Pioneers in New Zealand winemaking since 1944, Kumeu River specialise in producing Estate Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Methode Traditionelle from grapes grown on their own ten Kumeu and Huapai Vineyards. Mate’s barrique fermented Chardonnay is considered one of the best wines in the country. After gaining his bachelors degree in Oenological Science in Australia the wine maker Michael Brajkovich MW became New Zealand’s first Master of Wine and has been a Chief Judge of the Air New Zealand Wine Competition. You will enjoy a tutored tasting of five wines in the cellar door then go on a fascinating behind the scenes tour through the actual winery where you will be shown first hand the process to create barrel fermented Chardonnay. From the start to the end of the process, pressing grapes then down into the barrel room and finally back through the tank farm and bottling line. No other tour company can show you this.