Nobilo Orca Bay Rose, 2006 New Zealand

This is an ontrade exclusive offering from the third largest NZ wine producer so it is only available in pubs and restaurants. It is a little different to other roses from that corner of the globe being a blend of 50% Malbec, 25% Pinotage, 20% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc, all grown around the Hawkes Bay region.

The nose offers plenty of red fruits with a little hint of nettles which probably comes from the Cab Franc. The palate follows the nose with hints of red currents, and hedge berries, medium acidity, quite a full body, and a medium length finish. In a world full of overly sweet, or just plain boring rose this one stands out as a great food wine, or just enjoy it in a bucket of ice lying around in the sun.

Starvedog Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2005, Adelaide Hills, Australia

I have never really been a fan of Australian Sauvignon Blanc, being a converted New Zealand Sauvignon drinker, but this little number from Constellation is a real gem.

This wine is the colour of watered down lemon juice and the nose has crisp clean aromas of crushed lemon leaves,with a hint of green apples.

The palate has plenty of acidity which is a bit rare for an inexpensive Australian Sauvignon, which can often be a bit flabby due to excess heat. But not this one, benefiting from plenty of altitude, it has flavours of passionfruit, guava, and lime and a nice dry lingering finish. A great wine but one not many people are familiar with, even I had never heard of it until I scored a bottle at work the other day.

This was the 2005 vintage and I was sceptical as I thought it could be a bit past it but it is drinking great so get some if you can.