This 2021 harvest, the acclaimed producer in the Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, is celebrating its 30th vintage. Established by Neurologist Ivan Donaldson, the family planted the vines themselves starting in the mid ’80s, and in the early years, made the first Pegasus Bay vintages out of their home garage in Christchurch until a proper winery could be built at the vineyard.
Still family-owned and run today, with Ivan overseeing viticulture, his wife Chris tending the extensive gardens, and their four sons all involved in the winemaking and business side of the company. The Fesq family couldn’t be prouder to represent the Donaldson’s and the fine wines Pegasus Bay for over 20 years now.
PEGASUS BAY ICONS
The Pegasus Bay vineyard is a unique location and mesoclimate on the edge of the Teviotdale Range, giving maximum protection from the Pacific’s easterly breezes. The 30-year-old vines on free-draining, low-fertility soils produce low yields of high quality fruit that is the foundation of the unique terroir.
PINOT NOIR
Pinot Noir 2017
Prima Donna Pinot Noir 2016
Using traditional Burgundian winemaking methods, the pinot noirs of Pegasus Bay are some the most highly regarded from the North Canterbury region, and indeed New Zealand. Matured for 18 months in French oak barriques (40% new), the reserve Prima Donna is a best barrel selection only produced in exceptional years.
Pegasus Bay Prima Donna Pinot Noir 2016
“A very impressive pinot for the complexity and richness it offers on the nose with earthy, savory elements, intertwined with rich, dark and red cherries, as well as dried flowers and woody spices. The palate has a very intense and plush feel with plenty of dark cherries and plums, wrapped in smooth and polished tannin. ” 96 Points
RIESLING
Riesling 2018
Bel Canto Dry Riesling
Aria Late Picked Riesling
Made in the particular Pegasus Bay house style which involves giving the grapes an extended “hang time” and allow for the unique terrior to fully express itself harmoniously through this variety. The Rieslings are also picked (when possible) with a portion of noble botrytis.
Pegasus Bay Bel Canto Dry Riesling 2019
“Richly ripe and gorgeously fragrant, showing golden peach, orange peel, honey and mixed spice characters with seductive savoury nuances. It’s opulent yet focused and refined with silky texture backed by vibrant acidity, finishing immensely long and delicious.” 95 Points, Sam Kim, WineOrbit
CHARDONNAY
Chardonnay 2018
Virtuoso Chardonnay 2016
Also produced using traditional Burgundian winemaking methods, the Chardonnay is fermented with natural yeasts in large French oak puncheons (30% new), and matured for 12 months on its lees. The Reserve Virtuoso is a best barrel selection produced in only exceptional years from the oldest planted sections of the vineyard.
Pegasus Bay Virtuoso Chardonnay 6pk 2016
“Intense chardonnay that’s a mix of power and precision with peach, biscuit, hazelnut, struck flint and oak flavours. Quite a mouth-filling, textural wine that retains a tangy backbone of bright acidity. Cellar with confidence.” 95 Points, Bob Campbell MW, Gourmet Traveller Wine
Source: cottenham.com.au