Kumeu River

Kumeu River is a family owned and operated winery producing outstanding quality Burgundian-esque wines on the outskirts of Auckland. The new release vintage is the most outstanding following a string of excellent years, and we have plenty for you at Market Wine Store!

Kumeu River was founded by Mick, Katé and their son Maté Brajkovich in 1944 after they emigrated from Dalmatia, Croatia. Grape growing and wine making was a family tradition back in Croatia, and they continued the practice after purchasing farm land where they predominantly farmed fruits, vegetables and dairy cattle. The land took to viticulture exceptionally and production far exceeded what could be consumed at home, so began commercial sales of their wine.

The 80s were a renaissance for the winery; the name Kumeu River was established, conversion to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as their hallmark varieties, a complete and utter devotion to making superb wines using indigenous yeast, extended lees aging and malolactic fermentation. This emphasis and superfluousness with regards to quality, modernity and singularity was only increased when Michael Brajkovich MW, third generation winemaker and New Zealand's first Master of Wine, took the helm. The wondrous and unique journey of this label's claim to fame is what makes them special, and what makes them one of our favourites at Market Wine Store!