2023 Podere Grattamacco Vermentino Bolgheri Bianco Tuscany 6pk 6x750ml

Founded in 1977, Podere Grattamacco was one of the first two wineries in Bolgheri — and the first to plant Vermentino on these coastal hills. When everyone else was chasing the prestige of Bordeaux varieties, Grattamacco put Mediterranean whites on the map, pioneering a grape that now defines Tuscan coastal wine. Acquired by the Tipa Bertarelli Family in 2002, the estate has spent nearly five decades proving that Bolgheri isn't just red-wine country.

This is the 2023 Vermentino Bolgheri Bianco, and it's a step up from past vintages. Jeb Dunnuck, who's been tracking this wine for years, called the '23 "more depth of texture and richness" than the racy, linear styles of the past — scoring it 94 points and comparing its structure to Austrian Riesling. Early August rains tempered the summer heat, allowing gradual ripening and heightening the crisp acidities and minerality that make Vermentino sing. The cool, brine-scented character of the vintage comes through loud and clear.

Winemaking splits 70% stainless steel on the lees with batonnage, 30% in barrel for six months before blending. The result: citrus zest, white peach, and wild herbs on the nose, accented by sea spray and crushed stone. The palate is crisp yet layered — juicy orchard fruit framed by lively acidity, savory mineral tones, and a subtle saline edge. The sapidity carries the sip and persists long after the glass is empty.

Bottled in June 2024. 93 James Suckling, 94 Falstaff, 94 Jeb Dunnuck, 92 Decanter. This is coastal Tuscan white at its most serious — structured enough to cellar, vivid enough to pull the cork tonight.