2001 Clos de l'Oratoire
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Tasting notes
The 2001 Clos de l’Oratoire, aged in 70% new oak, is missing a bit of presence on the nose, which is overshadowed by the aromatics of the previous vintage. It gradually unfolds to reveal light earth and humidor scents, but never really gets out of the starting blocks. The palate is medium-bodied with dry tannins and vestiges of red fruit. There is something a little New World about this Clos de l’Oratoire, like a mature Bordeaux blend from the Stellenbosch. I would drink this soon.
Critic scores
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Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Dense. Sweet and concentrated and in the modern idiom on the nose but with some freshness. This wine works even if it’s not desperately bordeaux – like theh Gracia in some respects but in this case with some juice. Dry finish. (JR)
A terrific sleeper value, Stephan von Neipperg’s 2001 Clos de l’Oratoire boasts a deep blue/purple color as well as a rich nose of melted licorice, espresso roast, black currants, minerals, smoke, and earth. This opulent, medium-bodied St.-Emilion exhibits abundant quantities of fruit and glycerin along with a fleshy, ripe, expansive finish with no hard edges. Some tannin lurks beneath the surface, but this is a beautiful wine to drink now and over the next 10-12 years.