STOCK UP ON MICHAEL COOPER’S BEST BUYS

Stock up now, if you’ve grown accustomed to drinking good NZ wine at low, low prices says New Zealand’s pre-eminent wine writer Michael Cooper.

According to Cooper, who tomorrow launches his 21^st annual Buyer’s Guide to New ZealandWines ($39.99 RRP, Hodder Moa), the thirst for Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir in world markets is intensifying, but production from the 2012 vintage has slumped. The glut is gone and the five-year period of price-slashing is about to end.

“After huge harvests in 2008, 2009 and 2011, New Zealand’s production fell by 18 per cent in 2012,” he says.

If you do plan to buy up while prices are still low then the Buyer’s Guide is essential reading. With independent and unbiased tasting notes on 3260 New Zealand wines, this annual will aid both wine aficionadas and more casual consumers.

Plus, every year Michael announces his Best Buy white and red wine to steer drinkers in the direction of outstanding value at a great price.

This year’s best white is Spy Valley Marlborough Chardonnay 2011. It retails around $20, which Cooper describes as a steal.“For its modest price, this is an unexpectedly refined and elegant wine,” he says.
 The Bookman is a Chardonnay drinker so when in my local supermarket an hour ago I bought their entire stock - 7 bottles!  I warned the wine manager about this forthcoming announcement and suggested he should buy up large!

Bannock Brae Estate Goldfields Pinot Noir 2010 is the best red. If you’re looking for an outstanding Pinot Noir from Central Otago at a sharp price this is the wine for you.

“It comes highly recommended and has won numerous awards, yet you can buy it for under $30.”

Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s Guide to New Zealand Wines goes on sale tomorrow,Tuesday 12 November in print and eBook format. 

Visit www.michaelcooper.co.nz for more information.