Bibi Graetz Tinto

Description

Bibi Graetz O Colore is the pinnacle of Bibi Graetz’s dream. The ambition of this wine is to create the purest excellence of Tuscany, using traditional Tuscan varieties from some of the region’s oldest and rarest vineyards. The Sangiovese provides structure and power; the Colorino adds fruit and velvety tannins; and the Canaiolo contributes mineral depth and intensity. Only the finest barrels from the entire production become Colore. 2016 Vintage: This vintage enjoys great reputation throughout Italy, especially in Tuscany. 2015 and 2016 have been among the best harvests in recent years, each with its own character. 2015 is more approachable and lighter-bodied, while 2016 stands out for its strength, complexity and structure. The 2016 growing season was very regular, with a pleasant balance of rain and sun in spring and a mild winter. The vines had the opportunity to fully develop foliage, and sporadic summer rains provided just the right amount of water for grape development. September and October saw few rainy days and were largely sunny, allowing an extended ripening period and harvest. Harvest began on 26 September and finished on 3 November. Winemaking and Stages: Grapes for Colore were hand‑picked from three vineyards: Lamole, Vincigliata, and Siena. Each vineyard was harvested up to eight times, allowing the hand‑selection of grapes at the optimal ripening point. After the first selection in the vineyards, a second selection takes place in the cellar before destemming. The grapes were gently pressed and placed in open barrels, with extreme care to keep each plot separate. Fermentation is carried out with natural indigenous yeasts, with 6 to 8 manual skins pounded per day, no temperature control, and no racking, lasting about two weeks, followed by another week of maceration in contact with the skins. After fermentation, the wine is transferred to new barrels for malolactic fermentation. Each plot is aged separately for almost three years before the final blend is decided. Awards - 98/100 – James Suckling - 96/100 – Wine Advocate - 94+/100 – Vinous - 94/100 – Falstaff - 17+/20 – Jancis Robinson