November 6th
Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve non-vintage RRP $90
A gorgeous Champagne, from a less well-known house. Extended lees ageing gives this a real bready, brioche- like character on the nose, followed by a lifted fruit aroma. On the palate it slips and slides across the tongue like a dancer, leaving hints of vanilla, spiced fruit and even dark ale behind it. Super stuff.
November 20th
Yealands Gruner Veltliner 2011 RRP $24.95
A new-ish varietal here, gruner veltliner is a big deal in Austria and making waves further afield too. Its light, racy style makes it ideal summer drinking and it's also very good with food. The nose is a wash of peach, pear and even apricot, underpinned with a spicy character that makes itself more apparent on the palate. Full and satisfying, while still being clean and crisp, a lovely wine.
November 27th
Huntaway Sauvignon Blanc 2011 RRP $23.99
I may have made some disparaging comments about savvy over the years, but this is a lovely reminder of what made it great. From the Wairau Valley in Marlborough, it's zingy, racy and fresh, but with enough weight to keep it interesting. Mouthwatering flavours of citrus and passionfruit prevail and the zesty acidity keeps you coming back for more.
