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Wines of the Week: Marisco King's Thorn Marlborough Pinot Gris 2012, Barossa Petit Verdot 2011, Cambalala Fairtrade Pinotage 2012

Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy.

Sunday 17 March 2013 01:00 GMT
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Marisco King's Thorn Marlborough Pinot Gris 2012, Barossa Petit Verdot 2011, Cambalala Fairtrade Pinotage 2012
Marisco King's Thorn Marlborough Pinot Gris 2012, Barossa Petit Verdot 2011, Cambalala Fairtrade Pinotage 2012

Sunday lunch

Marisco King's Thorn Marlborough Pinot Gris 2012

Despite being named in honour of a 12th-century dispute between Henry II and the British ancestors of the owners of this vineyard, this is a very New World wine, from a Kiwi area most associated with brilliant Sauvignon Blanc. This is very different: aromatic, dry, with touches of both honey and woodsmoke and a savouriness on the finish, it's a good wine for those who find some Viognier too assertive. Excellent with poached or roasted salmon or runny cheeses. £12.99 (as part of a purchase of at least six mixed bottles), majestic.co.uk

Midweek meal

Barossa Petit Verdot 2011

Also from an area more famous for other grapes, in this case usually big and bold Shiraz, the Barossa Valley of south Australia shows its subtler style with a staple grape of many Bordeaux blends. A succulent, medium-bodied, highly versatile red, with touches of pepper and cassis and an overall freshness that makes it incredibly easy drinking. Excellent for any Middle Eastern foods, such as baked chicken with harissa paste or vegetable casseroles. £9.99, Marks & Spencer

Bargain basement

Cambalala Fairtrade Pinotage 2012

Although not indigenous – it was created in 1925 – Pinotage is the grape most associated with South African reds. Robust and full of characteristic coffee, tobacco and distinctly vegetal flavours, but with plenty of upfront black fruit, you can feel good about buying this for two reasons: it is both Fairtrade and extraordinary value for money. Needs to be paired with strongly flavoured casseroles or a baked pasta. £4.99, Aldi

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