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2023 Pegasus Bay Minuetto Semillon Sauvignon RRP $40
Reviewed 13 April 2026
Tasting note
2023 Pegasus Bay Minuetto Semillon Sauvignon RRP $40
It's no surprise that winemakers in the South Island of New Zealand are pretty adept at turning their talents to Sauvignon Blanc but here's a wine that turns that notion on its head. Here's a blend of 70% Semillon (all fermented in oak puncheons) with a relatively (for New Zealand) modest 30% Sauvignon Blanc (all fermented in stainless steel tanks), giving this wine far more in common with a dry white from Bordeaux, France. Except, there's a maverickness about this full bodied, almost Chablisien style with its beautiful integration of rich yeast lees ageing (for 10 months) bringing real depths of flavour and layers of complexity.
Once blended, the wine aged for 18 months in bottle prior to release.
It's two years young right now and already has a wow factor. History suggests that blends like this from North Canterbury can last the distance of 10+ years.
As to what to drink it with? Simple classic risotto with a little fresh lemon zest, lots of parmagiano-reggiano and a great extra virgin olive oil. More wow factor...
Origin - Waipara Valley, North Canterbury
Waipara Valley in North Canterbury is 40 minutes' drive north of Christchurch city and a world away in climate with hot summers, dry winds and a semi-continental flavour to the wines made here, even though it is only nine kilometres from the coast.
Sheltered by the Teviotdale Hills to the east, its springs are typically windy, its summers are usually arid and its winters are cool. This is a classic climate for great Pinot Noirs and aromatic white wines, both of which excel in this region in the South Island of new Zealand.
Joelle Thomson... Savouring and shaping meaningful narratives about wine.
Email: mailme@joellethomson.com
