With all the hype and hysteria about KFC’s new doubledown burger stimulating queues at local outlets we can’t ignore this culinary direction and so I suggest a few wine matches. Now, when matching wine to fatty or greasy food a handy rule of thumb is to go for something dry, relatively high in acidity and preferably with some palate weight. My picks would be a dry Pinot Gris like the Quartz Reef 2010 ($33.00), which is dry and elegant, with a nose of juicy pear and florals, a nuttiness on the palate and is comfortingly weighty or the Millton Chenin Blanc ($35.00) from Gisborne, which is quite simply one of my favourite wines. These wines also go exceptionally well with real food. Try sticky asian-spiced pork belly or chicken in a creamy sauce.
 I have set myself a challenge this month to try as many new wines as possible, and the Waiheke wines expo on Tuesday 24th is an excellent opportunity to try some fantastic wines. Waiheke is a small and relatively new winegrowing region that is carving out a reputation for crafting ultra premium Bordeaux-style reds of considerable longevity. Syrah is a new focus, and some spectacular examples are being produced. Waiheke’s not just about reds, though. There’s some beautiful Chardonnay and Viognier being made now too, and I’m particularly excited to see what the new releases are looking like.
Because of economies of scale and the relatively intensive work that the vineyards require, the Waiheke wines can be fairly expensive, so this is a perfect opportunity to try some wines that might normally be a bit outside of the normal budget. Cable Bay, Destiny Bay, Hay Paddock, Man O’ War, Miro, Obsidian, Passage Rock, Peacock Sky, Poderi Crisci and Stonyridge will be in attendance, and this is an exclusive opportunity to try things like the legendary Stonyridge Larosse. What’s not to love? For more information and tickets contact jennywaihekewine@gmail.com or 027 7120384. Session runs from 4 – 7pm, and tickets cost $25.00.
Wine of the week – Millton Chenin Blanc 08
All KFC related flippancy aside, this is truly one of my favourite wines! James Millton produces organic and biodynamic wines of incredible finesse and personality, and this is not only delicious but also versatile. There are honeyed apple and spring blossoms on the nose, and this is a wine that is at once delicate and vibrant, with a slight hint of funk hinting at a depth of character behind the cute fruit. There’s a refreshing acidity (which is why it can cut through even quite rich food), but a certain texture to it that doesn’t rake your mouth. Try this and make a new friend.