ONLINE TASTING - Kia Ora, Welcome to New Zealand

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ONLINE TASTING - Kia Ora, Welcome to New Zealand

  For the latest MWS Online Tasting, we're going to take a look at New Zealand. It's the place that for many people defines Sauvignon Blanc, so we're going to kick off with one. But The Land of the Long White Cloud has much more to offer. So after wiping the Savvy (hate that name) from our lips, we're going to move on to see just how good the country's Pinot Noir can be. I would recommend buying in advance:

• 1 bottle of 2019 New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. There's plenty available, but don't be tempted to buy the cheapest around - we'll have a talk about how corners are cut in order to achieve some of the bargain basement prices.
• 1 bottle of New Zealand Pinot Noir. And ideally one from Central Otago - widely available ones include Tesco's Finest and Mud house (Majestic, Waitrose). Otherwise look for Marlborough or Martinborough/Wairarapa, but (again) don't underspend. Of the bigger brands, Villa Maria's Cellar Selection (Waitrose) is the pick - the entry level ones from Villa, Brancott Estate and Oyster Bay are OK if you can't find anything else

These are the sorts of wines I'd want on a summer picnic - although given the current weather conditions, that probably means inside rather than outside. So for food suggestions, I'd go for smoked mackerel, falafels, softer cheeses, tabouleh, even a high-class pork pie or too. I'm salivating already... One ticket will entitle everyone in your household to attend this tasting – make sure you have enough wine to go around!