Pegasus Bay Chardonnay

Pegasus Bay Chardonnay is a masterful expression of North Canterbury’s cool-climate elegance. Crafted by the Donaldson family, pioneers of the Waipara Valley, this wine balances ripe stone fruit and citrus vibrancy with savoury depth and smoky barrel spice — a truly complex and captivating Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Pale yellow in hue, the bouquet offers concentrated aromas of grapefruit, melon, pineapple and vanilla, wrapped in subtle smoke and grilled mushroom notes. The palate is full and fleshy, driven by bright fruit, creamy texture and lively acidity. Structured yet graceful, it finishes long, savoury and refreshing.

Key Details

• Winery: Pegasus Bay
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Region: Waipara Valley, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2022
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Sustainable Winegrowing; traditional Burgundian methods; 12 months in French oak puncheons

Craftsmanship & Story

Family-owned since 1986, Pegasus Bay is the flagship estate of North Canterbury. Founded by Ivan and Christine Donaldson, the winery’s vineyards lie on free-draining Glasnevin Gravels sheltered by the Teviotdale Range. These old, ungrafted vines yield intensely flavoured fruit of low vigour. Using traditional Burgundian techniques — hand-picking, natural fermentation and extended lees ageing — the family crafts wines of authenticity, texture and poise that capture their unique terroir.

Special Features

Made with minimal intervention, Pegasus Bay Chardonnay showcases remarkable purity and depth. Hand-trod fruit and wild-yeast fermentation in large French oak puncheons build texture and complexity, while the vineyard’s cool nights preserve freshness and acidity. The result is a layered, age-worthy wine of both richness and restraint.

Recognition & Accolades

Acclaimed as one of New Zealand’s most distinctive Chardonnays across recent vintages.

• 95/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2022 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2022 vintage)
• 94/100 Points & Excellent – Cameron Douglas MS (2022 vintage)
• 5 Stars – Michael Cooper (2022 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Reviews (2022 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – James Suckling (2022 vintage)

Such accolades affirm its place among New Zealand’s finest — layered, savoury, and brilliantly balanced.

Food Pairings

Richly textured yet fresh, this Chardonnay pairs beautifully with roasted pork belly, wild mushroom risotto or grilled lobster with garlic butter. Its smoky and savoury notes complement creamy chicken with tarragon, while its citrus lift refreshes the palate alongside pan-seared salmon. For a decadent match, serve with aged Comté or triple-cream brie — an indulgent harmony of flavour and finesse.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Elegant, expressive and proudly Waipara — Pegasus Bay Chardonnay is a benchmark for New Zealand craftsmanship and a sophisticated choice for discerning wine lovers.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

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