Testamatta 2021 – Bibi Graetz.
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, the Bibi Graetz Winery stands as a testament to passion, innovation, and a deep connection to the land. Founded by the visionary winemaker Bibi Graetz, the winery has become a beacon of excellence in the world of fine Italian wines, celebrated for its unique approach to winemaking and the artistry that goes into every bottle.
Earlier we reviewed Bibi’s 2020 Testamatta and in this review we are discussing the release of the 2021 vintage of this pure Sangiovese wine.
About the Winery
At Bibi Graetz Winery, tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously. Bibi’s deep respect for Tuscan winemaking heritage is evident in his commitment to working with indigenous grape varietals and practicing sustainable viticulture. His vineyards are treated as living ecosystems, fostering biodiversity and promoting the health of the soil.
What sets Bibi Graetz apart is his willingness to experiment and challenge conventions. He combines traditional methods with modern techniques to craft wines that reflect the terroir and capture the spirit of each vintage. This fusion of tradition and innovation has led to the creation of wines that are both authentic and distinctive, appealing to both connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of wine.
About the Wine
Testamatta. A Classic and Bright Expression of Sangiovese Elegance.
In the rolling hills of Tuscany, where tradition meets innovation, Bibi Graetz has masterfully crafted a remarkable wine that is a testament to the land and its fruit. The Testamatta 2021 is a harmonious Sangiovese blend, sourced from a combination of different hilltop vineyards, each contributing its own unique character and influenced by varying microclimates. This wine stands as an exquisite example, showcasing the transparency and fragility of the Sangiovese grape, echoing the very heart of Tuscany.
The primary role in this enigmatic composition is attributed to the grapes from the Olmo vineyard, lending depth and complexity to the blend. With utmost respect for the land, the Testamatta 2021 reveals its personality through a dance of flavors and aromas. Upon the first swirl, a symphony of fresh violets, reminiscent of a vibrant forest, mingles elegantly with hints of candied orange peel. This aromatic journey invites you to delve deeper into the glass, where an earthy note intertwines with the vibrant bouquet, adding layers of intrigue.
Unlike its counterpart, the Colore, the Testamatta 2021 offers a slightly more accessible experience while maintaining the hallmark intensity of the Bibi Graetz wines. The controlled tannins provide a structured backbone, embracing the palate without overpowering, allowing the wine to unfold its story with grace. The minimum framework of oak beautifully preserves the purity of the Sangiovese, allowing its natural character to shine.
In its essence, Testamatta 2021 is a classic and bright expression of Tuscan winemaking. With a production of about 120,000 bottles, it is a true testament to Bibi Graetz’s dedication to quality and passion for his craft.
Despite 2021 again being a warm vintage, these warmer vintages do not seem to influence Bibi’s wines. This wine continues to evolve, promising even greater splendor with time. As you savor each sip, you become part of this ongoing narrative, a witness to the evolution of a masterpiece.
In the realm of fine wines, the Bibi Graetz Testamatta 2021 stands as a pinnacle of artistry and authenticity. It is a symphony of flavors, a journey through time and terroir, and an invitation to celebrate the enduring allure of Sangiovese.
Although this wine is ready to enjoy its potential still is a bit locked away, we recommend to give the wine some air and time before serving or even better give it some extra years of bottle ageing.
We happily award this pure Sangiovese with a 96-point DWA score.
Tuscany, a Journey through Five Lenses
To learn more about Bibi Graetz and his wine follow out Tuscan project: Tuscany, a Journey through Five Lenses. In this project we travel through one of the most exciting parts of Italy and show its different faces interpreted through leading wineries. We do this through wine reviews, background articles and interviews.
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Other wines by Bibi Graetz we reviewed:
Price: €75
Taste date: August 2023
Score: 96/100 DWA Score
Website: Bibi Graetz