2018 Clos de l’Oratoire

Description

94-97  Wine Spectator
“Features seamlessly layered dark currant, fig and boysenberry fruit, infused liberally with a tobacco note and backed by a long, smoldering finish. Latent energy keeps this going. An impressive young wine.”  James Molesworth (4/2019)

94-95  James Suckling
“A tangy and tight red with blackberry and black-olive character. Hint of dark chocolate. Medium to full body and firm, tight tannins. Fresh and energetic dark fruit.” (4/2019)

93-95  Jeb Dunnuck
“From the stable of Stephan von Neipperg, the 2018 Clos De L’Oratoire is a ripe, sexy blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc aging in 45% new oak, that offers an upfront bouquet of blueberries, violets, spice box, and incense and has notable complexity. With a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, a seamless texture, and excellent length, it’s a classic wine from this estate, offering both opulence and elegance. It will keep for 20+ years.” (4/2019)

92-95  Antonio Galloni for Vinous
“The 2018 Clos de l’Oratoire is another stunning wine in Stephan von Neipperg’s range. The greater presence of Cabernet Franc, along with a move towards earlier picking, no SO2 at crush and less oak influence are some of the factors that have completely transformed Clos de l’Oratoire from the powerhouse it often was to a wine of total and exquisite finesse. Inky dark fruit, lavender, sage, and mint give the 2018 striking aromatic depth, but it is the wine’s total sense of harmony that impresses most. The 2018 is fabulous. That’s all there is to it. Tasted two times.” (4/2019)