BOB’S BEST BUYS

2019 Rapaura Springs Pinot Gris, Marlborough $18.99

Why I chose it:

• Pinot Gris is this country’s fourth most popular grape variety (after SB, PN and Chardonnay) and I haven’t featured one on this show for quite a while
• I recently judged in the NZ International wine show where 2019 Pinot Gris, was a very high performer. 24 gold medals.
• Ripe, lush and concentrated tree fruit flavours.

What does it taste like?

• Ripe pear and Gala apple flavours with a squeeze of lime juice. Crisp, refreshing wine that’s dry with a gently mouth-tingling finish. Lovely purity and a silken texture. Pinot Gris drinkers are going to love this wine.

Why it’s a bargain:

• The regular retail price is $18.99 which is good value for a high quality Pinot Gris but I’ve seen it as low as $13.99 which is a super bargain in my book.

Where you can buy it?

• The Good Wine Co, an Auckland online only wine retailer, has it for $13.99. So does Advintage in Hastings. My local New World is selling it at $14.99

Food match?

• I came across an absolutely brilliant food match the other evening. Try it with crackers and blue cheese topped with a slice of chilled, fresh pear. It’s absolutely delicious! Pinot Gris is a pretty versatile wine as far as food is concerned although some can be slightly sweet and should be matched with foods that have a little sweetness.

Will it keep?

• It’s hard to imagine the wine getting any better in the bottle, I’d drink it within the next couple of years while it’s at its freshest best.
  

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