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Description
When Kumeu River took over Ray’s Road in Hawke’s Bay in 2017, the team knew the limestone hillside had serious potential. Year by year, the wines have proven them right - and in 2024, with yields down to half the norm, that promise is hitting another level.
Perched at 180 metres with a northerly aspect and dry-farmed vines, Ray’s Road turns out Chardonnays that are more "Chablis-esque" (to use a clumsy term) than Kumeu: zesty, flinty, and mineral-driven. But this vintage brings something extra - a little more weight and peachy generosity without losing that spine of limestone freshness. The palate has a newfound density and length, hinting that this is a wine worth tucking away for a few years, even if it’s already dangerously drinkable.
Hand-picked, whole-bunch pressed, and wild fermented in seasoned French oak, it’s an understated, finely etched expression from one of New Zealand’s most exciting emerging Chardonnay sites and perhaps its most complete Ray’s Road yet.
92-94 points
"The 2024 Rays Road Chardonnay leads with a spicy, almost exotic nose, while the palate strides in smooth, sleek movements. This is creamy and a little nutty, and there are wet limestone notes in the mouth, alongside yellow citrus and layers of dried herbs, cracked fennel seeds, ginger root and fruit flavors. A lovely wine, it's weighted on the back palate and long through the finish. I tasted this as a tank sample prior to filtration and bottling. The Ray's Road vineyard is on a limestone base and has been significantly worked and replanted since the Kumeu River purchase in 2021."
- Erin Larkin (The Wine Advocate)
| Price Bracket | $51 to $100 |
| Type | White |
| Body | Full Bodied |
| Variety | Chardonnay |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Kumeu |
| Reviewed By |
The Wine Advocate |
| Critic Score |
94 |
| Alcohol | 12.5% |
| Size | 750ml |
| Vintage | 2024 |
| Closure | Screw Cap |
Kumeu River
The Vineyards of Kumeu River Kumeu River
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