2023 Picnic Pinot Noir

Two Paddocks was established in 1993 by Kiwi actor, Sam Neill, who was raised in the South Island of New Zealand, and still calls it home. Initially Sam bought a paddock in Gibbston and aimed to grow a small amount of his favourite grape – Pinot Noir – with the hope of producing enough wine for his friends and family. Back then, Central Otago was in the very early days of winegrowing, so to buy and plant Two Paddocks was a huge leap of faith. Nowadays the region is 80% planted in Pinot Noir and has arguably been New Zealand’s most successful region with this variety. Two Paddocks now consists of four small vineyards in the Gibbston, Alexandra (Earnscleugh) and Bannockburn sub-regions of Central Otago.

Featuring the Proprietor’s Grandfather, S.E.D. Neill – Wine Merchant, on the label, Picnic is a favourite – the wine to enjoy everyday and a wonderful introduction to the pleasure of Central Otago Pinot Noir.

The fruit was sourced from Two Paddock’s estate vineyards in the Alexandra, Gibbston and Bannockburn sub-regions of Central Otago. Picnic Pinot Noir is made in a diminutive style aimed to reflect the characters that Central Otago Pinot does so very well – black and red cherry fruit, alluring spice and a generosity that keeps you reaching for the next sip.

Tasting note: Crisp black cherry, plum and wild herb aromatics lead to a fresh, vibrant and exuberant fruit-intense palate. This wine shows enjoyable flavours and length.

The colour has very good depth and hue, the bouquet is fresh and bright with red cherry, meaty charcuterie and fragrant dried herb overtones, the palate medium to light weight with a drying feel thanks to abundant tannin and lively acidity. This has more structure than usually seen in an entry-level pinot noir. Good value. Drinking 2024 - 2031 90pts Houn Hook