Pegasus Bay Riesling: Off-Dry, Bright and Beautifully Balanced
Pegasus Bay Riesling is one of those wines that makes a very good case for off-dry Riesling. It has a lovely hint of sweetness, but it never feels heavy or cloying. Instead, the bright acidity keeps everything fresh, lifted and beautifully clean on the finish.
Pegasus Bay is a family-run winery in Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, one of New Zealand’s most exciting regions for Riesling. The Donaldson family have been involved in viticulture for decades, with founder Ivan Donaldson planting one of Canterbury’s early vineyards in the 1970s before establishing Pegasus Bay in 1986. Their vineyards sit on free-draining terraces, with warm days, cool nights and a long ripening season that suits Riesling particularly well.
What makes this wine stand out is the balance. It has all the generosity you want from a New World Riesling, with ripe citrus, peach and that gorgeous marmalade-like character, but it is sharpened by a fine line of acidity. There is a little natural sweetness, but the finish feels fresh, almost dry, and very moreish.
In the glass, expect notes of orange peel, lime, mandarin, peach and green apple, with hints of blossom, honeyed citrus and a gentle mineral edge. The texture is rounded and expressive, but the acidity keeps it lively. It is juicy, fragrant and full of flavour, with a clean, zesty finish that makes you want another sip.
Pegasus Bay Riesling Food Pairing Suggestion:
This is brilliant with food that has a little heat or sweetness. Try it with Thai green curry, Vietnamese prawn summer rolls, crispy pork belly with apple, aromatic duck pancakes, or a spicy chicken salad. It also works beautifully with blue cheese, where the sweetness and acidity cut through the richness.
About Pegasus Bay Riesling:
- Produced by Pegasus Bay in Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, New Zealand.
- An off-dry Riesling with bright acidity and a fresh, clean finish.
- Known for its generous citrus, stone fruit and marmalade-like character.
- A great choice for spicy Asian dishes, pork, duck and blue cheese.
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