The 2019 Kumeu River Chardonnay Hunting Hill, hailing from Auckland, New Zealand, showcases a refined expression of the Chardonnay varietal. Produced by Kumeu River, this wine is bottled with a screw cap closure and presents a 14.0% alcohol content.
Bob Campbell of MW Bob Campbell awarded the wine an impressive score of 97, describing it as a "taut, mouth-watering chardonnay in a rather Burgundian style, with a nice blend of fruit, oyster-shell, toast, spice and nutty oak flavours." He noted its good weight and concentration, suggesting it is accessible now but will benefit from some bottle age.
James Suckling from jamessuckling.com gave the wine a score of 94. He highlighted its "attractively creamy aromas with white peach and vanilla, as well as sliced mango and honey." On the palate, he appreciated its "fleshy and mouth-filling peach and mango flavors" and praised the wine's fruit purity, recommending it for immediate enjoyment or cellaring.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, with a score of 95, described the wine as "peach-inflected" and "considerably plusher and more generous than the Coddington." The review noted a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel with flavors ranging from yellow peach and grilled pineapple to toasted hazelnuts and a touch of honey, balanced by bright citrus notes on the finish.
Wine Enthusiast's Christina Pickard gave it a score of 93, noting its "delicate melon, peach and citrus notes, backed by honeysuckle and fresh oats." She praised the wine's restraint and poise, highlighting its acidity and talc-like texture. She suggested it is harmonious and polished, suitable for drinking now through 2028.
Wine Spectator also rated the wine at 93, describing it as having "Butterscotch, sweet cream and lemon meringue details" that are "succulent and pure." The review mentioned hints of nutmeg, tangerine, peach, and citrus notes, concluding that the wine is harmonious and juicy on the finish. They recommend drinking it now through 2030, with 1,200 cases made and 168 cases imported.
Overall, the 2019 Kumeu River Chardonnay Hunting Hill is lauded for its balance, complexity, and potential for aging, making it a noteworthy choice for Chardonnay enthusiasts.