2022 Clos de l'Oratoire
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Tasting notes
The 2022 Clos De L'Oratoire is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, and you can expect the quantity of the Cabernet Franc to increase here as the younger vines move into the Grand Vin. Black raspberries, crunchy black cherries, spice, flowers, and a gorgeous sense of minerality all define this beauty. It's medium to full-bodied, has a concentrated, layered mouthfeel, velvety tannins, and a great finish. It might be the finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Lawther MW, jancisrobinson.com
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2022 Clos de l'Oratoire takes time to open its blackberry, raspberry, wild hedgerow and white pepper scents in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly chalky tannins that cohere nicely. The slightly higher proportion of Cabernet Franc imparts more pepperiness on the finish that lingers in the mouth. This is a fine, classically styled Saint-Émilion.
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Organic certified by FR-BIO-10. Black core with purplish rim. Dark, ripe and intense aroma. Firm, chewy, nicely dry texture. A powerful, darkly harmonious wine with excellent fruit core and just a little oaky on the finish. (JH)
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Certified organic. Cask sample. Aromatic, juicy and really quite refined. A bit more Cabernet Franc has added energy and fragrance. Should make a good drinking wine. (JL)