In 1990, Maté Brajkovich reworked the land 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 celebrations marking the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Brajkovich Family’s arrival at Kumeu River.
The Mate’s Vineyard is usually the most reserved and unyielding when young with the nose being closed, just giving hints of the golden queen peach and mineral notes that we expect from Mate’s Vineyard. On the palate however, the flavour is very concentrated and distinctly richer than the other 2018 wines, but maintaining a perfect balance and freshness that sets this wine apart and makes it wonderful. There are notes of hazelnut and marzipan, with just a hint of a delicious bitter twist which brightens up the palate whilst framing the structure of the wine.
The reviews of this wine have been amazing:
Both James Suckling and Nick Stock writing for James Suckling.com awarded the perfect score to Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay 2020 vintage, saying "the perfect wine has finally arrived". It's only the second New Zealand wine to receive a 100/100.
Nick went on to say:
“They have set the standard for New Zealand chardonnay,” said Nick, who raved about all the 2020 Kumeu River Chardonnays he rated last week. “We are looking at the best set of releases ever from this winery. The Brajkovich family makes the wines and Michael Brajkovich is the winemaker, and he is relentless in finding quality.”
Decanter Magazine's (October 2021) review is below.
"Expressive style with notes of apple and peach, fairly toasty with nuts, hints of smoke and cream. Creamy palate with layers of flavours and an impressive length. 95 points drink 2022 - 2040". Andy Howard (Master of Wine).