Viognier produces full bodied, soft, lush wines and, like chardonnay, can be barrel fermented or oak aged. It does particularly well in Hawkes Bay.
BEST VALUE
$26
Four stars (out of five)
Good value
With hints of citrus, herbs, nuts and mineral, this is mouth-filling and complex, supported and mellowed by oak, enlivened by a fresh acidity and a lingering finish.
$20
Three stars
Average value
A simple, fresh wine with pleasantly sweet fruit, hints of nuts and buttery toast, and lightly crisp on the finish.
$25
Three and a half stars
Average value
Mouthfilling with lively hints of pears and peaches, suggestions of creamy nuts and a fresh, crisp finish
aronuiwines.co.nz
$25
Three and a half stars
Average value
Oozing citrus, nectarine and pineapple with underlying nuances of nuts and toasty oak, this attractive fruity wine is simple but nicely balanced.
$35
Four and a half stars
Good value
Intriguingly pungent, this is rich and intense with mouth-filling fruit hinting of green melon and peach, supported by stylish oak. It's well balanced, persistent and delicious, but may not be for the faint-hearted.
$35
Four stars
Average value
With hints of mandarin, lightly toasted cashews and a suggestion of mineral, this is a crisp, textural wine, well structured and stylish with a long, lively finish.
ANOTHER GLASS
Palliser Estate Martinborough Chardonnay 2013
$39
Four stars
Average value
A sneak preview of a yet-to-be-released chardonnay reveals luscious fruit hinting of citrus, grapefruit, nectarines and melon, and suggestions of creamy nuts. It's complex, well structured and balanced, and will repay further cellaring.
Tohu Marlborough Chardonnay 2013
$22
Three stars
Below average value
With hints of stewed fruit and a suggestion of butter, this unoaked chardonnay is fresh and crisp.
