Best New Zealand wines to have on hand for hosting

With the social season in full swing, it's time to set the table and make sure every detail is just right – including the wine selection. A well-chosen bottle can set the tone for the evening, sparking laughter, conversation, and unforgettable moments. But with so many options, where do you start? Here’s a guide to some of the finest New Zealand wines you should have on hand for hosting to ensure your table is one to remember.

Rich reds

Felton Road’s Bannockburn Pinot Noir is one of Central Otago's standout wines, known for its depth and elegance. With a bouquet of berries, cherries, and subtle earthiness, with a hint of spice, it perfectly pairs with roast duck and mushroom risotto, as well as creamy cheeses like Brie, and will elevate any occasion.

The Craggy Range Te Muna Road Syrah showcases the best of Hawkes Bay’s terroir, bursting with aromas of dark cherries, plums, and a touch of black pepper. It offers a delightful balance of fruit and spice, complemented by hints of smoked meat and floral notes, and is great with grilled lamb or beef dishes, making it an excellent choice for casual gatherings or festive celebrations.

For an impressive yet affordable red, stock up your cellar with Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Noir. Sourced from the Marlborough region, this wine offers vibrant flavours of cherry, plum, and a hint of spice. It’s a great choice for those seeking quality on a budget and pairs well with chicken, salmon, and pasta.

Crisp Whites

Cloudy Bay Vineyards is one of the winemakers that put Marlborough on the map. Their 2023 Sauvignon Blanc bursts with notes of honeydew melon, passionfruit, citrus and blackcurrant leaf. Its crisp acidity and mineral backbone make it an ideal companion for oysters and other seafood. It's also a great match for green salads.

Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay showcases complex layers of ripe peach, citrus, and subtle oak. Fermented in French barrels at Kumea River Wines in Auckland, it balances richness with refreshing acidity, making it a standout choice for dishes like roasted chicken or creamy pasta.

Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent, affordable choice from the Marlborough region. Known for its bright, zesty flavours of lime, passionfruit, and green apple, it boasts a refreshing palate with a crisp finish. Perfect for casual gatherings and ideal sip to enjoy on a sunny day, this wine pairs wonderfully with seafood.

Sparkling delights

No festive event is complete without a few bottles of bubbles. The award-winning Quartz Reef Méthode Traditionnelle Vintage 2017 Blanc de Blancs is one that will wow. This exceptional sparkling wine, meticulously handcrafted in the stunning Central Otago wine region, pairs beautifully with shellfish, crab, and lobster.

Oyster Bay’s pretty in pink Sparkling Cuvée Rosé NV combines zesty Chardonnay grapes with fragrant Pinot Noir grapes for a delightful blend. The result is an affordable, fresh, and lively sparkling wine that will add plenty of fizz to your festive celebrations.