The 2010 Castell del Monte Riserva le More definitely shows a ripe side with jammy fruit overtones, but it also allows for an impressive level of depth and focus. This is a pure expression of Nero di Troia that has aged in oak for 12 months. The results are clean and well executed with dark fruit layers followed by spice, cola and dried violets. It should continue its successful evolution with one or two more years of bottle aging.

The 2006 Castel del Monte Riserva Le More (Nero di Troia) is another explosive wine from Santa Lucia. Dark fruit, flowers, herbs and French oak are woven together in a powerful yet supple fabric. There is impressive density, richness and staying power in the glass. Today the French oak comes across as a touch obtrusive, but another 6-12 months in bottle should do the trick here. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2016. Santa Lucia is a great starting place for readers seeking to discover the wines of Puglia. The wines are made in a rich, fruit-forward style. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Giuliana Imports, Boulder CO; (303) 547-6343, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119

Santa Lucia’s medium-bodied 2004 Castel Monte Riserva Le More (Uva di Troia) is a sweet, generous wine loaded with jammy berries, spices and chocolate. It possesses beautiful delineation that carries through to the long, fresh finish. This generous, fun wine will be at its best over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2014. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

The 2003 Castel Monte Riserva Le More (Uva di Troia) reveals a brooding personality in its expression of dark, jammy fruit, chocolate, spices and earthiness. It shows less polish, particularly in the tannins, than the 2004. Drink this big, full-bodied red over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2012. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411