2019 Village Chardonnay, Kumeu River, Auckland
Kumeu River Wines of Auckland have established not just an ultimate benchmark for all Kiwi chardonnays made today, but indeed for chardonnays which consistently rank among the world's greatest - Burgundians in every way included.
With three generations behind them and 30 hectares grown here in New Zealand's most northerly region, Kumeu's Brajkovich family harness what are perfect, cool-climate conditions for yielding the most pristine, aromatic, beautifully balanced chardonnay fruit.
An ideal aperitif Chardonnay that pairs beautifully with all types of seafood. Old oak and stainless-steel ferment make for a perfectly integrated nose and palate, giving vibrant lime, lemon, fig and white peach fruit framed by a flinty, mineral edginess.
"The 2020 Chardonnay Kumeu Village is the 'entry' to New Zealand's most famous Chardonnay producer's range. It is clean and precise and focuses on pure fruit, offering flavors of nectarine, red grapefruit and white flowers. While some of the wine has been fermented in French oak, there is very little evidence of oak in terms of aroma and flavour, although the zesty style has had its corners rounded by barrel influence. A bright, crisp Chardonnay for enjoying in youth."
Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous