Clos Henri : "Waimaunga" Pinot Noir 2019

The delicateness and generosity of a New Zealand Pinot Noir

The estate

Nestling in the foothills of the Wairau Valley in Marlborough, Clos Henri is a great New Zealand estate run by a Sancerre landmark: the Bourgeois family, winemakers for 10 generations. Eager to reveal the finest terroirs of Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, Rémi and Jean-Marie Bourgeois set out to explore the world to find their pearl. After a long search, the family decided to set up in New Zealand, founding Clos Henri in 2000. Today, the estate comprises 110 hectares of vines, 42 hectares of which are certified organic.

The vineyard

Rich in glacial soils, the estate has one of the most varied terroirs in the Marlborough Valley. Marked by three distinct geological periods, the soil is made up of layers of Aeolian clay and rolled pebbles.

Clos Henri Waimaunga Pinot Noir 2019 stems from the "Waimaunga" plot, made up of a remarkable clay terroir.

Winemaking and ageing

After being harvested by hand, the grapes were carefully sorted and 20% of the yield vinified in whole bunches. The grapes were then transferred by gravity into French oak barrels and cold-macerated for a week before undergoing spontaneous fermentation. Finally, the wine was aged in French oak barrels (20% new barrels) for 12 months.

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Characteristics and tasting tips for Waimaunga Pinot Noir 2019 from Clos Henri

Tasting

Nose
The nose is fresh and generous, with blueberry scents and subtle notes of violet.

Palate
The palate unveils notes of cherry and strawberry. Velvety tannins are completed by notes of spices and leather, with a remarkable length.