Notes from Menotomy: The Orvieto Classico is an ancient wine, known in antiquity as a favorite among popes and princes, and is obtained from a combination of 40% Procanico, 40% Grechetto, 15% Verdello and 5% each Drupeggio & Malvasia. The straw yellow coloring of this wine gives way to a delicate bouquet that reveals an intense body, with a slightly bitter aftertaste. Antinori has produced Orvieto since 1922, and Orvieto Classico since 1932

Grape composition: 40% Procanico, 40% Grechetto, 15% Verdello and 5% each Drupeggio & Malvasia.

My notes: This wine simply shines! Yes, that is correct, very pale yellow, brilliant and almost tranluscent. Perfect summer wine! Limes and pears, with a little nutty flavor, clean finish. Incredible, cannot wait to pair this on a hot summer day with cold tomato-basil-mozzerella salad with olive oil.

Buy Factor: Was (and am) quite impressed with this one.

Cost: $14.99 a bottle.