October 14th
Wairau River Estate Chardonnay 2011 $20.99
A slightly different take on chardonnay with only about 35 per cent of it getting oak treatment, so this really sets off the ripe fruit notes on the nose. On the palate it sings of rockmelon, peach and nectarine, with just a shading of savoury oak at the back toadda little polish to the creamy textures. A great afternoon chardonnay.
October 21st
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2012 RRP $34.90
The wine world is a predictable one — vines bloom, grapes grow, they get picked and six months later Cloudy Bay releases a stunning sauvignon blanc. This year’s is no different; extravagantly perfumed, with zesty lime and passionfruit notes on the nose and flavours that pack a real punch. Part of the wine was barrel- fermented, which gives it a satisfying weight, too. Not your ordinary savvy, instead this is a real gem.
October 28th
Thornbury Pinot Gris 2011 RRP $17
Thornbury is an interesting label. It's part of the Villa Maria stable and is often for sale at ridiculously low prices. This wine is a bargain at full price and a real steal at $17, which it often goes for. It's lively and floral on the nose, with hints of pear and rose petals, while the palate is weighty enough to keep you interested and light enough to be refresh- ing. Perfect summer drinking, with deep flavours of pear, citrus and honey.
