Castello Banfi is a top name in wine. It stands for quality and innovation in Tuscany, Italy. The estate is known for great wines and work in research and sustainability. It has a rich history linked to the region's culture and winemaking.
Origins
Castello Banfi started in the 1970s. Italian-American brothers, John and Harry Mariani, founded it. They wanted a winery that mixed modern science with traditional viticulture. The castle, dating back to medieval times, is at the estate's heart. It has seen Tuscany's history, including noble reigns and wars.
Location and Size
The estate is in Tuscany's Brunello region. It covers about 2,830 hectares, with a third as vineyards. It's a centre for winemaking and agricultural research. The Banfi Vintners Foundation, by the Mariani family, supports this research. They have helped develop new Sangiovese clones. This improves Brunello di Montalcino, a famous Italian wine.
Viticulture Approach
They blend tradition and innovation in viticulture. They handpick grapes and use modern technology. Precision agriculture monitors microclimates and soil. This ensures top-quality grapes. The winery uses modern methods like controlled fermentation and traditional ageing in oak barrels.
Wine Portfolio
The winery makes diverse and fine wines. The flagship is Brunello di Montalcino. It's known for its robust flavour and ageing potential. It has won international acclaim. They also make Rosso di Montalcino and Super Tuscan wines. These are blends of local and international grapes.
Sustainability
They focus on water conservation, renewable energy, and reducing their carbon footprint. This helps preserve the Tuscan landscape and keeps the vineyards healthy.
Visitor Experience
Castello Banfi is more than a winery. Visitors can tour, taste wines, and stay in restored rooms. There's a wine shop, a taverna, a fine dining restaurant, and a glass museum. The museum shows the history of glassmaking in wine.