January 8, 2026 (Saint Paul, MN) — Johnson Brothers today announced the expansion of its partnership with Banfi into six additional markets, effective February 1. Through this expansion, Banfi brands will be distributed by Johnson Brothers in Texas, Indiana, Hawaii, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
These new markets build on Johnson Brothers’ existing Banfi distribution footprint in North Carolina, Iowa, and West Virginia, further strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two organizations.
“As a multi-generation, family-owned company, it is incredibly rewarding to partner with a family focused organization like Banfi who share our commitment to building enduring brands and winning in the marketplace,” said Yale Johnson, President of Sales, Johnson Brothers. “This expansion reflects the trust Banfi has placed in our teams and our ability to deliver exceptional execution and consistent results across all nine markets.”
Banfi, a global wine leader with a diverse portfolio of premium and luxury brands, cited Johnson Brothers’ executional strength and collaborative partnership as key drivers of the expanded relationship.
“As a third-generation proprietor and CEO, I take very seriously the stewardship of our family of partner brands and of my family’s flagship brand, Banfi,” said Cristina Mariani-May, CEO, Banfi. “In these challenging times for our industry, every decision matters, and expanding our relationship with Johnson Brothers is one we make with confidence and optimism. This transition honors our heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth. We look forward to working together to bring exceptional experiences to our customers and continue the tradition of excellence that defines both our families.”
The expanded partnership creates new opportunities for both organizations to deepen collaboration, strengthen execution, and drive growth across Banfi’s portfolio in each market.
About Johnson Brothers
Johnson Brothers is a single-family-owned wine, beer, and spirits distributor, led by Michael and Todd Johnson. Founded in 1953 by their father, Lynn Johnson, the company has grown into one of the largest wholesale distribution companies in the United States, operating across 24 states. Johnson Brothers partners with top-tier suppliers to deliver a world-class portfolio and exceptional customer service. The company remains rooted in its founding values of integrity, innovation, and excellence. For the third year in a row, Newsweek has named Johnson Brothers one of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies for 2025. Learn more at johnsonbrothers.com | LinkedIn | Instagram.
About Banfi
Premium wine & spirits company, founded in 1919 in New York City, 3rd generation family owned, with Cristina Mariani-May as proprietor and CEO. The portfolio’s jewel is the award-winning Castello Banfi vineyard estate in Montalcino, Tuscany. The prestigious wine portfolio, along with the Castello Banfi Il Borgo luxury hotel, Michelin-starred dining, and extensive hospitality offers the ultimate authentic Tuscan experience. The Mariani family is also owner of US Pacific Northwest based Pacific Rim & Company with projects from premiere AVAs across Washington state and the acclaimed Willamette Valley, Oregon. The Banfi portfolio also includes ownership interest in leading organic brand Natura wines, produced by Emiliana Organic Vineyards, Chile. In 2025, Banfi welcomed Brother’s Bond Bourbon, Boatyard Double Gin and Alexander Valley Vineyards into their portfolio as agency partnerships. Learn more at banfiusa.com.
