Clos de l'Oratoire 2015 (750ML)

"91-93 Points, Neal Martin, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: ""The 2015 Clos de la L'Oratoire is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc picked between 25-30 September at 45 hl/ha. Matured in 40% new oak, it has perhaps the most reticent bouquet at the moment, yet there is very pure dark cherry and blackberry fruit here, very ""cool"" aromatically and with several swirls of the glass it begins to find its voice. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin. There is good density here, very well balanced, very precise with perhaps the best tension on the finish that I have discerned in this particular Saint Emilion. This comes highly recommended."" 4/16"

"92-94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: ""A real stand out, the2015 Clos de l'Oratoire is powerful yet also wonderfully focused. Beams of acidity and tannin give the 2015 its sense of direction, while expressive floral notes add considerable brightness. The 2015 is intense yet also impeccable in its balance. The purity and breadth of the Merlot is striking. Readers will have to be patient with the 2015, as it is one of the most intense, hulking wines of the year. Tasted two times."" 4/16 "

The 2015 Clos de l'Oratoire is absolutely fabulous. All of the elements meld together in a rich, sumptuous wine endowed with serious depth and intensity. Time in the glass seems to bring out a good bit of aromatic nuance. The 2015 shut down quickly both times I tasted it, which is probably a good sign for the future. For now, readers will have to be patient. Tasted two times. (AG) (2/2018)

95 Points, James Suckling: "Aromas of bark, blackberries, currants and basil leaf, not to mention lavender and sage. Full body, integrated tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Layered and beautiful. Drink in 2022." 2/18

"94 Points, Wine Spectator: ""Juicy and balled up for now, with a licorice note coating the plum and raspberry fruit flavors. Has a singed vanilla edge to the finish, though this shows signs of being absorbed by the bright fruit. Should unfurl nicely after the élevage. Likely a solid buy."" 4/16"

94 Points, JebDunnuck: " I loved the 2015 Clos De L'Oratoire and this beautiful Saint-Emilion comes from the northwest sector of the appellation and a mix of limestone and sandy soils. Made from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc aged in 40% new oak, it has an incredible floral streak as well as perfumed notes of spring flowers, black raspberries, charcoal, and a salty minerality that shows more on the palate. With full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannin, background chocolaty oak, and a terrific elegance, this beautiful 2015 is already impossible to resist yet I suspect will last for two decades or more. It's impressive. 94+ (11/2017) "