Founded in 1993 by acclaimed New Zealand actor Sam Neill, Two Paddocks is far more than a celebrity wine project. Based in the spectacular Central Otago region, the estate has earned an outstanding reputation for producing world-class Pinot Noir from four organically farmed vineyards. The Fusilier is one of the winery’s rare single-vineyard expressions, crafted only in vintages when the site shows exceptional character. The vineyard is named in honour of Sam’s father, Major Dermot Neill, who served in the Royal Irish Fusiliers before returning to New Zealand to run the family’s wine and spirits business.

Best known for starring in Jurassic Park, The Piano and Peaky Blinders, Sam Neill has spent over three decades building Two Paddocks into one of New Zealand’s most respected wineries. Passionate about Pinot Noir and sustainable viticulture, he has always insisted the wines should be judged on their quality rather than his name, and today they are recognised among Central Otago’s finest.

Winemaker Dean Shaw takes a gentle, hands-off approach, allowing the vineyard to speak for itself. The fruit is hand-harvested, fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in French oak barrels, preserving purity, texture and a true sense of place. The result is an elegant yet powerful Pinot Noir with remarkable depth, minerality and ageing potential.

The Fusilier is beautifully perfumed, opening with aromas of blackberry, dark plum, black cherry and wild herbs, layered with hints of violet, subtle spice and earthy minerality. The palate is silky and refined, combining vibrant dark fruit with fine tannins, savoury complexity and beautifully integrated oak. Notes of forest floor, dried herbs and gentle spice lead into a long, poised finish that perfectly captures the elegance and intensity for which Central Otago Pinot Noir is renowned.

This is an exceptional partner for roast duck, venison, herb-crusted lamb or wild mushroom risotto. Mature cheeses such as Comté or Gruyère also complement its savoury complexity beautifully.