WINE REVIEW: Pinot gris - 2009 and 2010

The popularity and sweet, rich fruitiness, of pinot gris has put some wine lovers off the style. However, more stylish, textural, versions are appearing that are well worth considering.

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BEST VALUE

Terrace Edge Waipara Pinot Gris 2009.
(about $21)

Suggesting lemon and freshly baked biscuits with undertones of nuts and caramel, this powerful, in-your-face, off-dry wine has a rich, oily texture and long aftertaste.

4 stars (out of 5)

Good value

www.terraceedge.co.nz

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8 Ranges Central Otago Pinot Gris 2010
(about $26)

Light, fresh, floral and crisp, this is a charming young wine with fatness and texture on the palate and a zesty finish.

3 stars (out of 5)

Average value

www.eightranges.co.nz

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Rockburn Central Otago Pinot Gris 2010
(about $26)

Fragrant with oodles of fruit - lime, pears, melon and white peach, this is a generous, rich, medium-sweet wine with a fresh, crisp finish.

4 stars (out of 5)

Avergae value

www.rockburn.co.nz

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Quartz Reef Bendigo Central Otago Pinot Gris 2009
(about $29)

Beautifully balanced, this zesty wine hints of lime, ginger and mineral, has a suggestion of toasted nuts, restrained richness and texture, and a tight, dry finish.

4 stars (out of 5)

Average value

www.quartzreef.co.nz

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Greywacke Marlborough Pinot Gris 2009
(about $29)

Complex with hints of fresh coriander, underlying suggestions of nuts, this is harmonious and textural with a long, savoury, satisfying finish.

4 stars (out of 5)

Average value

www.greywacke.com

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Mahi Ward Farm Marlborough Pinot Gris 2009
(about $29)

One of few dry pinot gris, this is taut, textural and stylish, supported but not dominated by rich fruit and restrained oak. It is complex and delicious.

4 stars (out of 5)

Average value

www.mahiwine.co.nz

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• Although wine sent for review is tasted blind to eliminate preconceptions, all wine tasting and evaluation is subjective. These are personal recommendations.

- charmian.smith@odt.co.nz