Wine: Cop it sweet

Three great wines to try. Photo / NZH

GROOVY NEW LABEL

Tongue in Groove Waipara Valley Riesling 2011 $30

From a new label that includes Pegasus Bay's Lynnette Hudson as winemaker and NZ Summer of Riesling girl, Angela Clifford, as its voice, this impressively intense riesling exhibits flavours of ginger, white pepper, grapefruit zest and mineral whose touch of sweetness is counterpoised by a freshness that makes it appear quite dry. (From www.tongueingroove.co.nz)

BEAUTIFUL BALANCE

Rimu Grove Nelson Riesling 2011 $30

Another wonderfully balanced and mouth-filling off-dry riesling with concentrated notes of lemon, bergamot, honeysuckle and river stones. (From Glengarry, selected Super Liquors.)

DELICIOUS DESSERT

Eureka Straw Wine Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2011 (375ml) $34.99

This sensational stickie derives its sweetness from the fact its grapes - picked at normal ripeness - were laid out on straw to dehydrate, concentrating their flavours and sugars. Oozing rich honeyed notes, tropical fruit, baked peach and a hint of spice and herb, its lusciousness is offset by a fresh, lemony acidity. (From Fine Wine Delivery Company.)