2022 Two Paddocks The Fusilier Pinot Noir

Named in honour of Sam’s father, Major Dermot Neill, The Fusilier sits at the western end of Felton Road in Bannockburn - the warmest of the Two Paddocks vineyards and arguably its most commanding. The vines here dig into loam and river gravels, yielding fruit that’s darker, denser, and more brooding than the rest.

Fermented with 82% whole bunches and aged for 12 months in French oak (23% new), the 2022 Fusilier has signature Bannockburn depth with black cherry, spice, and a touch of smoke yet remains fine and balanced. There’s power here, yes, but it’s power with poise.

This is arguably the pick of the 2022 releases, it’s the most “complete” of the quartet, where structure, spice and fruit meet in perfect proportion.

97 points
"This vibrant and spicy pinot noir shows aromas of cherries, dried raspberries, sweet spices and some smoke. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Precise and textural. Racy and full of verve, with a long, peppery finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap."
- James Suckling