Laurel 2020

Wine Description for Laurel 2020 by Clos i Terrasses

Colour & Appearance

Deep purple-red with impressive depth and brilliance in the glass.

Nose

Fascinatingly transparent and equally expressive. Blueberries and blackberries dominate, accompanied by cassis and black cherries. Subtle spice of cinnamon and graphite, along with floral notes of rose petals and violets. Mint, black tea and mineral slate round off the elegant aromatic profile.

Palate

Of impressive elegance and sensuality. The opening brings blackcurrants and juicy cherries with bright acidity, accentuated by barberries and pomegranate seeds. The Syrah component contributes plums, violets, bresaola and black olive tapenade. With increasing air exposure, the texture becomes creamier and more chocolatey, a sweet core reveals itself with liquorice notes. The tannin is pronounced, yet exceptionally fine-grained. The deliberate avoidance of new oak places the excellent fruit completely in the spotlight.

Finish

Of impressive length with perfect balance between density and elegance. The complexity carries far and leaves a lasting, sensual impression.

Terroir & Origin

From Gratallops in Priorat, one of Spain’s most legendary wine regions. The vineyards have been managed biodynamically for years under the direction of Ester Nin – on slate soils that give the wine its characteristic minerality.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Cuvée of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Spontaneous fermentation in wooden cuves and concrete, followed by 18 months of ageing in old barriques, clay amphorae and concrete eggs. This vinification without dominant oak emphasises the purity and transparency of the fruit.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Venison loin with chanterelles and aged balsamic jus, wild duck with red cabbage and pumpkin or pheasant terrine with cherries. Generally, the wine harmonises superbly with game and game birds.

Special Features

The “second wine” from Daphne Glorian’s legendary Clos Erasmus is far more than that – an independent small masterpiece. The decision to retain the French grape varieties proves to be a stroke of luck: they lend Laurel a superb balance and finesse, making it the most sensual vintage this wine has ever produced.