Wine: 3 sips for the week

Mills Reef Hawke's Bay Merlot Cabernet 2011 $18

This is an absolute plum and spicefest in a glass. Loaded with bright berry fruit, yet also very smooth, chocolatey, and with a hint of liquorice, which is followed by a warming, meaty mouthfeel. Great value. www.millsreef.co.nz

Craggy Range Te Muna Road Pinot Noir 2011 $43

Sourced from one of the most spectacularly scenic vineyards in the Martinborough region comes this shiny new pinot, which is already showing excellent depth of flavour for one so young. Sexy and fragrant with hints of mace, truffle, hedgerow fruit and cherry while in the mouth it already has fruit intensity, power and presence. Buy now and keep for a rainy day. www.craggyrange.com

Saint Clair Marlborough Premium Merlot 2010 $21

This has such a gorgeous aroma: boysenberry, plum with a waft of espresso, while in the mouth it is ripe, juicy and very, very drinkable. Merlot from Marlborough is looking rather marvellous indeed! www.saintclair.co.nz