Lansdowne Resort Wine Series to Shine Spotlight on New Zealand Pinot Noir

‘Jurassic Park’ actor Sam Neill’s acclaimed Two Paddocks winery to be featured

LEESBURG, Va., (Aug. 12, 2025) – The next Signature Wine Dinner at Lansdowne Resort will shine a spotlight on the Central Otago region of New Zealand, renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir. Featuring Two Paddocks, a certified organic winery founded by actor and winemaker Sam Neill, the wine dinner will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, on the resort’s terrace.

Neill—who played Dr. Alan Grant in the blockbuster Jurassic Park film series—boldly claims, “I wanted to produce the best wine in the world, basically. And I think I’m getting close.” He adds his winery is committed to an organic and holistic farming model that is evident in every bottle.

The Central Otago region, located in the deep south of New Zealand, is ideal for producing a true Pinot Noir featuring intense fruit flavors thanks to its hot, dry summers; cold, dry winters; and minimal annual rainfall.

The evening’s menu includes a reception and three courses paired with wines, highlighting all selections from Neill’s handful of vineyards, plus dessert. Here is a closer look:

• Reception: Steamed Green Lip Mussels with Two Paddocks Dry Riesling
• First Course: Spiced Grilled Octopus with First Paddock Pinot Noir
• Second Course: Smoked Muscovy Duck Breast with Major General Pinot Noir
• Third Course: Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb with the Fusilier Pinot Noir
• Dessert: Pavlova with Honeycomb Ice Cream, Passion Fruit, and Kiwi

The Lansdowne Resort Signature Wine Dinner series is tailored to seasoned connoisseurs and curious enthusiasts alike. Reservations for the Sept. 17 event can be secured by visiting https://lansdowneresort.com/event/twopaddocks.