From the Murgia IGT appellation, the 2014 Primitivo is a world apart from the expressions of this same grape made further south of here in the Salento area of Puglia. In fact, I initially mistook the grape used here for Aglianico, which would not be a stretch considering how close the vineyards are to the regions of Basilicata and Campania where Aglianico reigns supreme. But this is Primitivo, a grape with radically different aromatic and taste parameters. This interpretation shows stripped down simplicity with austere red fruit and more natural structure than expected. Botromagno delivers excellent value here.

The 2010 Primitivo bursts from the glass with leather, flowers, mint and sweet spices. There is plenty of varietal character in the glass, but the 2010 remains soft, gentle and highly pleasing. This soulful, earthy wine has plenty of personality, especially considering its modest price. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2015. Botromagno is another estate that is enjoying a resurgence in quality. Alberto Antonini oversees winemaking. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

The 2007 Puglia Rosso Primitivo is a fresh, vinous wine loaded with dark fruit. An accessible, hearty red, the wine is best enjoyed over the next year or two. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Botromagno is among the leading estates in Puglia, a region that has yet to be widely discovered by consumers, despite boasting some of Italy’s most unique varieties. The biggest news at Botromagno is the arrival of consulting oenologist Alberto Antonini who has taken the reigns here beginning with the 2008 vintage. Importer: A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Botromagno’s medium-bodied 2006 Primitivo is loaded with dark fruit, spices, leather, tobacco and roasted coffee beans. In this vintage it is especially forward, and looks to be a relatively fast-maturing wine. Primitivo is the Apulian name for Zinfandel. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2009. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620