Wine: Akarua Rua 2001 Pinot Noir, Central Otago $27 

Why I chose it: 

- It is my best buy of 2022 

- Really good PN doesn’t often dip below $30 

- Everyone who loves PN as much as I do should try this wine 

- Perfect with ham and turkey 

What does it taste like? 

- Akarua’s entry level Pinot Noir famously offers great value. Bright fresh wine with pronounced fruit flavours. Sweet cherry, ripe plum, a hint of floral and an attractively spicy finish. 

Why it’s a bargain: 

- I’d be happy if I had paid $45 for it. 

Where can you buy it? 

- Whisky and More, Waikato $22.99; Winesale.co.nz, Lower Hutt $22.99; The Good Wine Co, Auckland $24.99 

Food match? 

- Smoked salmon is my favourite 

Will it keep? 

- Drink within two years while it remains fresh and fruity 

Wine Tip 

- Don’t drink red wine too warm. Pop your glass of wine in the fridge for 5-10 minutes (it takes longer to chill the whole bottle)