Kumeu River Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay 2022

The Brajkovich family and Kumeu River Wines are highly influential in the New Zealand wine industry, producing world-class wines that have gained international recognition. They operate on a 30-hectare vineyard with predominantly clay soils overlying a sandstone base, which creates the perfect conditions for their grapes to thrive. The use of a "Lyre" trellis system optimizes light exposure and grape maturity, while hand-harvesting ensures the selection of high-quality grapes. Over the years, the winery has grown and expanded, now producing approximately 250,000 bottles annually from their own vineyards and local growers. Their Chardonnays, in particular, have become a benchmark for non-Burgundy-produced Chardonnays, receiving outstanding accolades and gaining a strong foothold in the international market. Located in the picturesque region of Kumeu, a short drive from Auckland, Kumeu River Wines has a rich family history dating back to 1944. They have established themselves as pioneers in New Zealand's winemaking scene, consistently delivering wines of exceptional quality and character that truly reflect their passion and pursuit of perfection. Kumeu River Wines is renowned for their premium, hand-harvested wines that showcase the unique terroir of their vineyards. While their Chardonnays have put them on the global wine map, they also excel in producing exceptional Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and other varietals with the same dedication to excellence. Traditional winemaking techniques are integral to their process, including hand-pruning the vines and gentle hand-sorting of the grapes. These meticulous practices result in wines that capture the essence of the land, showcasing purity balance, and a true sense of place. The Kumeu River Wines is a testament to the Brajkovich family's unwavering commitment to producing exceptional wines and their ability to strike a harmonious balance between old-world charm and new-world innovation.

Maté's Vineyard, nestled in the enchanting region of Kumeu, New Zealand, is an esteemed source of exceptional wines. This vineyard holds a special place in the winery's heart and is renowned for its ability to craft wines of extraordinary quality and character. Blessed with a unique terroir, Maté's Vineyard showcases the distinctiveness of its wines. The cool climate, fertile soils and meticulous vineyard management practices in the region work harmoniously to create an environment where the Chardonnay grape thrives. Carefully selected clones and low-yield farming methods ensure that only the highest quality fruit is harvested. The wines from Maté's Vineyard truly capture the essence of the Chardonnay grape, with elegance, balance and complexity at their core. These wines have the potential to age gracefully and offer a rewarding experience for those who exercise patience by cellaring them for a few years. As time passes, they unveil additional layers of complexity and depth, continuously captivating the senses.

The Kumeu River Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 presents itself with a captivating pale gold hue, hinting at the opulent experience to come. With each sip, a beautiful tapestry of flavors unfurls on the palate, showcasing vibrant orchard fruits like ripe peaches and crisp apples. These fruity notes dance harmoniously alongside zesty citrus undertones, creating a symphony of taste that captivates the senses. Layers of toasty oak, carefully imparted by the judicious use of French oak barrels, contribute depth and richness to the wine while preserving its inherent beauty. Right from the start, the outstanding texture and velvety smoothness of Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay become evident, gliding effortlessly across the palate. Every sip leaves a lasting impression, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship behind this wine. The flavors seamlessly interplay with a well-integrated backbone of acidity, achieving an impeccable sense of balance that elevates the wine's character. From hand-harvesting to indigenous yeast fermentation and 100% barrel fermentation, every aspect of the winemaking process has been meticulously considered, lending complexity to the wine. The influence of the 11 months of maturation in barrel further refines the wine, allowing it to develop a concentration and lingering complexity that define Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay. Following three previous outstanding harvests, the 2022 vintage continues the legacy of excellence.  On the nose, the wine reveals the anticipated aromas of ripe peach and nuttiness that are characteristic of the Estate Chardonnay from Kumeu River. The supple texture is complemented by a pleasing bracing acidity on the finish, further enhancing the overall drinking experience. While the Kumeu River Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 is undeniably delightful to enjoy at present, it also possesses the capacity for graceful aging, living up to the pedigree of its predecessors. This high-quality Chardonnay promises beautiful moments over the next 6+ years, rewarding those who choose to savour its elegance and complexity.

Such lovely stylish Chardonnay from this producer. White peach, almond meal, subtle floral and fennel/mint perfume, light cinnamon spice. It’s fluid and mellifluous, almond biscuit with some citrus and apple, fine powdery texture, flecked with pleasant green things, a slight oyster shell flavour and a cool and creamy finish of excellent length, with a subtle sappy aftertaste. Calm, composed and such a lovely thing to drink. Highly recommended. -  Gary Walsh, The Wine Front, 93 Points

The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal -  Chardonnay
Country - New Zealand
Region - Kumeu
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
Other - Vegan Friendly
Closure - Screw Cap