2011 Bibi Graetz, Casamatta Bianco IGT Toscano, Italy.
An artist, Bibi Graetz of Italian/Norwegian heritage, is also a fine and renown winemaker in Tuscany where he makes some amazing native reds on his estate, but he also makes this Casamatta Bianco which is a lovely and fun white. Made from Vermentino, Trebbiano and Muscat this cuvee comes from vines grown in the Maremma region of Tuscany, near the coast where Vermentino does best. The subtle Trebbiano and floral Muscat add to the mix here, though the body and flavors owe more to the glorious Vermentino core in this energy packed wine that while mostly simple is very delicious and has plenty of mineral tones and vibrant acidity to keep this fresh with peach, jasmine, lime and nectarine all playing parts along with chalk, lemon/line and fresh herbs. This crisp and bright white rounds out on the palate, but makes for a lighter summer wine to enjoy with picnics or seafood.
($16 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive
