Wine of the Week: December '12

December 2nd

Alpha Domus The Navigator 2009 RRP $28.90
This blend of merlot, cabernet, cabernet franc and malbec is a sweetheart. Strong aromas of blackberry and blackcurrant, with an oak and spice underlay. It packs quite a punch but never feels inelegant. A bargain that's well worth seeking out.

Lindauer Rosé RRP $16
Lindauer is consistently excellent and this won a trophy at the Air New Zealand Wine Awards. A blast of summer in a bottle, with strawberry and raspberry aromas and flavours; it offers serious quality and fun at a silly price.

December 9th

Mahurangi River Garden of Light Rousanne 2010 RRP $39
One of the main issues I have with Matakana wines is the price/quality ratio. Too often they are overpriced and under-deliver, but this, although not cheap,isabitofa goer. Rousanne is not well-known here, but in the Rhone Valley it goes into red wines of great renown. This example is just lovely, a floral, herbal bundle of fruity joy. It has a slightly lemony character with a hint of tea in the background. Worth tracking down and trying, and great to see people using different varieties here.

December 16th

Huntaway Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2012 RRP $24.99

The Huntaway wines have always had a quiet excellence to them and this takes things to new heights. Lively, racy and packed with berry aromas, it’s classic sauvignon, but with the sweaty armpit tones replaced by a nettle-like character. Very smart wine and it’s at a very smart price on special.

December 30th

Palliser Estate 2007 Methode Traditionelle RRP $48.57

An elegant wine that has been winning plenty of plaudits this vintage, including an Air New Zealand gold medal. It has a nicely complex nose, with white peach and citrus overlaying a bready yeast autolysis note. On the palate it’s almost bone dry, with crisp acid and elegant fruit backed up by a fine mousse. An ideal pre- dinner drink.