October 28th, 2026
Forget everything you think you know about New Zealand Pinot Noir. Kumeu is taking a different route, trading the blockbuster fruit of some New World reds for something fresher, silkier, and a whole lot more elegant.
The Brajkovich family has been farming in Kumeū for more than 80 years, building a reputation for world-class wines with a distinctly Burgundian sensibility. While their Chardonnay put Kumeu River on the map, their Pinot Noir deserves a spot in the spotlight, too. This is a family that knows its land and isn't afraid to let the finer details do the talking.
Sourced from vineyards around Kumeū, with carefully selected fruit from the family's Rays Road vineyard in Hawke's Bay, this Pinot Noir brings together two North Island sites for a wine that's all about freshness, finesse, and drinkability. Hand-harvested, wild-fermented, and gently handled in the cellar, it's made to preserve the grape's perfume rather than pile on the weight.
And the payoff? Bright red cherry, juicy raspberry, and rose petal, with a little warm spice and earthy, herbal complexity in the background. The palate is silky and feather-light, driven by lively acidity and fine, chalky tannins that keep everything crisp and dry. It's beautifully balanced, with just enough savory edge to make you reach for another sip.
This is Pinot Noir without the heavy lifting. No oversized fruit, no unnecessary oak, just pure, vibrant flavor and a whole lot of charm. Give it a slight chill and watch it shine.
At the table, it's a dream with duck breast, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, or roast chicken. Honestly, we'd happily put it alongside a lazy lunch and let the afternoon take care of itself.
We're pouring this one in the restaurant, so come by, grab a glass, and see what North Island Pinot Noir is all about.
