Richard Sydney Thomas Dudman (my dad) turns 70 today and I’m bringing these three to the party – woohoo!
Fantini Swarovski Abruzzo Gran Cuvée Bianco NV $26
Crafted from white varieties indigenous to the Abruzzo region, this wine is a new favourite fizz. I love the scent of fresh florals and apples alongside hints of mango and white peach on the nose. While it might be sweetly scented, the palate finishes crisp and dry. Clean and very pretty (complete with an authenticated Swarovski crystal on the label), it’s got ‘Treat Yourself’ written all over it.
Sip with: Crispy oyster bao buns
www.touchofitaly.co.nz
Misha’s Vineyard Limelight Central Otago Riesling 2014 $28
One of just four Riesling’s to feature in the exclusive “60 Fine Wines of New Zealand” list for Air NZ Business Class, the Limelight cut it because it’s a consummate performer. Packed with incredibly pure citrus aromatics and flavours, it absolutely sings class and crunch. A lovely vein of honeysuckle-like sweetness cuts through the mandarin, lemonade and lime layers and accentuates a red apple bite that carries through the finish. Gorgeous!
Sip with: orange, mandarin, ricotta & radicchio salad.
www.mishasvineyard.com
Madam Sass Central Otago Pinot Noir 2016 $26
Lately this corset-strapped strumpet of a wine has been throwing herself at everyone who looks in her direction or has their ears open, because she’s been bouncing her bustle all over big city radio too. If you’re a fan of big, buxom, cuddly, fruit-soaked pinot noir with a spicy kick then this will sort you out. More rumpty than refined, sweet rather than sophisticated and dangerously sippable.
Sip with: Something sticky, spicy and porky.
www.glengarrywines.co.nz
