Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay 2024

This is the wine at the very heart of Kumeu River, and the one that showed that New Zealand Chardonnay is well up to giving Burgundy a run for its money. There's a flicker of smoke, a hint of flintiness, and juicy stone fruit peeking through. In making it whole bunches are gently pressed and left to do their thing in barrel for nearly a year which gives it loads of character. Beautifully rounded, full without ever feeling heavy and a real joy to drink.

Perfect with roast chicken, sole meunière, or creamy pasta - generous richness complements indulgent dishes, while elegant freshness keeps things balanced and refined.

Kumeu River Wines is a New Zealand legend, crafting world-class Chardonnay instead of the country's famed Sauvignon Blanc. Founded in 1944 near Auckland by Croatian immigrant Maté Brajkovich, it's now run by his son Michael (New Zealand's first Master of Wine) and siblings. They offer a warm, family welcome at the cellar door. While their Auckland location presents land-cost challenges, they're expanding to Hawkes Bay. Alongside Chardonnay, they've recently found success with Alsatian-style Pinot Gris and a delightful Chardonnay/Pinot Noir sparkler. This is a family-driven operation focused on quality, not flash.