The 2021 Clos Erasmus Laurel Proprietary Blend is a red wine hailing from the Priorat region in Spain. Crafted by the respected producer Clos Erasmus, this blend primarily consists of 80% Garnacha, 11% Syrah, and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Luis Gutiérrez from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine a commendable score of 96 points. In his review dated May 16, 2024, Gutiérrez highlights the meticulous production process behind the 2021 Laurel. The grapes, sourced from younger vines aged between five and 40 years, undergo a unique cooling period of 24 hours before sorting and destemming. They are then placed in vats to naturally warm up and begin fermentation. This process includes a soft vinification with short pumping overs to avoid excessive extraction, followed by a two to three-week fermentation and an additional four weeks of maceration. The wine is matured for 18 months in a combination of oak vats, barrels, and amphorae.
Gutiérrez describes the 2021 Laurel as "super aromatic, floral and expressive, clean and elegant, delicate and ethereal." He notes its velvety texture and seamless balance, emphasizing a "focused, clean, long finish." The influence of Syrah is apparent in the wine's meaty undertones. With an alcohol content of 14.5% and a pH level of 3.3, the wine presents a well-integrated oak profile despite its youth.
The 2021 Clos Erasmus Laurel stands out as a sophisticated, balanced wine that showcases the quality and craftsmanship of its producer. Its excellent review from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate underscores its potential as a standout choice for enthusiasts of elegant and expressive red wines.