People ask me all the time “Yvonne, what’s your favourite wine?” To which I say, with a little shrug “Oh come on now – . That’s like asking me to choose between my children” and then we all have a bit of a c hortle, a chuckle. Then we’ll sigh and scratch at something on the ground with our shoes before clearing our throats, glancing at an imaginary watch before mumbling something like “Righto. Must be off now. I’ve got to go home and paint my computer”.
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Here are three new favourites hailing from middle New Zealand.
Johner Estate Moonlight Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2014 $26 ★★★½
Despite the slightly odd label (nipple spikes anyone?) the wine itself is a super-sippable, fruit-soaked, spicy pinot that’ll definitely be a conversation-starter at your next dinner party. Berries, cherries and hints of cocoa, alongside a soft, velvety finish make this a dangerously drinkable pinot that rocks with roast lamb.
Blank Canvas Marlborough Grüner Veltliner 2013 $28 ★★★★
Grüner Veltliner (grooner velt-leener) is the signature white wine of Austria, and it’s a grape that produces crisp, crunchy, dry white wines that burst with delicate florals, white peach and green apple characters. This bony, chalky-textured newby from Marlborough has added layers of lemon and crushed oyster shell in its mix. Lovely stuff. www.finewinedelivery.co.nz
Te Mania Nelson Chardonnay 2015 $23 ★★★★
The team at Te Mania appear to be unstoppable when it comes to producing “o” for organic and “aw” for “awesome” wines year after year. It’s the combination of soil, sunlight and sheer talent that produces juicy, stonefruit-packed, creamy, toasty chardonnay like this. Vibrant, tangy and tropical – it’s delicious. Trust me.
