Marc de Grazia is more than an importer with a great portfolio; he is a star maker, the most influential American in Italian wine. To dozens of small growers from Barolo to Puglia he has been coach and cheerleader, adviser and collaborator and best friend, helping them build their labels and become the names we know today like Altare, Clerico and San Giusto Rentennano. Growing up in Florence gave him a head start; his passion and curiosity took him to great terroirs and dedicated producers up and down the boot. What a palate! We've tasted his selections for 20 years, from grand Nebbiolo to overachieving Aglianco, and they hit high marks year after year. He now has more than 80, varied from fashionably modern to very traditional, yet always fine quality. Gambero Rosso agrees and awarded Tre Biccheri this year to 20 de Grazia wines, including one he and his brother Iano grow on the slopes of Etna. Bravo, Marc! - Bob Sprentall, Proprietor
