Clos de l'Oratoire Saint-Emilion 2018 - Grand Cru Classé

Fresh, lively tannins with a subtle juiciness that defines the fruit.

Clos de l’Oratoire is, along with Canon La Gaffelière and La Mondotte, the third estate owned by Stephan von Neipperg in Saint-Émilion, and thus receives the same level of care. The vineyard, spanning about ten hectares, is located in the northeast of the town, between Soutard and Balestard, on a terroir rich in clay and limestone that is perfectly suited to Merlot. In recent vintages, the wine has shown steady improvement, with a creamy, tannic style that is highly expressive, featuring a velvety, well-rounded mid-palate. Today, the 2014 vintage—which boasts beautiful body—retails for around thirty euros, offering good value for money given its quality and when compared to its peers. The 2016 vintage is particularly successful.

The 2018 Clos de l'Oratoire boasts a deep purple-garnet color and a rock-star nose of plum jam, chocolate-coated cherry, and blackberry, along with notes of candied violet, licorice, and Sichuan pepper, with a hint of tapenade. The medium- to full-bodied palate is bursting with juicy black fruits, along with a wealth of exotic spices and earthy accents, supported by very ripe, soft tannins and consistent freshness, leading to a long, fragrant finish.

A lively Merlot from the sandy soils; the nose, though slightly subdued, reveals a peppery, slightly spicy, and somewhat earthy intensity that lacks a touch of refinement. Quite approachable on the palate, it offers depth with fresh, straightforward tannins and good momentum. A wine of remarkable agility for this vintage.

Located on fairly sandy soil between Soutard, Balestard, and Dassault, the Clos de l’Oratoire is undeniably less prestigious than the other two Saint-Émilion crus in the Neipperg portfolio, Canon-la-Gaffelière and La Mondotte. However, it, too, benefits from the agronomic efforts undertaken by the dashing Count Stefan. Its 13-hectare vineyard, however, has proven more difficult to convert to organic farming. Consistent and well-rounded, if not particularly complex, the wine impresses in its youth with its intensity and the comfortable roundness of its fruit—often dark notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, and blueberry. It can surprise as it ages, as demonstrated by the remarkable 2008 vintage.

Aromas of fresh blackberries, dried leaves, dark chocolate, lemon zest, and nuts. A hint of damp earth as well. It is medium-bodied to full-bodied with firm, refined tannins. Tight, focused layers. A rather juicy wine. Best enjoyed starting in 2025.