La Lus
⏳ Drinking Window
2023 - 2028
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Slow-cooked beef stews, roasted game birds, and aged Italian cheeses such as Pecorino or Castelmagno.
✨ Technical Specifications
Banfi's 'La Lus' is a remarkable tribute to Piedmontese viticultural innovation, crafted entirely from the rare Albarossa grape. Created in 1938 by Professor Giovanni Dalmasso, Albarossa is a fascinating genetic crossing of Chatus (historically confused with Nebbiolo) and Barbera. For decades, this grape remained an academic curiosity until estates like Banfi Piemonte in Strevi recognized its brilliant potential. The name 'La Lus' translates to 'The Light' in local Piedmontese dialect, symbolizing the revelation of this grape's vibrant character. Cultivated in clay-limestone soils, the grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation followed by aging in French oak barriques. This process tames Albarossa's robust structure, resulting in a deeply colored, velvety red wine that marries the bright, high-toned acidity of Barbera with the deep, dark fruit and savory complexity of its parentage.
🍾 About the Producer
Founded in 1978 by Italian-American brothers John and Harry Mariani, Banfi is centered around the historic medieval fortress Castello di Poggio alle Mura in Montalcino, Tuscany. The estate played a pivotal role in the modern renaissance of Brunello di Montalcino through pioneering clonal research on Sangiovese, state-of-the-art vinification techniques, and dedicated environmental sustainability. Operating across prime vineyard sites in Tuscany and Piedmont, the winery harmonizes classic Italian heritage with modern precision. Banfi is internationally celebrated for its benchmark Brunello di Montalcino bottlings, expressive Super Tuscan blends such as Cum Laude and Belnero, and an expansive portfolio of elegant single-varietal and sparkling wines.