As the nights draw in, it may be a good time to throw that long-overdue dinner party. Close the curtains, put a log on the fire, turn on the gas or the heat pump, grab a glass of Pinot and start cooking.

This week we feature the Kings Wrath 2009 Pinot Noir, another in the series of lovely wines produced from the Marisco vineyards. The wine is named in honour of the many stories involving the ancestors of the families of de Marisco.
In 1242 and already under suspicion of piracy off the coast of England, one William de Marisco was implicated in an assassination attempt on King Henry the Third. Found guilty of high treason, William and 16 of his associates were sentenced to death.
It is said the King was so displeased with William, he even requested a special punishment be devised for him, known as ‘quartering'.
Following his execution the four parts of William's body were sent to the four corners of the kingdom, as an example of what would happen to those incurring the full vehemence of the King's Wrath.
This lovely Pinot with its floral perfume and characteristics of spice and red cherry, coupled with soft tannins and a definite finish, would be perfect served with game. A lovely duck pate as a starter would be perfect. I cannot go past the gorgeous chicken and duck pate served with pickled orange at Somerset Cottage. Enjoy!

To go in the draw to win a bottle of Marisco King's Wrath Pinot Noir, simply register on www.sunlive.co.nz then send us an email telling us what characteristics the wine shows. Send your answer, along with your name, contact address and phone number to [email protected] with the subject line 'SunLive Marisco King's Wrath Pinot Noir Competition”.
Entrants must be aged 18 years or over. Entries must be received by May 12. Only people registered on SunLive are eligible to win.

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