About the Producer
Castello Banfi was created in 1978 by the Italian American brothers, John, and Harry Mariani, when they acquired the Castello di Poggio alle Mura and surrounding vineyards to the southwest of Montalcino near Sant’Angelo Scalo. The aim was to simply produce the best Brunello di Montalcino possible from their carefully nurtured vineyards and state-of-the-art winery. As a result, the Mariani’s hired one of the greatest Italian winemakers of the time, Ezio Rivella, to turn their dream into reality. Almost half a century later, the estate is still family owned, now in the capable hands of the third generation with Cristina Mariani-May (pictured), as well as her cousin; James Mariani. Cristina became President and CEO in 2018, yet has been involved with the winery since the early 1990s, where from the beginning her mantra has always been `in the pursuit of excellence` driving Banfi to become one of the largest, and most prolific producers in Montalcino.
Tasting Notes
A single-vineyard bottling combining 3 separate plots of the Marrucheto vineyard totalling 10-hectares. First planted in 2009. Aged in both 60hl and 90hl French oak barrels for 30 months, followed by further bottle ageing before release.
Very pretty blue fruits with crushed stone and bark as well as pine needle undertones. It’s medium- to full-bodied with firm and velvety tannins with a dusty texture. Very long and fresh with brightness and focus. Better after 2023 but already attractive and fresh for the vintage. 94/100 points. James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, November 2021
