A couple of new methode traditionelle wines from Akarua in Central Otago, a classy prestige cuvee from Deutz, and a sweet pink bubbly show the range of sparkling wines produced in New Zealand.
But first, some merlot cabernet blends.
BEST UNDER $20
$19
Three and a half stars (out of five)
Good value.
A mellowed wine with a hint of bonfire and dried herb aromas but bright plum and berry fruit, spicy savoury oak, a velvety texture and integrated flavours, a fresh finish and long aftertaste. Good drinking now.
$29
Three and a half stars
Average value.
Concentrated dark blackberry and blackcurrant fruit with lots of spicy oak, savoury hints, suggestions of dark chocolate, a peppery edge and firm tannins on the finish.
$28
Three and a half stars
Average value.
Soft velvety blackberries and other dark fruit with suggestions of fruitcake and spice, lead to a firm, textural finish with a long aftertaste.
$36
Three and a half stars
Below average value.
Akarua has recently released a couple of sparkling wines. This stylish, mouth-filling rosé with nutty undertones has a lovely crisp, tight, textural finish with a long aftertaste.
$15
Three stars
Good value.
If you like asti spumante you will enjoy this fragrant pink wine with lots of sweet muscat fruit and a hint of crispness on the finish.
$44
Four and a half stars.
Good value.
The jewel in the crown of the Deutz range of sparkling wines, this prestige cuvee oozes wonderful hints of brioche straight from the oven, toasted nuts, honey, suggestions of creme caramel, with a mouth-filling mousse, intensity, weight and a long finish.
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
Two stars - simple, clean, enjoyable wine; three stars - good wine with varietal characteristics; four stars - very good wine with some outstanding characteristics; five stars - outstanding wine with balance and harmony that leaves you with a sense of wonder.
