Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot Noir 2022

In 1993, actor Sam Neill established Two Paddocks in Central Otago, with the modest goal of producing Pinot Noir for family and friends. He planted five acres of Pinot Noir at the original vineyard in Gibbston, known as The First Paddock. Over time, the venture has expanded to include three additional vineyards – in Alexandra and Bannockburn. It puts Two Paddocks in the unique position of being the only Central Otago winery with a footprint in all three of Central Otago’s great valleys, by owning vineyards in Gibbston, the Alexandra Basin and the Cromwell Basin.

Sam’s relatively unambitious aim, began to be overtaken, as the exceptional quality of the wine became evident, starting with the first harvest in 1997. Ever since, they have been producing some of the world's best Pinot Noir.

Hand-harvested between 28 March and 13 April from organically farmed Central Otago vineyards. 89% of the fruit was de-stemmed and cold-soaked for 5–7 days before wild fermentation. Post-ferment maceration lasted another 5–7 days. Matured for 9 months in 1–4 year old French oak barriques (2% new), then bottled in February 2022.