Five New Zealand wines for excellent midsummer sipping
They’re the new New Zealand wines
Canadians are big fans of New Zealand wines, particularly its sauvignons blancs, which make up more than 75 per cent of what that country produces. Collectively, we consume copious quantities every day. But N.Z. also offers seriously good pinots noirs, pinots gris, rieslings and chardonnays—and now you can find some stunning examples here. The LCBO has created a destination store at its 1838 Avenue Road outlet, which features high-end Kiwi wines, with heady point scores to match. The best part: you can taste them before you buy.
Craggy Range 2013 Te Kahu Gimblett Gravels
$34 | Hawkes Bay | 92 Points
This mid-weight merlot-cabernet blend has lovely blackberry, fresh herbs and smoky flavours, with an almost gravelly texture. Will age. LCBO Avenue Road 189067
Black 2012 Estate Riesling
$32.55 | Waipara Valley | 93 Points
From a family-owned vineyard north of Christchurch comes this brilliant riesling with complex apricot, petrol, thyme, ginger, lemon and flinty nuances. LCBO Avenue Road 209790
Dry River 2012 Chardonnay
$69.15 | Martinborough | 95 Points
Dry River wines are designed for aging, and this amazing chardonnay will live a decade. The nose is reserved but fine, with lemon custard, green pear, subtle spice and toast. LCBO Avenue Road 209758
Valli 2011 Pinot Noir Waitaki Vineyard
$83.30 | North Otago | 94 points
The finesse and complexity of this maturing pinot is head-filling. Expect lifted cran-cherry fruit, fresh dill, light toast and smoke. Outstanding length. LCBO Avenue Road 209899
Trinity Hill 2013 Syrah
$22.95 | Hawkes Bay | 91 Points
The Hawkes Bay region is a new fount of supple syrahs, and Trinity Hill is a leader of the genre. This has peppery, violet, blueberry and bacon flavours with a vanilla sheen. Fresh, smooth and charming. Scattered Vintages 194274
