2023 Picnic by Two Paddocks Riesling, Central Otago

A hint of initial sweetness rounds off the edges of the wine giving it a mellow texture before the acidity kicks in to promote a refreshingly dry finish. Nice purity—a perfect picnic wine 08 Dec 2023 Drink 2021–2028

90 points Bob Campbell MW therealreview.com

Picnic by Two Paddocks Riesling is a lively, beautifully detailed white from Central Otago that captures the high-altitude freshness and clarity the region is so well known for. Crafted by the team behind Two Paddocks, headed by actor and passionate winegrower Sam Neill, the Picnic range is designed to be bright, charming and approachable — but don’t mistake that for simple. This is a finely balanced, pure Riesling that offers more depth than its casual name might suggest.

Grown in estate vineyards in the Alexandra and Gibbston subregions, the fruit benefits from cold nights, long growing seasons and schist-rich soils. It’s made in an off-dry style — just enough residual sugar to soften the zing, but with racy acidity driving the finish and keeping everything mouthwatering and clean.

Aromas lean toward lime blossom, mandarin peel, green apple and a touch of honeysuckle. The palate is energetic and precise, with a gentle curve of sweetness that lifts the citrus and floral tones without tipping into lushness. Finishes long, zesty and mineral, with that electric Central Otago line pulsing right through.

Food pairing: excellent with Thai green curry, Vietnamese rice paper rolls, goat cheese salad, or pork with apple and fennel. Also ideal as an aperitif with lightly spiced nuts or fresh oysters.

Cellar potential: delicious now, especially with a chill, but will evolve gracefully over 6 to 8 years, developing beeswax, lime marmalade and savoury spice.