Located in the northern part of New Zealand, not far from Auckland, the domain belongs to the Brajkovich family which undeniably contributes to the worldwide renown of the country's wines. Passionately working with Chardonnay, which are joined by Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris vines, it has about thirty hectares of vines on clay and sandstone soil. The work is done meticulously both in the vineyard and in the cellar, and, to a certain extent, the wines produced remind us of Burgundy crus, particularly for its single plot wines. The estate continues to work in tandem with innovation which completes the knowledge built up by the winemaker Michael Brajkovich over the years.
Today, Michael Brajkovich is not only the first New Zealander to become a Master of Wine but he was also crowned he Winemakers’ Winemaker by the Masters of Wine in March 2024. As well as being highly renowned with English-speaking wine critics, the estate has also won over those based in France.

The Kumeu River estate, run by the Brajkovitch family, is a New Zealand jewel with a strong attachment to Chardonnay. This grape variety thrives particularly well in the Maté’s Vineyard terroir, named after Maté Barjkovitch, who came to work the land and plant Chardonnay vines in the 1990s. The fruit grown here achieves a density that few vineyards in the region can match. They are harvested by hand and then fermented exclusively in oak casks. The wines are then left to mature for 11 months, also in oak casks.
The pale gold colour and ample nose herald a tasting experience with flavours worthy of the great French appellations. The well-balanced complexity combines with mineral notes and white fruit. The acidity perfectly complements the crispness of the Chardonnay and is enriched by a velvety, refreshing palate. Lay this wine in your cellar for a few years to reveal even more of the richness that this terroir bequeaths to the fruit.