Peter Morrell tastes the latest warm weather tipples from New Zealand’s most awarded winery for over 30 years and still proudly family-owned

There is nothing like enjoying a glass of fruity aromatic wine with friends or pairing it with lunch on a warm day. I have been sampling some of the wines from Villa Maria, the renown New Zealand producer who make a range of wines which are ideal for summer drinking

Villa Maria Private Bin Lighter Sauvignon Blanc 2015

This Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is my wife’s favourite white as it lighter in alcohol but still delivers the full aromatic flavour of this popular white grape. Weighing in at 9.5% ABV it shows vibrant lime notes in the bouquet which develop into the characteristic herb and grassy flavours in the mouth with added hints of peach and grapefruit. The finish is fruity and sustained.

This wine is an ideal match with shellfish and seafood.

Available from Vino Wines, Islington Wine, The Seriously Good Wine Company, Ellie’s Cellar and Famous Wines with an RRP of £11.30

Villa Maria Private Bin Riesling 2015

Lovely floral aromas on the nose with citrus hints leads to more pronounced flavours of tangerine and grapefruit on the palate. It is well structured and bright in the mouth and leaves a pleasantly sweet finish.

Drink this with fresh summer fruits and Eton Mess

Available frm Waitrose, Majestic, Wine Rack, Booths, Ellies Cellar, The New Zealand House of Wine, Fountainhall Wines, The Strand Wine Company, Bin 21 Limited, The Devine Wine Company (Kent) Ltd, Hailsham Cellars and The Seriously Good Wine Company with an RRP of £10.55

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Sauvignon Gris 2015

This is another wine from Marlborough made from the Sauvignon Gris grape. This is slightly more muted than it’s blanc cousin but still has lovely tropical fruit aromas on the nose. On the palate there are notes of pear and herbs all underpinned with good minerality. The finish is clean and nicely astringent.

This wine would pair well with charcuterie and cheese to counterbalance the richness of the food.

Available from The Co-op, Vino Wines, Partridges of Sloane Street, The Shenfield Wine Company, Brooksby Wines, Famous Wines and The Whalley Wine Shop with an RRP of £14.95

For more on Villa Maria wines visit www.villamaria.co.nz