Steve Bird Signature Series Pinot Noir (Marlborough NZ) Steve’s notes – Big Barrel’ refers to Steve’s unique roll fermentation method in big, 1000 litre French oak fudres. This results in a gentle extraction of color and tannins from the grapes and gives the wine’s magnificent texture. The picturesque hillside site in Marlborough’s Southern Whither Hill where the grapes for this wine are grown is a true hidden gem; a tiny block that’s just right for a family operation like Steve Bird Wines. Here, it has produced a genuinely impressive Pinot Noir with earthy, spicy notes in support of the rich, dark-fruit aromas. On the palate it is deeply flavored and lushly textured with supple, silky tannins. This is a superb partner for crispy duck breast. $24.99

Steve Bird Signture Series Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough NZ) Steve’s notes – Crafted with fruit sourced from a stony, alluvial site in the heart of Marlborough’s Wairau Valley, this wine is typically pale and limpid in its youth yet bursting with vibrant, ripe, citrusy aromas and notes of fresh-cut herbs. The palate is focused and concentrated and the lemon-lime citrus favors mingle with fragrant passionfruit. There is an artful balance of richness and fine acidity which makes this wine a perfect accompaniment to the freshest seafood dishes, particularly oysters on the shell. $16.99

Manu Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough NZ) Steve’s notes – A vibrant wine, pale straw in color with slight green hues at its edge. It is vibrant and tasty, packed with flavors of lime, stone-fruit and fresh herbs. The palate is powerful and fruity showing refreshing acidity and pleasing weight in the mid-palate. The flavors all flow to a dry finish with impressive persistence. $13.99

Mulderbosch Rose’ (South Africa) Crisp and refreshing with a nose of grapefruit, strawberries and guava framed with a hint of spice. The slightly dry, medium-bodied palate shows pomegranate and berry fruit which ends in a clean finish. A versatile food wine or solo sipper served chilled. $14.99