Parker 90 punten I tasted this wine on multiple occasions and some of the samples were more impressive than even this note suggests! Two others were somewhat monolithic, but my instincts suggest the 2004 Clos de l’Oratoire is an outstanding wine. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, it is extremely well-endowed for the vintage. A deep ruby/purple color is followed by aromas of espresso roast, chocolate, dried herbs, and plenty of sexy black currant and cherry fruit. Medium to full-bodied with silky tannin as well as an expressive, sensual style. About the estate Purchased in 1991 by Stephan Von Neipperg, also owner of Mondotte and Canon la Gaffelière, the Clos de l'Oratoire vineyard is located on clay-limestone terroir at the top of the hill, and clay-sand at the bottom next to. The property covers 13.07 hectares, planted with Merlot (80%) and Cabernet Franc (20%). The agriculture carried out there is in the process of being certified as organic. The average age of the vines is 35 years. After manual harvesting, the harvest is subject to double sorting, before and after destemming. The vintages are vinified according to their characteristics. Temperatures are low for vinification in thermoregulated wooden vats (22 to 30 days depending on the vintage). Slow, pneumatic punching down is carried out and of course precedes aging in new barrels (80 to 100%) on fine lees, for 15 to 20 months depending on the vintage. If necessary, the wine is fined and filtered. Annual production is around 55,000 bottles. About the vintage When tasted, this wine offers a deep color, revealing a ripe, fruity and woody bouquet. Medium-bodied, it is powerful, fresh and very seductive. Due to its formidable concentration, combined with an impressive tannin structure, this wine requires at least seven years of aging before it can be tasted.