Pegasus Bay Sauvignon Semillon reimagines the classic white Bordeaux blend through a distinctly New Zealand lens. Crafted from old vines on the stony Glasnevin Gravels of North Canterbury, it’s a wine of texture, depth and aromatic intrigue — an elegant, savoury white with remarkable length.
Tasting Notes & Experience
Pale lemon in colour, this wine opens with tropical notes of guava, pineapple and melon, unfolding into grapefruit, honeysuckle, crushed herbs and a wisp of flint. The palate is richly textured yet vibrant, its creamy weight lifted by crisp acidity and phenolic drive. A long, sophisticated finish lingers with mineral and citrus complexity.
Key Details
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Winery: Pegasus Bay
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Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc 70%, Semillon 30%
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Region: Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, New Zealand
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Vintage: 2020
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Alcohol: 13.6%
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Volume: 750 ml
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Other: Gluten-Free; Sustainable Winegrowing
Craftsmanship & Story
Inspired by the dry white blends of Bordeaux, Pegasus Bay combines estate-grown Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon in perfect harmony. The Sauvignon portion is cool-fermented in stainless steel for freshness, while the Semillon matures in oak puncheons for texture and complexity. Extended lees contact and a year’s bottle ageing yield a wine of layered richness and refined structure — a testament to the Donaldson family’s patient, minimal-intervention philosophy.
Special Features
This small-production blend showcases old vines rooted in the free-draining Glasnevin Gravels. Its long ripening season, sheltered microclimate and careful élevage bring together the tension of Sauvignon Blanc and the depth of Semillon in an expressive, age-worthy union.
Recognition & Accolades
Acclaimed by critics for its layered complexity and elegance, Pegasus Bay Sauvignon Semillon stands among New Zealand’s finest white blends.
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95/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS (2020 vintage)
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94/100 Points – Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s Guide (2020 vintage)
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5 Stars – Michael Cooper (2020 vintage)
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19/20 Points – Joelle Thomson, Drinksbiz (2020 vintage)
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93/100 Points – James Suckling (2020 vintage)
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18.5/20 Points – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews (2020 vintage)
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92/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2020 vintage)
These awards affirm the wine’s reputation as a benchmark for texture, balance and craftsmanship in New Zealand’s white-blend category.
Food Pairings
Rich yet vibrant, this wine pairs beautifully with pan-seared scallops, saffron risotto or grilled seafood in citrus-herb butter. Its creamy weight and crisp acidity complement goat-cheese tart or asparagus dishes, while the tropical fruit and spice notes elevate aromatic Thai cuisine. A luxurious companion to both seafood and elegant vegetarian fare.
Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
Distinctive and complex, this refined white blend is ideal for collectors or connoisseurs seeking a food-friendly, cellar-worthy expression of New Zealand innovation and French inspiration.
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.