Description
Pegasus Bay Sauvignon Semillon 2019 is the perfect example of the way in which the vibrancy of Sauvignon Blanc and the richness of Sémillon or Semillon complement each other. The Sauvignon Blanc makes its presence known with an initial burst of citrus and floral aromas and flavours with a hint of mango after which the Semillon takes centre stage with more complex flavours including baked apple, herbs, lemongrass and a hint of nectarine. The warm 2019 summer days and the cool nights specific to the Waipara Valley in North Canterbury draw out the ripening period ensuring healthy grapes with intense flavours and good natural acidity.
The 70% Sauvignon and 30% Semillon grapes for this Pegasus Bay Sauvignon Semillon 2019 were picked in stages to ensure fully ripe grapes. The two grapes were fermented separately, the Sauvignon mostly in stainless steel to retain the fruit character and the Semillon in large oak barrels known as puncheons to bring structure and texture to the wine. Ageing both varieties on their lees or yeast deposits also contributes to the complexity, colour and texture of the wine. In order to make sure the wine is harmonious and balanced, once blended, it is aged in bottle for at least a year before being released to the market. The result is a wine with a lovely, smooth, round texture, its richness punctured by crisp acidity, citrus flavours and mineral notes on the long finish.
Pegasus Bay practises minimal intervention and believe in traditional sustainable viticultural management, low crop levels, minimal handling of fruit during processing and natural methods to counteract pest and diseases rather than the application of pesticides and herbicides. This approach and the sheltered position of the vineyard in the Waipara Valley on the South Island of New Zealand promote intense flavour development and optimal ripeness, while retaining good natural acidity, just what is needed for fabulous wine.
I have a few bottles left of the 2018 vintage of this wine. You might also want to try Pegasus Bay’s stylish Pinot Noir or another of their amazing white wines like the dry Bel Canto Riesling.