Grattamacco, Bolgheri Superiore, 2018

It is a rare Super Tuscan that is built primarily around freshness. However, the 2018 Grattamacco Superiore is exactly that, as a lifted, highly perfumed Cabernet-scented nose is adorned with touches of mint and herb, violet and blueberries. Though intense it is not overly rich nor glossy, instead there is an openness to the fruit and cracked spices that covers a wash of ripe tannins, comforting nuances of high quality oak and tobacco and a fine tremor of acidity. While there is a lot going on, the natural animation of 2018 makes this easy to drink and enjoy; a classic vintage that winemaker Luca Marrone is confident will go the distance. This is the most charming vintage we’ve ever tasted here. 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese, the wine spent 18 months in 30% new French oak.