Winery notes (MK 3)
"Vergence is all about looking beyond tradition, and our Mark 3 continues to push the boundaries of conventional winemaking. After multiple trials, the surprise package came from a blend comprising predominantly of Central Otago whole bunch Pinot Noir from both 2022 & 2023 vintages, along with a small portion of 2022 Malbec (approximately 5%), handpicked from our home vineyard. Both varieties were naturally fermented in tank before being transferred to French oak barriques, where the Pinot was matured for approximately 12 months and the Malbec 18 months, prior to blending and bottling.
The wine has a profound garnet tint. Its bouquet is soft and ethereal, with snippets of cinnamon, vanilla and lavender intertwined with hints of cherry, bramble, and faint earthy, mineral notes. The mouthfeel is plush yet focussed, with smooth, silky tannins on a velvety palate interplaying seamlessly with a slice of frisky acidity. Finely textured and persistent, the finish is lengthy and rewarding. Our Mk3 Vergence Red displays elegance combined with depth and precision, perfect for those who enjoy their Pinot’s at the fuller and more structured end of the spectrum."
5 Stars & 94/100 Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, March 2024 (MK 3)
"Stylish and complex, the wine shows Black Doris plum, mulberry, thyme and warm spice aromas on the nose, leading to a succulent palate that's plump and flavoursome. It's robust and sturdy, yet beautifully framed by layers of fine tannins, making it harmonious and persistent."
Rated Excellent & 93/100 Cameron Douglas MS, June 2024 (MK 3)
"Plush, ripe, fruity and ready to drink expression with flavours of sweet cherry and cranberry, some red and yellow plum flesh and roses. A fine tannins texture builds on the mouthfeel leaving behind a fine chalky dust attribute. Juicy and salivating, persistent flavours and textures, ready to drink from 2025 through 2030."
4 ½ Stars Michael Cooper, July 2024 (MK 3)
"The Vergence label is used by Pegasus Bay for 'experimental, non-traditional wines.’ The Mk 3 bottling is based on Central Otago Pinot Noir from the 2022 and 2023 vintages, blended with a small amount of Waipara, estate-grown Malbec from 2022. Matured for a year or longer in French oak barriques, it is designed as "perfect for those who enjoy their Pinots at the fuller and more structured end of the spectrum." Full-coloured, it is mouthfilling and sweet-fruited, with strong red berry and spice flavours, oak complexity, gentle acidity, and loads of current drinking appeal."