Kumeu River Wine Dinner

We’ve been spoilt this year with a number of big hitters of the wine world braving the treacherous journey to Sandiway. Sebastian Zuccardi (Mendoza) and Giovanni Mazzei (Tuscany) most recently, both proud (and very lucky!) inheritors of benchmark wineries who have both brought renewed dynamism and vision to their estates. It’s been a real privilege to welcome them and share them with so many of you.

Based on recent form, it’s perhaps tempting to take these A-list visits for granted, and whilst I appreciate it isn’t a cheap night out, you get to taste some remarkable food and wine pairings- and meet your maker! Here we go again...

Kumeu River is one of New Zealand’s most vaunted estates, based in Auckland on the North Island, and owned by the Brajkovich family since 1944. They produce world class wines that are sadly in too short supply (indeed, we’ll taste a good proportion of our allocation of one of them on the evening!). One of the greatest New World sparklers, Chardonnays that taste like Burgundies at twice the price, an exotic Pinot Gris and a silky, sensual Pinot Noir. We are delighted to welcome Mike Brajkovich MW to share his family’s story and remarkable stable of wines, alongside a fine menu devised by Head Chef Richard and our wine manager Liam, a former Head Sommelier.

Aperitif

Kumeu Crémant, NV
Mushroom Arancini, Miso Sauce

Village Chardonnay, 2023
Pan-fried Squid & Togarashi Slaw

Village Pinot Gris, 2023
Gnocchi, Spinach, Roasted Hazelnut Pesto

Estate Chardonnay, 2023
Roasted Monkfish, Squash Purée, Preserved Lemon Beurre Blanc

Coddington Chardonnay, 2023
Herb Crusted Lamb Fillet, Rosemary Galette, Red Onion & Apple
Relish

Ray’s Road Pinot Noir, 2019
Mini Pavlova

By the end of the night, we’re hoping we can get him to change the name of the Coddington Chardonnay to Cuddington!

Tickets for the evening cost £100 which includes a £25 voucher that can be redeemed against orders of 6bt or more placed on the night. As is usual now, we have a number of tables that can seat 4, 6 and 8 and tables of 2 will likely be combined so you can meet other like-minded wine enthusiasts and savour the delights of the evening together.

We expect these to sell like hot-cakes once more so please call us from 10am Wednesday to reserve your tickets on 01606 882101.