Who is Banfi
Banfi, a family-owned wine producer, based in Tuscany, is celebrated worldwide as “Builders of Brunello.” The Mariani family, firmly established as leading importers of fine wine in the US, founded their Banfi vineyard estate in Montalcino in 1978.
They assembled a contiguous estate of 2,830 hectares, one-third of the property is under specialized vine, and the balance is shared between olive groves, wheat fields, plum trees, truffle stands, forest, and scrub. Just over a year after the founding of Banfi in Montalcino, the Mariani acquired the historic Piedmontese winery Bruzzone, today known as Banfi Piemonte. Since its inception, Banfi Piemonte has undergone constant growth, interspersing an inherent typicity with technological innovation and a distinct vocation for quality sparkling wines.
Recently Banfi has approached new Tuscan territories, among the most renowned in the region, such as Bolgheri, Maremma, Chianti, and Chianti Classico.
Gabriele Gorelli
418° “Master of Wine”
Born in 1984, Gabriele Gorelli MW is one of Italy’s most esteemed wine experts. Born and raised in Montalcino, Tuscany, in February 2021, he became the first Italian Master of Wine. His passion for wine was born thanks to his paternal grandfather, the smallest producer of Brunello di Montalcino.
After linguistic studies, he gained a long experience in the visual communication of wine. In 2015 he co-founded KH Wines, which deals with strategic product and communication consultancy for high-level brands.
Today Gabriele is Brand Ambassador of OENO Group for Italy, Worldwide Faculty Ambassador for Fondazione Banfi and Brand Ambassador for Vinventions.
Lorella Carresi
Banfi Comunication Manager
Lorella Carresi joined Banfi in 2001 after fifteen years’
experience in the hospitality business in Italy, UK and France.
Born and raised in Tuscany, she was appointed as Worldwide Communication Manager in 2008.
Lorella speaks English and French and has a basic knowledge of German and Spanish.
Avid traveler and bike runner, during her free time she loves practicing Yoga.
She is presently responsible for coordinating the planning and the execution of Banfi international communications and PR activities. She travels frequently throughout the world attending the most prestigious wine events and spreading the Banfi’s reputation.