Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2020

Nestled within the tapestry of our history, Hunting Hill emerged from the earth in 1982, its vines intertwining with the very essence of Kumeu River. An integral thread in the original Chardonnay blend, this vineyard stands sentinel on the slope, gazing upon Maté’s Vineyard below. Across the years, it has bestowed upon us an abundance of succulent, sun-kissed fruit, infusing our Estate Chardonnay with its richness.

A new chapter began in 2000, when the rebirth of Hunting Hill took root. Rising from the earth once more, its vines now bear even greater treasures, offering fruit that embodies the pinnacle of ripeness. A symphony of flavors dances on the palate, while a distinctive minerality, reminiscent of sun-warmed earth, adds an extra layer of allure. This metamorphosis has elevated Hunting Hill to an echelon of splendor beyond its former self, a true testament to the passage of time and the mastery of nature.

The Brajkovichs are focused on and internationally recognised as producing world-class Chardonnay. Hunting Hill is a vineyard that was first planted in 1982 and became a significant part of the original Kumeu River Chardonnay blend. Occupying the slope overlooking Maté’s Vineyard, it has always contributed lovely ripe and rich fruit to the Estate Chardonnay. Hunting Hill was replanted in 2000 and continues to improve, giving beautifully ripe fruit with a distinctive, mealy minerality.

We thought the 2019 vintage was exceptional but the Hunting Hill in 2020 is even better. Hunting Hill is very distinctive in its terroir typicity, with piercing lemon/lime fruit lift and floral on the nose, richness, and volume in the mouth followed by lingering acidity and minerality on the finish. This is an absolutely classic example of how great the Chardonnay grape can be: A beautifully powerful, yet elegant and complex wine with a long-term aging ability