3 | Wine | Red Blend, Italy, $10 to $20

"Flavors of blackberry, candied black currant and kirsch mix with hints of pomegranate, violet and balsamic in this open-knit, creamy red. Medium-bodied, with a lightly juicy finish."

"The 2009 Torre di Ciardo is Merlot with a dash of Sangiovese aged in cement and used, neutral oak. Dark blue and black fruit, licorice and spices are some of the many notes that emerge from this juicy, full-bodied wine. The 2009 boasts exceptional balance, with polished tannins that round out a gorgeous finish."

"The 2009 Villa Antinori is a pretty, mid-weight wine laced with dark red berries, flowers and sweet spices. Nothing in particular stands out, just the wine’s lovely depth, balance and overall sense of harmony. This is a fabulous wine for the money."

"Dark ruby-red. A pungent floral quality lifts the aromas of black cherry, plum, espresso and licorice. Stewed plum and dark currant flavors show a restrained sweetness, with elevated acidity and mounting dry tannins cutting off the finish. In a ripe style but turns a bit dry and alcoholic at the back."

"Boasting dark cherry and berry aromas and flavors, this polished red is vibrant and harmonious. Lingers on the finish, with a tight, fruit- and spice-filled aftertaste."

"This is really beautiful and balanced with refined tannins and a focused, beautiful ripe cherry and raspberry fruit. Long and supper silky. Better in 2014 but so delicious now. Best NC ever from Argiano"

"Bright red. Perfumed aromas of red berries and violet, complicated by cinnamon and almond flower. Juicy and bright on the palate, with precise strawberry and redcurrant flavors lifted by lively acidity. Finishes long and fresh, with ripe tannins and lingering floral perfume. Not the last word in complexity or concentration, but an absolutely delicious wine, one of the best Rossos by Avignonesi in some time."

"Bright and juicy, offering cherry, raspberry and floral flavors. Balanced on an elegant profile, with a hint of licorice on the finish."