Wine Princess’ trip to Tuscany goes on with Cantina Grattamacco, which lies on the top of a hill facing the sea between Castagneto Carducci and Bolgheri, Livorno, at 100 m height.
The estate was created in 1977 and now covers 50 hectares, including 25-hectare vineyards. Classical vines are grown such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and a single Vermentino vineyard, to produce a white wine.
The visit to the cellar is delightful and the story of how vinification occurs in conical trunk oak vats really special. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation is an outstanding natural phenomenon. Ageing for about 12-18 months in barriques… and after at least 6 months in the bottle the wine is ready for sale.
The company produces Grattamacco Bolgheri Rosso Superiore, L’Alberello Bolgheri Rosso Superiore and Grattamacco Bolgheri Vermentino.
Wine Princess suggests
Grattamacco Bolgheri Rosso Superiore DOC, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese.
Who should drink it: those who love red wines with fine and not too intrusive tannins.
When to drink it: in the winter season, on a Sunday lunch, paired with game recipes or medium mature cheese.
A wonderful opportunity: a visit to the Bolgheri Museo del vino di Casone Ugolino in Autumn. This sensory and multimedia museum about Bolgheri and Tuscany coast wines, opened in June 2017, explains wine in an interactive manner and offers the opportunity of tasting different products… including Grattamacco! Do not miss it!
And then …
L’Alberello 2013 Bolgheri Rosso Superiore DOC.
One of the best moments of my trip to Tuscany. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, all well-balanced to create pleasant scents of fruit and fragrant tannins. It’s a long-living wine that should be left in the cellar … if you can! Its name derives from the alberate vine training system.
Who should drink it: those who love fine and long-lasting red wines.
When to drink it: in 3 years, if you manage to! But I already know I won’t make it and at Christmas I’ll be opening a magnum to enjoy with our classic roasted and boiled meat dishes!
A wonderful opportunity: in the Christmas season, close to the fireplace, with your family while having lunch, home-made pasta and the special occasions ragù sauce. You’ll be delighted by this velvety nectar.
God save Grattamacco & L’Alberello!