Kumeu River is considered one of the best producers of Chardonnay in New Zealand.
Rays Road is one of the latest additions to the Kumeu Rives vineyard sites, and oh boy, what a Chardonnay gold mine!
Rays Road is Kumeu River’s new vineyard in Hawkes Bay, situated on a limestone hillside at 180 meters altitude with a northerly aspect. Dry-farmed to produce high-quality grapes, it contributes to the Kumeu River label under the Rays Road name. This Chardonnay is crafted from hand-harvested grapes, whole-bunch pressed, and fermented with wild yeast in older French oak barrels. The result is a wine that is zesty, fragrant, and showcases a distinctive mineral complexity, reflecting the unique character of its site.
Kumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay 2023 Vintage:
A tight and focused white with impressive density, offering aromas of sliced cooked apples, minerals, and stone, complemented by hints of dried mango. Medium-bodied, it showcases a concentrated palate with a flavorful finish and subtle lime undertones. Enjoy now or hold to develop further complexity.
Kumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay Awards:
2023 Vintage: James Suckling 96/100 points
Food pairing suggestion: Classic roast chicken, or a creamy monkfish stew.
Did you know? The owner of Kumeu estates, Michael Brajkovic, was the first New Zealander to become a Master of Wine. When taken over the property from his father, Michael has significantly improved the wine-growing and winemaking processes, that resulted in production of some of the best Chardonnays in the world.
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