Torre Quarto’s 2010 Sangue Blu (Negroamaro) comes across as a bit gamey in this vintage. Dark red cherries, plums, worn-in leather, licorice and spices linger on a finish that is at times a touch fleeting, even for Negroamaro, which is often on the delicate side. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2014. I am a big fan of the Torre Quarto wines. These delicious, forward reds deliver tons of varietal and regional character at modest prices. Importer: Montecastelli Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 414-4898, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 336-9880

The 2009 Negroamaro Sangue Blu reveals a delicate, textured expression of sweet red cherries, hard candy and medicial herbs, all typical of this indigenous grape. The Sangue Blue is a decidedly understated Negroamaro, but all of the elements come together nicely in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2013. Torre Quarto is an excellent source for budget-friendly wines that showcase Puglia's indigenous varieties.Importer: North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 336-9880

The 2008 Negroamaro Sangue Blu is a well-made, pretty red even if the varietal character of Negroamaro is slightly suppressed by the oak. The wine offers good balance in a mid-weight style, with delicate floral notes that come to life on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Torre Quarto is an excellent source for value-priced wines that capture the unique qualities of Puglia's fascinating indigenous grape varieties.Importer: Montecastelli Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 414-4898

Torre Quarto’s 2006 Negroamaro Sangue Blu is a very pretty, elegant Negroamaro. Spices, wild herbs, tobacco, dried cherries and plums all make an appearance as this delicious wine opens in the glass. There is good length and persistence here, both of which contribute to the wine’s overall balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2009. Torre Quarto is an excellent source for value-priced reds made from native varieties in Apulia. Importer: Montecastelli Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 414-4898

The 2004 Negroamaro Sangue Blu is a delicate, feminine wine with a pretty core of sweet, candied fruit, earthiness and spices. It offers notable length and a medium-bodied, finessed personality, which makes it a very attractive wine to drink now and over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2010. Torre Quarto is an excellent source for value-priced reds made from native varieties in Apulia.Importer: Montecastelli Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 414-4898