Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir is a refined expression of the Waipara Valley, crafted from old vines planted on free-draining, north-facing terraces. The vineyard sits in the lee of the Teviotdale Range, shielding the vines from easterly winds and creating a unique mesoclimate. The Glasnevin Gravels—composed of greywacke stones, silt, and loam—provide low-fertility soils that naturally reduce vine vigour, yielding small, intensely flavoured berries. Cool nights during the growing season extend ripening while retaining natural acidity, giving the wine elegance and structure.

Meet the producer

The Donaldson family has been involved in viticulture and winemaking for over 40 years. Ivan Donaldson planted the first Canterbury vineyard in 1976 and established Pegasus Bay with his wife Christine in 1986. Today, all four of their sons are actively involved in the family business, maintaining a hands-on, artisanal approach to wine production.

Production

Grapes are harvested in stages according to maturity, with approximately 40% of the fruit placed as whole bunches at the bottom of the fermentation vats, while the remainder is destemmed on top. The cool fermentation process extracts silky tannins, followed by a post-fermentation maceration to draw additional structural tannins. The wine is then gently pressed and matured for 15 months in oak barriques, 40% of which are new, sourced from artisan Burgundian coopers. A natural malo-lactic fermentation occurs in the summer following harvest. Batches from multiple plots and clones are blended to achieve a wine of balance, depth, and complexity.

Tasting notes

The wine shows a bright ruby colour and offers a complex, layered nose with earthy aromas of undergrowth, woodsmoke, truffle, and potpourri, intertwined with dark cherry, cranberry, crushed lavender, and subtle clove. On the palate, it is concentrated and polished, with silky tannins and lively acidity on a broad, elegant frame. The finish is long, spicy, and decadent, leaving lingering impressions of depth and refinement.

Food match

Ideal with roast game, duck, or slow-cooked meats, as well as earthy vegetarian dishes and mature cheeses.

Grape

Pinot Noir 100%

Vinification

Hand-harvested, partial whole-bunch fermentation, gentle daily plunging, post-fermentation maceration, pressing, and 15 months ageing in oak barriques with natural malo-lactic fermentation.

We strive to provide fast and reliable delivery, with Free Express Delivery on orders over £150 (UK Mainland only).

Express Delivery

Orders placed by 2pm (Monday to Friday) are dispatched the same day.
Orders placed after 2pm Thursday arrive on Monday.
Orders placed after 2pm Friday arrive on Tuesday.
A signature is required, with GPS-confirmed tracking.
Bank Holidays and seasonal holidays are not considered working days by couriers.

Standard Delivery

Economy (2-3 working days) – Orders placed before 2pm (Monday to Friday) are dispatched the same day.

Learn more about our Delivery Service here.