As with table wines, the proper service of champagne and dessert wines enhances their enjoyment. The temperature at which these wines are stored and served is important. Glassware, too, makes a difference and is an important consideration.

There is some debate about the importance of stemware and its relevance to the enjoyable consumption of wine. I, for example, have a wide selection of glasses for Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy, white wine and even Chianti in my home.

Having already covered Australia and much of America, I felt it was time to look at the wines of New Zealand. On being asked, most wine drinkers will admit to knowing sauvignon blanc from New Zealand and maybe a little pinot noir.

Areas of California that have been attracting more attention in recent years are Paso Robles, Edna Valley and Santa Barbara, located almost half way between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

They occupy both plains and mountain terrain and are producing some real wines of note. I have been particularly drawn to these wines because of their good value for money, complexity on the palate in many cases as well as good fruit.