Feudo di San Nicola Negroamaro 2004 IGT Puglia Smoky candy, ripe cherries, blueberries, strawberries, and spicy on the finish. Pride Mountain Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 70% form Napa, 30% from Sonoma with a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. Well, here they are.

From the Puglia region of Italy comes this 100% Negroamaro (black/bitter in Italian), with ruby red colors, and fruity aromas but a surprising hint of citrus. On the palate: licorice, sour cherries, cocoa, and cured meats with a fresh smooth finish. Had this at The Ten Bells at 247 Broome Street on the lower east Side, NYC.

At a late night dinner at Il Poeta this week Luca recommended this Italian Primitivo with dinner, and I was very happy with the pick. Being a great food wine, it showed aromas of licorice, blackberries and violets, with a viscous texture and concentrated flavors of vanilla, banana, bell pepper, talc, tea and tobacco

The dominant grape is the Negroamaro which has been planted in the region for centuries. While wine shopping last week at my favorite "Mom and Pop" shop, the shop's owner let me know of the sale he was having on La Corte Salice Salentino 2006. The wine is a blend of 80% - 85% Negroamaro and 15% - 20% Malvasia Nero.

From Puglia Italy and blended from 85% Primitivo and 15% Negroamaro, this red wine is aged in French oak barriques for 12 months and in bottle for 6 months. Tags: Primitivo Negroamaro French oak Puglia Dark and mysterious with floral hints of lilac combined with dark summer fruits, equal a wine with interesting character and grace.

The name Neprica is a neat little combination of Negroamaro , Primitivo and Cabernet grapes (40%, 30% and 30% respectively). I'm falling in love with the Negroamaro grape feel like summer is here when I drink this wine and I'm happy for it.