2012 Clos Erasmus Priorat
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Tasting notes
After no 2011 was produced, the 2012 Clos Erasmus comes with renewed energy, a much fresher approach and a more transparent wine while keeping the slate typicity of Gratallops even in a tiny-yielding vintage. Part of the wine aged in 700-liter clay amphorae and the rest in Burgundy barrels that added a spicy patina to the nose, yet very much respected the wet slate character of the vintage. Contrary to previous vintages, the core of fruit is red rather than black; the 2013 that I tasted (not in bottle) followed pretty much this same direction. The palate shows power, elegance and a special mineral savoriness akin to licking stones. There is more Garnacha in the blend (there's only 15% Syrah) which gives a Mediterranean juiciness. A new life for Erasmus, very much recognizable as Priorat, Gratallops and Erasmus, but with a more elegant haircut. Only 2,000 bottles produced.
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
(80% garnacha and 20% syrah; aged for 20 months in French oak, 60% of it new, and in a single 700-liter amphora): Bright purple. Sexy, mineral-laced aromas of black raspberry, potpourri, Asian spices and woodsmoke. Palate-staining red and dark berry liqueur flavors are complemented by notes of lavender, spicecake and bitter chocolate, with a minerally quality adding lift, vivacity and focus. Closes extremely long, with superb clarity, sneaky tannins and a whiplash of candied flowers.
85% Garnacha. 15% Syrah. Mid cherry red. Intense nose – concentrated cherryade with iron filings in it. Broad and quite simple still although it's all hidden underneath. Quite marked acidity. Lots of freshness. Still very tense. (JR)