Clos Erasmus Winery Guide

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Last updated: November 22, 2023

Winery Overview

Amid a region brimming with renowned wineries, Daphne Glorian of Clos Erasmus Winery has quietly assumed the role of a godmother, nurturing and guiding the younger generations of winemakers while elevating the reputation of the Priorat wine region with her exceptional and highly sought-after wines. Nestled within a boutique estate spanning 10 hectares, Clos Erasmus produces a mere 140 cases yearly, making its flagship label, Clos Erasmus, a rare and coveted gem in the wine world. The scarcity and exclusivity of these wines are matched only by their exceptional quality.

Clos Erasmus stands as one of the most outstanding red wines not only in the Priorat region but in all of Spain. Its rich, powerful, and densely structured character, combined with exotic and captivating aromas, captivates wine enthusiasts. Notably, Clos Erasmus holds the distinction of being one of the few Spanish wines to have achieved a perfect 100-point rating from Robert Parker, a testament to the Priorat region’s ability, in the right hands, to produce wines that rival the finest offerings from Rioja and Ribera del Duero.

Interestingly, the story of Clos Erasmus began serendipitously when Swiss-born Daphne Glorian visited Priorat with friends in the late 1980s. Initially enchanted by the breathtaking beauty of the region’s terraced vineyards, Daphne had no intention of acquiring vineyards until she was persuaded by Priorat pioneers Alvaro Palacios and Rene Barbier. They convinced her of the untapped potential of the area, which had remained relatively unknown until the 1990s. With invaluable guidance from Rene Barbier, Daphne purchased a plot and planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Grenache vines to complement the existing old-vine Grenache plantations. Since 2004, Clos Erasmus has been operated using biodynamic principles, a testament to Daphne’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly winemaking practices.

Since Clos Erasmus was awarded a perfect 100-point score for its 2004 vintage, the winery has been catapulted into the global spotlight, and demand for its flagship and second wines has soared. The flagship Erasmus is aged over 20 months in new oak barrels, producing a wine of immense power and expressiveness. While anticipation for its release is high, it is recommended to cellar this wine for 5-6 years to appreciate its complexity fully. The second wine, Laurel, is a great value offering, presenting a softer and lighter expression that can be enjoyed immediately upon release.

In a region now filled with big names, Daphne Glorian has quietly guided and inspired the younger generation of winemakers, establishing Clos Erasmus Winery as a beacon of excellence. With its limited production, Clos Erasmus wines are both rare and highly sought-after, embodying the epitome of red wine perfection. Through her dedication and passion, Daphne has transformed this boutique estate into one of Spain’s most celebrated wineries, demonstrating that the Priorat region can produce wines in the right hands.