One of the von Neipperg estates, the 2012 Clos de l'Oratoire is an undeniable success story. Dense ruby/purple, with plenty of crème de cassis, roasted coffee, licorice and spice, full-bodied, opulent and sexy, it is a hedonist's dream wine. Pure and long, it has a great finish and terrific palate presence. Drink it over the next 12-15 years. Yields were exceptionally small in 2012 - 25 hectoliters per hectare.

This has a ripe, fleshy feel, offering a core of plum, fig and boysenberry fruit laced with licorice, carrying through the toasty yet integrated finish. Very solidly built for the vintage. Best from 2016 through 2020.