The 2022 Clos Ostler Audrey’s Pinot Gris is a beautifully textured and refined cool-climate Pinot Gris from New Zealand’s striking Waitaki Valley, showcasing the precision, minerality and elegance that have made Clos Ostler one of the country’s most respected boutique producers. Sourced from estate vineyards planted on ancient limestone-rich soils near Duntroon, the wine reflects the unique terroir of this marginal yet highly expressive winegrowing region. The 2022 vintage was crafted using a combination of stainless steel and barrel fermentation, with a portion matured in oak and extended lees stirring employed to build complexity, texture and palate richness while preserving freshness and aromatic purity. Clos Ostler has become renowned for producing wines of Burgundian inspiration and finesse, with minimal intervention winemaking focused on expressing site and vintage with clarity and balance.
The nose reveals poached pear, white peach and nectarine layered alongside jasmine florals, ginger spice, lemon zest and subtle honeyed notes, giving the wine remarkable aromatic lift and sophistication. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and beautifully textured with silky mouthfeel, vibrant acidity and a distinct chalky mineral backbone that carries impressive freshness and precision. Layers of Nashi pear, stone fruit, citrus sherbet and delicate spice unfold with excellent harmony and balance, finishing long, dry and elegantly persistent with subtle savoury complexity. Critics have consistently praised the wine’s purity, texture and mineral finesse, with Raymond Chan highlighting its “mineral seduction” and poised structure, while Cameron Douglas compared its quality and complexity to Alsace Grand Cru Pinot Gris. The balance between richness, freshness and limestone-driven tension makes this one of New Zealand’s standout Pinot Gris expressions.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2022 Clos Ostler Audrey’s Pinot Gris is a superb cool-climate Pinot Gris — elegant, textured and beautifully mineral-driven with impressive depth and precision. A fantastic choice for lovers of premium Alsace-style Pinot Gris and refined New Zealand whites. Perfect with pork belly, roast chicken, creamy seafood dishes, pan-fried fish, soft cheeses or Asian-inspired cuisine. Enjoy now for its vibrant freshness or cellar comfortably through 2029+.
