Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay 2019

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, September 2020 (16.5+)

The real steal is the 2019 Estate Chardonnay. It is absolutely glorious. A selection of the best grapes from ‘six different vineyards in the Kumeu region’. Hand-harvested, whole-bunch pressed, indigenous-yeast fermentation, 100% barrel fermentation, 100% malolactic conversion and 11-month maturation in barrel.

Pale greenish straw. Some super-delicate oak on the nose (or do I just mean a hint of savoury Côte d’Or perfume?!). So pure on the nose yet with great grip on the palate and already accessible in a grapefruit sort of way. With this intensity of fruit, it will clearly evolve into something even more convincing but you could certainly enjoy it now. It has both weight and a crystalline quality. VGV Drink 2020 – 2025

Rebecca Gibb MW, vinous.com, November 2020 (91 pts)

The estate Chardonnay is a blend of six different vineyards with approximately 20% fermented in new oak barrels. Texturally, this cuvée offers a sense of flow; it is relaxed in its own skin but provides welcome tension on the precise finish thanks to a line of firm acidity that will leave you smacking your lips. The 20% new oak is well integrated, contributing delicate nougat flavors, and allowing the subtle nectarine and honeydew melon flavors to shine on the medium-length finish.