Left to right: Mount Edward The Drumlin Central Otago Riesling 2012, Kahurangi Estate Nelson Montepulciano 2012 and Lagar de La Santina Rias Baixas Albarino, Spain 2011.
Left to right: Mount Edward The Drumlin Central Otago Riesling 2012, Kahurangi Estate Nelson Montepulciano 2012 and Lagar de La Santina Rias Baixas Albarino, Spain 2011.
Got a tired Muller-Thurgau tucked away for a rainy day that never came, or a blockbusting oaky shiraz that's lost its appeal? Tastes change, as these wine industry figures testify.
KATE RADBURND Head winemaker and managing director, Pask
What's gathering dust in your cellar? Older Australian shiraz. They're almost too big and obvious. I much prefer the more subtle expressions of cool climate syrah.
Would you be seen drinking an "unfashionable" wine? Riesling is a favourite, which hasn't been fashionable ever. I enjoy their pure expression, natural bright acidity and often lower alcohol. Chardonnay, too, is a great love. I'm hoping it re-emerges in popularity.
What are the trendiest wines at present? Sauvignon blanc, pinot noir and pinot gris are immensely popular. Interest in rosé has grown and is trendy in Europe. Lighter styles, too.
What's gathering dust in your cellar? I'm originally from South Africa and sometimes I've schlepped a few emotional purchases of SA wine in a suitcase back to New Zealand - they're still in the cellar.
Are there any "unfashionable" wines that you enjoy? I love indulging in a dirty South African pinotage from time to time and big, buttery Californian chardonnay still hits the spot.
What are the trendiest wines at present? Portuguese wine, red and white. Chenin blanc and sherry seem to be having a moment in the spotlight. And I have to put in a plug for riesling: it's diverse, prickly and demands a lifetime of learning.
MATT DICEY General manager and winemaker, Mt Difficulty
What's gathering dust in your cellar? Like everyone starting a cellar I had a lot of big monsters to start.
Are there any "unfashionable" wines that you enjoy? I'm always on the hunt for interesting wines that are not French-based varietals but from Spain, Portugal and Italy and the likes of Greece and Turkey.
What are the trendiest wines at present? There seems to be interest in things new and different, whether that be albarino or montepulciano, as well as renewed interest in things old and forgotten, such as chardonnay and chenin blanc.
CHRIS SCOTT Winemaker, Church Road
Are there any wines you've fallen out of love with? Australian cab sauvignon. Most of it just looks green with hard high acid and minty aromas.
Are there any "unfashionable" wines that you enjoy? I enjoy a lot of unfashionable wines otherwise I'd drink nothing but sauvignon blanc and pinot noir!
What are the trendiest wines at present? Among wine nerds it's the new wave of chardonnays, low-alcohol riesling, elegant reds, such as pinot noir and cool climate syrah and blends. There's an international trend towards cooler climate styles with more elegance and balance.
FASHIONABLE FLAVOUR
Left to right: Mount Edward The Drumlin Central Otago Riesling 2012, Kahurangi Estate Nelson Montepulciano 2012 and Lagar de La Santina Rias Baixas Albarino, Spain 2011.
Kahurangi Estate Nelson Montepulciano 2012 - $21 One of a number of alternative varieties starting to take off in our vineyards, this great-value montepulciano has dense dark fruit and a hint of herb. Find it at selected fine-wine stores.
Lagar de La Santina Rias Baixas Albarino, Spain 2011 - $17.95 Albarino from Spain is a hot variety internationally. Try this affordable example that exhibits classic cool climate notes of citrus, white peach, mineral and a seafood-friendly briny edge. Available from wineimporter.co.nz
