ERIK BANTI TOSCANA, ITALY

Erik Banti bottled his first Morellino in 1981, long before the Maremma became a wine destination. In fact Erik contributed greatly to the area’s recognition, as he helped pioneer quality wine production. By 1994 he moved into a new winery in Scansano, and in 1998 he started to replant the vineyards and extend the cellars. He introduced short pruning, increased vine density and implemented dry farming (no irrigation). The estate now covers 54 acres. All the vineyards are in the Morellino di Scansano appellation. Erik also buys grapes from his neighbors, allowing him to produce up to 28,000 cases.