Valle Reale’s less expensive offering, the inky/purple-colored 2003 Montepulciano Vigne Nuove, received the higher rating than the D’Abruzzo. Its wild brier/berry, spice, and earth aromas are followed by a pure, medium-bodied, fruit-filled beauty to enjoy over the next 2-3 years. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620