Baked cherries and autumnal spices make for a darkly inviting bouquet as the 2018 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva Bakan opens in the glass. This is velvety in texture, yet with juicy acids that balance, giving way to ultra-ripe red fruits and hints of clove. It leaves the palate stained in primary concentration and sweet tannins, yet also with a slight hint of alcoholic warmth.