2019 Clos de l`Oratoire (St-Emilion)

Sweetened and silky berry fruits, lovely combination of juice and tension alongside firm tannins and a confident overall feel. Impressive stuff from Neipperg at this rather under-the-radar classified estate. 93 points

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2019 Clos de l`Oratoire comes bounding out of the glass with exuberant notes of stewed cherries, mulberries and black raspberries plus suggestions of powdered cinnamon, potpourri, tobacco leaf and wild sage. The generously fruited, medium to full-bodied palate is laden with juicy black fruit and spicy accents, framed by soft tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long with an invigorating lift. 92-94 points

The 2019 Clos de l`Oratoire was picked from 23 September to 7 October at 51hl/ha and matured in 50% new oak. For the vintage, it has a slightly broodier nose than its peers, but still attractive with blackberry, briary, undergrowth and a trace of peppermint. The palate displays more vivacity with fine-grain tannins and an almost Left Bank pencil lead note emanating from the 19% Cabernet Franc. Quite linear but persistent on the finish, this is a very well-crafted, elegant, intellectual Clos d`Oratoire from Stephan von Neipperg`s team. 92-94 points