wine: Three not of a kind

Jules Taylor Marlborough Gruner Veltliner 2016 $21.90

With its seductive aromas of ambrosia apple, winter cole pear, caramelised quince, custard apple and peaches, this gorgeous little groo-vee is tangy, crisp and packs a squeak of sunshine into these chilly afternoons. Edged with a dusting of white pepper and crushed seashells, it's an excellent local example of an Austrian native.

Sip with: sweetbreads sprinkled with lemon, capers and parsley.

Available at glengarrywines.co.nz

Ka Tahi Rangatira Gimblett Gravels Three Barrel Reserve Malbec 2015 $30

Glossy, inky dark and saturated with buckets of berries, vanilla, soft smoky notes and juicy, fleshy, savoury layers make this wine a contender for rib-sticking rock star of the week. Gentle, textural tannins and attractive tension between the acidity and alcohol (only 13.1 per cent) make this Hawke's Bay version of the Argentinian classic a must-try.

Sip with: sticky harissa roast beef.

For stockists contact finewinedelivery.co.nz

Tarras The Canyon Central Otago Pinot Noir 2014 $59

Just 10 years on from launching his Tarras label, Hayden Johnston's trophy cabinet is already in need of reinforcement, groaning under the weight of increasingly hefty hauls of trophies and medals for his left-of-centre style of pinot noir. The canyon has a distinctly meaty personality, black tea and toast notes, alongside comforting cherries and cream characters. Gorgeous.

Sip with: pulled lamb tacos.

Available at tarrasvineyards.com

• Yvonne Lorkin is co-founder and chief tasting officer of winefriend.co.nz and a Wine Writers of NZ member.