2019 Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay, Auckland

The Kumeu Estate blend comes from six different vineyards – in Burgundian terms, we have always viewed this as the equivalent to a village Puligny or Chassagne-Montrachet. In 2019 this is a magnificent wine. Colour is bright, very pale lemon-green, aromas being taut and pure, recalling spiced lemon and lime. Medium bodied, the palate is open and expressive, with wonderfully concentrated smoky citrus flavours, a fine-boned structure, and a supple, creamy texture. This is poised, elegant and refreshing, with a lip-licking, long finish (for drinking 2020-2025+).