Established in 1993 by acclaimed New Zealand actor Sam Neill, Two Paddocks has become one of Central Otago’s most respected Pinot Noir producers. What began with a small vineyard in Gibbston has grown into an estate spanning four organically farmed vineyards across the region. The flagship Pinot Noir is a blend of fruit from these exceptional sites, capturing the elegance, purity and vibrant character that have made Central Otago one of the world’s premier Pinot Noir regions. Every bottle reflects the winery’s philosophy of producing authentic wines with a true sense of place.

Best known for his roles in Jurassic Park, The Piano and Peaky Blinders, Sam Neill is equally passionate about wine. His fascination with Pinot Noir led him to plant his first vineyard over 30 years ago, and today Two Paddocks is recognised internationally for producing wines of exceptional quality. Neill remains closely involved with the estate, championing organic farming and a thoughtful, sustainable approach to viticulture.

Winemaker Dean Shaw embraces a low-intervention philosophy, allowing each vineyard to express its unique character. Grapes are hand-harvested, with a proportion of whole bunches included during fermentation to build complexity and structure. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts before the wine matures for around 10–12 months in French oak barrels, a modest proportion of which are new. The result is a Pinot Noir that balances concentration with elegance and beautifully reflects the cool-climate terroir of Central Otago.

Beautifully vibrant and inviting, this Pinot Noir opens with aromas of red cherry, cranberry and wild raspberry, intertwined with fragrant rose petals, dried herbs and a touch of warm baking spice. The palate is supple and energetic, revealing juicy red berries, subtle earthy undertones and silky tannins. Gentle notes of clove, star anise and fine French oak add complexity, while bright acidity carries the wine through to an elegant, lingering finish.

A wonderfully versatile Pinot Noir that shines alongside roast chicken, pork loin, cedar-plank salmon or duck with a cherry glaze. Vegetarian pairings include roasted butternut squash with sage, grilled portobello mushrooms or a creamy pumpkin and Parmesan risotto, all of which complement the wine’s bright fruit and savoury complexity.