John Mariani, Jr., son of Banfi Vintners USA founder Giovanni F. Mariani Sr, graduated from Cornell University in the 1950s and then pursued two years of viticultural studies in Europe. Upon his return to the US, he followed the path of this father and, together with his brother Harry Mariani, assumed control of the firm. John’s long term strategic vision saw him become Chief Executive Officer. He contributed to Banfi in a decisive way, his perseverance leading to the realization of his “impossible dream:” the birth of Castello Banfi, in 1978, in Montalcino, Tuscany.