Otira Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2024 | Clos Henri Vineyard

Wine Identification
The Otira Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine produced by Clos Henri, released for the 2024 vintage. It originates from the Marlborough region of New Zealand.

Origin and Winemaking
Clos Henri represents the New Zealand venture of the Bourgeois family, renowned viticulteurs from Sancerre and Chavignol in France who have cultivated vines since 1696. The family established their plantings in New Zealand in 2000. This specific cuvée is sourced exclusively from plots characterized by glacial stones of greywacke, deposited approximately 75,000 years ago during the Otiran glaciation. These soils are notably stony and offer rapid drainage, conditions that contribute to the production of small berries.

The winemaking process involves a blend of techniques: 85% of the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks, while 15% undergoes fermentation in old French oak barrels. Following fermentation, the wine rests for eight months on its fine lees with bâtonnage (lees stirring).

Tasting Profile and Critical Reception
As a Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, this wine reflects the distinct terroir of its glacial soils. It has received significant critical acclaim, earning scores of 96 points from both The Wine Advocate (Parker) and James Suckling. These high ratings indicate a wine of considerable quality and complexity, likely exhibiting the intensity and structure supported by its lees aging and mixed fermentation vessels.

Overall Character
The Otira Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc stands as a premium expression of Marlborough’s terroir, bridging French viticultural heritage with New Zealand’s distinctive climate. The combination of ancient glacial soils, small-berry yields, and extended lees contact suggests a wine with depth, texture, and refined aromatic intensity. It is a sophisticated white wine that demonstrates the successful adaptation of a historic family tradition to a new world environment.