The icon of Clos Henri and the heart of our estate, Sainte Solange Chapel started life in the 1920’s as a Presbyterian country church in the village of Ward, on the outskirts of Marlborough.

In 2003 the chapel was relocated onto the vineyard to begin a new life as the tasting room for Clos Henri. This quaint building was deconsecrated and named ‘Sainte Solange’ in memory of Henri Bourgeois’s wife Solange Bourgeois.

Made of Rimu, a native New Zealand timber, the chapel was lovingly restored; and a wooden steeple was added to act as a tie to the Bourgeois family’s home village of Chavignol, in Sancerre, France.

Today the quintessentially kiwi landmark, with a touch of European charm, hosts guests to Clos Henri for wine and food experiences, local events and is an idyllic setting for wedding, outdoor events and intimate meetings – surrounded by stunning vineyards.

Inspired by Jonathan Grieve, we update the calendar below at monthly intervals to reflect the best tasting days according to biodynamic principals. In turn, these dates are sourced from the Maria Thun planting calendar and are updated regularly to reflect the movement of our Earth through the constellations.

The Legend:

🍇FRUIT: Fruity notes in wines are observed to be more vibrant, wines are full-bodied and richer in character.

🥕ROOT: Wines tasted appear more restrained, austere and subdued than other days.

🌿LEAF: Wines are noted to be less sweet, with a more apparent minerality and intense earthy notes.

🌸FLOWER: Considered as the BEST day for tasting - all elements of the wine sensory profile appear to be in harmony and at balance. We recommend booking your tasting with us on these days if possible.