The 2023 Estate Chardonnay from Kumeu River, Auckland, New Zealand, is produced from six vineyard sites in the Kumeu region, just outside Auckland. Crafted as the estate’s benchmark expression, showcasing the region’s cool-climate elegance and minerality.
The wine begins with a fragrant lemon aroma with hint of white peach. The palate silky and balanced with a lovely
citrus finish.
94 Wine Enthusiast A blend of multiple sites, Kumeu’s “Estate” bottling, in some ways, marries the best of everything. It’s a fruity number, with bright peach, melon, nougat, ginger and white blossom aromas right from first sniff, underscored gently by more lactic, toasty ones. The palate strikes a lovely balance of vibrant, crisp acidity and creamy roundness.
93 James Suckling This is fresh, crunchy and clean, with mineral and spice notes and plenty of salty undertones. Sliced lemons and apples. Medium-bodied with a fresh finish. Drink now. Screw cap.
91 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate The 2023 Estate Chardonnay leads with preserved citrus, white flowers, crushed nuts and brine. In the mouth, the wine is light and lacy—hints of green apple, nectarine and a little tangerine—with taut acidity that vibrates through the ethereally weighted fruit. It's a light iteration of this wine and lovely for it. It was made with handpicked fruit, whole-bunch pressed.
89 Wine Spectator A restrained version, with lemon, lime, apple and quince flavors that show details of ginger, spices and lemon verbena. There are citrus zest and pith notes on the finish. Drink now. 896 cases imported.
