A modest red, with light, chewy tannins and subtle notes of cherry, tobacco and singed orange peel. Drink now. 700 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / South / Puglia / Salice Salentino Select to Add

Plumped cherry and dried fig fruit is accented by hints of dried thyme, smoke and ground anise in this fresh and balanced red. Medium-bodied, with light tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2019. 1,200 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / South / Puglia / Salice Salentino Select to Add

Tea rose and spice accents lace the red currant and mulberry fruit in this light- to medium-bodied red, framed by chewy tannins. Tangy, with wild herb and smoke notes on the moderate finish. Drink now through 2018. 1,200 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / South / Puglia / Salice Salentino Select to Add

The very likable 2012 Salice Salentino Liante boasts a bold and expressive style with Indian spice, dark fruit and smoked bacon. There's a slightly bitter tannic bite at the back and a hard edge that works well against the fleshy nature of the Negroamaro grape. Sun-soaked and ripe, this cheerful wine would pair with spicy chorizo pizza.

Another excellent value, the 2011 Salice Salentino Liante caresses the palate with layers of silky, perfumed dark red and black fruit. Floral, spiced notes add lift on the refreshing, medium-bodied finish. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2014. Castello Monaci is known for forward, juicy wines that deliver tons of quality for the money. This set of new releases includes a number of terrific buys. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700