The 2014 Clos de l'Oratoire is a Bordeaux blend hailing from Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, France. This red wine, produced by Clos de l'Oratoire, has garnered a variety of accolades from renowned wine critics, reflecting its noteworthy characteristics and appeal.
Wine Spectator awarded this vintage a score of 92, emphasizing its fruit-forward profile. According to their review dated March 31, 2017, the wine "shows lovely fruit, with waves of blueberry, plum and boysenberry compote rolling over each other." They also pointed out the polished structure and a hint of graphite on the finish, noting that the wine "emphasizes purity rather than extraction." They recommend enjoying this wine from 2018 through 2028.
James Suckling provided an even higher score of 93, describing the wine as "already really delicious" in his review from February 13, 2017. He praises the ripeness of the black-fruit aromas, noting that there's "no hint of jammy stuff." Suckling highlights the wine's balance, saying it "tastes simultaneously juicy and creamy," and commends the graceful tannins, which allow the wine to "glide across the palate." He suggests that, had the wine been a touch more subtle, it might have achieved an even higher score.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, with a score of 91, offered an insightful review by Neal Martin on April 1, 2017. Martin observed that the 2014 Clos de l'Oratoire had evolved significantly since its en primeur stage, becoming "much more exuberant with pure cranberry, boysenberry and orange rind aromas." He described the palate as "smooth, almost velvety on the entry," and noted its impressive volume and presence, despite a slight lack of delineation. Martin concluded that the wine surpasses expectations, with mulberry and raspberry notes lingering long after the wine has departed.
Overall, the 2014 Clos de l'Oratoire is highly regarded by critics for its fruit intensity, smooth texture, and balanced structure. With an alcohol content of 14.5%, this wine is crafted to be enjoyed over the next decade, offering a delightful experience for Bordeaux enthusiasts.