Two Paddocks Last Chance Pinot Noir 2020

We had a delightful visit and tasting with Jacqui Murphy the GM of this prestigious estate, Two Paddocks in Central Otago. Now, there are many vineyards and sites I want to visit whilst still mortal, possibly too many, however New Zealand and Central Otago certainly have to be on the shortlist and none more so than this 2 hectare single vineyard in the most southerly part of Central Otago, Earnscleugh (Alexandria). The ‘Last Chance’ vineyard takes its name from a hand built watercourse dug in the 1860s for the goldminers, to aid their pan sieving. The estate established in 1993 by the now infamous actor Sam Neil, Central Otago has always been his home and remains so today. The region had been synonymous with growing apples and cherry orchards but not vines until the bold step in the 1990s to plant vines and Sam as he is now called ‘Lord Pinot’ was one of these pioneers. This displays intense ripe raspberry, cherry notes with lovely smoky garrigues overtones. This vineyard was planted in 1998 and is certified organic. 12.5% vol. Just perfectly balanced, has more depth/mature fruits compared to the also delicious ‘First Paddock’ and ‘The Fuisilier’ single vineyard Pinots. We are now lucky to have 2020, 2021 and 2022 vintages!