Recently whilst in London, Paul had the opportunity to share our 2021 wines with Jancis Robinson, MW. 2021 caps off a three-peat of spectacular vintages at Kumeu River.
"Long-standing Purple Pagers should be well aware of the value offered by these pristine Chardonnays that have withstood blind comparisons with some of the best white burgundies." – Jancis Robinson
Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 – 17++/20
Savoury nose suggests a firm backbone. Really concentrated and richer than the Hunting Hill. Long and very youthful. For the moment, it’s a coiled spring with lots to chew on on the finish. Ideally it should be drunk at 9–10 years old but I suspect most of it is hoovered up long before that. JR
Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2021 – 17.5+/20
Pale straw. Strong lemon aroma with light smokiness and real lift. Lovely balance and great youth and extremely long. Raciness. This is just a treasure that deserves to be cellared awhile to take full advantage of its potential for complex development. It has the same steeliness but more obvious fruit than in typical fine Australian Chardonnays. Tight finish for the moment. JR
Coddington Chardonnay 2021 – 17/20
Quite a subtle nose with a hint of putty. Really precise structure and yet open and fruity enough to enjoy already. There’s a certain peachiness on the end. Very appetising. JR
Rays Road Chardonnay 2021 – 16.5/20
Quite rich and broad on the nose. The crisp acidity comes in on the finish but it seems less sleek than the Kumeu wines. JR
Estate Chardonnay 2021 – 17+/20
Smoky, tense and lively on the nose. Very fine and open. Slight smokiness on the palate also. Great balance. (2006 and 2007 are still looking good in 2022 apparently.) A fair copy of a fine Chassagne! GV
Missed out on the 2021 Vintage?
To secure first access to every vintage and receive a yearly allocation of our most anticipated releases, join the Kumeu River CRU Waitlist.