l'Oratoire, Clos de
Summary
Clos de l'Oratoire is a 13.5-hectare Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé estate on the northeastern slope of the plateau, owned by Count Stephan von Neipperg since 1991, producing Merlot-dominant wines from clay-limestone soils enriched with iron deposits. The estate combines traditional Saint-Émilion methods with parcel-by-parcel vinification, aging wines for 16-18 months in French oak while maintaining environmentally conscious viticulture practices that honor its classic Bordeaux heritage.
Heritage & Leadership
Clos de l'Oratoire, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé, has been under the ownership of Count Stephan von Neipperg since 1991. The estate joined the von Neipperg family portfolio when they expanded their Saint-Émilion holdings beyond their flagship property, Château Canon-la-Gaffelière. The von Neipperg family, with viticultural roots dating back over 800 years in Germany, established their presence in Bordeaux when Joseph-Hubert von Neipperg acquired Canon-la-Gaffelière in 1971. Under Stephan von Neipperg's leadership, Clos de l'Oratoire underwent significant revitalization in the 1990s, with investments in both vineyard management and cellar technology. The property maintains its classification in the Saint-Émilion appellation system, having been recognized in the official classifications. The day-to-day operations are overseen by a technical team that collaborates with consulting winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt, who has worked with the von Neipperg properties since the mid-1990s.
Vineyards & Wines
Clos de l'Oratoire encompasses 13.5 hectares situated on the northeastern slope of the Saint-Émilion plateau. The vineyard occupies a distinct terroir characterized by clay-limestone soils with notable deposits of crasse de fer (iron-rich deposits), providing excellent drainage and mineral complexity. The vineyard is planted predominantly to Merlot (90%) with the remainder dedicated to Cabernet Franc (10%). This planting composition reflects the estate's terroir, where Merlot thrives in the clay-dominant sections while Cabernet Franc is allocated to areas with limestone closer to the surface. The vineyard's northeastern exposure creates a slightly cooler microclimate compared to other Saint-Émilion properties, contributing to a longer ripening period for the grapes. Vine density averages 6,500 plants per hectare, with an average vine age of 35 years. The estate produces approximately 45,000 bottles annually of its grand vin, with the exact production varying based on vintage conditions.
Philosophy & Practice
The winemaking approach at Clos de l'Oratoire balances traditional Saint-Émilion methods with modern precision. Harvest is conducted by hand with multiple passes through the vineyard to ensure optimal ripeness. In the cellar, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled concrete and stainless steel vats, with each parcel vinified separately to preserve its distinct characteristics. Malolactic fermentation occurs in a combination of vats and barrels. The wine ages for 16-18 months in French oak barrels, with 40-50% new oak depending on the vintage. The von Neipperg team practices plot-by-plot vineyard management, adapting viticultural techniques to the specific needs of each section of the vineyard. Soil cultivation is favored over herbicide use, and cover crops are planted between rows to manage vigor and enhance soil biology. The estate employs green harvesting when necessary to control yields and ensure concentration. The final blending decisions prioritize balance and expression of the estate's terroir, creating wines that combine the richness of Merlot with the structural elements contributed by Cabernet Franc.