The season has changed and so has your life. No one is wearing jandals in the supermarket anymore. It’s now dark when you sit down to watch Shortland Street each night and leaving the bed in the morning is starting to feel like someone is going out of their way to hurt your feelings.

But it doesn’t all have to be doom and gloom… especially not where your tastebuds are concerned. And let’s be honest, those guys play quite an important role in our lives. We’ve put together our top picks for how you can let your palate dwell for a little bit longer in the gorgeous summer season.

Aronui Rosé

Ruby red and layered with delicate florals and sweet berries, this gorgeous tipple is summer in a bottle. The sweetness of seasonal fruits is perfectly balanced with a hint of both acidity and creaminess, making this a very pleasant journey for the tastebuds and taking them right back to the sea and the sand.

Tohu Pinot Gris

The long dry finish that wraps up the fruity, spicy beginning of Tohu Pinot Gris sets this white apart from other wines. The stainless steel fermentation is vital in really showing the fruit off in this unique drop. Strong notes of peach, lychee and pear shine through too, adding to summery bliss.

Jules Taylor Sauvignon Blanc

White flesh nectarines, passionfruit, and summer fruit salads are prominent on the palate in this beautiful Marlborough-made sauvignon blanc. It’s well-established acidic body fused with notes of tropical fruits make for a perfect balance. This memorable sauvignon blanc has a long and dry finish (just like your summer should have) that we think you’ll love.

Church Road McDonald Series Chardonnay

A lightly chilled glass of this summery chardonnay is all one needs to be transported back to the days of sunshine and happiness. Notes of melon, grilled peach and honey roasted nuts combine in a full body to make this one irresistible drop.