AND TO DRINK…

Drinks editor Yvonne Lorkin suggests matches for these dishes.

1. TIKKA CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS WITH CRUNCHY TOPPING

The whole is definitely greater than the sum of its parts with the Wolftrap Stellenbosch Viognier Chenin Blanc Grenache Blanc 2015 ($22). This apricot, jasmine and citrus oil-scented stunner contains 48% viognier, 41% chenin blanc, and 11% grenache blanc, so it’s intensely fruity. And with a morsel of muskiness, it’s delish with these drums. planetwine.co.nz

2. CHICKEN, EGG AND WALNUT SANDWICHES

The richness of this filling combined with the creamy, luxurious, avocado-y dressing just cries out for a glass of Richmond Plains Nelson Blanc de Noir 2017 ($22.99). Think summer flowers, stone fruits, soft cherry and guava, followed by juicy peach and red apple flavours and a long, chalky texture to finish. richmondplains.co.nz

3. LIME AND SMOKED CHICKEN SOUP

Jalapeños, chillis, coriander, garlic? What you now need is the Ostler Waitaki Grower Selection Gewurztraminer 2017 ($27). Lychee-laden with a twang of natural sweetness, it finishes crispy dry and exotically spiced. So good with this soup! ostlerwine.co.nz

4. CHICKEN MEATBALLS

Pour a glass of the Anna’s Way Marlborough Chardonnay 2016 ($20) to pair with this dish and relish that life is good. Crafted by the talented Louis Vavasour, this generously complex wine is chocka with roast stonefruit, citrus and creamy cashew butter and toasted crumpet characters. arwc.co.nz

5. DUKKAH CHICKEN

One sip of the Squawking Magpie Reserve Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2017 ($19) and you’ll see why this hit of passionfruit, lime, lemonade, and bruised basil is great with these nibbles. Rocking mountains of fresh herbs, it’s so gosh-darn juicy you won’t want to put the glass down! caros.co.nz

6. ZUCCHINI TACOS

A crisp, crunchy rosé is in order with the zesty spices coating the chicken. I love the Bladen Marlborough Pinot Rosé 2017 ($23) because pinot noir is the hero here and that makes their rosé seriously refreshing and raspberry-edged with a classic cherry zing. bladen.co.nz

7. SUMAC ROASTED CHICKEN LEGS

Thor himself would immediately grab a bottle of Epic Thunder APA 500ml 5.8% ($7.80). Its intense hoppiness and huge citrus flavours hammer home the spice and herb notes in the chicken. Massive length of flavour means it’s magic here. craftbeeronline.co.nz

8. CHICKEN KOFTA

The herby, spicy, lemony kofta just sing out for the lifted nashi and nectarine notes and squeak of natural sweetness in the Te Pa Marlborough Pinot Gris 2017 ($19). Its cleansing acidity and a delicate dusting of spice makes it perfect with these nibbles. centrecity.co.nz