89

2011 Triade Rosso, Puglia

( £8.99 down to £6.75, 13.5%, Waitrose )

This is a comparatively unusual southern Italian red, given the presence of one third of Nero di Troia alongside the more widely planted Primitivo and Negroamaro in the blend. It’s also quite light by the toothsome standards of some of the region’s high octane reds, but certainly not lacking in flavour. Plum and damson fruit are underpinned by sweet toasty oak and a refreshing, peppery finish. 

BuyDrinking window: 2013-15Similar Wines: £5-£10, 86-90, Italy, Red, Negroamaro, Nero di Troia, Primitivo
91

2010 Negroamaro Rosso Filimei, L'Astore Masseria, Puglia

( £14.95, 13.5%, Berry Bros & Rudd )

Negroamaro is often dismissed in northern Italy as a southern grape that lacks finesse, but it is capable of a delicacy and freshness that wouldn’t look out of place in a Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo if it’s sensitively handled. This is a case in point, an unoaaked, cherry stone and raspberry-scented red with notes of wild herbs and a nip of tannin. It’s light-bodied, too, especially by the standards of some beefy Puglian reds. A delight.

BuyDrinking window: 2012-16Similar Wines: £10-£20, 91-95, Italy, Red, Negroamaro