Ara ‘Single Estate’ Pinot Noir 2011 
Marlborough, New Zealand $23.95 (361279) 13.5% alcohol 
Savory, svelte and subtly charming, the alluring aromas of herbs, dark berry fruit and aromatic bitters presage a stylish wash of sour cherry, red currant and beetroot garnished with cedar and herbs. It’s medium bodied with silky mouth feel and a lingering, balanced and complex finish. There’s structure and purity of fruit throughout. Pour with smoked duck breasts or roast chicken. (Vic Harradine) 


Bridlewood Estate Monterey County Pinot Noir 2012 
Monterey County, California $19.95 (361824) 14.1% alcohol 
This stylish Pinot takes the best from both worlds with a savoury nose and elegance from cool, damp Burgundy and deft balance with ripe, delicious fruit from sunny California. Aromas of savory herbs, tobacco and red berry fruit herald a delightful, balanced wash of ripe dark cherry and mulberry mingling with spice and delectable red cherry tang. It’s medium bodied with creamy smooth mouth feel and lingering finish. How good is that? (Vic Harradine) 


Evans and Tate ‘Metricup Road’ Shiraz 2010 
Margaret River, Australia $22.95 (606905) 14.5% alcohol 
Luscious and concentrated, this showcases great purity of fruit, pin-point balance and oodles of alluring aromas and lip-smacking flavours. Ripe, black cherry and earthy notes mingle with tobacco and savoury bits on the nose. Palate-drenching flavours of ripe, mulberry and spice-infused dark cherry abound on the palate and lingering aftertaste. The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour; pick up a handful. (Vic Harradine) 


Kim Crawford ‘Pansy!’ Rosé 2013 
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand $17.95 (650325) 13.0% alcohol 
This off-dry red blend—63% Merlot, 37% Malbec—dishes up aromas of cherry cordial, spice and red licorice. Deliciously sweet flavours of maraschino cherry and raspberry gum drops bathe the palate persisting through the lengthy finish. It’s light-medium bodied with good texture and plenty of charm. A great sipper or welcoming wine can also be served with baked ham or roast chicken—it’s a crowd pleaser. (Vic Harradine)