2025 Two Paddocks Pinot Noir Rose, Central Otago

Two Paddocks Pinot Noir Rosé from Central Otago is a beautifully poised, quietly serious rosé that reflects both a remarkable place and a thoughtful hand. Two Paddocks is the personal wine project of Sam Neill, who planted the estate’s original vineyards in the Gibbston subregion in the mid 1990s, long before Central Otago became an international force. From the beginning, the focus has been on organic farming, low yields and wines that speak clearly of site rather than trend. This rosé is made entirely from Pinot Noir grown in cool, elevated vineyards, where long ripening seasons and schist rich soils deliver natural acidity, perfume and finesse.

The approach in the winery is restrained and deliberate. Fruit is harvested early to capture freshness, with minimal skin contact to draw colour gently rather than extract weight. Fermentation is clean and controlled, allowing the delicacy of Pinot Noir to shine, and the wine is finished dry, crisp and finely textured rather than sweet or overtly fruity. The result is a rosé that feels more like a pale red in its complexity than a simple summer quaffer.

Aromatically it is subtle and elegant. Wild strawberry, red cherry and cranberry sit alongside rose petal and hints of blood orange. There is a faint savoury edge beneath the fruit, offering dried herbs and a whisper of stone that reflects Central Otago’s distinctive schist soils. Nothing feels forced or exaggerated, just quietly expressive.

The palate is fresh, precise and beautifully balanced. Bright red fruits glide across a fine, dry frame, supported by lively acidity that gives the wine energy and length. Flavours of strawberry skin, redcurrant and citrus peel unfold gently, finishing clean and mineral with a light phenolic grip that makes it exceptionally food friendly. It is refreshing yet serious, with far more depth than most rosé styles.

Perfect with grilled fish, salmon, charcuterie, salads, tomato based dishes, roast chicken or simply on its own on a warm afternoon. Two Paddocks Pinot Noir Rosé is understated, elegant and confidently its own thing, much like the estate itself.