Mary Downey picks out four classy New Zealand wines
WHITE
Framingham Classic Riesling, Marlborough 2001. Textbook example of a tasty off-dry Riesling, low in alcohol but flavour-packed with a lingering pineapple tang. A star with Chinese chicken or seafood dishes. From Corkscrew, Chatham St; Molloys; Kellys, Clontarf; Jus de Vine, Portmarnock; Capranis, Ashford, €14.95-€15.95.
Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2003. Exuberant Marlborough Sauvignon with refreshing green gooseberry zing and a hint of passion fruit fanning out in a long finish. From Cabot & Co, IFSC; Vaughan Johnsons, Temple Bar; Hogans, Rathfarnham; Bradys, Shankill; Halpins, Gorey; Mortons, Galway and many others, about €15.99.
RED
Matua Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2002. Easygoing Pinot with nice soft fruit and gentle spice at a nice gentle price. Available from McCabes, Blackrock, Foxrock & Vaults, Harcourt St; O'Briens; Jus de Vine, Portmarnock; Greenacres, Wexford; Vineyard, Galway; O'Donovans, Cork and many others, about €13.99.
Mount Edward Pinot Noir, Central Otago 2002. This my favourite New Zealand Pinot Noir, and I don't think I'm biased because its maker, Alan Brady, is Irish.
This is a glorious wine - silky, sexy and subtle, delivering long ripples of flavour. It is available from James Nicholson, see www.jnwine.com, €34.75.