Kumeu River Crémant NV

Established in 1944, Kumeu River Wines is a multi-generational business, starting with Mick and Kate Brajkovich, who arrived in New Zealand from Croatia in 1937, to their grandshildren and great grandchildren who run the company today.

Just as the Brajkovich family has grown, so too has the winery itself. Extensions and additions mark the milestones that have seen business adapt and expand over the years. Today, the winery produces around 250,000 bottles annually from 30 hectares of its own vineyards in Kumeu, and another 10 hectares from local growers

Theirs is a story which parallels the New Zealand wine industry, reflecting a journey of enormous endeavour, and their rise to become globally recognised. The Chardonnay wines of Kumeu River have gained a strong foothold within the international market, receiving outstanding accolades.

Grapes were hand-harvested, and whole-bunch pressed to gently extract juice. Fermentation was with indigenous yeasts, followed by a 100% malolactic fermentation. For the current releases, the base vintages are predominantly from 2017 or 2018, with 5-6% reserve wine added before the cuvée undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle. The blend is 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir. After resting on lees for 36 months, the wines were hand-disgorged, with a low dosage added (dosage 4g/l) before final bottling.