2023
Estate Chardonnay
2023
Estate Chardonnay
Kumeu River Chardonnay is drawn from six different vineyard sites in the Kumeu Region. We are particularly careful in selecting only the very best grapes from these vineyards for our Kumeu River Estate label.
Winemaker's Notes
Careful selection in 2023 was crucial in maintaining the quality and high standard of the Estate Chardonnay that we have set ourselves for over 35 years. Due to the lighter vintage the alcohol is a moderate 12.5% and no new oak was used in the vinification of this wine. There was a high proportion of 1 & 2 year old barrels and this has provided a beautiful balance to the Chardonnay which is a little more citrus in 2023 rather than peachy. The wine begins with a fragrant lemon aroma with hint of white peach. The palate silky and balanced with a lovely citrus finish. Delicious now but, as always, benefits from bottle age of 4-6 years.
Vinification
Hand harvested
Whole-bunch pressed
Indigenous yeast fermentation
100% barrel fermentation
French Oak
100% malo-lactic fermentation
11 months maturation in barrel
12.5% vol.
Drink with
- Seafood
- Pasta
- Chicken
- Risotto
Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay
"This is fresh, crunchy and clean, with mineral and spice notes and plenty of salty undertones. Sliced lemons and apples. Medium-bodied with a fresh finish. Drink now." - James Suckling, 93 Points
