Kumeu Wine Region Guide

The acclaimed sub-region of Kumeu has an array of wines known worldwide for their distinction and class. Located in the wine region of Auckland, New Zealand, the Kumeu wine region boasts the best New Zealand Chardonnay. However, it also produces exquisite red wines. Kumeu’s wines have developed due to advantageous factors like ample sunshine, the vineyard’s proximity to the ocean and winemaking penchants of the area. These components help to shape a style of wine, reflected in its distinct taste and fruit flavours, found nowhere else in New Zealand or the world. For that matter, the Kumeu wine region is highly reputable and exciting to discover for every wine enthusiast.

Find out more about Kumeu wine tasting and tours!

Where is the Kumeu wine region?

Kumeu is a sub-region of Auckland, located on the North Island of New Zealand, in proximity to the Tasman Sea from the west and the Pacific Ocean from the east. The nearest towns are Huapai and Waimauku, situated within 30 kilometres from Kumeu. The Auckland wine region, in general, is pretty famous for its viticulture, especially its crispy white and bold red wine; another prominent wine appellation of Auckland is Waiheke Island. And Kumeu wine sub-region is a place of many old and new boutique wineries, cellars, unique, picturesque landscapes and plenty of public and private wine tasting and tours.

The history of the Kumeu wine region

The winemaking in the Kumeu wine region first emerged in the late 19th century. The region’s history is linked with the Croatian colonists, who reached Kumeu on their way to searching for a productive vinicultural area. Along with their knowledge of viticulture, they developed Kumeu in this direction, and the region has flourished since 1940, when they opened their first winery. Little by little, many other wineries were opened, and wine production became rampant in the area. The tradition continues, and the Croatian family descendants still run a few wineries in the Kumeu wine region.

Kumeu wine region terroir

The climate in the sub-region is oceanic or coastal, with warm summers and mild, wet winters. The temperature seldom exceeds 30 °C, and there are no harsh extremities or diurnal temperature variations. Nevertheless, sea breezes are frequent, and so are the rains due to the high humidity in the region. All those weather factors are essential in extending the ripening period and developing moderately sweet and acid berry flavour in grapes. The Kumeu soil mainly consists of silt, clay, and loam, and it has good water-retaining features, which sometimes is a great solution to the problem caused by high humidity in the region.

Kumeu wine characteristics

The predominant grape variety in the Kumeu wine region is Chardonnay, which represents 82% of total wine production. Therefore, white wine in the appellation is prevalent; Pinot Gris is another authorized grape variety for white wine. However, the region also produces bold red wines, mainly from Pinot Noir and Montepulciano grapes. Kumeu wines tend to have flavours of red fruit and flowers, like roses; they are moderately acidic and structured. The Kumeu wine boasts its class and premier quality, recognized worldwide. Indeed, the freshness of the wine is truly remarkable, and the right balance of acidity and sweetness makes them simply flawless.

Food to pair with Kumeu wine

Whitebait Fritters

Whitebait Fritters are a traditional fish dish from New Zealand, also typical in Auckland. It is like a fish cutlet made from fish meat, a bit of flour, eggs, and spices. It is served as an appetizer or a main dish, accompanied by some green salad or green beans. Whitebait Fritters also make a great pair with Kumeu white wine, like every fish dish.

Colonial goose

Although the name tells otherwise, the colonial goose is a dish made from lamb or mouton, cooked in a goose style. It was established by British immigrants to enable every social class to have a “goose” for dinner and which had converted into a very delicious, traditional dish. This interesting dish consists of lamb leg in honey-apricot sauce and breadcrumbs, stuffed with onions and orange zest, and seasoned with thyme and sage. It is usually accompanied by baked potatoes and, of course, a glass of wine.

Ebi mayo roll from Ebisu

Ebi mayo roll is a traditional sushi version common to the Auckland region. The name might sound dubious, but in reality, instead of mayonnaise, cream cheese is used. This extraordinary sushi roll combines rice, avocado, prawns, tobiko, cream cheese, and tempura crumbs, topped with caviar. This absolute delicacy, for sushi lovers, is enhanced by pairing it with a glass of New Zealand Chardonnay. 

Places to visit in Kumeu

Auckland Zoo

Located a few kilometres from the Kumeu wine region, Auckland Zoo is a great place to discover a wide array of animals and birds, including the rarest species in their natural habitat. Different animals from Africa, Asia, and Australia are presented; they are restricted as little as possible, enabling visitors to explore them in their real lives while enjoying Auckland’s exquisite flora and fauna. 

Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT)

The Auckland Museum of Transport and Technology represents the most important collections of national transport from the 19th and 20th centuries. Many types of vehicles, like old cars, buses, fire engines and even military planes, can be found at this place, reflecting social history.

Muriwai Beach

Muriwai Beach is only 15 minutes away from Kumeu, towards the western coastline. This fabulous, sandy beach is an absolute must-see for nature lovers. Surrounded by high cliffs over the Tasman Sea, Muriwai beach is characterized by quite sound waves, therefore is a great place to surf. And not only, but it is also a paradise for bird-lovers and anyone who would like to relax in pure nature with breathtaking landscapes.  

Frequently Asked Questions about the Kumeu wine region