Tasting Notes

The 2025 Otira is a precise expression of minerality and tension. The nose reveals initial notes of lemon curd, oolong tea and vibrant raspberry leaf. Unfolding delicately, there is a wet stone minerality which is tempered by a touch of shortbread, whilst on the palate, vibrant pineapple and passionfruit lead a bright Meyer lemon zest finish. Tightly coiled, the Otira will benefit from time open to relax in glass. This is a wine that rewards patience.

About the Wine

Named after the ancient glaciation period that formed this exceptional terroir, Otira is the purest expression of the stony soils found on the terraces of our estate. Formed 75,000 years ago, these free-draining soils result in wines with elegant minerality and excellent structure. 

Following the French tradition, our vineyard is planted in high density. This encourages competition between vines and restrains vigour; ensuring grapes divert their energy into the grapes (rather than the canopy) – resulting in concentrated berries. Dry farming and organic practices also allow us to ensure natural
vine balance is achieved by stressing the vines just to the right level. This forces the
roots to go deeper in the soil, obtaining the purest expression of our terroir. 

Winery Notes

Nestled under the southern foothills of Marlborough's Wairau Valley, Clos Henri is the wine estate meticulously established and organically run by the famous Sancerre wine growing family of Henri Bourgeois. Gathering 10 generations of know-how with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, the family has broadened their horizons and continue to craft exceptional wines in the New World. From the three different soil types of the estate, the family uses the best of French and New World winegrowing techniques to capture the essence of Marlborough's intense character and reveal the identity and depth of the Clos Henri terroir.

Organic