2001 Clos Erasmus

A step up from the Laurel and jaw dropping good, the 2001 Clos Erasmus Priorat was youthful and dense upon opening, yet continue to gain layers, depth, and complexity over the evening. Loaded with decadent levels of cassis, chocolate, spice, and that dusty minerality that this region commonly delivers, this full-bodied, blockbuster wine has layers of fruit and texture, perfect balance, and a straight up thrilling finish! An awesome wine on all accounts, this should continue to shine for upwards of another decade, possibly longer.

(a blend based on 65% garnacha, the rest cabernet sauvignon and syrah) Bright ruby-red. Currant, crushed raspberry and bitter chocolate on the nose; showed some dried berry notes with aeration. Lush, smooth and deep, with a creamy middle palate showing almost confectionery sweetness. But sound acids give this extremely suave wine terrific shape and thrust. Finishes with noble tannins and terrific persistence. Very sophisticated winemaking and elevage here. As seamless and classy a vintage of Clos Erasmus as I've tasted to date.

Dark crimson with some evolution at the rim already. Very strong llicorella signature even on the nose. Very fresh and appetising. Thick, dry appetising and lively. Yes! This harnesses fully ripe fruit without being all flabby and sweet. Dry end, properly mineral for the very long term. (JR)