A TASTE OF CENTRAL OTAGO

2018 Prophet’s Rock Pinot Gris, $40

Made of fruit from Bendigo and Pisa’s sub-regions, the Prophet’s Rock Pinot Gris should be the benchmark by which all other pinot gris is judged. Think texture and minerality, with an abundance of carefully integrated floral and orchard fruit flavours. prophetsrock.co.nz

2019 Rippon Gamay, $52

For pinot noir lovers who want to try something different. Just pure fruit from the biodynamic Rippon vineyards, with the smallest hint of sulphur added before bottling. Bright, clean acidity meets the juiciest red fruit notes. Serve slightly chilled for peak pleasure. rippon.co.nz

2019 Two Paddocks Pinot Noir, $50

We can’t help but agree when Sam Neill says his Two Paddocks pinot noir “represents the best of Central Otago”. This wine tastes like all the things beloved about the region – bold raspberry and strawberry fruits with a fresh, unwinding core of acidity met with just a hint of savoury character. twopaddocks.com

NV Mount Edward Vermouth, $49

This highly aromatic style of Vermouth uses riesling and chenin blanc fruit for the base, alongside fresh elderflower (picked straight from winemaker Duncan’s home garden). The floral notes jump out of the glass, whilst being deceptively dry and refreshing. mountedward.com

Cardrona ‘Just Hatched’ Single Malt Whisky, $145

An exceptional natural cask-strength bottling, using ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. It is imbued with honey, vanilla and earthy spices with just a hint of white florals, and will mature in the bottle beautifully over time. cardronadistillery.com