From a challenging vintage, the 2008 Castel del Monte Aglianico Riserva Cappellaccio shows a slightly evolved bouquet with tones of ripe fruit, prune, plum and savory touches of smoked bacon and cured meat. Subtle notes of crushed black pepper give the wine a greater sense of vertical lift. The tannins are soft and the wine delivers a thick, somewhat chewy consistency. This vintage of Cappellaccio is best for near-term consumption. It ages in both barrique and large oak casks for 12 months.