Wines of the week

Within your means
2004 Corbans Waipara Riesling $13 to $14
If A A Corban was alive today he would be super-proud of this riesling. The founder of what was once the biggest winery in New Zealand died in the middle of the last century but the name lives on in wines such as this riesling; which is the best branded Corbans for years. Intense, limey in flavour and boding extremely well for the future of wine in Waipara. Sealed with a screwcap.
Available widely.

The splurge
2005 Camshorn Waipara Salix Clays Riesling $23 to $24
There are two Camshorn rieslings and this is easily the best, even if your initial sip might seem light. That's because this wine is almost bone dry. I find that characteristic instantly alluring because the flavours are paradoxically huge. It is divine with spicy food - it doesn't fight for attention but slots right in as if it was made for just that purpose.
Available from First Glass Wines in Takapuna and other specialist wine stores nationwide or contact Simon Nash at Allied Domecq Wines, ph (09) 570 8400.

Cellar palate
2005 Escarpment Martinborough Riesling $25 to $26
This outstanding wine is made by Larry McKenna from cool climate vineyards in Wairarapa. It is light and, at 10.9 per cent alcohol, it is verging on a Pfalz-styled German riesling. It is more floral and sweeter than its southern Waipara counterparts but has great balance.
Available from specialist wine stores or contact The Escarpment Vineyard, ph (06) 3069301 or email: info@escarpment.co.nz