It must be a difficult decision when to release new wines. Does one put just-made wines on the market to ensure continuity and to prevent loss of shelf-spacings and restaurant listings, even though they may be suffering from bottle-shock, or need time to settle? Or is it better to wait until the wines look complete, so that drinkers of new-release wines will be pleased with what they taste? Babich Wines, with the experience of proprietor Joe Babich and long-time winemaker Adam Hazeldine seem to judge wine releases extremely well. The new vintage wines are very drinkable straight away, but improve with time in bottle. Here is a selection of the new 2012 whites, mainly Sauvignon Blanc, and 2011 reds from Hawke's Bay. www.babichwines.co.nz