Argentina, Italy and our own Central Otago all feature on the winners podium this weekend, let’s all run over and take selfies with them… Ernesto Catena Animal Natural Vineyards Malbec 2013 $31 I was seduced by the rich, sweet choco-espresso note on the nose and the lift of dried herb and earthy, succulence in this … Read More
Current Columns
Sticks Yarra Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $29
Here’s an ultra-fresh, leafy cabernet that’s loaded with blackberry, boysenberry and ribsticking raspberry notes. The acidity is gentle, yet adds to the powdery grip of the tannins around your back teeth. There’s even a smidge of roast beetroot and cocoa powder on the finish also. Sip with: venison burgers For local stockists email daberhart@redwhitecellar.co.nz
Flying Sheep Hawke’s Bay Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 $35
Crafted by the talented team at Osawa Wines comes this berry-focused, plum-packed and velvety textured red. I love the red fruit, pepper and dried herb layers that are stitched together with solid acidity and sinewy tannins. Sip with: truffled beef tournedos www.osawawines.co.nz
Esk Valley The Hillside Hawke’s Bay Malbec Merlot Cabernet Franc 2010 $69
Esk Valley’s ‘The Terraces’ is a magical blend of fruit grown in a tiny, 28 year old terraced vineyard overlooking the winery. Occasionally there are stunning parcels of wine which don’t make it into the final blend and winemaker Gordon Russell has decided to create this, a sister blend called Hillside. Rich, powerful and erupting … Read More
Canvas column week commencing 11th February, 2017
We make bonza Bordeaux blends Down Under, but if you want to spend 10 days touring the real place with me in May, visit www.worldexpeditions.co.nz, use keyword search ‘Yvonne’ et voilà! Esk Valley The Hillside Hawke’s Bay Malbec Merlot Cabernet Franc 2010 $69 Esk Valley’s ‘The Terraces’ is a magical blend of fruit grown in … Read More
Escarpment Nina Rosé 2016 $24
Larry McKenna is the high priest of pinot noir and every iteration he turns his hand to tends to err on the excellent side. This is the first time he and his team have crafted a rosé and it’s darn lovely, especially if you’re driving down the dry end of the road. Boasting gumtingling acidity, … Read More
Château Riotor Rosé 2015 $19.99
If you prefer your rosé with a bit of meat on its bones, this is your thing Chandler Bing. Château Riotor is located in the heart of the Massif des Maures region in Provence and this spicy, earthy rosé is crafted from a blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah. Cranberry, redcurrant, juicy plum and hints … Read More
La Prima Vita Rosé 2015 $18
You know that classic flavour of biting into a strawberry that’s juuuuuust on the cusp of ripeness – that’s exactly what you’ll get in your first sip. Ballet-shoe pink and packed with basil and blackcurrant leaf loveliness, it’s dry, snappy and supple on the finish. Cinsault and Grenache-based, it’s classy-cool, like Madonna’s ‘Vogue’ routine running … Read More
Canvas column week commencing 18th February, 2017
“It’s too hot outside and I’ve run out of Rosé!” screamed my friend via text recently. “Don’t fret” I replied, “these three bottles will be with you pronto!” La Prima Vita Rosé 2015 $18 You know that classic flavour of biting into a strawberry that’s juuuuuust on the cusp of ripeness – that’s exactly what … Read More
Jip Jip Rocks Sparkling Shiraz NV $30
Serve chilled to enhance the sexy cherry, blackcurrant and deeply plummy flavours, this spicy, sweetly peppered sparkler is seriously seductive. Rich, indulgent and supremely textural, now is the time to give up your sparkling shiraz virginity. Sip with: Chocolate anything… www.unitedcellars.co.nz