Wow. I love the nose here on this 2023 Bel Canto Dry Riesling, with aromas of apricot kernel, jasmine flowers, honeysuckle, crushed sea shells, paraffin wax and lemon barley. In the mouth, the wine is powerful, weighty, intense and impactful. It has so much of everything, stonking power, depth of flavor and warmth from the alcohol—not a pejorative, but certainly part of the experience—the embodiment of all that is good at Pegasus Bay, as I see it. This is a tremendously good wine here. 13.9% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2023 Bel Canto is Pegasus Bay's dry Riesling. At this young stage, it's reductive with a touch of struck match making the first impression even four hours after opening the bottle. Get beyond it to find candied orange, celery and white pepper notes. While there's some upfront generosity, the final impression is firm and dry with phenolics and acidity providing structure and grip on the spiced finish. Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous

Region: Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, New Zealand

Grape Varietal: 100% Riesling

Critic Rating: Robert Parker Wine Advocate 95 Points, Vinous 92 Points

Suggested Drink Window: 2024 - 2038