Wines Auckland Kumeu River - Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Kumeu River’s Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay 2017 from Auckland, New Zealand, is a superb expression of cool-climate Chardonnay. Sourced from the estate’s prestigious Maté’s Vineyard – a single vineyard planted on clay and gravels – this wine is made entirely from Chardonnay grapes. The 2017 vintage benefitted from a mild growing season, preserving acidity and allowing for full aromatic development. Fermentation and maturation take place in French oak barrels (a judicious mix of new and older wood), adding layers of complexity through nuanced toasty and creamy notes. The wine is renowned for its purity, offering aromas of white peach, citrus blossom, and delicate brioche, underpinned by a chiselled mineral core and subtle hints of hazelnut from time spent on the lees.

Auckland is one of New Zealand’s oldest wine regions, benefiting from a maritime climate with temperate conditions and ample sunshine, tempered by the cooling influence of the Tasman Sea. While best known for its Bordeaux blends and Syrah, Auckland is also increasingly celebrated for its Chardonnay, which thrives in the region’s clay and sandstone soils. The combination of moderate rainfall, low yields, and meticulous viticultural practices at Kumeu River produces some of the country’s most acclaimed Chardonnays, rivalling the great Burgundies in finesse and structure. Auckland’s winegrowing tradition is buttressed by a vibrant cultural mix and a modern focus on quality and sustainable practices.

Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay 2017 is particularly food-friendly. Its tension between crisp acidity and creamy texture makes it an excellent companion to roast chicken with tarragon, grilled lobster, or seared scallops with a butter sauce. For regional flair, try it with New Zealand green-lipped mussels or a dish of smoked kahawai. The wine’s intensity and freshness also pair beautifully with richer vegetarian fare, such as a wild mushroom risotto or a savoury tart with aged cheddar.

To enjoy this Chardonnay at its best, serve it chilled but not too cold, ideally between 11-13°C. A brief decanting or allowing it to breathe in the glass will help release its full aromatic potential and texture. This wine can be cellared for several years, offering further complexity with age.