THE Central Otago region in New Zealand’s South Island is renowned for its stunning pinot noirs, once only found in the province of France’s Burgundy region.
Now Otago is galloping ahead with such crackers as Mount Difficulty (the first I encountered), Quartz Reef (Majestic) and Stockman’s Station, which is my bottle of the week today.
Cape Grace Semillon Chenin Blanc 2007 (£4.49,
www.waitrosewine direct.com) delivers a raft of pear aromas among really ripe fruit and a clean citrus cut throughout. Another South African is KWV 2007 Chenin Blanc (£4.79, Morrisons), which smells of sherbet lemons and vanilla and show pears and citrus. Lovely.
It’s blackcurrant to the fore in Golden Kaan 2006 Wester Cape Merlot (£5.49,
www.capewineandfood.com), a rounded glass of red with a swirl of chocolate as you swallow.
I tasted cherries and rhubarb rock flavours in Caves Saint-Pierre 2007 Veilles Vignes Cotes-du-Rhone Preference (£5.99 Sainsbury’s), a claret that’s so easy to love.
From New Zealand’s most award-bedecked winery, Villa Maria Private Bin Riesling 2007 (£7.99, Majestic, but £5.99 when you buy two) delivers fresh apples and candy floss aromas and is lemon fresh on the palate. Dry.
Intense black cherry and plum pongs typify Bonterra 2005 Organic Cabernet Sauvignon (£9.49, Sainsbury’s), a spicy, blockbustin’ Californian, with burnt toffee notes completing the mix.
BARGAIN OF THE WEEKChateaux's Selection 2005 Medoc (£4.99, Aldi) is a competent, medium-weight claret from the Medoc region, finishing dry.
It'll love anything from steaks, pizza and spag bol to burgers and kebabs.
WINE OF THE WEEKStockman's Station Central Otago Pinot Noir 2003 (£13.99, Tesco) oozes class, from its chocolate, smoke, raspberry and cherry aromas to its lusty mouth-feel and tangy finish. Fabulous New Zealander with a wondrous pong. Duck confit, or roast lamb.
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