Spotlight On: Kumeu River 2024
The small but perfectly formed 2024 vintage of Kumeu River, is one of the most exciting ever from this iconic New Zealand estate. It was a privilege to be at the UK launch for the 2024 vintage with winemaker Michael Brajkovich, New Zealand’s first Master of Wine, and taste these exceptional wines.
“Amongst the very best Chardonnay producers in the world is Kumeu River in New Zealand. Their Chardonnays were put to the test a few years ago when several were assessed blind, intermixed with some very serious Puligny-Montrachets and Meursaults. Kumeu River triumphed to such an extent that it became almost embarrassing. And to think that you can buy an entire case of Kumeu River for the cost of a single bottle of some Grand Crus.“
Neal Martin
The Village Chardonnay is a great introduction to the Kumeu style: zesty lime and stone fruit, lightly creamy, with a refreshing finish. Great value and a delicious everyday Chardonnay.
The excellent Estate Chardonnay is Kumeu’s calling card, capable of ageing beautifully for up to decade and often compared to white Burgundy at many times the price. Ripe peach and apricot, lemon zest, and subtle oak combine with a fine backbone of acidity. Always good, but in 2024 it is especially balanced and complex, this comes highly recommended.
Made entirely without oak, the Village Pinot Noir is all about pure, vibrant red cherry fruit, silky texture, and a fine chalky tannins that keeps the finish dry, fresh, and moreish. The fruit is sourced from Rays Road in Hawke’s Bay - a cool, high altitude site planted on limestone, giving the wine its bright, focused and expressive character. A great match for roast chicken, duck or mushroom risotto.
➜ 2024 Village Chardonnay, Kumeu River