Actor and winemaker Sam Neill dies at 78

Actor Sam Neill has died in Sydney at the age of 78 following a battle with cancer and a subsequent bout of pneumonia. Neill, a global star known for his role in ‘Jurassic Park’, was also a dedicated Pinot Noir producer in New Zealand’s Central Otago region.

For thirty years, Neill operated the Two Paddocks wine label, managing four distinct vineyards: First Paddock, Red Bank, The Fusilier, and The Last Chance. A staunch advocate for organic viticulture, he achieved certification for all his vineyards in 2017. He was notably known for his rejection of cork in favor of screw caps after losing significant production to moldy corks in 1999.

Following his passing, it was reported that actor Jason Momoa has purchased Neill’s 4.92-hectare lifestyle estate in Queenstown for approximately NZ$15 million. The property features a swimming pool, a jetty, and surrounding woodland.