Founded in 1999, Venus La Universal is one of the most coveted producers in Spain’s Montsant appellation. Sara Perez and René Barbier Fils run the project after they both learnt the trade in their respective families’ cellars in Priorat.
The vineyard covers four hectares and produces 85,000 bottles from five plots. The vines are tended to using organic and biodynamic methods. The soils are varied and rich, creating different styles of complex wines.
After being harvested by hand, the grapes ferment together with the process being started by the natural yeasts present. If the vintage allows it, the winemakers prefer to ferment whole bunches. Light punching down is conducted for the red wines. Ageing takes place in different containers (vats, oak barrels and amphora) over several months with the length of time varying depending on the desired type of wine. These fine Catalan wines reflect their terroir.

This cuvée was made from 100% Grenache grapes and cultivated at 600 metres high, making it one of the highest plots in the village of La Figuera. The vines enjoy clay-limestone soil and a Mediterranean climate, with the input of Continental weather patterns. Each plot is cultivated to preserve the soil’s natural balance and optimise the vineyard’s resources. The grapes are meticulously harvested by hand at optimum ripeness and macerated whole. They ferment for one month in wooden casks and then in large open tanks for another month. Finally, the cuvée is carefully aged in amphoras, or large clay pots, for around 18 months before bottling.
The ruby colour expresses aromas of berries and a hint of minerality, with just a touch of balsamic. The palate is elegant and refined and unveils fruit-forward notes, leading to a crisp, slightly acidic finish.