Very good results for Banfi at The Sommelier Wine Awards 2015, where two wines were awarded with the Gold Medal - Poggio alle Mura 2010, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG & Rosa Regale 2014, Brachetto d'Acqui DOCG - and another wine was awarded with the Silver Medal - Poggio alle Mura Riserva 2009, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG.
The Sommelier Wine Awards is a Britain’s only on-trade wine competition, and it focuses entirely on wines aimed at the on-trade. Since it started in 2007 it has grown to become the first point of reference for the UK's on-trade wine buyers as well as the key competition for wines trying to increase their presence in hotels, pubs, bars and restaurants. The judges serve or buy wine in the on-trade, and wines with general high street distribution are not permitted, except for sparkling and fortified wines, and online-exclusive wines.
Below the reviews on Poggio alle Mura 2010 and Rosa Regale 2014:
Banfi, Poggio alle Mura, Brunello di Montalcino
Banfi, Poggio alle Mura, Brunello di Montalcino, 2010, Tuscany, Italy
Without doubt youthful, this is one to snap up and cellar if you can. ‘Lovely open style with a gentle floral edge to its developed cherry and plum fruits,’ began team leader Simon Woods, continuing: ‘Balanced, good, refined and long.’ 'Red and black fruits, minerality and cedar wood, firm tannins, balanced alcohol and a long finish,' said Gareth Ferreira of Launceston Place.
Banfi, Rosa Regale, Brachetto d'Acqui
Banfi, Rosa Regale, Brachetto d'Acqui, 2014, Piedmont, Italy
What a treat. Drink outside, lightly chilled, or partner with any desserts where dark chocolate is involved. ‘Lush and summery, with soft bubbles and raspberry fruit,’ said consultant Eike Bosche, with team leader Tom Forrest adding: ‘Hints of cherry bubble gum, cherry and raspberry fruit on a fresh palate, with balanced sugar on the finish.’