Bibi Graetz
Summary
Bibi Graetz is an artist-turned-winemaker producing Sangiovese-focused Tuscan wines from carefully selected old hillside vineyards throughout the Chianti region and the island of Giglio. His artistic sensibility shapes his winemaking approach, creating complex blends outside traditional classification systems while employing non-interventionist methods that have earned his limited-production wines cult status among collectors seeking distinctive, terroir-driven expressions.
Heritage & Leadership
Bibi Graetz established his winery in 2000 in Tuscany, Italy, beginning his venture in the medieval Castello di Vincigliata near Fiesole, overlooking Florence. Trained as an artist before transitioning to winemaking, Graetz started with a small garage winery project that gradually developed into a respected Tuscan producer. His artistic background continues to influence the distinctive labels that adorn his bottles, creating a visual identity that complements the wines themselves.
In 2019, a significant development occurred when Marchesi Frescobaldi acquired a stake in the winery. Despite this partnership, Graetz maintains creative control and continues to oversee the winemaking operations, preserving the distinctive character that has defined his wines since their inception.
Vineyards & Wines
Bibi Graetz sources grapes from old vineyards throughout Tuscany, with particular focus on the Chianti region. The winery deliberately seeks out plots containing old vines, many exceeding 50 years of age, for their depth of character and complexity. These vineyards are primarily situated on hillside locations with varied exposures and elevations. The winery also maintains vineyards on the island of Giglio off the Tuscan coast, which contribute to their white wine production.
The portfolio centers on indigenous Tuscan varieties, with Sangiovese playing the starring role. Flagship wines include "Testamatta" and "Colore," both primarily Sangiovese-based reds that showcase the variety's potential. Another notable red in the collection is "Soffocone di Vincigliata." The white wine offerings include "Bugia," made primarily from Ansonica, and "Casamatta Bianco," a blend of indigenous varieties. For everyday consumption, the winery produces the "Casamatta" line, which includes red, white, and rosé options.
Most of Graetz's wines are classified as IGT Toscana rather than following DOC/DOCG regulations, a deliberate choice that allows greater freedom in winemaking approaches and expression.
Philosophy & Practice
Bibi Graetz follows a non-interventionist approach to winemaking, emphasizing traditional methods that allow the character of the vineyards to shine through. For premium wines, fermentation typically occurs in small open-top wooden vats, followed by aging in a combination of large oak casks and smaller French oak barrels.
Rather than focusing on single-vineyard expressions, Graetz is known for blending wines from different vineyard sites to create complex, harmonious compositions. This approach reflects his artistic sensibility, treating different vineyard parcels as elements to be combined into a cohesive whole.
Hand harvesting is practiced for all premium wines, ensuring careful selection of fruit and gentle handling from vineyard to winery. This attention to detail extends throughout the production process, reflecting Graetz's commitment to quality and expression of Tuscan terroir through his distinctive winemaking style.