Grattamacco rises in an area with one of the most significant concentrations of white clays and flysch along the Bolgheri coast. The clays emerge on the surface, forming a white layer that is visible to the naked eye. This is the result of the evaporation of an ancestral saltwater lake, a remnant of the ocean's retreat.
The disappearance of the saline waters, which occurred more than 5 million years ago, facilitated the formation of a substrate of clays rich in sodium combined with the disintegration of flysch, a particular type of calcareous marl soil of tectonic origin.
White clays and flysch create a geological mix that leaves a profound imprint on the wines, making them utterly unique. The white wines develop a distinct flavor, as well as freshness and longevity, typical characteristics of vineyards overlooking the sea. While the reds acquire elegance and finesse, strengthening the perfect union between structure and delicate tannins.
BOLGHERI’S FIRST VERMENTINO
Grattamacco's pioneering spirit is an unwavering commitment to innovation and experimentation, while fully respecting the characteristics of the territory. From the very beginning, this vocation has led the company to seek out new grape varieties and lands to cultivate, aiming to broaden the denomination’s rich expressions.
Thus, in 1986, the first Vermentino vineyard was planted on the hills of Bolgheri: the result of a massal selection of historic native vines that would later yield Grattamacco Vermentino, made with 100% Vermentino grapes. The perfect harmony between the typical variety of the Italian coasts and the white clays of Grattamacco resulted in a wine that unveils power, minerality and longevity in a vibrant Mediterranean soul.
TO CASAVECCHIA (AND BEYOND)
North of Castagneto Carducci lies a vine-covered oasis hidden by vegetation and conquered by the pioneering spirit of Grattamacco.
Casavecchia is the new frontier of Bolgheri, a portion of high hills surrounded by forests. The vineyards, nestled among forests, enjoy a cooler climate compared to the coast, and are a natural response to climate change.
Grattamacco was one of the first wineries in Bolgheri to recognize the potential of Casavecchia and to plant new vineyards in this area as early as 1998. Leveraging the location’s elevation, proximity to the woods and soil composition (a perfect mix of white clays and sandy quartz), Grattamacco now harvests grapes endowed with freshness and balance as well as power and expressiveness, without the excessive alcohol content resulting from the recent rise in temperatures that particularly interest coastal areas.
In Casavecchia, international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot are cultivated. Yet, it is also the ideal home for Sangiovese, which acquires a distinctive freshness that enhances its character.
