Pegasus Bay Merlot Cabernet

Pegasus Bay Merlot Cabernet captures the power and poise of classic Bordeaux style through a distinctly Waipara lens. Deep, inky, and brooding, this blend reveals layers of dark fruit, savoury spice, and earthy complexity — a wine of remarkable structure and lingering elegance.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Dense and richly coloured, this blend opens with aromas of blackcurrant, truffle, and woodsmoke. Hints of leather, tobacco, and spiced plum emerge as the wine unfurls. The palate is full-bodied and assertive, supported by ripe, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity that carry through to a long, gratifying finish.

Key Details

• Winery: Pegasus Bay
• Varietal: Merlot (predominant), Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec
• Region: Waipara Valley, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2021
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Sustainable, estate-grown fruit; French oak maturation (approx. 20% new)

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded by the Donaldson family in 1986, Pegasus Bay stands as a pioneer of North Canterbury winemaking. The Merlot Cabernet blend is crafted from mature vines on the Glasnevin Gravels — free-draining soils that yield naturally low crops and deeply concentrated fruit. Each parcel ferments with indigenous yeasts before 18 months’ maturation in French oak barriques, resulting in a wine of precision, structure, and depth.

Special Features

Elegant yet muscular, this Waipara claret combines Merlot’s lush fruit with Cabernet’s firm backbone. Its cool-climate acidity preserves balance, while notes of leather, truffle, and spice add intrigue. A timeless example of New Zealand’s ability to marry Old World tradition with New World vibrancy.

Recognition & Accolades

Celebrated by critics for its harmony and intensity, this vintage reinforces Pegasus Bay’s position among New Zealand’s elite producers.

• 96/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS (2021 vintage)
• 96/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2021 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, Candice Chow (2021 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion (2021 vintage)
• 5 Stars – Bob Campbell MW (2021 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – James Suckling (2020 vintage)

Such accolades affirm its reputation as one of New Zealand’s most complete Bordeaux-inspired reds.

Food Pairings

Rich and structured, this wine pairs beautifully with slow-braised beef, venison, or rosemary-roasted lamb. Its savoury spice complements wood-fired meats and smoky barbecues, while earthy notes make it sublime with mushroom risotto or aged cheddar. A true dining companion for bold, flavourful dishes.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A benchmark of North Canterbury elegance — bold, balanced, and cellar-worthy. Pegasus Bay Merlot Cabernet makes a distinguished gift or the perfect bottle to savour over a memorable meal.

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.