2002 Kumeu River Chardonnay, New Zealand

[wondersofwine]

I started to post this under Chardonnay but decided to move it to Australian and New Zealand wines. Estate bottled. The Brajkovich Family, Proprietors. Stelvin screw cap. 13.5 % alcohol
From grapes from five different vineyards in the Kumeu region. Pale, clear straw color. Chewy texture. Fruity, not overwhelmed with wood. Some pear and fruit cocktail notes. Food friendly. Enjoyed it with tuna salad with seedless green grapes and celery. May have some tonight with baked chicken in a creamy sauce. The 2000 vintage sold for $16.99. I probably paid under $20 for this. David Rosengarten in Rosengarten Report says it comes within his "Golden Triangle"--quality, value and food-friendly.
He says its his favorite Chardonnay and compares to $200 white Burgundies. I wouldn't go that far, but it is a rather refreshing, food-enhancing wine. I purchased from Carolina Wine Company.

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 02-23-2004).]