- 96
- 95
2023 Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay
Other reviews....
Aromas of apples, white peaches and steel with hints of lemongrass, fresh basil, flint and white flowers. Medium- to full-bodied with a tight and dense center palate and a crunchy and flavorful finish. Energetic acidity. So fresh yet dense at the same time.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com
There is no new oak on any of the 2023s (with the exception of Rays Road) but a portion was aged in one and two year old barrels. Lemon drops and crisp red apple. A subtle silken creamy texture, with the signature edge of flint (but not of the volume seen in the previous vintages). Impressive and elegant. Drink from 2025 - 2030.
94 points
Jane Skilton MW - Inside Burgundy
A wet and difficult vintage, but never mind, it’s what’s in the glass that matters. I think this may be my favourite wine from the single vineyard Chardonnays from Auckland.
White flowers, mint, white peach, lemon and lime, almond biscotti, and spice. It’s an understated wine, though it has something about it which really gets me in, and maybe that’s the cool and ‘mineral’ feel it offers, or the light crunch of acidity combined with classic and delicate Chardonnay flavour. It has perfume and precision, and the length is excellent. It’s classy and high-toned, floral and nutty, flinty, and delicious. It’s water-coloured, yes, yet it’s a beautiful wine. Drink: 2024 - 2033+
95 points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front