TASTING NOTES

Forget any preconceived notions of Pinot Gris – this New Zealand offering delivers surprising layers of richness and complexity, enough to tempt even the most ardent Chardonnay devotee.

This glass is a delightful surprise, bursting with juicy peach and nectarine aromas that tumble into a round, lip-smacking mouthful. There’s a hint of fullness, leaving a refreshing lick of acidity that lingers like a summer afternoon. It seems the folks at Kumeu River, those Chardonnay wizards, are working their magic on Pinot Gris too. Crafted with hand-harvested Auckland grapes and a touch of wild yeast fermentation, this one’s a charmer – all sunshine and smiles.

Kumeu River is a New Zealand legend, crafting world-class Chardonnay instead of the country’s famed Sauvignon Blanc. Founded in 1944 near Auckland by Croatian immigrant Maté Brajkovich, it’s now run by his son Michael (New Zealand’s first Master of Wine) and siblings. They offer a warm, family welcome at the cellar door. While their Auckland location presents land-cost challenges, they’re expanding to Hawkes Bay. Alongside Chardonnay, they’ve recently found success with Alsatian-style Pinot Gris and a delightful Chardonnay/Pinot Noir sparkler. This is a family-driven operation focused on quality, not flash.

A crisp white for when the flavours turn bold – think of fragrant curries or a steaming plate of garlicky mussels.