Kumeu Village Pinot Noir 2022

Here's a Kiwi Pinot Noir with a slight twist - it's from Hawke's Bay in the North Island rather than the usual South Island spots in Marlborough or Otago. Silky and feather-light with bright red cherry, raspberry, rose petal notes, and a hint of raspberry leaf. Hand-harvested and wild-fermented, it's fresh, crisp, and beautifully balanced. With a bit of elegance and gentle charm, it's effortlessly enjoyable, lighter-style Pinot Noir with a touch of finesse.

Great with duck, mushroom risotto, or a posh ploughman's. The bright fruit and gentle spice make it super versatile and it's even better slightly chilled for lazy lunches.

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.