2023 Casamatta Bianco – Bibi Graetz.
In this review we are discussing a white wine Bibi Graetz makes on the Tuscan Island of Giglio, the 2023 Casamatta Bianco.
Since the 2023 vintage, this wine is ‘100% Isola Del Giglio’ and we couldn’t be happier about that! In earlier interviews with us Bibi talked about his love for this island, which holds many dear memories to his childhood and still remains his refuge in the warm summer months. Island life here makes him happy and with wines like this it’s easy to see why!
Driven by the Island’s indigenous Ansonica grape the Casamatta Bianco turned out in a blend, with Trebbiano and Vermentino as its co-actors. Typically, young vines are sourced for this wine, located in Bibi’s important Pietrabone vineyard. In the cellar stainless steel is used, to stay true to the character of the grapes and their origin. Freshness is also preserved in this way, building this wine into a real summer hit.
About the Winery
Bibi Graetz has become one of Tuscany’s cult producers in no more than 2 decades. His creativity, paired with respect for the region’s indigenous grape varieties, has brought him great success and a big international following. His red flagship wines, Testamatta and Colore, receive yearly praise from critics around the world and are accompanied by white counterparts. The full line-up contains wine at various price levels, and the Casamatta line is a great way to get introduced to the art of Bibi’s wines.
Whereas Bibi sources the grapes for his red wines from Tuscany’s mainland the whites find their origin from the island Giglio, that can be found off the coast of Tuscany.
To learn more about Bibi Graetz and his wines check out our interview and article featuring him and the winery. We also released extensive reviews of the Testamatta and Colore.
About the Wine
The 2023 Casamatta Bianco by Bibi Graetz offers a delightful exploration of Tuscan terroir, showcasing the unique characteristics of its island origin. This blend, predominantly Ansonica, complemented by Trebbiano and Vermentino, presents an aromatic bouquet that immediately captivates the senses. On the nose, the wine is vibrant and inviting, with expressive notes of white flowers and honeysuckle intertwined with fresh orchard fruits—crisp apple, juicy pear, and the subtle sweetness of plums and peaches.
On the palate, the Casamatta Bianco reveals a pleasant structure that balances creaminess and a gentle viscosity with a lively, refreshing acidity. The wine’s fruit-forward nature is complemented by a well-integrated minerality, likely a reflection of the island’s granite soils. The layers of flavor unfold gracefully, offering a harmonious blend of ripe fruit and a subtle herbal undertone.
The finish is notably long and complex, with a pretty bitterness that lingers, adding depth and sophistication to the wine. This bitterness, reminiscent of almond skins or citrus pith, enhances the overall experience, making the Casamatta Bianco a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from seafood to light pasta dishes.
Overall, the 2023 Casamatta Bianco is a well-crafted wine that offers both immediate enjoyment and the potential for deeper appreciation with food, making it a standout in Bibi Graetz’s portfolio.
We award this island wine with a 92-point DWA score.
This review is written by our own Niels Aarts. Bibi Graetz is imported in the Netherlands by Poot Agenturen and available through selected retail partners.
Price: €20,00
Taste date: August 2024
Score: 92/100 DWA Score
Website: Bibi Graetz