Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir is a benchmark expression of North Canterbury elegance — a wine of depth, perfume and poise from one of New Zealand’s most celebrated family estates. Crafted from over 30-year-old vines in the Waipara Valley, this Pinot Noir captures the unique character of the Glasnevin Gravels and Pegasus Bay’s sustainable winemaking heritage.
Tasting Notes & Experience
Deep ruby in hue, the nose unfolds with red cherry, dark plum and pomegranate layered over notes of mushroom, leather, hazelnut and violet. Silky and finely textured, the palate balances lively acidity with ripe tannins, revealing a refined structure and elegant length. A wine of quiet power and grace, finishing long and beautifully focused.
Key Details
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Winery: Pegasus Bay
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Grape: Pinot Noir
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Region: Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, New Zealand
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Vintage: 2022
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ABV: 13%
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Volume: 750 ml
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Other: Sustainable Winemaking; Estate Grown Vines
Craftsmanship & Story
Established by the Donaldson family — pioneers of modern Canterbury viticulture — Pegasus Bay remains proudly family-owned and run. The estate’s old-vine Pinot Noir is hand-harvested from north-facing terraces sheltered by the Teviotdale Range. Natural fermentation, minimal handling and gentle oak maturation preserve the vineyard’s distinctive purity and textural finesse.
Special Features
The Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir is renowned for its complexity and longevity. Old vines, low yields and the region’s cool nights create a perfect balance of ripeness and freshness. Crafted with minimal intervention, this wine speaks vividly of its terroir — a hallmark of the Donaldson family’s meticulous, sustainable philosophy.
Recognition & Accolades
Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir 2022 continues the estate’s award-winning legacy with outstanding critical acclaim:
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5 Stars & 95/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2022 vintage)
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5 Stars – Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s Guide (2022 vintage)
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94/100 Points & Excellent – Cameron Douglas MS (2022 vintage)
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94/100 Points – James Suckling (2022 vintage)
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94/100 Points – Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion (2022 vintage)
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93/100 Points – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Reviews (2022 vintage)
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92/100 Points – Erin Larkin (2022 vintage)
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5 Stars & 94/100 Points – Candice Chow, Candice Wine Chat (2021 vintage)
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5 Stars & Super Classic Status – Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s Guide (2020 vintage)
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95/100 Points & 5 Stars – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2019 vintage)
Such acclaim reaffirms Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir as one of New Zealand’s most admired and cellar-worthy Pinots – a true expression of Waipara terroir and family craftsmanship.
Food Pairing
A beautifully versatile and expressive Pinot Noir, perfect with slow-roasted duck, herbed lamb, or venison tenderloin. Earthy flavours of truffle, mushroom, and beetroot accentuate its savoury depth, while grilled salmon or aged Brie de Meaux highlight the wine’s silken tannins and bright acidity. An exceptional match for fine seasonal cuisine.
Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir makes an elegant gift for discerning wine lovers — a statement of refinement and legacy. Ideal for anniversaries, celebrations, or cellaring, this wine brings both prestige and pleasure to any occasion.
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.