The Marina Cveti? 2017 Chardonnay is a rather extraordinary expression that shows the spice, vanilla essence and pastry aromas of carefully oaked Chardonnay, along with the tonic brightness and freshness of the grape's primary aromas. The wine straddles these expansive worlds of Chardonnay on its steady feet, deftly touching both ends of the style spectrum. It does so successfully and respectfully, which is ultimately this wine's winning card. There are light touches of salty mineral and dried mint on the close, serving up a delightful pairing for pheasant braised in white wine, juniper berries, bay leaf and clove. The wine is fermented in barrique, and it ages in oak for 12 months. Some 19,000 bottles were released.

The 2010 Marina Cveti? Chardonnay is a toasted expression with thick lines and deep aromas of butter, candied pineapple, roasted almond and exotic fruit. It's your quintessential buttery Chardonnay with an Abruzzo twist that comes forth in terms of added mineral and herbal nuances. In short, this is a beautiful and important wine that could be paired with white meat or shellfish.

Masciarelli’s 2009 Marina Cveti? Chardonnay is deep, rich and sensual. Tropical fruit, butterscotch and spices are woven together in the glass. French oak gives the wine much of its shape and flavor profile. The 2009 is a solid effort with good balance in its peer group, although I have to add I am not the biggest fan of Chardonnay in Abruzzo. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2015. Importer: Masciarelli Wine Company, Weymouth, MA; tel. (781) 335-6620

The 2008 Marina Cveti? Chardonnay is another decidedly rich, extroverted wine. Orange jam, honeysuckle, mint, spices and butter all emerge from this layered, intense wine. Readers who enjoy big, voluptuous Chardonnays will find a lot to admire. Personally I would like to see a little more varietal character. Deeply spiced aromas and flavors inform the persistent finish. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. Importer: Masciarelli Wine Company, Weymouth, MA; tel. (781) 335-6620