Top-rated Italian red for just $16

This week's selection of five delicious, affordable wines starts with three from Italy - an absolutely outstanding Montepulciano d'Abruzzo; a simple, tasty rosso for pasta night; and a delightful, slightly bitter rosato. We round out the list with two classic values from France, a Cotes du Rhone red blend and a chardonnay from Burgundy's value-oriented appellation, the Macon.

Villamedoro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2018: three stars; Italy, $16 (great value)

This wine sports a sticker of Tre Bicchieri, the top rating from Gambero Rosso, Italy's premier wine magazine. It's easy to see why: From the first sniff, the wine promises complexity and personality, and it delivers more with every sip. The flavors start off simple and fruity, but develop woodsy, floral and spice notes with time in the glass. A terrific bargain for the price. Alcohol by volume: 13.5 percent.

Chateau de Marjolet Cotes du Rhone 2018: three stars; Rhone Valley, France, $17 (great value)

Deep flavors of dark plums, berries and dried figs combine with sage, thyme and violets in this classic-styled red from the southern part of the Rhone Valley. Those seeking a little more depth and heft should look for the chateau's Cotes du RhoneVillage Laudun Cuvee Tradition, for just a few dollars more. ABV: 14.5 percent.

Domaine du Mont Épin L'Étoile, Macon-Péronne 2018: three stars; Burgundy, France, $22

The Macon subregion of Burgundy is known for its value-priced chardonnays that approach the more vaunted Cote de Beaune appellations in character, if not depth, complexity or price. This beauty from Domaine du Mont Épin is lithe and energetic, with flavors of peach, apricot and pear dancing on a balance beam of oak, and sticking the finish with refreshing acidity that carries the flavors for several seconds. ABV: 14.1 percent.

Saraceno Negroamaro

Rosato 2019: two and onehalf stars; Puglia, Italy, $13 (great value)

Negroamaro is a darkskinned grape from the heel of Italy's boot. This bracing rosé features flavors of tart cherries accented by wild herbs and, as the name suggests, a slightly bitter finish. ABV: 12 percent.

Il Conte Villa Prandone Conte Rosso 2017: two stars; Marche, Italy, $13 (great value)

Blended from montepulciano and sangiovese grapes, this delightful red is an ideal wine for pizza night. Serve it slightly chilled. ABV: 13.5 percent.

Ratings: 3 stars: Exceptional; 2 stars: Excellent; 1 star: Very good. Prices are approximate. Check Winesearcher.com to verify availability, or ask a favorite wine store to order through a distributor. »

Chopped salad recipe from F1