At a glance

Producer

Clos Erasmus

Region

Empordà, Catalonia, Spain

Grape variety

Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$150

Tasting profile

Rich black fruits (blackberry, black cherry), spices, licorice, earthy-minerals, and floral notes

Evolution: Develops complex leather, truffle, tobacco, and forest floor aromas over the next 10-15 years

At peak: Seamlessly integrated tannins and nuanced tertiary bouquet with deep concentration and length

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high acidity providing freshness

Tannins

Firm, well-structured, polished

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

20+ years with increasingly complex development

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2057

Optimal window

2025 to 2060

Current status

Early maturity, developing complex tertiary aromas

Current condition

Drinking well with some cellaring recommended to reach full potential

Clos Erasmus is among Empordà's most prestigious wines, made from carefully selected old-vine grapes with highly concentrated extraction. The 2020 vintage offers structure and balance ideal for long-term cellaring. Tannin and acidity levels promise smooth aging and vibrant evolution, justifying a drinking window extending 20+ years from vintage.

Food pairing

Perfect with robust Mediterranean dishes such as lamb stew, grilled game, mushroom risotto, or aged Manchego cheese.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow tannins to soften and aromas to open up before serving

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Organic draft cover crops, manual harvest, minimal intervention, renewable energy use onsite, water conservation via drip irrigation

Clos Erasmus emphasizes ecological vineyard management and energy-efficient winery operations. Their sustainable certifications and dedication to minimal environmental impact, combined with focused local sales, yield a solid sustainability profile, although no full organic or biodynamic certifications are currently held.