The Piedmont region in northwest Italy is home to the magnificent, rich, powerful red wines of Barolo and Barbaresco. I'm a devout fan of these wines but I rarely find myself reaching for a bottle during Florida's sweltering hot days and sultry nights. This time of year I prefer to drink fresh white wines with plenty of lip-smacking acidity. While there are plenty of choices that fit that description--French Chablis, German Riesling and Spanish Albarino to name a few--I'll stay in Piedmont for today.

Gavi is one of those wines that is not on the radar for most wine drinkers in the U.S. Gavi is a refreshing white wine made from the Cortese grape grown in the southern part of Piedmont close to the Mediterranean Sea. Typically, good Gavi has an appealing flinty minerality very similar to French Chablis but usually sells for a much better price. It partners brilliantly with seafood, creamy chicken dishes or just on its own.

The most recent addition to our portfolio is La Monetta Gavi di Gavi ($14.99). It is super crisp and quite dry with subtle lime, peach and almond aromas. Looking for a refreshing and enjoyable wine at a very reasonable price for tonight's get-together? Give La Monetta a whirl. I'm sure you'll enjoy our newest Italian addition for the summer.

Paul Quaglini, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits wine supervisor

Follow me on Twitter @abcwinepaulq