‘Two Paddocks’ is a family owned and operated winery based in Central Otago that is dedicated to producing quality wine. Actor and fellow New Zealander Sam Neill had the modest ambition and idea to found the winery in 1993 as he wanted to make wine that would at the very least be enjoyed by his family and friends. Little did he know it would build a cult following of Jurassic proportions (haaaa see what we did there). At the same the family friend Roger Donaldson planted land next door to their estate in Gibbston - hence the name “Two Paddocks”.
Their first vintage in 1997 produced a stunning Pinot Noir that exceeded their expectations as they had had a particularly difficult growing season. Their 1998 vintage was more distinguished and in 1999 they were astounded with what they had produced - able to confidently say they had a world class wine on their hands. Since then they have moved from strength to strength planting more clones, each of higher quality than the year before, and now are at the peak of their game.
‘Two Paddocks’ has also grown over other vineyards, and is producing multiple styles of Pinot Noir and now even branched into Riesling. The Vineyard is now also certified Organic and has put the environment at the forefront of its winemaking. Their website is a treasure trove of information, blogs, suggestions on movies and music to listen to with their wines and we highly recommend checking it out.
You can find out all the information you need to on their wines and get a splash of Sam Neill in your life. Go ahead and see for yourself here.