Pinot gris is the the third-most planted white variety in New Zealand, and one of the most popular. Often slightly sweet with an oily texture and hints of pear, it is best served cold which disguises its sometimes hot, alcoholic finish.
BEST VALUE
$25.50
Four stars (out of five)
Good value
A lively but weighty wine with hints of citrus, pears and nuts, and a textural, dry finish. Beautifully balanced with an attractive aftertaste. Drinking well.
BEST VALUE
$18
Three and a half stars
Good value
Made by Kahurangi in Nelson for Tyrrells in Australia, this is available online. A sweeter style of wine with hints of pear and ripe nectarine, a suggestion of golden syrup and a crisp, tingly finish.
www.tyrrells.com.au/wines/range/trout-valley
$22
Three and a half stars
Average value
Fragrant with floral, herbal notes, ripe pears and nectarines with an attractive creaminess and nicely balanced finish. Simple but charming.
$22
Three and a half stars
Average value
Rich in the mouth with hints of ripe pears and peaches, a suggestion of nuttiness, and a nicely balanced finish. Attractive.
$25
Three and a half stars
Average value
A hint of pear and citrus blossom, round in the mouth with a suggestion of nuts and a well-balanced finish. Drinking nicely.
$31
Four stars
Average value
A delicious older wine hinting of ripe fruit and golden syrup, medium sweet with complexity and texture from three years bottle age.
ANOTHER GLASS
Palliser Estate Martinborough Pinot Gris 2012
$28.50
Three and a half stars
Below average value
A subtle wine with an oily texture, a hint of pears, peaches and nuts, and a textural, well balanced finish.
Brancott Estate Special Reserve Marlborough Pinot Gris 2012
$29
Three and a half stars
Below average value
A fragrant wine with lively hints of citrus blossom, lots of ripe, concentrated fruit and an off-dry finish. Attractive when chilled.
