06 August 2005, The Independent

Exerpt from an article entitled Premier Crew: The Rise of Celebrity Wine-makers
By Richard Ehrlich

SAM NEILL: TWO PADDOCKS 'THE LAST CHANCE' PINOT NOIR 2003

This is in a different league from the other wines. New Zealand's Central Otago district makes world-class Pinot Noir, and this is one of them. A pure expression of the grape's qualities, silky-smooth on the palate with a multitude of enticing berry flavours in addition to the sweet cherries that are a hallmark of this grape. Abundant, lip-smacking acidity keeps the flavours fresh, and ageing in French oak adds a smoky lustre. Drop-dead gorgeous, the best in this bunch by far. I guessed a price of £22. £14.75, stockists: 01451 870808

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