The Last Chance

A dramatically beautiful site in Earnscleugh, ideal for Pinot Noir. Two hectares only, planted in 1998. Close to Alexandra and perhaps the world’s most southerly vineyard.

This beautiful terrace, perched above the Clutha River and located near Alexandra, was acquired in 1998. We immediately planted all the arable land above and below extraordinary wind sculptured bluffs some 6 or 7 acres in all (2 Ha). The vineyard faces and slopes towards the sunny north.

We have a humble shed on this property named Chateau Paddeaux d’Alex.

Through this vineyard runs a water race to which we have partial water rights. This was made by hand (like our wines) by goldminers in the 1860’s and is called “The Last Chance”.

Most years we produce a single vineyard premium Pinot Noir from The Last Chance Paddocks, named naturally “The Last Chance." It is very rare and highly regarded. The wine comes from Burgundian clones (5, 6, 115, Able and 777) on two different rootstock, and in three separate blocks all of which have very individual characteristics. (The soils do vary, but are all schist based with varying depths of loess, gravel and gravelly loam). 1050+ GDD.

Taking off our modest cloth cap for a moment, The Prop believes - this is Grand Cru country.