Pegasus Bay Virtuoso Chardonnay

Pegasus Bay Virtuoso Chardonnay represents the pinnacle of North Canterbury craftsmanship — a reserve selection showcasing the Donaldson family’s mastery of texture, power and poise. A wine of layered fruit, savoury depth and mineral tension, it captures the spirit of Waipara’s cool-climate terroir with remarkable finesse.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Shimmering lemon in hue, the bouquet is both fruit-driven and savoury, revealing grapefruit, grilled pineapple and melon entwined with notes of smoky bacon, buttered popcorn, hazelnut and caramel. On the palate, it is vibrant, concentrated and finely balanced — a fusion of richness, energy and long, racy persistence.

Key Details

• Winery: Pegasus Bay
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Region: Waipara Valley, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2020
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Sustainable Winegrowing; Reserve series; wild-yeast fermentation; 40% new French oak

Craftsmanship & Story

Virtuoso is crafted only in exceptional years and selected from the finest barrels of old-vine Chardonnay. Hand-harvested and gently pressed, the juice is fermented by indigenous yeasts in French oak puncheons before resting on its lees for extended ageing. The Donaldson family’s meticulous approach and respect for Burgundian tradition create a Chardonnay of breathtaking depth and structure, embodying Waipara’s unique limestone and gravel terroir.

Special Features

This reserve Chardonnay unites intensity with restraint. The interplay of citrus, stone fruit and savoury elements is amplified by natural fermentation and extended lees ageing. Richly textured yet elegant, it captures the perfect equilibrium between oak, fruit and mineral precision — a hallmark of Pegasus Bay’s most celebrated wines.

Recognition & Accolades

Highly acclaimed by leading critics for its complexity, balance and longevity.

• 97/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2020 vintage)
• 96/100 Points – James Suckling (2020 vintage)
• 96/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS (2020 vintage)
• 95/100 Points (19/20) – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews (2020 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2020 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous (2020 vintage)
• 5 Stars – Michael Cooper (2020 vintage)

Such accolades confirm Virtuoso as one of New Zealand’s most distinguished and cellar-worthy Chardonnays.

Food Pairings

This Chardonnay’s richness and savoury complexity shine with roast chicken or duck in creamy mushroom sauce, or pan-seared scallops and grilled salmon with lemon butter. Its vibrant acidity cuts through richness, while its smoky, nutty tones elevate truffle risotto or pasta with parmesan and cream. The result — a symphony of texture, depth and freshness that defines fine dining in a glass.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A luxurious showcase of Pegasus Bay’s artistry — elegant, layered and deeply expressive. A superb choice for discerning collectors, celebratory occasions or an indulgent evening at home.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.