Merlot/Cabernet varieties, made with grapes from specially selected vineyards in Hawke's Bay and Marlborough.

Gunn Estate spokesman Denis Gunn says the new range represents the brand's strong tradition.

"The Gunn Family has worked the land in Hawke's Bay since 1920 and these wines are about keeping the passion and determination of three generations alive and well," Mr Gunn says.

"The wines express their origins - region, vineyard and site - with true varietal style and quality winemaking," Mr Gunn says.

He says the increasingly popular Gunn Estate White Label range has developed a reputation for delivering reassuring, easy drinking wines and the Reserve range offers wine lovers a step up to premium quality with the assurance of a brand they know and trust.

"Wine drinkers can be confident that the Reserve range will deliver regional New Zealand wines with varietal fruit expression and complexity, while remaining approachable and unpretentious."

Gunn Estate Reserve wines are on sale in supermarkets and other stores throughout the country.

The winemaker's tasting notes and recommended food matches for the 2012 Gunn Estate Reserve range are as follows:

Gunn Estate Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2012

A select blend of wines made from our best vineyards across Marlborough. Aromatically intense, fresh and lively. A wine with abundant citrus, lemongrass, boxhedge, red apple and gooseberry aromas. The wine is rich and lively on the entry to the palate with flavours of gooseberry and pink flesh grapefruit, a great texture and lively acidity to finish.

Food match: Fresh scallops seared with butter and grape seed oil, served with coriander and lime sauce.

Gunn Estate Reserve Pinot Gris 2012

A blend of wines grown in the Awatere and Southern Valleys of Marlborough. Aromas of spices and Nashi pears, deep scented florals, and Turkish delight. A creamy texture on the palate with pear flavours, hints of ginger, and apricot notes. Spicy with a dry almost mineral finish.

Food match: Pork loin medallions with caramelised apple and pistachio couscous.

Gunn Estate Reserve Pinot Noir 2012

A select blend of wines made from some of our best vineyards across Marlborough. A finely crafted wine rich in flavour and texture. Aromas of black cherries, savoury and floral notes abound. The palate has vibrancy of flavour with cherry fruit and dried herbs, together with earthy tones and a supple tannin structure. Great flavour persistence.

Food match: Porcini and Portobello mushroom risotto with parsley and grated parmesan.

Gunn Estate Reserve Merlot / Cabernet 2012

A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Gimblett Gravels and surrounding areas. Aromas of plums and exotic spices combined with dark berry fruits, earthy notes and spicy oak nuances. The palate is rich with dark fruits, a soft texture and a freshness that give great flavour persistence.

Food match: Barbecued beef eye fillet with potato rosti, green salad and red wine jus.

The recommended retail price for the range is $19.99.

For further information visit www.gunnestate.co.nz.

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