Wine from AucklandNew Zealand

The humble wine region of Aukland in Northern New Zealand produces world-class chardonnay that competes with the best from Burgundy. The region is spearheaded by the Kumeu River winery who has helped put this humble region on the global fine wine map. Spanning from the rugged West Coast to the gentle hills of the North Island, the Auckland wine region is a tapestry of microclimates and soils, offering a rich palette for winemaking. This region, known for its warm coastal climate, volcanic soil, and innovative spirit, has played a significant role in shaping New Zealand's wine landscape.

The history and terroir of Aukland:

The history of winemaking in Auckland dates back to the late 19th century when Croatian and Slovenian immigrants brought their vinicultural expertise to the area. These pioneers planted the seeds of Auckland's wine industry, establishing vineyards that would stand the test of time. Initially, the focus was on red varieties, but as the industry evolved, so did the diversity of grapes and wine styles produced in the region.

Auckland's terroir is as varied as its landscape, ranging from the clay and limestone soils in Waiheke Island to the volcanic terrains of West Auckland. This geographical diversity allows for a wide range of grape types to thrive. While the region produces an array of wines, it has gained international acclaim for its Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The Auckland region fosters a winemaking culture that emphasizes quality and innovation, leading to wines that are complex, aromatic, and truly reflective of their unique origin.

Aukland's top grape variety, Chardonnay:

Among the popular grape types, Chardonnay has emerged as a flagship for Auckland, with styles varying from rich and buttery to crisp and mineral-driven. The success of Auckland Chardonnay is, in part, attributed to top wineries such as Kumeu River. Established in 1944, Kumeu River has been instrumental in elevating the status of New Zealand Chardonnay on the world stage. By adopting meticulous vineyard management practices and sophisticated winemaking techniques, such as hand-harvesting and barrel fermentation, Kumeu River produces Chardonnays that are renowned for their precision, depth, and complexity. These wines have challenged international perceptions, showing that New Zealand can produce Chardonnays that rival those from esteemed regions globally.

Aukland's best vineyard, Kumeu River Mates Vineyard:

Dedicated to the legacy of Mate Brajkovich, a visionary in the Auckland wine scene, Kumeu River's Mate's Vineyard stands out for its exceptional Chardonnay. The vineyard's distinct terroir, combined with meticulous vine care and cutting-edge winemaking, yields wines that are sumptuous, layered, and elegantly crafted. Esteemed critics have likened its Chardonnay to Burgundy's prestigious Le Montrachet. Triumphing in blind tastings against renowned Burgundian counterparts such as Leflaive, Lafon, Sauzet, and Drouhin showcases just how good Chardonnay from Kumeu River and Aukland can be.