2006 Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
Ruby colored, the nose of the 2006 Pinot Noir is beginning to evolve into some earthy/gamey/soy notes over a core red currant and cranberry plus a whiff of tree moss. Medium bodied and elegantly fruited, it has a firm level of grainy tannins, lively acidity and a long mineral-laced finish. Delicious now, it should continue to cellar to 2016+. The Donaldson family initially planted vines at this Waipara estate in 1986, at first with a whole fruit salad of vines including a mix of Bordeaux varietals. With the benefit of trial and error, now the focus at Pegasus Bay is on Riesling and Pinot Noir. Husband and wife team, Lynnette Hudson and Matt Donaldson, are the dynamic duo heading-up winemaking these days and, as the notes of the verticals of back vintages I tasted with them will attest, the wines from this commendable estate not only have staying power, they just get better and better. Importer: Empson USA, Alexandria, VA.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Racy and some richness – pretty chewy and moist with some savoury fruit. Real interest though a bit maverick. (JR)
Bright red with ruby highlights. Initially reticent nose opens to reveal pure, vibrant scents of raspberry, rose petal, minerals, white pepper and sandalwood; ultimately quite reminiscent of a very good Chambolle. Wonderfully suave on entry, then silky and sappy in the middle but light on its feet, with a lovely subtle intensity to the laid-back flavors of raspberry, flowers and spices. A very sophisticated and complex New Zealand pinot with a captivating juicy quality and terrific cut. The tannins are fine-grained and firm, and the long, dry finish reveals excellent spine.