Founded in 1978 by Italian-American brothers John and Harry Mariani, Banfi is named in honor of their great aunt, Teodolinda Banfi, whose profound knowledge of food and wine was an inspiration to the family. Having successfully built one of America’s largest wine importers, the brothers purchased the first lands in Montalcino, Tuscany. With the imposing Castello di Poggio alle Mura, which was acquired in 1983, at its emblematic center, the estate grew up to almost 3,000 hectares, one third of which is under a constellation of single vineyards, with the reminder occupied by olive groves, wheat fields, plum trees, forest and scrub. Banfi extends to Bolgheri on the coast, to Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Piedmont further north. It is also Italy’s biggest grower of plums, produces upmarket olive oil, posh pasta a kind of balsamic vinegar and honey.
Strongly believing in hospitality, the winery was designed to welcome visitors and open its doors to wine aficionados visiting the beautiful countryside of southern Tuscany. In 2007, with its 14 rooms and suites, the Hotel Il Borgo opened its doors in the village that since the 1700s served as a dwelling for farmers working for local landowners. Guests can go on guided winery tours, enjoy bespoke wine tastings, swim in a pool looking out over the vineyards, dine in Castello Banfi Wine Resort’s two restaurants – La Taverna and the Michelin star La Sala dei Grappoli, run by head chef Domenico Francone, and taste Banfi’s extensive collection of wines in the enoteca. Acclaimed Italian interior designer Federico Forquet created the rustic yet elegant look of the rooms. With its vaulted arches and chandeliers, classic Tuscan restaurant La Taverna is housed in what used to be the estate’s barrel cellars, and serves traditional Tuscan dishes made from local seasonal ingredients. The fine-dining La Sala dei Grappoli, meanwhile, offers a revolving seasonal menu in an elegant setting with al fresco dining when the weather permits.
This July (20-25) Banfi will celebrate its 24th year Jazz & Wine in Montalcino festival, which is one of Italy’s most enduring music festivals.