CRITIC REVIEWS
Rebecca Gibb MW
A blend of several parcels in and around Kumeu, the 2023 Chardonnay Estate is done in a lighter, skip-along style than most recent vintages. Athletic with a tight, acid-driven finish, the wine's fruit is in the cooler, citrussy spectrum. A leesy texture builds some softness through the light-bodied core. A subtle hint of nuttiness lingers on the medium-length finish.
JancisRobinson.com
A blend of six different sites in Kumeu on clay with 60% owned by the Brajkoviches but all farmed by Milan B. All dry-farmed. Lots of different clones: 15, 6, 95, 54 and 1066. Hand-harvested. Whole-bunch pressed. Spontaneous fermentation in used French oak barrels (usually 20% new but not for this lighter vintage). 100% malo. 11 months maturation in barrel.Distinctly lemon nose and mouth-filling. Good substance on the palate and definition. Great drink for the near term! Quite a step up from the Village. Athletic. I asked about ageability and was assured by Paul Brajkovich that the 2019 is looking very good now. Neat finish. (JR)

