Gianni Masciarelli, the successful winemaker of the Villa Ghemme, Marina Cvetic and Masciarelli labels from Abruzzo, Italy, has won some of the highest awards in Italian winemaking. Purchasing and renovating a castle, working in some newly-acquired vineyards, and raising a family would be enough for most people, but Gianni has also taken on a management position at the Valori Winery in Teramo to improve their wines. This bright wine has a light, softer style, perfect for spring and summer entertaining. The finish is not sharp or acidic, lingering on, but not burning, the palate. It is more complex than his inexpensive Masciarelli line and has much less oak than the Marina Cvetic line, named for his wife. We look forward to seeing what Gianni can do at his new job. Incidentally, we are running low on the 2001 Marina Cvetic Montepulciano and will have to raise the price when we purchase the new vintage: so stock up now.