Enjoy it now, or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant before serving.

The aromatic Gewurztraminer grape is most commonly associated with Central Europe, but some daring New World wine-makers have brought a new twist to this playful varietal. Rippon is a family-owned and operated winery, located in Central Otago, the heartland of New Zealand’s South Island.

The Mills family have been growing grapes in Central Otago for over a century, and are now being guided into an age of biodynamic farming by fourth-generation farmer Nick Mills. He specialises in bringing a touch of elegance and class to fruit-packed, aromatic varietals, such as Riesling, Pinot Noir and Gewurztraminer.

The nose is alive with notes of tropical fruit, florality, nectar and honey - look for whiffs of guava, honeysuckle, mango, apple and peach, with subtler hints of spice. The fruits were aged on the lees before bottling, imparting a wonderfully round mouthfeel and taming some of the spicy elements. It is an approachable, easy-drinking wine, yet those at Rippon manage to maintain a precise and sophisticated character on the palate. Look for flavours of stone fruit, peach and pear, mingling with hints of minerality, light, refreshing acidity and honey. Consider pairing this with sweet, hearty vegetable dishes such as butternut squash, or a seafood platter.