Colore 2012 Bibi Graetz

Classification
Type	Rouge
Marque	Bibi Graetz
Millésime	2012
Pays	Italie
Région	Toscane
Raisin	Sangiovese
Volume
État	Parfait
Étiquette	Parfait
Consommable	-2040
Stock	12

Avis professionnels

Robert Parker (94)

The 2012 Colore is on the market now. Production of 2013 and 2014 was skipped, and the next vintage we shall see (very soon) is 2015, which is also reviewed in this report. This vintage produced large berry sizes for Sangiovese—something Bibi Graetz is always happy to see because it is an indicator of elegance and finesse within the context of the house style. If you consider this wine, his observation makes perfect sense. This warm vintage is powerful and rich in its natural state, so any additional berry density might easily lead to overextraction and heaviness. However, the mouthfeel is objectively thinner and more compact in this vintage. Colore represents a blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino in equal parts. The bouquet is redolent of wild berry, dried cherry and toasted spice. This vintage offers a very attractive mineral note as well. Fruit is selected from three of Bibi Graetz's favorite vineyards with ancient vines: Lamole (in Chianti Classico), Vincigliata and Siena. Only 5,000 bottles were made.

Winespectator (93)

Muscular and concentrated, yet with a sense of elegance derived from vibrant acidity, this red displays black cherry, blackberry, leather, iron and tobacco flavors. Consistent from the start to the long finish. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino.

Jancis Robinson (17)

One-third each Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Colorino. An inconsistent vintage. After a cold winter, spring was wet. The summer was hot but after some rain in August, there was heavy rainfall in September. This refreshed the drought-affected wines, with subsequent dry weather leading to a late harvest. Graetz notes that production was 40% less than normal, giving a good balance between structure, drinkability and concentration.
There are certainly lots of dusky characters on the nose but this is not as powerful on the palate. Not a bad thing – the 2012 is a very refined example of Colore with fine tannins, focused acidity and plenty of length to finish. Perhaps just a little dry on the finish, there is still further ageing potential here. (AH)

BOW (8.50)

Late release Special Dragon Edition.