Lively Pet-Nat right here, with flavours of green apple and lemon meringue, and a little edge of fresh herbs. Made from the Racecourse Block at Marathon Downs, it’s racy indeed, with a summery juiciness.

Marathon Downs is a station in the Awatere Valley that’s been in the hands of Jess Barnes’ family since being drawn from the ballot. Of the 400 hectares, 38 are planted with vines. Jess and her partner Nick Pett are bloody delightful people, and they apply the extensive experience and talent they’ve gained working with other producers to great effect. The wines are stylish and playful but precise.