VERGENCE is when the pupils of the eyes look inwards and outwards, during focusing.  Wine made under this label will first and foremost be delicious, while also reflecting our commitment to constantly evolving our wine styles. Keeping an open mind is essential for progress and at times this this means looking outside the square, even when it’s untraditional, experimental, or downright quirky.  Either way you can be sure they have not been made looking straight.  We’ve also decided to label these wines by “marks” rather than season as some releases may be multi-vintage, depending on their style and what we aim to achieve.

FAMILY

The Donaldson Family have been seriously involved in viticulture and winemaking for over 40 years.  Founder Ivan Donaldson planted one of the first Canterbury vineyards in 1976 and went on to establish Pegasus Bay in 1986 with his wife Christine.  It is a true family business, with all four of their sons now involved.

WINE

TVergence is all about looking beyond tradition, and our Mark II is certainly that.  After careful consideration, we decided upon a red blend from our 2021 vintage, comprising principally of Pinot Noir, but also including a portion of Cabernet Sauvignon (approximately 15%) that was aged on skins.  The Pinot Noir was fermented naturally in tank (including approximately one third whole bunch), before being transferred to French oak barriques, where it matured for approximately 12 months.  The Cabernet Sauvignon was also naturally fermented, but this time in barrel using hand destemmed whole berries, and then pressed off after approximately 200 days.  Both varieties were then blended prior to bottling.

The wine has an intriguing deep ruby hue.  Its bouquet assails from the glass, first red fruit on attack, followed by a spicy, oak-laced underbelly.  Impressions of cranberries and pomegranate flirt temptingly with darker notes of blackcurrant and blackberries, wrapped in a quilt of vanilla, cinnamon, liquorice, black pepper, and a hint of aniseed.  Whisps of leather and toasted hay complete the allure.  The palate is elegantly structured, with simmering tension.  Generously laden fruit weight is contrasted against ripe developed tannins and an underlying phenolic drive.  The mouthfeel is rich and full bodied, with a prolonged and rewarding finish.  While displaying classic Pinosity, this wine has been crafted to offer added depth, vigour, and a touch of brawn.