2024 Pegasus Bay Bel Canto Dry Riesling, Waipara

Very perfumed with lemon peel, lime zest and orange blossom, this is a powerful, flavoursome off-dry riesling with classical proportions. There is a grainy phenolic grip and pithiness to balance the tingling acidity and touch of sweetness, all tightly wound around each other on the long finish. This can be enjoyed now but will easily age for a decade or more 10 Dec 2025 Drink 2025–2039

95 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

From the limestone rich hills of Waipara Valley in North Canterbury, Bel Canto is one of the most refined Rieslings produced by Pegasus Bay. The estate was founded in 1986 by the Donaldson family, led by Dr Ivan Donaldson, a passionate advocate for the potential of Waipara’s cool climate vineyards. Today the winery remains family run with sons Matthew and Edward Donaldson deeply involved in the winemaking and viticulture. The Bel Canto Riesling comes from carefully selected vineyard parcels where the combination of limestone soils, warm days and cool nights allows Riesling to ripen slowly while maintaining vibrant natural acidity.

The wine shows a pale straw colour with bright green highlights. Aromas open with lime zest, green apple and white peach layered with delicate floral notes and hints of citrus blossom. As the wine evolves in the glass subtle mineral and slate characters begin to appear. The palate is crisp, precise and beautifully structured with flavours of lime, lemon and orchard fruit supported by lively acidity and a fine mineral line.

Although dry in style, the wine carries wonderful depth and texture, finishing long and refreshing with impressive clarity. It will develop additional complexity over the next ten to fifteen years and is excellent with fresh seafood, sushi, lightly spiced Asian dishes or delicate white fish.