Variety: Sangiovese

The world of Brunello rarely welcomes new producers, but when it does, the names that stand out are those built on passion, precision, and an uncompromising dedication to quality. J.G. Benda is exactly that. Founded by John Benda and Zoë Johnson, this micro-estate is already turning heads despite its inaugural release in 2024. Isolated deep in the forests of Montalcino at its highest elevations, their estate consists of just two minuscule one-hectare hilltop vineyards—rare, pristine plots of rocky galestro-rich soil, the foundation of Tuscany’s most coveted wines.

Unlike many newcomers to the region, Benda and Johnson have taken the slow and meticulous path, working tirelessly over the past three years to shape their vineyards by hand. They employ the traditional capovolto training system, a rarity in Montalcino, which naturally regulates vigor and promotes exceptional balance in the fruit. Committed to biodynamic principles and minimal intervention, they tend every vine manually, ferment with native yeasts, and age their wines in large, traditional botti to ensure purity and elegance.

Their Rosso di Montalcino is a first glimpse into what will undoubtedly become one of the most sought-after new wines in Tuscany. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, with minimal sulfur, it is a wine of remarkable energy and refinement.