2025 Kumeu River Pinot Gris, Kumeu Auckland

Kumeu River Pinot Gris is a beautifully poised and quietly distinctive expression of this variety, grown just outside Auckland in the Kumeu subregion where rolling hills, cooling sea breezes and clay rich soils shape wines of texture and natural balance. This part of New Zealand is better known for Chardonnay, but Pinot Gris thrives here, developing flavour and weight without losing freshness.

Kumeu River is the Brajkovich family estate, one of the great names of New Zealand wine. Their approach is Burgundian in spirit, focused on vineyard expression, gentle handling and precision rather than overt winemaking. Pinot Gris here is treated seriously, built for the table and for those who love whites with both richness and line.

In the glass, the wine shows ripe pear, apple and white peach, with hints of spice, almond and a subtle savoury edge. The palate is medium bodied and textured, with bright acidity keeping everything lively and a clean, dry finish that invites another sip. It is generous without being heavy, making it both versatile and quietly complex.

This is a natural match for food. Roast chicken, grilled seafood, pork with apple, Asian inspired dishes with gentle spice or rich vegetable plates all work beautifully with its balance of fruit and acidity.

Kumeu River Pinot Gris is designed to be enjoyed young for its freshness and purity, but it will also develop nicely over three to five years, gaining more savoury depth with time. It is a refined, food friendly expression of Pinot Gris that reflects both the quality of the Brajkovich family and the unique character of Kumeu.