Featuring the Proprietor’s Grandfather, Sydney Neill – Wine Merchant, on the label, Picnic is our perennial favourite – the wine to enjoy everyday and a wonderful introduction to the pleasure of Central Otago Pinot Noir. Picnic Pinot Noir is made in a diminutive style aimed to reflect the characters that Central Otago Pinot does so very well – black and red cherry fruit, spice and a generosity that keeps you reaching for the next sip. 100% estate grown and organically farmed on Sam Neills Central Otago vineyards.
The flagship from Two Paddocks – an organically grown barrel selection pinot noir from the estate properties, in 2018 was produced from the four Neill family Central Otago vineyards:
27% The Fusilier - Bannockburn, 22% - The Last Chance – Earnscleugh (Alexandra), 29% The Red Bank – Earnscleugh (Alexandra) and 22% The First Paddock – Gibbston.
Raspberry fruit-driven aromas, simple and fresh, and they lead into a lighter-bodied wine, which is soft and grapy. It has a substantial grip considering its body weight. Bright and attractive. (Mostly destemmed; 13% alc.)23 JAN 2019 Drink to 2023
Huon Hooke therealreview.com
An impressively complex nose here with a very fresh and juicy, red-cherry and berry nose that offers such alluring style. The palate has a succulent and juicy feel with a plush, toasted-spice and ripe, red-cherry core. Made from organically grown grapes. Firmish finish. Try from 2021. Screw cap.