2020 Pegasus Bay Prima Donna Pinot Noir, Waipara

"A magnificent rendition of the variety, showing dark berry, dried herb, fine leather, porcini and roasted nut aromas on the nose. The palate exhibits outstanding concentration and depth, wonderfully supported by refined texture and beautifully melded tannins. Sumptuous and expansive, yet structured and robust with an impressively long, engaging finish."

98 Points, Sam Kim, Wine Orbit

Freshly sliced ripe strawberry with hints of rose stem, baking spices, and bark follow through to a medium body with integrated tannins and a fine and polished finish. Racy and complex. Classy. Drinkable and appreciable now, but it will deliver so much more in three to five years.

96 points jamessuckling.com

The best barrel selection of Pinot Noir from Pegasus Bay's oldest ungrafted plantings, their winemaking follows a Burgundian philosophy of judicious use of whole bunch and fine oak.

Upon release it has a deep ruby hue. The nose is a sultry amalgam of spiced plum, red currant and dark cherry, leading to a savoury underlay of earth, leather, cinnamon, mushroom and crushed thyme. Fine grained tannins and a concentrated core of ripe fruit thrill the palate, presenting a luxurious mouthfeel. Well integrated acidity adds perfect balance and poise, setting the platform for a long and harmonious close. This is a wine with real power and drive, yet delivered with precision and finesse. While ready to drink on release it can be expected to cellar well and evolve gracefully for many years.

Pegasus Bay Prima Donna Pinot Noir from Waipara is a flagship wine crafted with meticulous care by winemaker Matthew Donaldson, whose family founded Pegasus Bay in the 1980s. The Donaldson family has played a pioneering role in the development of Waipara Valley’s wine reputation, bringing extensive knowledge and a passion for the unique terroirs of this cool-climate region. Matthew, along with his siblings who are also deeply involved in the winery, focuses on minimal intervention winemaking that allows each vintage’s character to shine.

Prima Donna is crafted from a selection of the estate’s oldest and most expressive Pinot Noir vines, chosen for their depth and richness. On the nose, this Pinot Noir reveals concentrated aromas of dark cherry, plum, and wild berry, accompanied by hints of earth, dried herbs, and floral notes of violet. The palate is rich and finely structured, with flavors of ripe red and black fruits, a touch of spice, and subtle smoky undertones. Fine, silky tannins and balanced acidity give the wine a smooth, elegant texture, culminating in a lingering, nuanced finish that speaks to both vineyard and vintage.

This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with game meats, roasted duck, mushroom-based dishes, and soft cheeses, making it an exceptional choice for fine dining or special occasions.