93 pts
James Suckling
Kumeu River Rays Road Chardonnay 2021
Hawkes Bay
New Zealand

"Kumeu's limestone hillside in Hawkes Bay has really stepped it up in just one year. It's the most overtly fruity of the range, but it always feels fresh and mineral-driven, too, as if blown through with a salty sea breeze. Notes of lemon zest, melon and orange blossom are underpinned by toffee, cream and oak spice. There's richness on the palate, but it's a different shape than some of the other Kumeu Chards. The oak is sculpted into the wine. There's beautifully tingly acidity and a long finish." —Wine Enthusiast "Mangoes, lemon curd, baked apples, hazelnuts, custard and some salted caramel. Ripe and creamy with a full body. Tropical fruit and buttery layers balanced by bright acidity. Drink now. Screw cap." —James Suckling

$35.99
Product # 46989