Pegasus Bay

The Waipara Valley is in the South Island of New Zealand, 30 minutes drive north of Christchurch. To the east Waipara Valley is separated from the ocean (Pegasus Bay) by a range of hills which protect it from the cooling winds of the Pacific. To the west lie the Southern Alps (Main Divide), from whence the region’s hot nor’west winds derive. Its sheltered position, but proximity to the sea, give it warm days, cool nights and a dry autumn, resulting in a very prolonged ripening period. This promotes intense flavour development and optimal ripeness, while retaining good natural acidity.The Donaldson family have been seriously involved in wine since the early 1970’s and were pioneers of the North Canterbury region.Pegasus Bay is an entirely family-owned and operated enterprise.

A beautiful range of aromas and flavours. Full of nectarine, peach, apricot and citrus fruit flavours, which combine wonderfully with a stunning floral element of honeysuckle and orange blossom. Spicy, mango and crushed ginger hints on the palate and a zingy minerality. A seriously stunning wine.

A good accompaniment to duck, port, bacon, chicken, shrimp and crab

Hand selected only bunches which had 30% or more of noble botrytis. The grapes were immediately pressed and the juice fermented slowly over the winter at low temperatures, helping to retain its rich, fruity characters. At all stages, from fermentation to bottling, it was handled very carefully to help retain a little of its natural carbon dioxide. This provides additional crispness and may result in a small amount of spritzig when first poured