1 | Wine | Abruzzo, 2008

"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."

"Full bodied, ruby red with garnet reflections. Intense, persistent, fruity, notes of dry flowers, spices and licorice."

"An absolutely delicious wine, the 2008 is laced with expressive dark red cherries, plums, spices and licorice, all supported by beautifully integrated French oak. There is a level of delineation and nuance that is unusual for such a rich wine. When Masciarelli gets it right, the results are compelling, as is the case with this outstanding effort."