From a recently acquired, limestone-based vineyard in Central Hawke's Bay, the 2019 Rays Road Chardonnay is a new addition to the lineup. A bit more floral and citrusy than the Kumeu-region bottlings, this shows plenty of pineapple and even lemon-lime aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, it's crisp and zesty, with a long, citrusy finish.- JC

From Kumeu's new vineyard site, a limestone hillside in Hawkes Bay, this Chard uses native yeast and whole-bunch fermentation, with time in old barrels. It's nice to see more fruit and less oak in a KR Chard. Lemon, melon, peach and floral notes are bright and approachable. Fruity with zingy acidity on the palate, this refreshing wine maintains nuance and varietal character. Drink now–2024. - Christina Pickard

Lemon curd, green apple and pomelo flavors are juicy and vibrant, with terrific focus, intensity and a mouthwatering finish. Details of ruby grapefruit, lemon verbena and lime zest linger on the sleek finish. Drink now. 950 cases made, 112 cases imported. — MW

This is just the second vintage of Rays Road, and it is a delightfully restrained yet energetic Chardonnay. Despite the warm, dry year, it has maintained a taut, citrusy structure, lovely fine acid length and an almost salty texture. Winemaker Michael Brajkovich suggested that this tension is, in part, due to differences in ripeness within bunches as well as the site's limestone soils. -- Rebecca Gibb MW