Kumeu River Mate's Vineyard Chardonnay 2023

Established in 1944, Kumeu River Wines is a multi-generational business, starting with Mick and Kate Brajkovich, who arrived in New Zealand from Croatia in 1937, to their grandshildren and great grandchildren who run the company today.

Just as the Brajkovich family has grown, so too has the winery itself. Extensions and additions mark the milestones that have seen business adapt and expand over the years. Today, the winery produces around 250,000 bottles annually from 30 hectares of its own vineyards in Kumeu, and another 10 hectares from local growers

Theirs is a story which parallels the New Zealand wine industry, reflecting a journey of enormous endeavour, and their rise to become globally recognised. The Chardonnay wines of Kumeu River have gained a strong foothold within the international market, receiving outstanding accolades.

This wine was crafted from grapes harvested from the Maté's Vineyard, established in 1990 on the site of the Brajkovich family's original vineyard purchased in 1944. The fruit is hand-picked and undergoes a combination of wild and cultured fermentation, followed by aging in French oak barrels. This method preserves the freshness of the grapes while integrating the oak influence, resulting in a wine that reflects both the varietal character and the site’s individuality.