Banfi Vintners
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Wine manufacturing and distribution |
| Founded | 1919 in New York City, United States |
| Founder | John F. Mariani Sr. |
| Headquarters | Old Brookville, New York , United States |
Area served | Worldwide (86 countries) |
Key people | Cristina Mariani-May (CEO) |
| Products | Wine, including Brunello di Montalcino, Riunite Lambrusco, Poggio all'Oro Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, Natura collection |
Number of employees | 500 (2014) |
Banfi Vintners is a U.S.-based wine manufacturer and distributor established by John F. Mariani Sr. in 1919 within New York City's Little Italy, shortly before the onset of Prohibition. The enterprise remains family-operated, now under the leadership of third-generation CEO Cristina Mariani-May. It stands as one of the largest wine importers in America and is internationally acclaimed for its Brunello di Montalcino selections.
Story
Located in Old Brookville, New York, Banfi Vintners derives its name from Mariani’s aunt, Teodolinda Banfi, who played a significant role in his upbringing. The business originally specialized in importing Italian gourmet products but transitioned to focusing on wine imports following the repeal of Prohibition. A pivotal expansion occurred in 1969 with the launch of Riunite Lambrusco, which dominated U.S. imported wine sales for over two decades. The company further broadened its portfolio by securing key agreements for Chilean wines and enhancing its premium range with labels such as Poggio all'Oro Brunello di Montalcino Riserva and the organic Natura collection.
A crucial development took place during the 1970s when Banfi acquired 700 hectares in Montalcino, Italy; these vineyards were soon awarded DOCG certification. To maximize grape quality, Banfi assembled a team of experts from Bordeaux, Pisa, and Milan to study the terroir and refine Sangiovese grape varieties—reducing from an initial 650 clones to 15 specifically selected for targeted uses. Presently, Banfi controls approximately one-third of Italy’s officially recognized 45 Sangiovese clones.
The vineyards surrounding Banfi Castle in Montalcino continue to serve as the company’s principal production asset into the 21st century and have been honored thirteen times as "Vineyard of the Year in Italy." The estate also features a hotel and two additional vineyards located in Piedmont, strengthening Banfi’s influence across both premium and organic wine sectors.
Company activities
Producing more than 17 million bottles annually, Banfi distributes its wines to 86 countries worldwide. Approximately two-thirds of its revenue originates from the U.S. market. As of 2014, the company employed around 500 individuals, with 150 based in the United States.
Banfi incorporates advanced production and distribution techniques, including lightweight glass bottles that reduce material usage by 6,500 tons per million units produced. Its vineyards utilize a proprietary irrigation technology that lowers water consumption by 80% compared to conventional farming practices. The company also invests in selective scientific research through its laboratories and holds a patent for a specialized garter system. Moreover, Banfi’s vineyards maintain a favorable balance between grapevine cultivation and forested land, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable land stewardship.