Here is the annual review - albeit lightly - of how the last year shaped up or down, depending on whether you're a producer, a drinker or both.

There's fresh blood oozing with talent in New Zealand's wine industry. Rebecca Gibb picks the ones to watch this year.

There are many world-class wineries on our doorstep.

Here are three of the best aromatics of their kind to bear in mind when doing your holiday shopping.

Gisborne, a bit like Wairarapa, has to make a lot of noise to get noticed. Geographically it's not top-of-mind.

'Tis the season to try new wine varietals or labels. And think beyond your Christmas dinner to all those parties and post-Christmas barbies.

Despite being enveloped in the bosom of one of the world's largest wine conglomerates, Selaks still holds a sentimental place in the hearts and minds of the New Zealand wine-buying public.

Matakana Estate and its sister brand, Goldridge, went into liquidation at the end of last month, making them the latest victims of the economic downturn and wine oversupply crisis.

Waiheke Island's boutique wine industry is growing in experience, variety and profile.

Christmas is a good excuse to stock the cellar - and splash out on something extra special.

Once upon a time men were men. They would drink beer and eat meat. Now they're happy with a slice of quiche and a glass of rosé. What is the world coming to?

The perception that sparkling wine, bubbles, champagne ... call it what you will, is for use as seasonal or celebratory drink only must drive producers crazy.

Don't be afraid to ask for help when choosing a wine to accompany your meal.

Canterbury's wineries are slowly bouncing back from September's earthquake.

A wine from Central Otago's Gibbston region has won the supreme award at this year's Air New Zealand Wine Awards.

One of the country's most significant and authentic wine awards recently celebrated its 10th year.

You know you're getting old when you start asking, "Where has the year gone?"

A road trip to the Gisborne Wine & Food Festival is a hilarity-filled affair for Sarah Ivey and friends.

They have six vineyard blocks aged more than 100 years old, with the majority of the vines still producing excellent grapes. While they've not been acknowledged with a telegram from the Queen, they are highly prized by their owners.

A panel of world class international judges cast their verdicts on a record number of brewers entered in this year's NZ Homebrewing Competition.

Toast. Is it: A) Bread browned on both sides by exposure to heat B) A call to raise glasses in honour of a person or thing C) A Martinborough festival for 10,000 New Zealand food and wine lovers D) All of the above?

Rugby World Cup patrons can expect to pay up to $17 for a glass of wine in restaurants near Eden Park, but industry heads say it's not a rip-off.

Hawkes Bay is receiving some well-deserved attention.

So where do you look to diversify when you've already got substantial interests in seafood, shipping, tourism and property?