Jules Taylor Marlborough Pinot Noir 2015
If there's one thing Jules Taylor knows how to do (other than be Superwoman) it's how to craft a solid, character-packed pinot noir. Here's a highly refined, savoury-edged example, with a core of cherry and black doris plum, vanilla and baking spices. Slippery, succulent and with a soft, smoky finish. Sexy. Available at bitewine.co.nz
Sip with lamb tagine.
Heartland Directors' Cut Langhorne Creek Shiraz 2013
With surnames like Tillbrook, Collett and Glaetzer behind this wine, you know it's been made by talented wee things. Slick and glossy in the glass and unveiling wafts of tobacco, pepper, dark berries and that smell of ancient Drizabone coats hanging in the woodshed - it's completely unputdownable (that's a technical term).
Fresh spices merge with a chocolate biscuit texture and a warm, dusty finish.
Sip with lamb kofta kebabs.
Vidal Legacy Gimblett Gravels Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
I was well and truly wowed from the first sip. Just 12 barrels were made of this berry and spice-soaked cabernet crafted by Hugh Crichton and his team. Stitched together with smoke, caramelised oak and dried thyme, this drop also washes the palate with juicy, plush and supremely elegant layers of flavour. A beautifully structured wine. Available at bitewine.co.nz
Sip with old-fashioned roast beef.
