Discerning drinker

Next Tuesday marks the official start of spring but it feels like it’s already here — while the sun is shining, at least. For wine drinkers this time of year presents potential dilemmas, similar to the wearing of shorts: enjoy spring’s arrival to the full or risk feeling chilly? In a spirit of optimism, here are some sauvignon blancs and lighter reds to toast the season.

Domaine Jacky Marteau Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Touraine (M&S, £7.99)

Classic Loire sauvignon at a fair price: crisp, clean, juicy citrus fruit — and with more zip to it than many Kiwi sauvignons.

Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough (Majestic, £19.99 or £15.99 when you buy two. Mail order from thewinesociety.com, nzhouseofwine.co.uk, swig.co.uk: from £14.95)

Former Cloudy Bay winemaker Kevin Judd’s sauvignon has been justly praised since its launch in 2009. Very ripe and juicy yet crisp and well balanced — a style somewhere between Sancerre and what you might expect from Kiwi sauvignon blanc.

The Crater Rim Pinot Noir 2010, Canterbury (Lea & Sandeman, £12.95 or £11.75 as part of a mixed case of 12)

From grapes grown on Waipara’s volcanic soils, as the name suggests, this is a very decent pinot from a cool part of New Zealand’s South Island. Pure, ripe red berry fruit, good acidity and supple tannins: better than just about any red Burgundy at this price.

Les Nivières 2010, Saumur (Waitrose, £7.99)

The Loire Valley’s reds — most, like this one, 100 per cent cabernet franc — can make a fine, fresh choice for spring, though for me they really need food. This is good value, from the reliable Saumur co-op at St Cyr: fresh, crunchy red fruit and chewy tannins.

@hernehillandy