{"title":"Kumeu River","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River is the Brajkovich family estate in Kumeu, northwest of Auckland, and one of New Zealand's most celebrated names for Burgundian-style Chardonnay. Here you will find the range from Village and Estate up to the single-vineyard wines Mate's Vineyard, Hunting Hill, Coddington and Rays Road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKumeu River: the Brajkovich family and Chardonnay from Auckland\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story starts on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia. Mick and Katé Brajkovich arrived in New Zealand in 1937, and in 1944 the family bought a property with a small vineyard in Kumeu, about 30 kilometres northwest of Auckland. For many years it was known as San Marino Vineyards. Their son Maté carried on the work, and in 1979 the old hybrid vines were replaced with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe next generation took the decisive step. Michael Brajkovich worked a vintage in France in 1983 and came home with a clear idea of Chardonnay made the Burgundian way. In 1986 the estate became Kumeu River Wines, and in 1989 Michael became New Zealand's first Master of Wine. Today he runs the estate with his siblings Milan, Paul and Marijana. At a blind tasting in London in 2015, Kumeu River Chardonnay came out ahead of several well-known white Burgundies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSingle-vineyard Kumeu River Chardonnay: Mate's Vineyard, Hunting Hill and Coddington\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe best sites are bottled separately, so the differences in soil and aspect show in the glass. Mate's Vineyard is the flagship. Maté Brajkovich planted Chardonnay here in 1990, on the site of the family's very first vineyard from 1944, and the wine has carried his name since he died in 1992. It is the most concentrated and powerful wine in the range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHunting Hill sits on a hillside and gives a tighter, more mineral style known for its ageing potential. Coddington, on heavy clay, is the most generous of the three, with ripe peach and apricot. Rays Road lies higher and cooler on limestone in Hawke's Bay, a vineyard the family bought in 2017. Estate Chardonnay is a blend from the Kumeu vineyards, and Village is the entry point to the range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKumeu River Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and sparkling Crémant\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe family planted its first Pinot Noir in Kumeu in the mid-1980s. Hunting Hill Pinot Noir from clay soils shows pure, dark fruit, while Rays Road Pinot Noir from the Hawke's Bay limestone is more intense and focused. Village Pinot Noir is the entry point to the reds. Village Pinot Gris is dry and fruit-driven. The sparkling Kumeu River Crémant is made by the traditional method from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and spends a long time on its lees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the vineyard, the vines grow on clay over sandstone that holds moisture deep down, so no irrigation is needed, and every grape is picked by hand. In the cellar the fruit is whole-bunch pressed, fermented with wild yeasts in French oak barrels, and goes through full malolactic fermentation and extended lees ageing. The aim is freshness and balance rather than heavy oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExplore more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/new-zealand\"\u003eNew Zealand wine\u003c\/a\u003e, find more bottles of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chardonnay\"\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/pinot-noir\"\u003ePinot Noir\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/pinot-grigio\"\u003ePinot Grigio and Pinot Gris\u003c\/a\u003e, or try another New Zealand producer such as \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cloudy-bay\"\u003eCloudy Bay\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKumeu River FAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhere is Kumeu River?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Kumeu, about 30 kilometres northwest of Auckland on New Zealand's North Island. The family also owns the Rays Road vineyard in Hawke's Bay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich Kumeu River Chardonnay should I choose?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVillage and Estate show the house style in a more approachable form. To compare sites, put Mate's Vineyard, Hunting Hill and Coddington side by side: power, minerality and generous fruit in turn. Rays Road shows how the Hawke's Bay limestone differs from the Kumeu clay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan Kumeu River Chardonnay age?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The single-vineyard wines are made to develop in bottle, and Hunting Hill has a reputation for ageing particularly well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow should I serve Kumeu River Chardonnay?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 11 to 13 °C in a large glass. The wines suit fish, shellfish, chicken and dishes with butter or cream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","products":[{"product_id":"kumeu-river-coddington-chardonnay-2023","title":"Kumeu River Coddington Chardonnay 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Coddington Chardonnay 2023 is a beautifully expressive single-vineyard Chardonnay from one of New Zealand’s benchmark producers. Drawn from the Coddington Vineyard in Auckland, it highlights the site’s signature generosity of peach and nectarine, while the careful use of older oak keeps the wine poised and refined. First recognized as a distinct cuvée in 2006, it has become one of Kumeu River’s most distinctive bottlings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale lemon-gold in the glass, this Chardonnay opens with an inviting nose of ripe peach, nectarine, pear and citrus blossom, layered with subtle notes of vanilla, honey and gentle spice from restrained oak ageing. There is a quiet complexity to the aromatics that feels both creamy and fresh.\n\nOn the palate, it delivers the ripe orchard fruit expected from Coddington, with juicy peach and nectarine joined by citrus, a light nutty note and a touch of butteriness on the finish. The texture is creamy yet balanced by vibrant acidity and a faint mineral edge, giving the wine excellent length and energy. It can be enjoyed now, but will reward 4–6 years of cellaring.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Chardonnay comes from Coddington Vineyard in Auckland, a site long associated with Kumeu River and known for producing wines with ripeness, depth and personality. The 2023 vintage was lighter than some years, but the wine still shows the vineyard’s hallmark fruit profile and balance. Oak is used with great restraint, with no new barrels and a higher proportion of one- and two-year-old casks, preserving freshness and allowing the vineyard character to shine through.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a versatile food wine that works especially well with roast chicken, pan-seared fish, lobster, creamy pasta dishes and dishes with subtly buttery sauces. It also pairs nicely with rich poultry, mushroom risotto or simply a well-made roast chicken. Serve at around 10–12°C, and decanting is not necessary unless you want to open it up a little in its youth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most respected Chardonnay specialists, with a reputation built on precision, site expression and consistency. Based in Auckland, the estate has helped establish the region as a serious source of world-class Chardonnay, and its single-vineyard wines are widely admired for their clarity and ageing potential. The Coddington bottling in particular has become a standout example of the producer’s skill in translating vineyard character into the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252339954001,"sku":"FW-9078","price":61.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/produkt-grid_312.png?v=1783444182"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-village-pinot-gris-2023","title":"Kumeu River Village Pinot Gris 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Village Pinot Gris 2023 is a fresh, dry, and refined expression of Pinot Gris from one of New Zealand’s most respected producers. Made under the experienced hand of winemaker Michael Brajkovich, it combines lifted fruit, elegant structure, and the kind of clarity that has made Kumeu River a benchmark name in Auckland wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale and inviting in the glass, this Pinot Gris leans toward a bright, fruit-driven style rather than richness. The nose opens with stone fruit, ripe peach, and subtle floral notes of honeysuckle and rose, giving it a fragrant, graceful character.\n\nOn the palate, peach and stone fruit lead the way, followed by a touch of citrus and a precise line of fresh acidity that keeps the wine lively and well balanced. It feels clean, elegant, and refreshing, with good immediate appeal and the ability to hold its charm over the next few years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes are hand-harvested from Kumeu River’s vineyards in Auckland, where the maritime climate helps preserve freshness and aromatic lift. The fruit is whole-bunch pressed, a gentle approach that supports purity and finesse in the finished wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is an excellent match for pork, poultry, and game birds such as pheasant or partridge. It also works beautifully with cheese, often pairing even better than red wine for many styles. Serve chilled at around 8–10°C; decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most admired family-run wineries, with a long-standing reputation for producing expressive, high-quality wines from Auckland. Under Michael Brajkovich, the estate has earned international recognition for its precision and consistency, helping establish the region as a serious source of world-class whites.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252365349201,"sku":"FW-935","price":15.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/produkt-grid_359.png?v=1783444319"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-estate-chardonnay-2024","title":"Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Estate Chardonnay 2024 is one of New Zealand’s benchmark Chardonnays, combining precise winemaking with remarkable value. Made by Michael Brajkovich from carefully selected fruit across six vineyards, it has earned a reputation for outshining some of Burgundy’s most celebrated names in blind tastings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale golden in the glass, it opens with lifted aromas of lemon and a touch of white peach. On the palate, it is silky and finely balanced, with bright citrus drive, subtle stone fruit, and a long, fresh finish that keeps everything focused and elegant.\n\nThe wine is already very enjoyable now, but it has the structure and balance to develop beautifully over the next 4–6 years. With time in bottle, it should gain extra complexity while retaining its signature freshness and poise.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Estate Chardonnay is crafted from the best fruit sourced from six different vineyards in Auckland, allowing the winery to build depth, balance, and consistency into the final blend. Kumeu River is known for its meticulous vineyard selection and careful cellar work, with the 2024 vintage reflecting the cool-climate precision and mineral-edged style that have made the estate famous.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA superb match for scallops, oysters, lobster, grilled prawns, or other refined seafood dishes, as well as roast chicken with light cream sauces. Serve chilled at around 10–12°C, and decanting is generally not necessary, though a little air can help it open up beautifully in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most respected family-owned wineries, based just outside Auckland and led by winemaker Michael Brajkovich MW. The estate has built international acclaim for its Chardonnay, and its wines are widely regarded as some of the country’s finest, regularly proving their quality alongside top Burgundian benchmarks.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252402245969,"sku":"FW-9732","price":29.86,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_53d0074e-cb60-4260-9520-e14b6ea432db.png?v=1783444497"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-rays-road-chardonnay-2024","title":"Kumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay 2024 is a finely judged Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay that combines elegance, precision and striking mineral character. Sourced from a sunny, limestone-rich slope, it brings a cool-climate feel with a style that nods to some of the best French Chardonnay regions, while still expressing a distinctly New Zealand identity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it shows a bright, refined profile with a polished texture and excellent tension. The nose opens with citrus, white flowers and ripe pear, layered with subtle spice and a delicate nutty note from élevage in older oak.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is creamy yet fresh, delivering flavours of yellow stone fruit, ginger and dried herbs, all carried by vivid acidity and a chalky limestone minerality. It finishes long, clean and precise, with enough structure to reward short- to medium-term cellaring, and likely further complexity over the next few years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRays Road comes from a sun-drenched, limestone-driven slope in Hawke’s Bay, where the vineyard’s geology plays a key role in the wine’s mineral line and freshness. The grapes are harvested carefully by hand, then pressed and fermented with wild yeasts before the wine spends 11 months maturing in used French oak barrels, a regimen that adds texture without overwhelming the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Chardonnay is an excellent match for shellfish, lightly cream-based pasta dishes, grilled chicken and richer risotto preparations. Serve it chilled, ideally around 10-12°C, and consider a brief decant only if you want to open up its aromas more quickly, though it is not strictly necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most respected Chardonnay specialists, known for producing wines of precision, balance and remarkable ageing potential. The estate has built a strong reputation both at home and internationally, with a style that consistently highlights purity, texture and site expression, making it a benchmark producer in Hawke’s Bay and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252478824785,"sku":"FW-9733","price":32.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/RaysRoad2024_cb800f0e-3f8c-4bc4-b7d8-f0b05067f414.png?v=1783444817"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-village-pinot-noir-2025","title":"Kumeu River Village Pinot Noir 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Village Pinot Noir is the gateway to one of New Zealand’s most admired Burgundy-inspired estates, offering a beautifully balanced expression of Pinot Noir with elegance, freshness, and immediate drinkability. While Kumeu River is best known for its Chardonnay, this wine shows the same precision and restraint in red form, shaped by the cool Auckland climate and the winery’s signature refined style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, the 2021 Village Pinot Noir shows a bright, polished ruby-red colour. The nose is inviting and aromatic, with red cherries, raspberries, ripe strawberries, rose petals, gentle spice, and a subtle touch of toasted oak adding depth.\n\nThe palate is juicy and graceful, with flavours of red berries, cherry, and a hint of cranberry supported by soft, well-integrated tannins and fresh acidity. There is a delicate mineral edge and a lightly spiced finish that keeps the wine vibrant and balanced. Enjoyable now, it also has the structure to develop well over the next 4–6 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes are sourced from selected vineyards in the cool Auckland region, where the maritime climate helps preserve freshness, finesse, and aromatic detail in the Pinot Noir. The wine is aged for a short period in French oak barrels, with a small proportion of new oak used to lend structure without overpowering the fruit, resulting in a style that is both precise and expressive.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a versatile Pinot Noir that pairs beautifully with roasted duck, mushroom dishes, salmon, grilled chicken, charcuterie, and lighter game. Serve it slightly cool, around 14–16°C, and consider a brief decant if drinking it young to help the aromas open up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is a family-run estate near Auckland that has earned international recognition for its exceptional Chardonnay and for bringing a refined, cool-climate, Burgundy-inspired approach to New Zealand winemaking. The winery has become one of the country’s benchmark producers, respected for consistency, purity of fruit, and a long list of critical accolades over the years.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FineWines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252479316305,"sku":"FW-5354","price":15.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_32b6ca58-a078-4514-abb8-15a0008cdce8.png?v=1783444820"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-hunting-hill-chardonnay-2024","title":"Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2024 is a standout single-vineyard Chardonnay from one of New Zealand’s most respected white-wine producers. Sourced from the prized Hunting Hill vineyard, it combines concentration, purity, and mineral drive in a style that has helped define Kumeu River’s international reputation. This is a serious, cellar-worthy Chardonnay with both elegance and depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it shows focused, layered fruit rather than overt richness, with notes of lemon, lime, white flowers, chalk, and a subtle saline edge. The nose is initially restrained in its youth, but it opens to reveal citrus brightness, stony minerality, and hints of spice.\n\nThe palate is concentrated and finely structured, with salt-kissed citrus, stella anise, fennel, and a gentle vanilla creaminess from oak maturation. The finish is long, precise, and mineral, with a sense of tension and depth that suggests excellent aging potential; it should really begin to show its full complexity after around 7–8 years in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHunting Hill is a high-altitude, south-west-facing vineyard positioned above Maté’s Vineyard in the Kumeu region of Auckland. Its heavy clay soils over sandstone, with ironpan beneath the surface, contribute to the wine’s distinctive mineral character, while the maritime climate supports slow, measured ripening and natural freshness.\n\nThe 2024 vintage saw low yields, which concentrated the fruit and enhanced intensity. Grapes were hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed to preserve finesse, then fermented with natural yeast in French oak barrels. The wine underwent 100% malolactic fermentation and matured in oak for about 11 months, building texture and complexity while keeping the vineyard character in focus.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Chardonnay is a natural match for shellfish, luxurious risottos, creamy pasta dishes, and grilled chicken. Serve it slightly chilled, ideally around 10–12°C, and consider decanting briefly if opening it young, as a little air can help reveal its aromatic detail and layered texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s benchmark Chardonnay producers, with a long-standing reputation for crafting wines of precision, site expression, and remarkable aging ability. Based in Auckland’s Kumeu region, the winery has helped elevate New Zealand Chardonnay on the world stage and is widely admired for its consistently high-quality single-vineyard wines. Hunting Hill is among its most distinctive and celebrated sites.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252743360849,"sku":"FW-9735","price":53.41,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_d97c8041-48d9-4de2-907f-084e57987c78.png?v=1783446490"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-hunting-hill-pinot-noir-2021-1","title":"Kumeu River Hunting Hill Pinot Noir 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Hunting Hill Pinot Noir 2021 is a beautifully refined red from one of New Zealand’s most respected family producers, offering a Burgundian sense of elegance with distinct Auckland character. First planted to Pinot Noir in 1994 on a vineyard better known for Chardonnay, it has quickly earned a reputation as a serious, limited-release wine. With only 300 cases produced, this is a rare and highly collectible vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale to medium ruby in the glass, it opens with an aromatic bouquet of ripe cherries, raspberries, violets, and a subtle smoky nuance. The palate is graceful and finely pitched, echoing the red berry fruit from the nose and adding layers of forest floor, game, and a touch of truffle.\n\nThe overall style is light, elegant, and precise, with an almost Burgundian structure and freshness. The 2021 vintage is already showing beautifully, but it also has the balance and detail to develop well over the next 6-8 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHunting Hill Vineyard in Auckland is primarily associated with Chardonnay, but its Pinot Noir block, planted by the Brajkovich family in 1994, was established with the same ambition for excellence. The grapes are hand-harvested and 100% destemmed before vinification, helping preserve purity, finesse, and varietal expression. The result is a wine shaped by careful vineyard selection and meticulous cellar work.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Pinot Noir pairs especially well with roast duck, lamb, game birds, mushroom dishes, and truffle-based plates. It also works beautifully with salmon or richer poultry dishes. Serve slightly chilled at around 15-17°C, and decanting is optional but can help the wine open up if enjoyed young.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s benchmark family estates, founded and guided by the Brajkovich family in Auckland. Best known internationally for its outstanding Chardonnay, the winery has built a strong reputation for precision, restraint, and site-driven wines. Its success has helped place Auckland on the map for premium cool-climate winemaking.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252993413457,"sku":"FW-938","price":37.35,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_d0c4db48-8ee4-4552-b5ef-4a050069dad7.png?v=1783448482"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-cremant-nv","title":"Kumeu River Cremant NV","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Cremant NV is a serious traditional-method sparkling wine from one of New Zealand’s most admired producers. Made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and aged for 30 months on lees before hand disgorgement, it delivers the finesse, depth, and precision usually associated with far more famous sparkling regions. As the house’s first sparkling wine, it marks an exciting new chapter for Kumeu River while reinforcing Michael Brajkovich’s reputation for world-class craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale and refined in the glass, this Crémant shows a fine, persistent mousse and an elegant, polished look. The nose is bright and layered, with citrus, honey, flint, fresh goat cheese, and brioche giving it both freshness and complexity.\n\nOn the palate, it leans toward the dry, lively side, yet there is notable roundness and depth beneath the crisp structure. The wine feels focused and assured, with excellent balance and a finish that suggests it can age gracefully for a few more years, gaining even more savory nuance and texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Auckland, New Zealand, this sparkling wine is made from 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir. The base wine spends 30 months on the bottle before disgorgement, and the process is completed by hand, underscoring the producer’s commitment to precision and traditional méthode-style craftsmanship. The result is a wine that combines cool-climate freshness with impressive concentration and texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIdeal with oysters, smoked salmon, tempura, goat cheese, sushi, or delicate seafood dishes, Kumeu River Cremant NV is versatile enough for both aperitif service and the dinner table. Serve well chilled at around 6–8°C, and decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s benchmark wineries, best known for producing Chardonnay of exceptional quality and for earning international respect well beyond its home region. Based in Auckland, the family-run estate has built a strong reputation for purity, precision, and consistency, with Michael Brajkovich widely recognized as one of the country’s leading winemakers. The launch of this sparkling wine adds another noteworthy achievement to a producer already considered among the best in the country.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255029027153,"sku":"FW-1773","price":32.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/produkt-grid-ii_2_2.png?v=1783455852"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-village-chardonnay-2025","title":"Kumeu River Village Chardonnay 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Village Chardonnay 2025 is a beautifully precise white wine that overdelivers in a big way for its price level. Blind, it could easily be mistaken for a Chablis thanks to its mineral drive, freshness, and crystal-clear fruit expression, yet it comes from one of New Zealand’s most respected Chardonnay specialists.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Chardonnay shows a bright, clean profile with subtle depth rather than overt richness. The nose is lifted and fresh, with lime, citrus peel, white peach, and a gentle flinty edge that adds complexity and a sense of cool minerality.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is crisp and focused, with lively citrus and lime at the core, a hint of white peach, and a finely textured mid-palate from the partial barrel fermentation. The finish is long, dry, and almost saline, with excellent balance and a refreshing 12.5% alcohol. While delicious now, it should also hold well over the next few years as its texture and mineral nuances continue to evolve.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe fruit comes from vineyards in Kumeu and Hawke’s Bay, combining the cool, refined style of Auckland with the fruit generosity of Hawke’s Bay. Around 84% of the juice was fermented in old French oak barrels and 16% in stainless steel, a mix that preserves freshness while adding quiet texture and subtle breadth rather than noticeable oak flavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe this Chardonnay well chilled at around 8-10°C. It is a natural partner for oysters, grilled white fish, sashimi, roast chicken, creamy seafood pasta, or a simple goat’s cheese salad. Decanting is not necessary, but letting it breathe briefly in the glass can help release its citrus and mineral nuances.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s benchmark Chardonnay producers, long admired for wines that combine precision, elegance, and strong site expression. Based just outside Auckland, the winery has helped define the country’s reputation for world-class Chardonnay and is especially celebrated for crafting wines with a Burgundian sense of balance and longevity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54303875891537,"sku":"FW-6425","price":15.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_065fcdb9-e037-4255-a7f3-bf15cc912f30.png?v=1783877315"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-hunting-hill-pinot-noir-2022","title":"Kumeu River Hunting Hill Pinot Noir 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Hunting Hill Pinot Noir 2022 is an elegant, terroir-driven red from one of New Zealand’s most respected producers. Sourced from the steep Hunting Hill vineyard in Kumeu, it combines the finesse and precision associated with classic Burgundy with the freshness and distinctive maritime character of Auckland. It is a compelling example of Kumeu River’s ability to produce Pinot Noir of both depth and delicacy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wine presents a bright ruby colour, with an expressive bouquet of red cherries, raspberries and ripe strawberries complemented by delicate floral tones, subtle spice, forest floor and restrained toasted nuances. On the palate, juicy red fruit is balanced by lively acidity and fine, silky tannins. Notes of cherry, raspberry and pomegranate lead into a discreet mineral and savoury character, while the finish is long, clean and precise. Elegant and approachable with some time in the glass, the 2022 vintage also has the freshness and structure to develop greater complexity over the next 6–10 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes come from the steep Hunting Hill vineyard in Kumeu, where Auckland’s maritime climate and distinctive soils help create Pinot Noir with both intensity and finesse. As with Kumeu River’s wines generally, the fruit is handled with precision, and oak maturation is used discreetly to add structure and complexity without masking the purity of the fruit. Specific harvesting and vinification details are not provided.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly cool, at approximately 14–16°C, to highlight the wine’s freshness and aromatic detail. It pairs beautifully with roast duck, mushroom dishes, herb-roasted poultry, pork tenderloin and salmon, as well as earthy preparations featuring lentils or root vegetables. Decanting is not essential, but a gentle decant of 30–60 minutes can help the wine open, particularly when enjoyed in its youth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFounded by the Brajkovich family in 1944, Kumeu River has become one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed wine estates, with an international reputation built especially on precise, age-worthy Chardonnay. Based in Kumeu, northwest of Auckland, the family has helped establish the region as a source of serious, terroir-focused wines. Hunting Hill Pinot Noir demonstrates the same balance, restraint and attention to detail that have made Kumeu River a benchmark producer in New Zealand.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54751055216977,"sku":"FW-10382","price":32.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_e533395f-b983-4419-bbf8-284f954c6e56.png?v=1788179428"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-coddington-chardonnay-2025","title":"Kumeu River Coddington Chardonnay 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Coddington Chardonnay 2025 is a refined single-vineyard Chardonnay from Auckland, showcasing the generous fruit and polished texture that distinguish the Coddington site. First included in Kumeu River’s Estate Chardonnay from 1998, the vineyard earned its own dedicated bottling in 2006 as its individual character became increasingly apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBright and inviting in the glass, this Chardonnay opens with expressive aromas of ripe peach, nectarine and pear, complemented by citrus, white flowers and subtle nutty nuances. The palate is full-bodied and creamy, with juicy stone-fruit flavours supported by lively acidity and a fine mineral edge.\n\nCareful oak maturation adds structure and complexity without masking the fruit. The finish is long and precise, combining ripe citrus and stone fruit with a discreet spicy note. Delicious already, the wine has the freshness and structure to develop further complexity over the next 5–8 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wine comes from Coddington Vineyard, a site whose distinctive fruit character has long set it apart within Kumeu River’s range. The Chardonnay is produced as a dedicated single-vineyard cuvée, with oak maturation used to build texture and depth while preserving the vineyard’s natural freshness, mineral character and expressive fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly chilled at around 10–12°C. Its richness and freshness make it an excellent partner for roast chicken, grilled or baked fish, lobster, creamy seafood dishes, pork tenderloin and moderately rich vegetarian dishes such as cauliflower gratin. Decanting is not essential, but 20–30 minutes in a carafe can help reveal additional aromatic depth when enjoying the wine young.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most respected Chardonnay producers, based in the Auckland region and known for wines that combine richness with precision and vibrant acidity. The Coddington Vineyard was previously owned by Tim and Angela Coddington and became increasingly important to Kumeu River from 1998 onward. Its distinct personality ultimately led to the first dedicated Coddington bottling in 2006, cementing its place among the estate’s notable single-vineyard Chardonnays.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54751058755921,"sku":"FW-10378","price":61.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_1469e5f1-7134-4031-be56-f4085344ba5c.png?v=1788179432"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-rays-road-chardonnay-2025","title":"Kumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay 2025 showcases a distinctive Hawke’s Bay expression from one of New Zealand’s most respected Chardonnay producers. Sourced from the elevated Rays Road vineyard, it stands apart for its slender structure, vibrant freshness and pronounced chalky minerality—offering a precise, elegant style quite different from Kumeu River’s richer single-vineyard bottlings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBright and refined, the 2025 vintage opens with aromas of citrus, white flowers and fresh pear, followed by delicate spicy nuances. On the palate, it is taut and graceful, combining juicy citrus fruit with lively acidity and a lightly creamy texture. The finish is long, clean and focused, marked by the wine’s distinctive chalk-like mineral character.\n\nThis is the most linear and mineral-driven of Kumeu River’s Chardonnays, favouring finesse and precision over weight. It can be enjoyed for its youthful energy, while its balance and structure should also allow it to develop added complexity with bottle age.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes come from the high-altitude Rays Road vineyard in Hawke’s Bay, where chalk-rich soils and a cooler microclimate create particularly fresh, focused fruit. These conditions give the wine its characteristic mineral edge and fine acidity. Specific details of harvesting and vinification for the 2025 vintage are not provided.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly chilled at approximately 10–12°C. Its freshness and mineral precision make it an excellent match for oysters, shellfish, grilled fish, sushi and sashimi, while the subtle creamy texture also works well with roast chicken, goat’s cheese and lightly dressed salads. Decanting is not necessary, although allowing the wine a short period of breathing in the glass can reveal additional aromatic detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is a highly regarded New Zealand family winery known particularly for producing Chardonnay of remarkable finesse, complexity and longevity. Based in Kumeu, north-west of Auckland, the estate has helped establish New Zealand Chardonnay as a serious international style, with wines frequently compared with much more expensive white Burgundies. Rays Road demonstrates the producer’s ability to express a different terroir beyond its home vineyards, bringing together Hawke’s Bay freshness, precision and chalky mineral character.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54751059116369,"sku":"FW-10377","price":32.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_8a4855ed-96d9-425a-a1df-941eb57c0508.png?v=1788179436"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-mates-vineyard-chardonnay-2025","title":"Kumeu River Mate's Vineyard Chardonnay 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Mate’s Vineyard Chardonnay is the estate’s most structured and age-worthy single-vineyard Chardonnay, made from vines planted in 1990. The 2025 vintage combines remarkable concentration with the precision, freshness and restraint that have made this bottling one of New Zealand’s benchmark Chardonnays, often drawing comparisons with fine Puligny-Montrachet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBright and refined in appearance, the wine shows a pale golden hue. Its expressive yet tightly wound nose reveals citrus, ripe peach, nectarine and pear, layered with white flowers and subtle nutty and spicy nuances. With time in the glass, its depth and complexity become increasingly apparent.\n\nThe palate is concentrated and intense, yet exceptionally precise. Layers of citrus, stone fruit and pear are supported by lively acidity, a creamy texture and a distinctly mineral backbone. The finish is long, focused and beautifully balanced. Already compelling with air, Mate’s Vineyard 2025 has the structure and concentration to develop gracefully over the next 10–20 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes are hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed before fermentation with naturally occurring yeasts in French oak barrels. The wine is matured with great precision in predominantly one- and two-year-old barriques, without the use of new oak, allowing the oak to contribute texture and complexity without overshadowing the character of the vineyard. Grown in Auckland’s maritime climate, the fruit benefits from a long, cool growing season that helps preserve freshness while allowing impressive flavour concentration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly chilled at approximately 10–12°C, allowing the wine to warm gradually in the glass. It is a superb match for roast chicken, turbot, lobster, scallops, rich fish dishes, and creamy poultry or mushroom preparations. Although approachable now, decanting for 30–60 minutes is recommended to reveal its layers; older bottles may benefit from careful decanting to separate the wine from any sediment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River was founded by the Brajkovich family and has become one of New Zealand’s most respected producers, particularly renowned for elegant, age-worthy Chardonnay. Mate’s Vineyard is named after Maté Brajkovich, father of winemaker Michael Brajkovich, and was planted in 1990. From its first notable releases in the early 1990s, the vineyard has established itself as one of New Zealand’s iconic Chardonnay sites, with Mate’s regarded as the estate’s most complete and structured single-vineyard expression.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54751059378513,"sku":"FW-10380","price":81.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_0a132bdd-d16e-40b8-832c-d2ab58a7d98b.png?v=1788179436"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-rays-road-pinot-noir-2022","title":"Kumeu River Rays Road Pinot Noir 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Rays Road Pinot Noir 2022 is the estate’s cooler-climate, single-vineyard expression of Hawke’s Bay Pinot Noir—more mineral, focused and Burgundy-inspired than its warmer-site counterpart, Hunting Hill. From the family’s elevated Rays Road Vineyard, this limited wine reflects Kumeu River’s successful expansion beyond its famous Auckland Chardonnay and showcases the Brajkovich family’s growing mastery of New Zealand Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBright ruby in colour, the wine opens with aromas of ripe cherries and red berries, layered with delicate spice, floral nuances and a subtle suggestion of dried leaves. The overall impression is cool, refined and quietly complex.\n\nSilky and elegant on the palate, it combines vibrant red fruit with impressive concentration. Fresh acidity and fine-grained tannins provide definition, while the limestone soils lend a distinctive chalky, mineral edge. The finish is long, precise and refreshing. Already highly approachable, the 2022 has the structure and intensity to develop further bottle complexity over the next several years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRays Road Vineyard lies at approximately 200 metres above sea level in Hawke’s Bay, where its cooler conditions and limestone subsoil produce particularly refined and mineral-driven Pinot Noir. The vines include newer Dijon clones from Burgundy, which contribute further precision and depth. Grapes are hand-harvested, 100% destemmed and fermented with naturally occurring yeasts. Following malolactic fermentation, the wine is matured in French oak barrels, only 10% of which are new, allowing the fruit and terroir to remain at the forefront.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly cool at 14–16°C. Its freshness and fine tannins make it an excellent partner for roast duck, grilled or roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, mushroom dishes and richly flavoured vegetarian cuisine. It can be enjoyed directly after opening, although 30–45 minutes in a decanter will help reveal its aromatic detail and mineral character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River was established by the Brajkovich family, Croatian immigrants who began making wine in Kumeu in 1944. Today, under the guidance of Michael Brajkovich MW and the wider family, the estate is internationally recognised for producing some of New Zealand’s finest Chardonnay. Rays Road Pinot Noir comes from the family’s vineyard in Hawke’s Bay and demonstrates the estate’s ability to translate distinct sites into wines of elegance, precision and individuality.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54751060230481,"sku":"FW-10381","price":29.86,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_fe98213d-62ca-45bd-a4c8-5b637856c451.png?v=1788179440"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-estate-chardonnay-2025","title":"Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Estate Chardonnay 2025 is a refined New Zealand Chardonnay that delivers remarkable elegance and complexity without the price tag often associated with fine Burgundy. Kumeu River has built an impressive reputation for challenging prestigious Meursault and Puligny-Montrachet wines in blind tastings, with its Chardonnays repeatedly earning top honours.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale and bright in appearance, the 2025 vintage opens with inviting aromas of fresh citrus and white peach. On the palate, it is silky and finely textured, combining a gently creamy mouthfeel with precise, refreshing acidity. The finish is long, focused and energetic, showing the balance and restraint that have become hallmarks of Kumeu River Chardonnay.\n\nIt is already highly enjoyable in its youth, particularly for its vibrant fruit and freshness, but should develop additional depth and nuance with around four to six years of bottle ageing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Estate Chardonnay is made from carefully selected Chardonnay grapes grown in the Kumeu area, in Auckland’s cool, maritime climate. This setting helps preserve the variety’s natural freshness while allowing elegant fruit expression. The wine reflects Kumeu River’s precise, restrained approach, producing a Chardonnay with both silky texture and lively acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly chilled at approximately 10–12°C with shellfish, grilled prawns, oysters, pan-fried fish or delicate seafood dishes in creamy sauces. It is also an excellent match for roast chicken and lightly seasoned white meats. Decanting is not essential, although a brief 20–30 minute airing can help reveal more of the wine’s texture and aromatic detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most respected Chardonnay producers, with a family winemaking tradition rooted in the Kumeu region near Auckland. The estate is led by Master of Wine Michael Brajkovich, whose wines have helped establish Kumeu as a benchmark for premium Chardonnay outside Burgundy. Kumeu River’s success in high-profile blind tastings against renowned Burgundian examples has given the winery an international reputation for producing exceptionally elegant and age-worthy wines.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54751060361553,"sku":"FW-10376","price":29.86,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_10470c4b-79a3-4b42-8472-c639f3939e74.png?v=1788179444"},{"product_id":"kumeu-river-hunting-hill-chardonnay-2025","title":"Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eKumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2025 comes from one of the estate’s most celebrated single vineyards and is consistently among the most profound wines in the Kumeu River range. It combines impressive concentration and power with cool precision, mineral freshness and a structure that gives it exceptional ageing potential. Alongside Kumeu River’s other single-vineyard Chardonnays, it demonstrates why this New Zealand producer is regarded as one of the world’s leading Chardonnay specialists.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wine opens with intense aromas of citrus, lime and white flowers, complemented by chalky mineral notes and subtle spice. On the palate, ripe citrus fruit is layered and concentrated, supported by a creamy texture and taut, energetic acidity. Its balance of depth and freshness gives the wine a poised, precise character, while the long, mineral finish lingers impressively.\n\nHunting Hill is the more structured and serious counterpart to the generous, immediately charming Coddington Chardonnay. It is already compelling in its youth, but its concentration, acidity and texture suggest excellent ageing potential. With careful cellaring, the 2025 vintage should develop beautifully over the next 10–20 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHunting Hill is situated high above Maté’s Vineyard on a south-west-facing slope in Kumeu. The vineyard’s heavy clay soils over sandstone, with a hard iron-rich layer beneath, combine with the region’s maritime climate to encourage a long, gradual ripening season. The Chardonnay is hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed before fermentation with naturally occurring yeasts in French oak barrels. It undergoes full malolactic fermentation and is then matured in oak, adding depth and a silky, creamy texture while preserving the wine’s fruit, freshness and mineral precision.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly chilled at around 10–12°C with shellfish, grilled fish, roast chicken, veal, creamy pasta dishes or other delicately flavoured white meats. The wine can be enjoyed now, when a short decant of 30–60 minutes may help reveal its layers, although older bottles are best handled gently and decanted only if necessary to remove sediment. Its long-term potential also makes it an excellent choice for the cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFounded by the Brajkovich family in 1944, Kumeu River has played a pivotal role in establishing Kumeu and New Zealand as a source of world-class Chardonnay. The estate is particularly admired for its site-expressive, Burgundian-inspired wines, which combine careful vineyard work with a restrained, low-intervention approach in the cellar. Hunting Hill is one of the winery’s flagship single-vineyard Chardonnays and a fine expression of both the vineyard’s distinctive terroir and Kumeu River’s international reputation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kumeu River","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54751060394321,"sku":"FW-10379","price":53.41,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/Produkt-Grid_c6acad1a-1699-4124-a041-5b20037ce1be.png?v=1788179445"}],"url":"https:\/\/bottlehero.com\/collections\/kumeu-river.oembed","provider":"Bottle Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}