The 2008 Terra de Verema Triumvirat is made by Ester Nin, vineyard manager of Clos Erasmus. It is a blend of 90% Carinena, 5% Garnacha, and 5% Syrah aged for 12 months in French oak. Dark ruby-colored with an already complex bouquet of pepper, Asian spices, mineral, and black cherry, on the palate it is supple, suave bordering on opulent, succulent, and very long. It can be approached now but will be more expressive with another 2-3 years of bottle age. Importer: Eric Solomon Selections, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565

The 2007 Triumvirat is an organically farmed blend of 90% Carinena with the balance Garnacha and Syrah. Garnet-colored, it exhibits a straightforward perfume of slate, underbrush, and blueberry. Elegant on the palate with sweet fruit and a forward personality, it will provide much enjoyment over the next six years. Terre de Verema is a new Priorat project with Ester Nin in charge of winemaking. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565