Charmian Smith

Booking up 100 years

The children's section of Dunedin's free library service has turned 100, while its book bus has notched up 60 years. Charmian Smith looks at how they are faring in a changing world.

A good riesling is harmonious: it may be dry or sweet or anything in between and it should have a crisp, acidic finish, but if it's harmonious it won't seesaw between sweetness and mouth- puckering acidity. The two opposites will be happily intertwined and the wine will be exciting.

BEST VALUE

In it for the long haul

The irrepressible John Buck of Te Mata Estate in Hawkes Bay was in town last Thursday for his annual presentation of the estate's new-release wines, which was attended by about 80 wine aficionados.

Macaroons hail from grave past

Ossi di morto (bones of the dead) may not be the most enticing name for a biscuit, nor are these little macaroons pretty, but they are delicious.

WINE REVIEW: Sauvignon blanc

Taste a sauvignon blanc and expect to be wowed by the assertive fruit, intensity on the palate and punchy acidity on the finish.

Some have a mean streak that leaves you reaching for another piece of cheese, but others are less masochistic, with a mouthfilling ripeness or a restraining hint of mineral that complements food.

Author reveals suffering of Chinese

In the past couple of decades many stories of the sufferings of the Chinese people have been published in the West. Xinran, who will be talking in Dunedin on Thursday, is one of the more prolific writers of this genre.

Wine review: Gewurztraminer and Rose

Gewurztraminer has a similar rich, mouthfilling intensity to pinot gris but generally has more character. It goes particularly well with Asian food and especially dishes flavoured with ginger. Some of the bigger, drier ones are versatile with a range of dishes. Rosés, well chilled, are ideal for summer. Make the most of them while the good weather lasts.