Chateau Clos de L'Oratoire, Saint Emilion, 1998

Mature Right Bank Bordeaux from Count Stephan von Neipperg's stellar portfolio. This Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé was harvested in late September 1998, fermented in wooden vats for 25 days, and aged 18 months in 80% new oak. Robert Parker scored it 92 points and James Suckling 94 points. At 27 years old this has "ultra-fine tannins" and a "juicy, succulent finish." A mature claret ready for immediate enjoyment.