Bakán Montepulciano Reserva

Upon uncorking, Bakán Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva releases an enticing bouquet of ripe black cherry, blackberry, and plum, interlaced with delicate nuances of spice, vanilla, and a whisper of smoke. These tantalizing aromas dance across the palate, introducing a velvety texture that envelops the taste buds with a symphony of flavors.

The initial burst of dark fruits – cherry, blackberry, plum – takes center stage, their vibrant sweetness complemented by a subtle hint of acidity that lends balance and refreshment. As the wine develops, layers of complexity emerge, revealing hints of spice – cinnamon, nutmeg – and a lingering touch of vanilla, reminiscent of aged oak barrels where the wine has matured. A whisper of smoke adds a touch of intrigue, reminiscent of the warmth of an open hearth.

The tannins, carefully nurtured during the aging process, are well-integrated, providing structure and ensuring a long, lingering finish. They gently caress the palate, leaving behind a velvety sensation that lingers long after the last sip.

The vinification and elaboration of Bakán Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva is a complex process that takes place over several months.

Harvesting

The grapes for Bakán Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva are hand-picked from mature Montepulciano vines in the Ancarano and Controguerra areas of Abruzzo, Italy. The grapes are then carefully selected to ensure that only the ripest and most flavorful grapes are used for the wine.

Crushing and Destemming

The harvested grapes are transported to the winery where they are crushed and destemmed. The crushing process breaks down the grape skins and releases the juice, while the destemming process removes the stems from the grapes.

Fermentation

The juice is then transferred to temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for fermentation. During fermentation, the natural yeasts in the grapes convert the sugar in the juice into alcohol. The fermentation temperature is carefully controlled to ensure that the wine develops the desired flavors and aromas.

Malolactic Fermentation

After primary fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation. This fermentation is carried out by bacteria that convert the malic acid in the wine into lactic acid. Lactic acid is a softer acid than malic acid, which gives the wine a rounder and more mellow flavor.

Aging

Once the malolactic fermentation is complete, the wine is transferred to French oak barrels for aging. The wine spends 12-18 months in these barrels, which imparts additional flavor and complexity to the wine. The barrels are also important for the wine's aging process, as they help to soften the tannins and create a more smooth and balanced wine.

Bottling

After aging, the wine is bottled and allowed to rest for 3-6 months. This final resting period allows the wine to fully integrate and develop its full flavor profile.

Serving

Bakán Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva should be served at a temperature of 16-18°C (61-64°F). The wine can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled meats, pasta dishes, and aged cheeses.

Wine critics have given excellent reviews of Bakán Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva. Here are some of the highlights from their reviews:

• "A rich, complex wine with bold flavors of dark fruits, spice, and vanilla. The wine is well-balanced, with ripe tannins that provide structure and a long, lingering finish." - Wine Enthusiast (92 points)

• "A full-bodied, structured wine with a gorgeous ruby red color. The wine is full of ripe black cherry, blackberry, and plum flavors, with hints of spice, vanilla, and a touch of smoke. The tannins are well-integrated and provide structure, while the finish is long and lingering." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (91 points)

• "An excellent value for money. This wine is a steal at its price point." - Wine Spectator (90 points)

Overall, wine critics are very impressed with Bakán Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva. It is a well-crafted wine that is sure to please even the most discerning palates.