The 2006 Primitivo Artas shows what the estate can do at a higher, more ambitious level, and the results are striking. This dark, hulking beauty reveals sepia-toned nuances of earthiness, scorched earth, tar, smoke, minerals and jammy black fruits in a dense, full-bodied style. This superb Primitivo is a great introduction to the heights this cousin of Zinfandel can achieve in Puglia. Simply put, the 2006 Artas is a great effort from Castello Monaci. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014. I continue to be deeply impressed with the wines of Castello Monaci. These reds offer tons of varietal character, and the entry-level bottles are among the finest values in Italian wine today. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700