Banfi srl Winery
"We work with our hands and think with our hearts."
John and Harry Mariani
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The Italian-American brothers John and Harry Mariani were originally involved in importing Italian wines to the USA. While researching Brunello producers in the 1970s, they came across the Poggio alle Mura winery in Montalcino, "where they immediately recognised the untapped potential and thus realised their long-standing dream of becoming quality producers themselves." In 1978, the two acquired Poggio alle Mura and the surrounding land. The Banfi project was born - named after a great aunt of the brothers.
At that time, there were just 30 Brunello producers. Banfi's high quality standards and the promotion and integration of scientific findings on soil structure and Sangiovese clones in particular inspired the entire region to modernise vineyard and vinification methods. "For Banfi, research is a transversal and constantly evolving concept, from the vineyard to the winery."
The entire Banfi estate in Montalcino covers a huge 2,830 hectares, of which around a third is planted with vines. Sangiovese, which is called Brunello there, naturally dominates. There is also another local grape variety called Moscadello. However, international varieties are also cultivated: These include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc.
"The structure of the soils is extremely heterogeneous, with clay and limestone favouring the growth and complexity of the red wines, while the scree soils round off the aromatic profile of the white wines and give them their typical mineral notes." Climatically, the region is characterised by plenty of sunshine, good ventilation and rainfall, which is particularly concentrated in autumn. High temperature differences between day and night favour slow and optimal ripening.
photos: Banfi srl
