Pegasus Bay Merlot Cabernet 2021

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Pegasus Bay
Label Name:
 
Merlot Cabernet
Vintage:
 
2021
Country:
 
New Zealand
Region:
 
Waipara Valley, North Canterbury
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
13.5%
Grape(s):
 
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec
Acidity:
 
4
Tannins:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
5
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
Noted scores on release: 94/100 (Cameron Douglas MS), 94/100 (Sam Kim), 93/100 (Dave Brookes, Halliday), 93/100 (Bob Campbell MW). Generally praised for power, concentration and ageing potential

Tasting Note
Dense, inky and brooding. Aromas of wood smoke, leather, tobacco, roast game, grilled plum and spiced berry with mineral undertones. Concentrated mouthfeel, tightly packed tannins, vigorous acidity and a sustained, gratifying finish.

Food Pairing
Western: roast lamb, braised short ribs, grilled ribeye, beef stew, mushroom risotto. Asian: hoisin roast duck, char siu pork, Korean BBQ (bulgogi), miso aubergine, rich mushroom hot pot.

Production Method
Bordeaux-style: indigenous fermentations in stainless steel, regular pump-overs, pressed to French oak barriques (~20% new), natural malolactic during summer and ~18 months oak maturation before blending.

Vineyard Info
Donaldson Family estate (founded 1986). Vines >30 years on Glasnevin Gravels in Waipara; cool nights and free‑draining soils yield low crops and concentrated fruit; sustainably farmed.