Chardonnay Estate, Kumeu River 2015

The 2015 Estate Chardonnay is more open-knit and less taut than the single vineyard wines, with an expressive nose of ripe nectarines, pink grapefruit and guava, plus underlying notes of baking bread and ginger. Medium-bodied, it offers richness and good depth in the mouth with a an approachable, refreshing backbone and great harmony.

The nose is bright smoky with fresh fruits some flint and mineral the start of the palate lean taut but there is mid richness layers of nectarines and ripe pears some peach and pink grapefruit the finish fragrant floral and long. 2018-26

Pale lemon colour with a pure pear, peach and lemon blossom nose, the palate on the 2015 is initially flinty and mineral before fleshing out with ripe stone fruits and a hint of gun-smoke. Licks of refreshing acidity balance the pure fruit and smoky intensity to the fruit, leaving an almost lemon-blossom finish. Immediately enjoyable but long on the finish.

Less dusty minerality on the top notes, more yellow blossom and honey suckle perfume with pithy, grated lemon rind and white citrus notes following close behind. Texturally quite full and fleshy and more crunchy, piquant acids in evidence. Impressive saline vein and a noticeably longer, more intense, concentrated length.

Broad and opulent on the nose. Massive streak of acidity. But real grip and extract on the palate. Lovely already with strong attack. Long.
Drink 2017-2026

A blend of six parcels this wine embodies the signature style of rich, ripe peach fruits and toasty oak warmth on the nose (20% new). The palate fuses ripe citrus and stone fruits together in a powerful, fresh and balanced mode. This is a trademark of Brajkovich – he embraces chardonnay's richness and delivers energy and flavor. Drink now.

Ripe grapefruit with floral and nutty notes, this is a very elegant, cool-climate chardonnay that's just getting into its stride. A precise balance of richness and freshness extends through the long, subtle finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap.