Kumeu2023 Mate’s Vineyard Chardonnay, Kumeu River
Auckland, New ZealandVintage: 2023
The flagship wine of Kumeu River, the 2023 Mate’s Vineyard Chardonnay is a profound expression of site, vintage, and precision winemaking. Sourced from the estate’s most prized vineyard, planted in 1990 on clay-rich soils overlying sandstone, this wine epitomises the refined elegance and Burgundian character that has placed Kumeu River among the world’s elite Chardonnay producers.
In the glass, it opens with a striking aromatic intensity, ripe stone fruits, Meyer lemon, and white flowers, layered with hints of hazelnut, flint, and fine oak spice. The palate is richly textured yet impeccably poised, showcasing layers of nectarine, citrus peel, and subtle brioche, underpinned by a vibrant core of mineral-driven acidity. The finish is long, saline, and effortlessly graceful, promising both immediate enjoyment and remarkable ageing potential.
Notable Awards
James Suckling – 97 Points
“Very steely and floral, with brightness and impressive aromas of honeysuckle, lemongrass and just a touch of cream. Medium‑ to full‑bodied with layered and creamy phenolics that give a lovely, almost velvety texture to the wine, and then the end is so crisp and minerally. Driven at the end. Needs time to come together. This will be so complex in three to four years. Best after 2027.”
Decanter (Emma Jenkins MW) – 96 Points
“Even in a lighter vintage this is an impressively layered and harmonious wine, with subtle citrus, yellow peach, hazelnut and clover notes. Creamy and fine‑textured, it has great focus and length. While enjoyable now, it would be a shame not to tuck this away for further pleasures to come.
Whats in the bottle
100% Chardonnay
12 Mixed Bottles *
£49.46
Save £5.50
* As part of a mixed case of any 12 bottles
Free UK delivery on orders over £250. Free South Wales delivery on orders over £100
Tel : 02922 337454
In stock
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Description
Kumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most respected and internationally acclaimed family-owned wineries, located just northwest of Auckland. Established in 1944 by Croatian immigrants Mick and Katé Brajkovich, Kumeu River has become synonymous with exceptional Chardonnay, crafted with Burgundian finesse and New World purity.
Now run by the second and third generations of the Brajkovich family, Kumeu River is globally recognised for producing some of the finest Chardonnay outside of Burgundy, with consistent critical acclaim from international wine critics and publications. The estate’s maritime climate, clay-rich soils, and meticulous vineyard and cellar practices, including wild yeast fermentation and barrel ageing, contribute to the depth, complexity, and age-worthiness of their wines.
The Kumeu River range spans village-level to single-vineyard bottlings, with standout cuvées such as Mate’s Vineyard earning cult status. The winery also produces excellent Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir, though Chardonnay remains its defining focus and claim to fame.
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