Banfi Vintners and Lambrusco ‘hub’ Riunite & CIV part ways

US-based importer Banfi Vintners has parted ways with its Italian Riunite & CIV brand after 50 years in business together.

Cristina-Mariani-May of Castello Banfi

Riunite, the Lambrusco which became a household name when Banfi Vintners began importing it to the states in 1967, will now be marketed in the US by Frederick Wildman and Sons. Effective June 11, 2019, Frederick Wildman will provide sales and marketing services for its entire portfolio throughout the country.

“On behalf of Cantine Riunite & CIV Board of Directors, employees and all associates, I would like to thank the Mariani family and all Banfi Vintners associates for their collaborative partnership over many years and wish them the very best for their future business,” said Vanni Lusetti, General Manager Cantine Riunite & CIV.

“Riunite has always been a wonderful, supportive partner, and we wish the brand continued success,” says Mariani-May. “Moving forward, we will be focusing our energy on further developing and enhancing our premium and luxury offerings – led by Brunello di Montalcino and the Super Tuscans of Castello Banfi, the crown jewel of our portfolio and a five-time Gran Vin Italy winner. We are excited to take our portfolio of global brands to the next level with this new emphasis.”

“With all the history we have made together, this is a difficult announcement to make,” Banfi’s CEO Cristina Mariani-May said. “However, after thoughtful consideration for our long-term goals, both sides concluded that it is time to move on.”

Founded in 1919 by John F. Mariani, Sr, Banfi continues to be family-owned by the founder’s children and grandchildren. Ms Mariani-May was named CEO in February last year.

Cantine Cooperative Riunite was originally formed by a group of nine producers in the Emilia-Romagna region, and in 1961, four wineries wineries from Modena followed their lead and founded CIV. Cantine Riunite & CIV was founded in 2008, becoming a hub of Lambrusco production.