KUMEU RIVER ESTATE CHARDONNAY 2023

Six sites across the Kumeu area — clay-rich soils in a maritime-moderated corner of west Auckland — supply the fruit for this Estate Chardonnay, with cool Tasman Sea influence keeping acidity high and ripening gradual. Kumeu River ferments with wild yeasts and puts the wine through 100% malolactic fermentation, then ages it on lees in 20% new François Frères oak for approximately 11 months. The result is broad but textured: white peach, apricot kernel, and a hint of malt biscuit through a brine-edged finish.