Kumeu River

There are very few wine enthusiasts who haven’t oohed and ahhed over a glass of Kumeu River chardonnay. The now world-class wine producer was established by Katé and Mick Brajkovich, in ‘44. At the time, wine production was limited to fortifieds and was produced under the name San Marino Vineyards. Though Mick sadly passed not long after the winery’s establishment, Katé and son Maté continued to tend the vineyards and had drummed up a small demand. It wouldn’t be until Mate’s children (Michael, Marijana, Milan and Paul) entered the scene that Kumeu River would build a foundation that secured their reputation as one of New Zealand’s most awarded Chardonnay producers. After Michael spent a vintage in Burgundy, he decided to put his new skills to great use, and the Kumeu River label was founded. A substantial vineyard acquisition followed in ’17, and the estate grew to 30ha under vine. The wines are often exceptional in the best vintages – particularly the Mate’s, Coddington and Hunting Hill Chardonnays – and they boast remarkable aging potential. A true beacon of the region, and indeed the world. -KATRINA BUTLER