Kumeu River Mate's Chardonnay 2019, Auckland

Tense, ripe, pure, mineral, finesse, charm and beguiling. This is the best Mate’s I have encountered - the vintage says it all - aromas and flavours of apples and peaches, grapefruit and lemon then layers of new-ish wood weaving in texture, harmony, tension and length. The acidity is ripe and almost sweet to the taste also suggesting a light saline note. The palate is full and lengthy, pure and generous. Available from August - put your name down for a case. Best drinking likely beginning 2022 through 2032.

98 Points

This is highest score I have ever awarded a New Zealand Chardonnay - this wine is simply fantastic!

---