The Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot is a vivid expression of Central Otago Pinot Noir, from estate owned vineyards in Alexandra, Gibbston and Bannockburn. Thanks to unsettled weather during flowering, 2020 was the most compact harvest that Two Paddocks had ever seen, with crop levels being 30-40% down in many vineyard blocks. The good news was that smaller grape bunches and tiny berries resulted in juice that was densely coloured and intensely aromatic. 11% whole bunches were used for maceration and fermentation here, with the wine going on to age in 1-4 year-old French barriques (4% new oak) for 9 months.
Bright, mid ruby-purple colour, aromas are beautifully perfumed, with notes of spiced raspberries, red cherries and a hint of smoke. Palate is full-bodied. juicy and full of radiant, pure fruitiness. Texture is silky, the finish being vibrantly fresh and satisfyingly long (for drinking now-2025+).