Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay

Although the Kumeu River winery now commands recognition on a global scale for its fine Chardonnays in the Burgundy style, years of arduous labour preceded this accomplishment. Mick and Katé Brajkovich left their small Croatian hamlet in 1937 to start over in New Zealand, which is when their journey really began. The couple painstakingly saved money by putting in long hours for other local farmers before opening their own winery in 1944, which is now run competently by the third generation of Brajkovichs. Although the estate is located in one of New Zealand's most northerly wine districts, the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean nearby create cooler temperatures ideal for growing Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, which are used to make vivacious white wines.