Kumeu River Mate’s Vineyard Chardonnay 2019 (375ml)

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, September 2020 (17.5)

Made in just the same way as all the Kumeu River single-vineyard Kumeu 2019 Chardonnays.

Fuller than the Hunting Hill but with much more framework and tension than the Coddington. Already so pleasing! With that extra breadth plus undertow. Fantastic length. Creamy texture. One for hedonists – by which I don’t mean it’s at all sweet. But it’s richer than the Hunting Hill yet still has that New Zealand purity of fruit. Who could resist this? New Zealand Chardonnay at its finest. Perhaps slightly less burgundian than the Hunting Hill. 14%
Drink 2020 – 2032

Rebecca Gibb MW, vinous.com, November 2020 (96 pts)

Tightly coiled, this focused and athletic Chardonnay needs to be put away in a cool, dark cellar in the medium term to allow it to unwind. A little shy on the nose, presenting melon, beeswax and subtle oak-derived nutty characters, it has an excellent core of concentration. There is a fine, silken texture on the focused and layered midpalate. Produced from the Mendoza clone, which is prone to hens and chicks. Invigorating acidity provides momentum on the lengthy finish.

Cameron Douglas MS (98 pts)

Tense, ripe, pure, mineral, finesse, charm and beguiling. This is the best Mate’s I have encountered – the vintage says it all – aromas and flavours of apples and peaches, citrus of grapefruit and lemon then layers of new-ish wood adding in texture, harmony, tension and length. The acidity is ripe and almost sweet to the taste also suggesting a light saline note. The palate is full and lengthy, pure and generous. Available from August – put your name down for a case. Best drinking likely beginning 2022 through 2032.

This is highest score I have ever awarded a New Zealand Chardonnay – this wine is simply fantastic!