Took a while to recalibrate my palate after largely focusing on wines from the south of France. A distinctive wine, with very good fruit, and the right amount of acidity and tannin for balance. Very fine value at $14. Drink now of hold short term.

The 2007 Rivera Salice Salentino, a Negroamaro blend, is light to medium bodied, with nice aromas of integrated cherry, cedar, vanilla and liquorice. Tannins are refined (decant for 15 to 30 min) and the finish is medium. It is good to drink now and can hold for another 5 years. My impression: NICE, 89 pts - excellent value for $11.35 (reduced from $13.95). Tasted Feb/11.

If you would like to see wines I recommend and that are still available at the LCBO, please visit this link (listed in my profile):

http://www.winealign.com/wino/dantrcka/recommended-wines-you-can-still-buy