Buonamico

Mid-19th century: Marchi-Magnani

The estate was owned by Giulio Magnani and known as Marchi-Magnani.

1870: Journey to France

Giulio Magnani visited relatives in France who were successful winemakers. The trip inspired him to make wines that could match, or even surpass, those of Burgundy. He came back with vines of several varieties and experimented with blends, adding wines from the newly planted grapes to Trebbiano wine. Over time his wines gained recognition in Italy and abroad, with numerous awards at international competitions.

1930

Wines from Marchi-Magnani in Montecarlo were served at the wedding of Prince Umberto of Savoy and Marie José at the Quirinal Palace.

2008 onward: Fontana family

The Fontana family, known worldwide as olive oil producers, took on the restoration of the Montecarlo lands in the province of Lucca. Dino Fontana, with his children Eugenio and Alessia, began winemaking at Tenuta del Buonamico. Between 2009 and 2011 more than 12 ha were planted with vines, and unproductive vineyards were replanted. Dino Fontana later expanded the winery and enlarged the historic wine cellar in preparation for an expected rise in production.

The estate is in Montecarlo, in the province of Lucca.

Between 2009 and 2011 new vines were planted and unproductive vineyards were replanted. Experimental plots cultivate rare varieties that had almost completely vanished from Italian vineyards.

The wines are made under the guidance of winemaker Alberto Antonini. Dino Fontana expanded the winery and enlarged its historic wine cellar in preparation for an expected increase in production.

The Fontana family follows a clear business plan that it says moves it quickly toward its goal. Giulio Magnani's aim in the 19th century was to make wines that could match or surpass those of Burgundy.