Grattamacco, Bolgheri Vermentino DOC, Grattamacco

About Grattamacco

Grattamacco is a distinguished wine estate located in the Bolgheri DOC region of Tuscany, Italy. Established in 1977, Grattamacco stands as one of the pioneering wineries in the area, notable for its early adoption of Bordeaux varietals alongside indigenous Italian grapes. The estate occupies a prime position between Castagneto Carducci and Bolgheri, set on a hill that rises to about 100 meters above sea level. This elevated location, combined with the proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea, provides a unique microclimate characterized by significant diurnal temperature variation and constant breezes, which contribute to the complexity and elegance of the wines.

The vineyards of Grattamacco cover approximately 29 hectares, planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The estate also cultivates a small amount of Vermentino for its white wine production. Grattamacco is committed to organic viticulture, having adopted certified organic farming practices that emphasize sustainability and respect for the environment. The soils in the vineyards are a mix of clay, limestone, and sand, offering excellent drainage and imparting a distinctive mineral character to the wines.

Grattamacco’s flagship wine is its Bolgheri Superiore, a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and Sangiovese playing supporting roles. This wine is celebrated for its balance, structure, and ability to age gracefully, combining the depth and power of Bordeaux varieties with the freshness and vibrancy of Sangiovese. The winemaking philosophy at Grattamacco centers on minimal intervention, with careful manual harvesting, gentle pressing, and fermentation in open wooden vats. Aging takes place in French oak barriques, both new and used, to enhance complexity without overpowering the natural expression of the fruit.

In addition to the Bolgheri Superiore, Grattamacco produces several other wines, including a pure Vermentino that showcases the estate’s white wine credentials. This wine is noted for its aromatic intensity, crisp acidity, and saline finish, reflecting the influence of the nearby sea. The estate also offers a second red wine, L’Alberello, which emphasizes the Sangiovese component and is made in a more approachable style, suitable for earlier drinking.

Since 2002, Grattamacco has been owned by the Tipa-Bertarelli family, who also manage the acclaimed ColleMassari and Poggio di Sotto estates. Under their stewardship, Grattamacco has maintained its focus on quality and innovation, investing in both the vineyards and the cellar to ensure the highest standards. The estate’s wines are regularly recognized in Italian and international wine competitions, and they are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

Grattamacco’s approach combines tradition with a forward-thinking spirit, respecting the unique terroir of Bolgheri while embracing modern techniques that enhance the purity and character of the wines. The estate’s commitment to organic farming, meticulous vineyard management, and thoughtful winemaking has established Grattamacco as a benchmark producer in the region, contributing to the global reputation of Bolgheri as a source of world-class wines.