Wines of the week

Within your means

2004 Tempore Joven $14 to $15

Tempore means time, as in good things taking time to make. This low-priced Spanish red, which has only been in New Zealand for a short time, has soft fruity flavours and a fresh acid bite, which comes from the blend of garnacha with tempranillo grapes.

Available from specialist stores or contact Bennett & Deller Wine Merchants, phone (09) 378 WINE or email: info@bdwine.co.nz

The splurge

2003 Martinborough Vineyard Pinot Noir $60 to $61

It is no surprise to find this wine is made from some of the oldest pinot noir vineyards in Martinborough; it is a mature, grown-up tasting pinot noir in every way. This red is explosively fruity and subtle as well as intensely wow-factorish. Love it.

Available from specialist wine stores only or contact Martinborough Vineyards, phone (06) 306 9955 or email: janine@martinborough-vineyard.co.nz

Cellar palate

2004 Escarpment Martinborough Pinot Noir $40 to $41

If ever there was a case for decanting wine this is it. This wine benefits more noticeably than most reds do by spending a few hours in either a jug, carafe or a wine decanter. Like most of McKenna's Kiwi pinot noirs, it is unashamedly savoury rather than overtly fruity but every whiff and sip still reveals a top-tasting New Zealand pinot noir.

Available from specialist wine stores only or contact Escarpment Vineyard, phone (06) 306 9301 or email: info@escarpment.co.nz.