DRINK TO THAT: Happy days of cheap wine a chance to stock up your cellar

We are swimming in a wine glut at the moment and though that’s not good news for the producers and growers, it’s very good news for the canny consumer.

Massive grape harvests coincided with a global downturn in demand as the recession bit. This left New Zealand producers with plenty of wine but fewer international customers, so the benefits have trickled down to the drinker in serious discounting and other promotional efforts.

One of these has been the appearance of previously unknown labels on the supermarket shelves. Many are supermarket-only brands. Others will be the near-ubiquitous "cancelled export order", which will be repackaged and quickly sold.

There are some amazing bargains to be had among them. Most of these wines come from good producers, who have changed the label so their "name" brands aren’t compromised by price-cutting. Even the big brands will be available at a sharp price which makes it a perfect time to stock up a decent cellar.

The joy of the current situation is that there are wines on offer from $6, so it’s easy enough to pick upabottle and try it first. If you like it, nip back to the shop and pick up a case or three. If not — well it was only $6, which wouldn’t buy you a beer in many city bars.

With a restricted harvest this year, these prices won’t last forever, but it’s a great opportunity to buy. It’s not a pleasant time for the grape growers, but it’s finally a chance for the poor hard-done-by winebuyer to raise a glass to a rare victory.

Jacob's Creek Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Often overlooked by snobs because it's Jacob's Creek. Jam-packed with ripe cassis flavours overlaying touches of spice, leather and a hint of eucalyptus.

Selak's Winemaker's Favourite Chardonnay 2009
Gorgeous, ripe Hawkes Bay fruit leaps out of a glass of this wine. It's full of lush melon and peach flavours balanced by a firm acidity and lovely oak handling.