Located in the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand, Kumeu River Wines has established itself as a leader in the global wine industry. Founded by Maté Brajkovich and led by the Brajkovich family, this illustrious winery earned a place among Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ TOP 100 Premium Wine & Spirits of the World for 2024. Renowned for its exceptional Chardonnay, Kumeu River Wines has captured the palates of connoisseurs worldwide, drawing comparisons to the finest wines of Burgundy.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Innovation

The Brajkovich family’s journey began with a vision to create wines that reflect the unique terroir of New Zealand. Their dedication has transformed Kumeu River Wines into a globally recognized brand synonymous with quality and sophistication. Michael Brajkovich, the winery’s winemaker and New Zealand’s first Master of Wine, brings unrivaled expertise to every bottle. Alongside him, Marijana Brajkovich manages financial operations, Milan Brajkovich ensures vineyard excellence as the viticulturist, and Paul Brajkovich leads marketing efforts with a focus on global expansion.

Creating World-Class Chardonnay

Kumeu River Wines is celebrated for its exceptional range of Chardonnays, including single-vineyard offerings from Coddington, Hunting Hill, and Maté’s Vineyard. These wines highlight the winery’s dedication to showcasing the nuanced characteristics of their clay-rich vineyards. The innovative “Lyre” trellis system optimizes light exposure, enhancing grape maturity and quality. Hand-harvesting ensures that only the finest grapes make it into production, laying the foundation for their acclaimed wines.

Sustainability at Its Core

Environmental stewardship is integral to Kumeu River Wines’ ethos. The clay soils in their vineyards retain water efficiently, minimizing the need for irrigation and reducing environmental impact. As a participant in the New Zealand Winegrowers Sustainability program, the winery demonstrates its devotion to responsible practices, aligning with the values of modern wine enthusiasts.

Global Recognition and Prestigious Accolades

Kumeu River Wines has garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. Their Chardonnays have consistently appeared on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list, and the 2020 Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay was named James Suckling’s Wine of the Year in 2021. Michael Brajkovich’s recognition as the Institute of Masters of Wine’s Winemakers Winemaker of the Year in 2024 further cements the winery’s reputation for excellence. Notable figures such as Jancis Robinson and Lisa Perrotti-Brown have lauded the wines, with Tony Astle comparing them to the prestigious Le Montrachet of Burgundy.

Innovations in Winemaking

While steeped in tradition, Kumeu River Wines continually innovates to refine its craft. The Brajkovich family’s relentless pursuit of perfection inspires winemakers globally and ensures that every bottle reflects their commitment to quality and heritage.

Expanding Global Reach

Kumeu River Wines has a strong presence in markets such as the United Kingdom, Australia, the USA, Hong Kong, and Singapore. With recognition from the Luxury Lifestyle Awards, the winery is poised to expand further into Sweden, Denmark, and Spain. This global reach underscores the universal appeal of their wines, resonating with a diverse audience of wine enthusiasts.

An Immersive Experience

Beyond producing extraordinary wines, Kumeu River Wines offers tailored experiences that celebrate their legacy and craftsmanship. Exclusive tastings and food pairings highlight the versatility of their Chardonnays, immersing visitors in the artistry of winemaking. These experiences enhance the winery’s reputation as a premier destination for connoisseurs and casual wine lovers alike.

Looking to the Future

As Kumeu River Wines continues to evolve, the Brajkovich family’s dedication to innovation and quality remains steadfast. Each bottle tells a story of rich heritage and sets a benchmark for the future of winemaking. With a foundation built on vision and tradition, Kumeu River Wines is poised to lead the global wine industry, one exceptional bottle at a time.

To find out more about the Top 100 winner, please visit https://kumeuriver.co.nz/