Lightly chewy and fresh, featuring crunchy black cherry and tangy black raspberry fruit and herb and mineral notes. Firm on the finish, with a lingering hint of black olive. Drink now through 2020. 5,000 cases made, 2,000 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Select to Add

The 2009 Montetepulciano d’Abruzzo Spelt (aged half in barrique and half in botte grande) shows a strong voice and a more complex aromatic offering. Those tones are united into a single unified front but if you dig deep, you’ll recognize black cherry, light spice and leather. Soft, smooth tannins hold the wine tightly together.

Dark cherry, plum, mocha and game notes mark this rich red, supported by juicy acidity and light tannins. A tarry edge emerges on the finish. Drink now. 3,500 cases made, 800 cases imported.??–NW??Region: Italy / Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Select to Add

A more sophisticated side of Montepulciano emerges from the 2008 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Spelt. Sweet floral notes lead to dark red berries and spices in this polished, gracious Montepulciano. La Valentina did a great job with the 2008, a wine that shows the pure elegance and refinement that Montepulciano is capable of. Sweet floral notes add lift on the finish. A pretty, beautifully balanced, silky wine loaded with class, the Spelt should drink well for the better part of the decade. Best of all, the Spelt is a fabulous value. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. La Valentina is a great source for flavorful reds that emphasize the richness Montepulciano is capable of. The whites are newer to me, but they are equally delicious, and great values too. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

This rich and expressive red leads with a gamy edge to the roasted plum and black cherry notes, giving off hints of spice and olive on the grippy finish. Drink now. 3,500 cases made, 400 cases imported.??–NW??Region: Italy / Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Select to Add