WHAT I’M DRINKING
Abel Méthode Cider 2018 500ml
This bottle-fermented cider uses the same approach as with champagne. It showcases flavours of baked pears and apple with layers of yeasty autolysis and a ginger twist. Natural carbonation carries the flavours and refreshes the palate and the 7 per cent alcohol harmonises flavour and texture. abelwine.com
Radburnd Syrah 2018, Hawke’s Bay Kate Radburnd is one of New Zealand’s most respected winemakers. This wine is simply delicious with a pure-fruited bouquet, flavours of raspberry and wood smoke, red liquorice and sweet meat then dark spices. Tense, youthful and vibrant with firm tannins, bold acidity and a lengthy finish. radburndcellars.co.nz
Jules Taylor Grüner Veltliner 2019, Marlborough
Jules Taylor has been making premium wines from the Marlborough region for 20 years. This 20th anniversary release grüner has a distinctive perfume of white spice, white-fleshed fruits, pineapple and citrus. There’s no mistaking the herb and tropical fruit combination. julestaylor.com
Linden Estate Destination Series Chardonnay 2019, Hawke’s Bay Established in 1971 by the Van der Linden family, the current winery facility was built in 1991. On the nose and palate this enticing and complex wine has flavours of stoney soils and stone fruits, oak and toast, lees and baked custard. Creamy with a flinty quality. linden estatewinery.co.nz
Curatif Four Pillars Negroni
There’s no denying a pre-mix cocktail that tastes great is sometimes hard to find, but no longer. When all you need is a tipple at the hotel before heading out for dinner, this is the answer. I discovered this negroni hit the spot when poured over a few cubes of ice and garnished with orange peel. curatif.com
Finery 0% Cocktails
I have to admit that there are days when a ready-made cocktail is what I’m craving. But a low or non-alcohol version is often hard to find. Brand new to the market is Finery. It’s made right here in Aotearoa and there are a few flavours to select from. My favourite flavour is the Ginger Green Tea, Honey, Mint & Lemon. finerycocktails.co.nz