2023 Rays Road Chardonnay, Kumeu River

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.