Established in 1993, Two Paddocks began as a personal project for Neill and evolved into one of New Zealand's most esteemed producers. The winery expanded to include vineyards in Gibbston and Alexandra, becoming synonymous with high-quality wines. Neill often expressed that winemaking was not merely a hobby but a significant aspect of his identity, providing a balance to the demands of his acting career. On the winery's website, he humorously noted his desire to create a good Pinot that would be enjoyed by friends and family, stating, "Frankly, my friends will pretty much drink anything, so this didn't seem too hard."

Despite his fame, Neill was deeply embedded in the wine industry, frequently attending tastings and events across Australia and New Zealand. His approachable demeanor and genuine warmth earned him admiration from fellow winemakers and industry professionals, many of whom referred to him as "a great bloke." Neill's true sanctuary remained at Two Paddocks, where he cultivated a farm life that complemented his acting career. In a 2020 interview, he reflected on this balance, saying, "My life in acting was always a counterbalance to my life on the farm. One was the palliative to the other."

Neill was known to reject the label of "celebrity wine brand," emphasizing that Two Paddocks was a serious commitment rather than a venture capitalizing on his fame. His connection to wine began in childhood, influenced by his family's spirits importing business. The journey into winemaking commenced when he and filmmaker Rodger Donaldson planted two hectares of Pinot Noir in the Gibbston Valley, which eventually blossomed into an award-winning organic operation. Today, Two Paddocks encompasses four distinct vineyards: The First Paddock, The Last Chance, Red Bank Farm, and The Fusilier, the latter named in honor of his father, Major Dermot Neill.

Over the years, Two Paddocks has received numerous accolades, including prestigious 95-point ratings for several of its wines, underscoring the winery's reputation for excellence. For Neill, these achievements symbolized the fruition of a dream he had meticulously nurtured. While audiences will remember him for his cinematic roles, his legacy in New Zealand winemaking is equally significant. Through Two Paddocks, Sam Neill not only created a winery but also established a lasting tribute to his love for Pinot Noir, farming, and the land he cherished.