The First Paddock is the cornerstone of Two Paddocks and the vineyard where the story began. Planted by Sam Neill in 1993 in the Gibbston sub-region of Central Otago, it was the estate’s original vineyard and remains one of New Zealand’s most highly regarded sites for Pinot Noir. Only the finest vintages are released as this single-vineyard wine, showcasing the purity, elegance and distinctive character of this exceptional location.

Best known for starring in Jurassic Park, The Piano and Peaky Blinders, Sam Neill has become just as respected in the wine world as he is in film. His passion for Pinot Noir and sustainable viticulture has shaped Two Paddocks into one of Central Otago’s benchmark producers, with quality always taking precedence over celebrity.

Winemaker Dean Shaw follows a traditional, low-intervention approach. The fruit is hand-harvested, fermented with indigenous yeasts, incorporating whole bunches to enhance complexity, before spending around 14 months in French oak barrels. This careful winemaking preserves the vineyard’s elegance while adding subtle texture and depth.

The wine is beautifully perfumed with aromas of black cherry, blackberry and ripe plum, complemented by fragrant violets, wild herbs and sweet baking spice. The palate is silky yet structured, revealing layers of dark berry fruit, earthy minerality and fine-grained tannins, finishing long with notes of subtle oak, savoury spice and remarkable freshness. It is an elegant, age-worthy Pinot Noir that perfectly captures the cool-climate character of Gibbston.

This refined Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with duck breast, roast lamb, venison or beef Wellington. For a vegetarian option, try it alongside wild mushroom risotto, lentil and mushroom Wellington or grilled aubergine with herbs and Parmesan.