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Kumeu River’s highly touted similarity to its French counterparts has by now been repeated so many times on various avenues that one might think it’s all just a marketing sham. On the contrary, there’s good reason for the claim, which was evident in this 17’ Maté’s Vineyard - blinded, it smelled and tasted so much like a Chassagne or Puligny… and dare I say… 1er cru. Serious nose which still needs time to integrate all the toasty oak characters. Aromas of white peaches and nectarines, ginger, some reduction, and hints of chamomile. On the palate, massive concentration with textures and length to match. Good acidity which gives it a mineral feel too. Honestly, it’s hard to call this a wine from New Zealand even after the reveal. Really impressive. Will look for older samples next.
Kumeu River’s highly touted similarity to its French counterparts has by now been repeated so many times on various avenues that one might think it’s all just a marketing sham. On the contrary, there’s good reason for the claim, which was evident in this 17’ Maté’s Vineyard - blinded, it smelled and tasted so much like a Chassagne or Puligny… and dare I say… 1er cru. Serious nose which still needs time to integrate all the toasty oak characters. Aromas of white peaches and nectarines, ginger, some reduction, and hints of chamomile. On the palate, massive concentration with textures and length to match. Good acidity which gives it a mineral feel too. Honestly, it’s hard to call this a wine from New Zealand even after the reveal. Really impressive. Will look for older samples next.
High quality. For the price and quality it beats a lot of more expensive Burgundy whites and other Chardonnays. There’s a touch of petillance or tickle on the tongue (I believe it’s due to the screw cap).
High quality. For the price and quality it beats a lot of more expensive Burgundy whites and other Chardonnays. There’s a touch of petillance or tickle on the tongue (I believe it’s due to the screw cap).
This is wonderful but has so much more to give. Quite reticent nose but still expressive: cream, citrus, and a steely lemongrass note. Big and powerful. This has incredible mouth feel, a zip of citrus acidity that gives grip and incredible length. Still tight but everything is packed in in volume. True grand cru quality.
This is wonderful but has so much more to give. Quite reticent nose but still expressive: cream, citrus, and a steely lemongrass note. Big and powerful. This has incredible mouth feel, a zip of citrus acidity that gives grip and incredible length. Still tight but everything is packed in in volume. True grand cru quality.
Kumeu, Auckland, North Island, New Zealand
