Kumeu River Village Chardonnay, Kumeu, New Zealand

Kumeu River Village Chardonnay combines the freshness of stainless steel fermentation with the subtle richness of older French oak. The 2025 vintage brings together 42% Kumeu fruit and 58% Hawke’s Bay fruit, including a 32% contribution from the family’s limestone-influenced Rays Road vineyard. Bright citrus, restrained oak and a flinty texture make this an inviting introduction to the Brajkovich family’s Chardonnay style.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: Chardonnay.
• ABV: 13.3%.
• Yeast: Indigenous yeasts.
• Fermentation Vessels: 38% fermented in French oak barriques and 62% in stainless steel tanks.
• Barrel Age: Five years old or older, providing texture with minimal overt oak influence.
• Malolactic Fermentation: 100%.
• Harvest Method: Hand-harvested, with fruit selection during picking.
• Vineyard Contribution: Rays Road supplies 32% of the final blend.
• Owners: The Brajkovich family.
• Winemaker: Michael Brajkovich MW.
• Vineyard Director: Milan Brajkovich.
• Cellar Master: Nigel Tibbits.

Sensory Description:

Lime and lemon aromas lead into white peach and subtle fig. The palate combines vibrant citrus fruit with gentle richness, retaining a flinty, mineral character throughout. Oak remains discreet, allowing the fruit and texture to take the lead, while crisp acidity carries the wine into a refreshing finish.

Winemaker's Background:

The Brajkovich family established its winegrowing business in 1944, when Mick, Katé and their son Maté purchased a small vineyard property in Kumeu after emigrating from Croatia. Originally known as San Marino Vineyards, it became Kumeu River in 1986 as the next generation sharpened its focus on Chardonnay. Michael Brajkovich, New Zealand’s first Master of Wine, leads winemaking alongside a family team whose approach combines careful vineyard work, indigenous fermentation and restrained oak to produce balanced, food-friendly wines.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 9–11°C in a medium-sized white wine glass. Enjoy as an aperitif or alongside grilled fish, prawns, scallops and other seafood. Roast chicken, vegetable risotto and lightly creamy pasta also complement its combination of freshness and texture. Ready to enjoy on release, it is particularly appealing for its youthful citrus character.