Clos Erasmus Laurel 2016 (750ML)

93+ Points, Zachys Buying Team: "It is a wild wine, that right from the nose transports you to the dry and arid region of Priorat, with its ancient licorella (black slate) soils. This is, a without a doubt, a wine that can please both the Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Pomerol enthusiast, as there are truly elements of both. The 2016 Laurel begins with its fleshy exuberance that settles with aeration. Gallops of black, blue and red fruit; expect to find nuances of ripe plums, blackberries, cassis, macerated cherry rinds, violets and licorice. With time in the glass you begin to see under the hood, as graphite minerality, herbaceous tobacco, and saline undertones reveal themselves. There are firm tannins under the explosive fruit that give way to a substantially dry finish. It is a bottle that takes your palate on a ride and we recommend enjoying the wine with a decant now or letting this signature Priorat age one to two years."

95 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, www.jebdunnuck.com: "The 2016 Laurel is sensational stuff and, in truth, matches several older vintages of the grand vin in quality. A blend of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 16 months in a mix of oak, concrete, and amphora, this deep purple-colored beauty offers up a fresh, vibrant bouquet of blueberries, crisp plums, violets, and spring flowers. Possessing full-bodied richness, beautiful depth of fruit and richness, and a fresh, elegant style, it's a brilliant wine that's going to evolve gracefully for 10-15 years." 4/19