Lovely aromatics, with rose petals and tomato leaf, shows sinewy tannin and raspberry puree fruits, charming and thoroughly enjoyable. 47hl/h yield, massal selection now fully underway, with around 10% of the blend from vines dating from the 1950s. Former technical director Gaelle Barbareau still involved, with Ludovic de Niepperg in charge, no outside consultant. 30% new oak. More clay in the vineyard than in most of this sector of St Emilion, over limestone mother rock, with no till farming across most of the property, and mulching over the rest. Certified organic since 2020. 93 points

The 2023 Clos de l`Oratoire is one of the most changed wines in the Neipperg portfolio. An increase in Cabernet Franc is immediately evident in the wine`s explosive bouquet and overall energy. Rose petal, sage, mint, dried flowers and orange peel race across the palate. Clos de l`Oratoire is absolutely beguiling in 2023. I can`t wait to taste it from bottle. 92-95 points

Aromas of cherries, dark chocolate, spices and violets introduce the 2023 Clos de l`Oratoire, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered wine that`s charming and harmonious on the attack, displaying a touch of youthfully grippy tannin on the finish. The blend contains fully 25% Cabernet Franc. 90-92 points

The 2023 Clos de l`Oratoire contains more Cabernet Franc from recent plantings (25%), while the other 75% is Merlot. Matured in 30% new oak, it has a cohesive nose with raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, touches of crushed limestone coming through with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with a silky-smooth entry and moderate weight, a liberal sprinkling of white pepper and a touch of bay leaf stepping forward near the finish. There`s impressive terroir and commendable length here. The greater proportion of Cabernet Franc really benefits this wine. 90-92 points