Actor Sam Neill (Jurassic Park – as well as more demanding roles) is a celebrity wine producer in a fashionable wine region. But don’t let that put you off as beneath the lightly irreverent façade there is serious intent here – and very good Pinot Noir. The wines are currently made by Dean Shaw at the Central Otago Wine Company, in which Neill is a partner. First Paddock is from the Gibbston Valley while Last Chance Pinot Noir is from the 3 ha Alex Paddocks site in the Earnscleugh Valley. Another site here, Redbank, will provide a third example. Grapes are hand-picked, with an emphasis on low yields and sustainable viticulture. Around 20% new French oak is used. Last Chance has more depth and class, First Paddock is more floral and fruit-intense. Accessible now, both should keep for 5 years. Picnic is a second label for Pinot Noir, Riesling and more but these have not been tasted.
Two Paddocks Central Otago www.twopaddocks.com
Sam Neill 315 Strode Road, Earnscleugh, RD 1, Alexandra
Tel: 03 449 2756 Fax: 03 449 2755
Originally published here: Two Paddocks Central Otago
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