Wine: Save it for a special occasion

“I’m saving it for a special occasion”. Hands up if you’re over hearing that one. Today is Saturday, April 11. You’re alive and you’ve also found a quiet moment to read Canvas. That is a special occasion in my book. Celebrate your efforts with something sippable …

Cecilia Brut NV Methode Traditionelle

Rich and lemon-laden, this magic from Marlborough smells delicious. Cashew nuts and custard squares, rising dough and shortbread are all squeezed together inside the bottle but open up gorgeously once in the glass. Crafted from pinot noir (for depth and richness) and chardonnay (for elegance), there's a soft, yeasty note surrounding the creamy, citrus flavours with a squeak of peanut skin texture to give it extra complexity.

Price: $24

Sacred Hill Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir 2014

With its light, ruby colour, aromas of rhubarb crumble, cranberry juice, freshly-turned earth and dried raspberries, smooth, velvety mouthfeel and hints of black tea and cherry cola on the finish, this is a refreshing, youthful pinot that will win friends and influence people. If you feel like sharing, that is.

Price: $25

Leveret Estate Reserve Hawkes Bay Merlot Cabernet 2013

Glossy and deeply coloured with concentrated carmine, this Bordeaux-style red from Hawkes Bay's "vintage of the century" bursts with blackberry, pepper and saucy, sexy spices. Despite having everything balanced and in proportion, there are some exotic quirks on the finish. It's a wolf whistle in a glass.

Price: $29