EATING chips. Of the many sacrifices made for a career in journalism, this must rate as one of the easiest.

But when it is in relation to a wine tasting, it takes a little explanation.

The simple one is that it was related to the promotion of several New Zealand varieties produced at the Villa Maria vineyard.

Marketing gurus acting for the Kiwi winemakers are promoting their latest tipples as being ideally matched alongside some of the UK's favourite comfort foods.

Chips, as it happens, are said to be the perfect foil for the Villa Maria Private Bin East Coast Chardonnay 2009.

So, ultimate professionals that we are at the Herald Express, chips were duly served up after a day at the office had ended, and the screwcap was removed.

The fruity aromas and citrus notes of the inter-regional blend do actually match up well with the simple flavours in a bowl of chips, while there is enough acidity to cut through the fat content from the treat foods.

Chicken dishes and antipasto platters are also said to be well suited to the white varietal, which is 95 per cent chardonnay and five per cent verdelho and viognier.

There is enough structure and flavour to stand up to the strong flavours in 'comfort' dishes, even those featuring moderate spices.

Villa Maria produce their East Coast Chardonnay from fruit grown in three separate regions of New Zealand, including Gisborne (75 per cent) and Hawkes Bay (17 per cent) on the North Island, and Marlborough (eight per cent) in the South Island.

As a result, the wine offers a wide range of flavours, and a broad spectrum on the palate. If only you have the tastebuds to appreciate them — so easy on the chips.

The second wine promoted as a match with comfort food is the Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Noir 2008.

Produced solely from fruit grown in the Marlborough region of New Zealand (near the top of the South Island), it is boasted to be perfect as an accompaniment to pizza, pasta and even pies.

The slightly more expensive of the two wines, it will probably be in the upper price bracket for most households — but has an easy drinking style which makes it great for a night in on the sofa.

It is a combination of fruit from the Awatere and Wairau Valleys, it is also well suited to light Asian dishes, red meats and cheeses.

Offering a bouquet of cherries and dark fruit, it is a classic Marlborough pinot noir, with elements of spice in a complex structure on the palate.

Soft tannins combine with enough acidity to stand up to fatty foods — such as a pepperoni pizza — but there is enough structure and definition to make it suitable for enjoying alone.

Whichever you choose, it is a good excuse to order a plate of your favourite comfort food — and sometimes that's no bad thing.