From Montalcino, the first bottling of J.G. Benda’s pure-fruited Sangiovese is the kind of instant classic we’re thrilled to have.

When it comes to Montalcino, we run with a tight group of producers who represent what we love about Sangiovese Grosso:

Wild herbs, aromatics and an ability to meld its intoxicating red fruit quality with exotic citrus flavors.

It’s a high bar that we’re thrilled to say J.G. Benda leaps over. The estate is not just new to us – they’re one of the freshest faces in Montalcino. After working with the likes of Il Maronetto (another fave), John Benda and his partner, Zoë Johnson, acquired 18ha of untouched forest containing two 1ha vineyards through a seldom-seen auction in this region historically gated by wealth.

And, the location is magic: isolated deep in the woods at the highest point of the Brunello zone (at 500+ meters), with soil rich in sand, limestone and Tuscany’s famously rocky ‘galestro.’ This combination of elevation and soil (and, biodynamic farming 🔥) produces fresh, pure fruited wine that’s perfectly in line with what we love.

Putting in the work at their hilltop vineyard 📷 via @j.g.benda

A little more history: John was a British banker who grew up in Rome, with family vacations in Tuscany. When his career brought him a love for (and access to) fine wine, it came full circle with the land purchase in 2019. Zoë is an Aussie and former marketer for Barilla; together they’ve worked incredibly hard to revamp the vineyards, which were planted in 1998 and 2006.

With biodynamic farming (and a very old Tuscan vine training method, capovolto), they’re eking out the fullest expression of their unique site.

Biodynamics and old-tradition Tuscany vibes continue to the cellar: all native fermentation and aging in used large botti. No fining or filtration, minimal SO2.

The 2021 Rosso is the first wine they’ve ever bottled – we absolutely cannot wait to taste what’s next.

Proud! 📷 via @j.g.benda