James Suckling 96
The 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.
by James Suckling, JS, 2019.

Wine Advocate 91-93
The 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 soupon of austerity towards the masculine finish. Excellent.
by Robert Parker, NM, 2017.

Wine Spectator 93
Fresh, bright and engaging, with damson plum, raspberry and cherry pte 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.
by Wine Spectator, JM, 2019.

Description
Clos de lOratoire, located on Saint-Emilion's northeast slope, has 13 hectares of vines. The terroir of Fronsac molasse, consisting of a layer of sandy soil and a clay subsoil, is ideally suited to Merlot (80 of the vines). Meticulous work is done all year long to maintain quality in the vineyard. Fermentation takes place exclusively in temperature-controlled oak vats. Oak, a noble material in perfect synergy with fine wine, enhances its colour and flavour, and enables it to reach its full potential. Every vat is handled according to its specific profile. Fermentation temperatures are kept relatively low and pigeage (punching down the cap) is done very slowly.

History
Members of the Franconian aristocracy with a long political and agricultural tradition, the Counts von Neipperg family line can be traced back to the 12th century. Representing some eight centuries of winegrowing and winemaking experience, today Count Stephan von Neipperg manages the 9 family-owned estates, 4 of which are in Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux: Chteau Canon La Gaffelire, La Mondotte, Clos de lOratoire, Chteau Peyreau.