This month’s pick of the bunch

1 2016 TE AWA SINGLE ESTATE GIMBLETT GRAVELS SYRAH, $28 Aromatic with damson plum, juicy blackberries, spice and a touch of florals, structured but supple with a generous, fruit-rich palate and well-judged oak. A wonderful match for grilled lamb chops.

2 2015 BLACKENBROOK NELSON FAMILY RESERVE PINOT NOIR, $30 Nelson should be on more people’s wine radars, as this elegant, easy to drink wine amply demonstrates. Dark cherry and sweet spice/ cloves with a lovely brightness of fruit – it’s a burst of Nelson sunshine in the glass.

3 2016 GIBBSTON VALLEY ‘LA DULCINEE’ CENTRAL OTAGO PINOT GRIS, $35 Don’t fancy a red wine? Try this sophisticated white instead. Creamy, spicy, fruity elements all mingle wonderfully, there’s a bright acidity and lovely concentration. Off-dry, textural and delicious.

4 2015 SAINT CLAIR PREMIUM MARLBOROUGH PINOT NOIR, $18 Great value pinot is hard to find but the ever-reliable Saint Clair has hit the spot with this silky, vibrant wine. Cherry, red plum, violet and a touch of spice, its nicely balanced acidity gives freshness and lift.

5 2014 MISSION ESTATE HAWKE’S BAY JEWELSTONE ‘ANTOINE’, $48 A polished, concentrated and complex cabernet-merlot with a dense core of savoury ripe fruit and fine tannins. This will unfold beautifully with patience (if you can’t wait, decant before savouring!).