This is a hot-vintage expression of one of the greatest white wines made in Italy. The Valentini 2017 Trebbiano d'Abruzzo is a bit more robust and opulent compared to 2018, and the big takeaway here is the extreme quality of the mouthfeel. The wine glides smoothly over the palate, imparting soft tones of orchard fruit, sweet nutmeg and saffron. I am reminded of the fragrant spices used in the Middle Ages or some of the exotic fragrances you might enjoy at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, with cumin and rose tea. Despite the scorching summer, the alcohol is recorded at a very respectable 12.5%. - Monica Larner