Wine: either you LOVE it, or you know hardly anything about it. So what do you do if you’re in the second category, and you're heading to dinner with the in-laws or going to a BYO date with someone you'd really like to impress? You have two choices. You can either (a) pray to the gods of organics (Ceres or Demeter would be good options) and take a lucky dip in the wine aisle, or (b) ask one of our friendly staff for suggestions.
We took option (b) and asked Teva, our Head of Retail and resident wine hotshot, for some simple tips on tipples that will make everyone happy. As always, please enjoy in moderation.
Teva Stewart, Head of Retail for Commonsense
1. Momo Pinot Noir
“Top Pick”
$25.99, NZ, organically certified, vegan.
Everything you'd expect from a New Zealand Pinot Noir - ripe red fruit, hints of spice and a juicy yet light finish. Perfect for pairing with anything from red meats, Mediterranean vegetable dishes or simple cheese platters.
2. Crazy by Nature Sirius White and Cosmo Red
“Impress your friends!”
$22.99, $28.99 NZ, organically certified.
A perfect pair by Crazy by Nature wines!
"In 1984 they thought we were crazy to grow our grapes organically. We've spent the last 35 years proving that they were right" - James Millton.
Cosmo Red and Sirius White are two blends from Millton Vineyard - New Zealand’s first organic and biodynamic vineyard. This a great opportunity to enjoy some of the creative winemaking available in New Zealand.
Sirius White is ripe with apricots, peaches and honeysuckle, while the Cosmo Red brings the warmth and depth of a loved one’s embrace! Put one of each on any dinner table and you will not be disappointed.
3. 27 Seconds Pinot Gris
"Do good, enjoy good”
$23.99, NZ, organically certified, vegan.
27 Seconds are a vineyard with a mission - to end modern day slavery. With 100% of their profits going towards this cause it’s an easy decision to pick up a bottle. However, the fact they make delicious wine is a serious bonus! The Pinot Gris is a beautiful mix of pear, honey and spice, pairing excellently with South Asian flavours or sunny New Zealand summer afternoons!
4. Homer Sparkling Rosé
“Drink it don't think it”
$19.99, NZ, organically certified.
This uplifting sparkling rosé is perfect for parties and picnics. Summer berries make an appearance in this fresh, lively, and fun treat for any occasion.
5. Seresin Chardonnay
"Trusty favourite”
$25.99, NZ, organically certified, vegan.
Following low intervention organic and biodynamic wine making principles is the philosophy of Seresin wine making practices. However, this simple approach delivers wine that is complex, structured and graceful.
If you’re a Chardonnay fan, you'll be impressed by the ripe fruity and floral palate. If you don't think you’re a fan of Chardonnay, this one may just change your mind!
6. Millton Te Arai Chenin Blanc
“Try something different”
$36.99, NZ, organically certified, vegan.
Less common than the big three (Sav Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris), Chenin Blanc offers a neat alternative. This wine is made from hand harvested grapes and is matured without oak, leaving space for the subtle fruity aromas to come through. It’s the perfect accompaniment to light dishes, salads, and fish.
7. Mesta Tempranillo
"The perfect pizza wine!"
$17.99, Spain, organically certified.
This is Teva’s fave ‘value option’ red. It’s a Spanish variety: fruity, juicy, and very tasty. "I had it with pizza last week, and it was perfect" Teva says.
Have we missed out your favourite bottle? We'd love to hear your ideas and suggestions for wine novices. Email us at [email protected] with your top organic wine picks.