Tuscan Blend “Superiore”, Podere Grattamacco, Bolgheri, IT, 2019

In 1999 Claudio Tipa founded Colle Massari in the Southern part of Tuscany known as Maremma. The estate is located in the Montecucco DOC, an area nestled between two important wine districts: Brunello di Montalcino and Morellino di Scansano. Thus far 100 acres have been planted, primarily with Sangiovese but also with Montepulciano, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Vermentino and Ciliegiolo. Claudio has also built a futuristic 65,000 square-foot cellar conforming to strict bio-climatic engineering principles. The grapes are sorted by hand and sent by gravity to the high-tech cellar located below the sorting court. After vinification, the wine flows into the modern, underground barrel room to age in wooden casks and barriques. During their journey, grapes and wine move by gravitational forces, thereby avoiding the use of pumps or mechanical equipment. The consulting enologist is Maurizio Castelli, a traditionalist specializing in Sangiovese and international varietals. Claudio also owns Grattamacco in Bolgheri.