Bibi Graetz started taking an interest in his family’s vineyards in the mid-1990s and finally took over with his first vintage in 2000. Before then, wine production was primarily for family consumption using farmers’ traditional methods. Graetz became so fascinated by winemaking that he started scouting around for small plots of old vineyards. Today, he has acquired more than 20. He loves working with old traditional varieties because he feels that they represent the best expression of Tuscan wines.

Always hand picked, Bibi Graetz’ red wine may include Sangiovese, Colorino, and Canaiolo, with small portions of Black Moscato and Malvasia. The white wine, called Bugia, is made with the Anzonaca grape which was cultivated for centuries on the Island of Giglio in the Tuscan archipelago.

The vineyards for Testamatta are more than 35 years old, located in the Tuscan hills outside of Fiesole, overlooking the city of Florence. The wine is made from 100% Sangiovese planted on clay and galestro soil. The grapes are fermented in open top barriques of 225 liters with 6 to 8 manual punch-downs per day, and aged in French barriques for 18 months followed by 6 months in the bottle.

Introducing the remarkable 2013 Bibi Graetz Testamatta IGT, a captivating red wine that hails from the iconic region of Tuscany, Italy. Crafted with precision and passion by the esteemed producer Bibi Graetz, this wine showcases the true essence of Sangiovese, the noble grape of the region. With an alcohol content of 14.0%, this wine offers an impressive level of richness and complexity.

In the glass, the Testamatta IGT displays a deep and alluring red color, inviting the senses to embark on a sensory journey. The bouquet is nothing short of extraordinary, exuding an intoxicating array of aromas. Citrus rind, plums, cedar, and rose petals intertwine harmoniously, creating a symphony of scents that captivate the imagination.

On the palate, this wine truly shines. It boasts a full-bodied structure, supported by fine and silky tannins that caress the tongue. The finish is long and beautiful, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. One cannot help but be entranced by the persistence and intensity of this wine, which showcases its exceptional quality.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded the 2013 Bibi Graetz Testamatta IGT an outstanding score of 97 points. He describes its aroma as aromatic and exciting, with a subtle salty undertone at the end. Suckling suggests that this wine will benefit from further aging, recommending a cellaring period of two to three years to fully unlock its potential.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also praises this wine, awarding it an impressive score of 93 points. The reviewer, Monica Larner, highlights the unique winemaking philosophy employed by Bibi Graetz, resulting in an original and off-the-radar expression of Sangiovese. Larner appreciates the managed rusticity of the wine, which matches the imperfection and undeniable beauty of the label artwork. She characterizes the Testamatta IGT as a wine with personality and charm.

Jane Anson, a respected wine critic, also recognizes the excellence of the 2013 Bibi Graetz Testamatta IGT. Awarding it a score of 94 points, Anson applauds the natural vineyard management and organic farming practices employed by Bibi Graetz. She appreciates the complex and nuanced layers of smoke, liquorice, raspberry, and savory red currant present in this vintage. Anson also notes the lighter color and weight of this wine compared to earlier vintages, highlighting the evolution of Bibi Graetz's winemaking techniques.

In conclusion, the 2013 Bibi Graetz Testamatta IGT is a wine of exceptional quality, showcasing the true potential of Sangiovese. With its captivating aromas, impeccable structure, and outstanding reviews from wine critics, this wine is a must-try for wine enthusiasts seeking a memorable and enchanting experience.