The story of Bibi Graetz
A colorful producer
Bibi Graetzestablished his estate in the medieval castle, Castello di Vincigliata, inherited from his parents. The building is located on the hill ofFiesolewhich overlooks the city ofFlorenceThe winemaker ofTestamatta EstateHe received no formal winemaking training but quickly developed a passion for wine. In the 2000s, he produced his first wines, and his name was immediately associated with great Tuscan wines. His style stood out from the rest of the Tuscan wine scene, but his wines were already enjoying considerable success.
With his unique winemaking style, his artisanal approach to producing each vintage, and his artistic flair, Bibi Graetz has made a lasting impression. His wines are regularly ranked by influential critics such as Wine Spectator, Wine Advocate, and James Suckling. This enthusiasm attracts the attention of collectors and connoisseurs of rare wines, who see each bottle from the estate as a true collector's item.
Local character and specific features
Authenticity in the service of innovation
The estate's wines are produced under the appellationIGT TuscanyA symbol of Italian modernity, the Tuscany region is known for its iconic producers who have managed to break free from the established norms of...DOC and DOCGTuscany is one of the world's leading exporting regions of Italian wines. Producers,Super TuscansIn the 1960s, they created unique products that are now recognized worldwide for their quality by breaking the rules of appellations.
Bibi Graetzbegan production in the 2000s on its small 5-acre vineyard on the Fiesole hillside. This terroir is usually the heart of production fortraditional ChiantisBibi Graetz goes against the strict regulations of Chianti to produce iconic wines.
The winemaker blends grapes from Tuscan vineyards with grapes from old vines located around the region. The reds gain in depth and concentration, and the whites in elegance. The winemaker places typically Italian grape varieties at the heart of his blends. He uses exclusively traditional varieties.(Sangiovese, Colorino, Canaiolo)and indigenous people(Ansonica and Vermentino)By using traditional varieties, he manages to break with classic conventions and showcase this authentic terroir.
The Spirit of the Estate's Wines
Unique expertise
Particular care is taken with the grapes used in the estate's wines. The vineyard ofTestamattaIt has only 2 hectares which are cultivated like a garden. The winemaker favours very old vineyards and chooses to work with other carefully selected winemakers from the surrounding area, thus gaining access to an additional 50 hectares of vines.
Beyond grape varieties, Bibi Graetz is shaking up the DOC system, even innovating in his winemaking techniques. For his famous cuvéeTestamattaFor example, he lets his red wines ferment in small open barrels. Six to eight manual punch-downs and pump-overs per day are necessary to achieve the final result.
Each vintage from the estate is a true work of art that allows the talented character ofBibi GraetzHe even decorates each of his vintages with a painting he created himself. The result: iconic wines and labels that leave a lasting impression. Everything is done to ensure that a tasting of the wines ofTestamatta EstateIt will be an unforgettable experience!
