The 2009 Venus La Universal is a blend of Carinena, Syrah and Garnacha, which are fermented together. Grapes are destemmed but not crushed, and part of the Garnacha is full cluster-fermented. Part of the wine ages in 4,000-liter oak vats and part in barriques. At this stage, the 2009 is moving toward developing some complexity and tertiary notes of truffles, leather, tar and cured meat, with a background of blueberries and violets. The palate is medium-bodied, with intense, persistent flavors. Drink 2014-2021. Venus La Universal was created in 1999 in Montsant and is the personal project of wife and husband Sara Perez from Mas Martinet and Rene Barber Jr. from Clos Mogador. I’ve seen a few stylistic changes through the years, and I feel they are now producing better wines than ever. Various importers, Michael Skurnik Wines, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, www.skurnikwines.com; Europvin SAS, CA, www.europvin.com and Robert Houde, IL; tel. (847) 939-1400