The product image is for illustrative purposes only and may not exactly reflect the actual characteristics of the wine. Clos de l'Oratoire Clos de l'Oratoire 2016 75clGrand Cru Classé | St. Emilion | Bordeaux | FranceSold outSize 75 clAll vintages 1982 1995 1996 2015 2016 2018 2020 2021 2023 2025 Critics scores 96 James SucklingThe aromas are very decadent with white truffle, dark berries and wet earth. Dense raspberries. Full-bodied, it grows on the palate with fantastic chewy tannins that are polished and intense. Like a beautifully formed wave in texture. Try in 2022.93 Robert ParkerThe 2016 Clos de l'Oratoire is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc that was picked between 10-17 October and matured in 45% new oak. It has a fresh, perfumed and floral bouquet, with pressed rose petals infusing the red cherry and crushed strawberry fruit. There is a sense of airiness here that I like. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, slightly grainy tannin, hints of tobacco and leather complementing the black fruit with a welcome soupçon of austerity towards the masculine finish. Excellent.93 Wine SpectatorFresh, bright and engaging, with damson plum, raspberry and cherry pâte de fruit notes bouncing along, laced with red licorice details and backed by a light Black Forest cake accent on the juicy finish. This seems like it's all fruit but the lovely cut and floral persistence through the finish imparts an elegant hint. Drink now through 2033. 5,833 cases made. — JM Producer Clos de l'OratoireA Saint-Émilion château owned and managed by the energetic and inspiring, Stephan von Neipperg. The estate was originally purchased in 1972 by his father, Joseph-Hubert, Graf von Neipperg. Its 10 hectares of vines grow on Fronsac molasses soil with sub-layers of sand and clay, a terroir that is ideal for Merlot (90%). They also grow smaller amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Like other Neipperg estates, they practice sustainable viticulture with some biodynamic elements in order to preserve the innate quality of the grape. Opulent yet with an underlying structure, Clos de l'Oratoire usually requires several years of ageing following its release.