2024 Pegasus Bay Riesling, Waipara

Pegasus Bay Riesling from Waipara is a benchmark for New Zealand Riesling—intensely aromatic, wildly expressive, and built to age like a champ. Grown in the cool, dry climate of North Canterbury, this wine captures all the hallmarks of the region: purity of fruit, zesty acidity, and a beautiful interplay of sweetness and structure.

The Donaldson family, pioneers of Waipara winegrowing, have been producing standout wines since the 1970s. Their Riesling is consistently rated as one of the best in the country, thanks to low yields, dry farming, and a meticulous approach in both vineyard and winery. Fermentation is slow and cool, with a touch of natural residual sugar left to balance the piercing acidity.

It opens with a kaleidoscope of aromas—lime blossom, mandarin, white peach, honeysuckle and a hint of beeswax. The palate is juicy and vibrant, bursting with citrus and stone fruit, layered with flinty minerality and a hint of spice. There's a gentle off-dry sweetness, but the finish is long, clean and dry, thanks to that electric acid spine.

Pair it with spicy Thai or Vietnamese dishes, roast pork with apple, fresh seafood or washed rind cheeses. Drink it now for freshness or tuck it away—this wine gets even more complex and beautiful with age.