Pezzalaruca Castel del Monte DOC Rosso-C336

Onofrio Spagnoletti Zeuli is the Count of Andria, the 17th-century steward of one of Puglia's most distinctive estates. His Castel del Monte reds — bold, generous, built on Nero di Troia — are this cellar's Masters Case pick

Medium ruby hue. The thick-skinned Nero di Troia, at home in Castel del Monte, is blended here with Montepulciano, another robust, tannic variety. The Puglian sun has imbued a generous velvety character, replete with cherry and rhubarb overlain with rich chocolate and prune notes; fine tannins and oak influence add structure. The lingering finish offers commendable complexity at this price. 2027-2028 – JA