The world has lost one of New Zealand's most beloved actors, Sir Sam Neill. Best known for his unforgettable performances in films including Jurassic Park, The Piano, and Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Sam Neill's influence extended far beyond the screen.
For wine lovers, he will also be remembered as the founder of Two Paddocks, the Central Otago estate he built into one of New Zealand's most respected producers of Pinot Noir.
A Passion That Began in Central Otago
Sam Neill's journey into wine began in the early 1990s, when he planted his first vineyard in Central Otago. What started as a personal passion gradually became Two Paddocks — a family-owned winery devoted to expressing the character of one of the world's finest Pinot Noir regions.
Unlike many celebrity wine projects, Two Paddocks was never about attaching a famous name to a bottle. From the start, the focus was thoughtful viticulture, certified-organic farming, and wines that genuinely reflected their vineyards.
Over the years the estate grew to include several sites across Gibbston, Bannockburn and Alexandra, each contributing its own personality while sharing the purity, elegance and freshness that became hallmarks of the winery.
More Than a Celebrity Wine
Celebrity-backed wines often attract attention, but lasting respect is earned only through quality. Two Paddocks Pinot Noir has earned exactly that.
Today the winery is recognised internationally for Central Otago Pinot Noir that balances vibrant fruit, fine tannins, bright acidity and remarkable finesse — the cool climate and dramatic landscapes that have made Central Otago one of the Southern Hemisphere's most exciting wine regions. Alongside Pinot Noir, the estate also produces Chardonnay, Riesling and Rosé in limited quantities, each crafted with the same precision and sense of site.
A Lasting Legacy
For many, Sam Neill will always be remembered for his remarkable acting career. Yet his contribution to New Zealand wine deserves equal recognition. Through Two Paddocks he introduced countless wine lovers to Central Otago, and showed that genuine passion, patience and respect for the land can create wines of lasting character.
The Two Paddocks Range at Wine More Cellars
At Wine More Cellars we have long admired Two Paddocks for its consistency, authenticity and quality. Below is the full range we currently stock in Australia — from the everyday Picnic wines to the rare single-vineyard bottlings — each an outstanding expression of Central Otago.
Everyday & Approachable
Bright red cherry and raspberry, silky and approachable — the gateway into Central Otago Pinot Noir.
Jasmine, lime and oyster-shell aromatics; textured, dry and beautifully food-friendly.
Pale, dry and fresh — hand-harvested Pinot Noir from the Alexandra and Bannockburn vineyards.
The Estate Pinot Noir
Wild herb and red-brick aromatics over a rich, warm, succulent palate with tactile finesse.
Single-Vineyard & Proprietor's Reserve
The flagship, from the original vineyard Sam planted in Gibbston in 1993 — perfumed, savoury and age-worthy. Cellar 8–12+ years.
Perfumed strawberry and cherry with forest floor and spice; silky, refined and beautifully poised. Cellar 5–10 years.
A single vineyard named for Sam's father, Major Dermot Neill — dark berry, whole-bunch spice and resolved, harmonious tannins.
From one of the world's southernmost vineyards; sour cherry, dried herbs and a mineral-driven, structured finish. Cellar 8–12+ years.
Intensely perfumed, mineral and structured — a collector-level single vineyard built to reward patience. Cellar 10–15+ years.
Raising a Glass to Sir Sam Neill
Whether you already love Central Otago Pinot Noir or are discovering Two Paddocks for the first time, these wines are an outstanding way to remember the vision behind the estate.
Explore the full Two Paddocks collection →
Today, we raise a glass to Sir Sam Neill — celebrating not only an extraordinary career in film, but a remarkable contribution to the world of fine wine. His legacy will live on through every bottle shared around tables with family and friends for generations to come.
Available online across Australia and in store at Wine More Cellars, Chadstone.