Bob Campbell 95 Points

Sam Neill's Central Otago — From Jurassic Park to Pinot Noir

Two Paddocks was founded in 1993 by Sam Neill — actor, director, and, as it turns out, one of New Zealand's most passionate and committed winemakers. Neill fell in love with Central Otago's dramatic landscape and planted his first vines in Gibbston, at the time one of the most southerly commercial vineyards in the world. What began as a personal passion has grown into one of Central Otago's most respected organic estates, with vineyards now spanning three of the region's finest sub-regions: Bannockburn, Earnscleugh, and Gibbston.

Three Vineyards, One Organic Vision

The 2020 Two Paddocks Pinot Noir is a blend of organic wines from all three estate vineyards — each farmed without synthetic chemicals, each contributing something distinct to the final wine. Bannockburn brings structure and dark fruit; Earnscleugh adds spice and depth; Gibbston contributes the fragrance and cool-climate lift that makes Central Otago Pinot Noir so compelling. The result, as Bob Campbell MW recognised with 95 points, is a bright, accessible Pinot Noir of genuine complexity and charm.

Bob Campbell 95 Points

Cherry, cedar, new leather, rose petal, spice, and nutty oak — a profile that speaks of both the variety's Burgundian roots and Central Otago's unique high-altitude, continental character. Bright and accessible now, with the structure to develop further in the cellar.

What's in the Bottle

Variety: Pinot Noir
Farming: Certified Organic
Vineyards: Bannockburn, Earnscleugh & Gibbston estates
Region: Central Otago, New Zealand
Vintage: 2020
Bottle size: 750ml

Drink Window

Drinking beautifully now. Decant for 20 minutes to allow the aromatics to fully open. Will continue to develop through 2028.

You Might Also Enjoy

If the Two Paddocks has captured your attention, these Central Otago Pinot Noir from different producers are worth exploring:

• 2023 Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot Noir — the benchmark Central Otago Pinot Noir from one of the region's most celebrated and consistent producers
• 2021 Burn Cottage Central Otago Pinot Noir — a biodynamic Central Otago icon, sharing Two Paddocks' commitment to organic and regenerative farming
• 2021 Amisfield Central Otago Pinot Noir — a polished, elegant Central Otago Pinot Noir from one of the region's most respected producers

Perfect Food Pairing

An elegant Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with free-range chicken — try with the Waitoa Free-Range Chicken Breast, available from our sister store My Meat Man.