Chardonnay, Maté’s Vineyard, Kumeu – 2004
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Introduction
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In 1990, Maté Brajkovich reworked the land at Kumeu River and planted a new vineyard of Chardonnay vines on the site of the original vineyard that he and his family purchased in March 1944. The first grapes from this vineyard were harvested in March 1993, the year following Maté’s death. The resulting wine was released in November 1994 to coincide with the 50th Anniversary of the Brajkovich family’s arrival at Kumeu River.
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Vineyard Profile
- Vine Age: 15 years
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Vinification
- Fermentation: Indigenous yeast
- Barrel Aging: 100% for 12 months
- Bottled: March 2005
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Technical Information
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Winemaker: Michael Brajkovich MW
- Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
- Production (in cases): 1,000 cases
- Production Case Pack: 12/750ml bottles
- Cases Imported: 300 cases
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- TA: 6.5 g/L
- RS: 1.6 g/L
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Tasting Notes
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This vintage sees the continuation of the “Maté’s ” style of Chardonnay with its lifted sweet fruit aroma that is akin to pears. On the palate there is extra concentration and length of flavor. This is a wine that will certainly benefit from 4-6 years bottle age.
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Images
Reviews
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Chardonnay, Maté’s Vineyard, Kumeu – 2004 – 91 points – The Wine Advocate
“An explosive nose of almond, hazelnut and acacia honey, beautifully integrated oak with that Meursault-inspired palate with great balance and verve – a wine destined to blossom over the next 3 to 4-years.”
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Chardonnay, Maté’s Vineyard, Kumeu – 2004 – 93 points – Wine Spectator
Ultimate Buying Guide: Top Scores 2006
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Chardonnay, Maté’s Vineyard, Kumeu – 2004 – 90 points – Wine Enthusiast
“excellent quality, with lovely toasted-oat notes framing pear, melon and citrus flavors. It’s full-bodied and long, with some youthful oaky notes still showing on the finish.”
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Chardonnay, Maté’s Vineyard, Kumeu – 2004 – 93 points – Wine Spectator
“Brilliant, zingy and ultimately subtle, with layers of stony, minerally character around a lively core of pineapple, lime and green apple flavors, lingering effortlessly on the bracingly tart finish. Has miles to go. Drink now through 2014.”