Clos i Terrasses Laurel 2023

Laurel is made by Daphne Glorian at Clos i Terrasses in Priorat, the estate behind the highly regarded Clos Erasmus, and it is aged in the cone-shaped French oak barrels that previously held that wine. The vineyards lie on Priorat's signature llicorella, a fractured slate and quartzite soil that forces vine roots deep in search of water and yields tiny, concentrated berries. Summers are hot and dry, with cool nights that retain freshness, ripening Garnacha, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon to full phenolic maturity. The blend is raised for 21 months in French oak, a long élevage during which steady oxygen exchange settles the firm tannins and adds cedar and spice over the dense fruit. The colour is deep and dark. The nose is complex, with ripe plum and black cherry over cracked pepper, liquorice and a smoky, mineral note that reflects the slate. The palate is full bodied and structured, the tannins firm and the fruit ripe, the long finish carrying that stony grip. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant two hours ahead, or cellar it. It suits grilled and roasted red meats.