The Brajkovich family moved from their home in Croatia to New Zealand in 1937. They settled near the capitol city of Auckland where they worked in orchards and vineyards, and by 1944, were able to buy a property with a small vineyard in Kumeu. They farm 40 hectares (98.8 acres) of vines and purchase grapes from local growers. Weather conditions for the 2018 vintage required severe selection at harvest. They normally use a portion of new oak for barrel fermentation and aging, but for this vintage they chose used barrels to avoid overpowering the fruit. Named in honor of the family patriarch, it is a gorgeous wine with subtle Meyer lemon, apple, pear and vanilla flavors seamlessly integrated with vibrant acidity. It is worthy of contemplation, but best when paired with halibut or roast chicken with a beurre blanc sauce.
Kumeu River, Kumeu (North Island, New Zealand) Chardonnay 2018
By Rebecca Murphy