Description
Established in 1977 in Bolgheri, Italy’s ’cradle of Cabernet’, Grattamacco’s vineyards and olive groves are surrounded and protected from the prevailing strong sea breezes by 1600 hectares of vast woodlands. The vineyards are divided by soil type into seven sub-zones which also determines the ratio and type of vines planted. Calcareous sandstone in the sub-zone ‘Buca delle Cascie’ sees Cabernet and Sangiovese in predominance; the calcareous clay in ‘La Palmetta’ is ideal for Merlot and Vermentino enjoys the marl flysch of ‘Le Balze’.
The estate follows the criteria of organic farming, guaranteed and certified by the AIAB (Associazione Italiana Agricoltura Biologica). At harvest, following rigorous selection, fermentation takes place in truncated cone shaped oak vats of 800 litres and malo and ageing is in new and second passage barriques. Grattamacco has delivered remarkable consistency since its first release in 1982 they remain the only producer in Bolgheri to use Sangiovese in their flagship wine, a factor we think only enhances its distinctive Tusccan character.
Grattamacco has delivered remarkable consistency since its first release in 1982 and, as one of Bolgheri’s historic properties, only Tenuta San Guido with Sassicaia can lay claim to a longer track record. Grattamacco remains the only producer in Bolgheri to use Sangiovese in their flagship wine, a factor we think only enhances its distinctively ‘Italian’ character (gives brightness and freshness) amongst the Cabernet dominant wines of the region.
About this wine: Generally referred to as ‘Grattamacco’, to distinguish it from its little brother Bolgheri Rosso, this is the estate’s flagship red, made up of 65% Cabernet, 20% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese. These are the estates oldest vines with a minimum age of 20 years, planted to 4500 – 6000 vines per hectare and the wine is aged eighteen months in barriques in new and second passage barriques. Complex aromas range from blackberry, plums, herbs, coffee and leather with perfectly integrated oak and sweet, spicy notes. The palate is long and persistent and, for a wine with great ageing capacity, it is incredibly enjoyable in its youth.
2022 has landed and what a beauty it is! The season opened with an early-summer drought, followed by abundant rainfall toward the end of the season. This shift allowed the fruit to regain integrity and achieve a more balanced ripening. Harvest for Grattamacco began in late August and concluded on 24 September.
97 points, James Suckling “A dark and complex wine that does not lack grace. On the nose, it shows restrained cassis, kiwis, aniseed, oak bark, cloves and a slight hint of foliage. Full-bodied, dense on the palate, with fine-grained tannins and crisp, lush acidity. Long, balanced, flavoursome and slightly tart finish. Pleasing for a kind of elegant lightness.”
94 Points, Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate “The organic Grattamacco 2022 Bolgheri Superiore Grattamacco commemorates the estate’s 40th anniversary (1982–2022) with a special label. The wine is made from 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese. Rich and generous, the wine delivers a creamy texture with notable depth and concentration. While the hot 2022 vintage contributes an extra note of sweetness and ripeness, the balance holds firm thanks to the wine’s structure and the season’s naturally thicker-skinned fruit, which resulted in a bolder tannic profile.”
93 points, Decanter “This 2022, the winery’s 40th anniversary vintage, starts with minty red and black berry flavours. Fleshy, savoury and savoury, it has a very fresh and vertical profile, but is a little dry on the finish at this stage. Floral nuances mingle with pepper and herbs, while the tangy red forest berries are carried by silky and integrated tannins. Taut and energetic.”
Tre Bicchieri (3 glasses) – Gambero Rosso Vini d’Italia
RRP $440 Our Special Price $325.99 when you buy 6 or more.
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