New Zealand's claim to wine fame is Sauvignon Blanc of course. It accounts for over 70 per cent of the production and 85 per cent of its exported wine. The exuberant style is recognizable – grassy, gooseberry, often cunningly tropical, but always fresh, crisp and vibrant. What's not to like? May 5 is International Sauvignon Blanc Day so fans will rightly be guzzling their favourite Kiwi Savvies with gusto.
While I don't want to be accused of trying to sway you away, I do want to encourage sipping beyond New Zealand's flagship grape, as well. There's a small slice of the pie left over for equally delicious Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Syrah, for example. What I appreciate in all of these is the purity of fruit that echoes the pristine environment from which they hail. Though New Zealand's climate is cool, the growing season is long, allowing intense flavors to build up slowly all while retaining a thirst-quenching backbone of acidity.
If you wish to immerse yourself in its vivid flavours, you can sign up for the Great New Zealand Wine Tiki Tour on Thursday, May 4 from 7-9:30pm at The Terminal City Club. Tickets are $65.
Or just commit to branching out with one of the recommendations below.
2015 Matua, Pinot Gris, Gisborne $15.49
BC Liquor Stores
When you're looking for something less pungent and a little richer than Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand has you covered with Pinot Gris. The Matua is an affordable option. Still lively and clean it offers plenty of luscious pear, nectarine and peach blossom aromas and flavours. Finishes with a kiss of sweetness.
2014 Dog Point, Chardonnay, Marlborough $53-60
Private Wine Stores (Marquis Wine Cellars, Everything Wine, Kitsilano Wine Store)
The second most planted white in New Zealand, Chardonnay takes a distant back seat to Sauv Blanc. Here's a case for paying it a lot more attention. Lemon curd, apple and discreet white peach can be coaxed from the glass, but it's the flinty, nutty nuances that really create intrigue. Mid-weight with bright acidity and well-integrated oak, Dog Point is a serious, and seriously good Chardonnay.
2015 te Pā, Pinot Noir, Marlborough$29.99
BC Liquor Stores
New Zealand has positioned Pinot Noir as its sequel to Sauvignon Blanc and the te Pā is a fine follow-up. Lovely notes of ripe strawberry and red cherry with subtle baking spice and a touch of vanilla. The texture is soft and silky. Give it a slight chill before pouring a glass.
2014 Burn Cottage, 'Moonlight Race' Pinot Noir, Central Otago $69.47
Marquis Wine Cellar exclusive
Besides posing as the backdrop for the Lord of the Rings movies and boasting the first commercial bungee jumping outpost, the regional of Central Otago has gained a reputation as New Zealand's hot spot for premium Pinot Noir. Moonlight Race captures the essence of the area with its lush and full expression replete with black cherry, thyme, violets and licorice.
2015 Te Mata, Syrah, Hawke's Bay $36
Private Wine Stores (New District)
Syrah represents a mere one per cent of wine production in New Zealand so you'll need to be persistent tracking down the rare bottle that makes it here. I promise it's worth it. They're usually compared to France's restrained examples but in that pure fruited New Zealand way. The Te Mata is co-fermented with Viognier which seems to boost its gorgeous floral edge. Snappy black pepper notes follow leading to a polished and layered palate of supple plum and black raspberry.
Prices exclusive of taxes
