By Tina Jones

Who is Donna Laura ? In the Chianti Classico region of Tuscany , nestled between Siena and Florence , are the wines of Donna Laura by mastermind winemaker Lia Tolaini-Banville . Lia spent many summers in Tuscany , where Aunt Laura was the matriarch . When Lia moved to Tuscany to attend University , Laura took her young Canadian niece under her wing , enveloping her into the family fold and teaching her about Italian traditions . Laura had such an impact on Lia ’ s life that she named her Italian venture Donna Laura (“ Lady Laura ”) in her honour .

Banville & Jones Wine Merchants , Lia ’ s latest venture , is one of the leading wine importers in the United States . After working for many years in the wine industry , Lia noticed a gap in the North American wine market . She knew that producing an affordable range of high quality wines from Tuscany would fill a niche . She did much more than simply fill a niche , however : after just three vintages , Donna Laura is receiving international accolades rarely bestowed upon small , “ unknown ” wineries .

The Ali Sangiovese di Toscana is Lia ’ s first wine . Ali is named after her daughter Alicia . Ali also means wings in Italian , which inspired the sketch of the cupid on the label ( by artist Rik Olsen ). Wine Spectator recently named Ali in the top 200 value wines under $ 15 in

Europe , where only six other Tuscan reds were given the same honour .

Donna Laura also produces two DOCG red wines that are a modern expression of the traditional Sangiovese grape from the heart of Tuscany . Alteo features Bacchus , god of wine , madness and ecstasy on its label . A renowned troublemaker , Bacchus was the perfect choice for the Chianti named for Lia ’ s two sons , Alessandro and Matteo . Donna Laura ’ s top wine is the elegant Bramosia Chianti Classico . Bramosia , which means “ desire ,” is the most sensual wine in Lia ’ s portfolio . This Chianti Classico is a stunning reminder that the best parcels of land produce the very best wines .

Donna Laura ’ s only white wine , Tre Zie , is a Vernaccia di San Gimignano , the original white wine of Tuscany . Lia created Tre Zie , or “ Three Aunts ,” for the next generation of matriarchs ; as the “ Aunts ,” Lia and her two cousins take centre stage when the family gathers in Tuscany in the summers , mending skinned knees , providing advice , and carrying on the family traditions that Donna Laura cultivated .

Lia ’ s great love and respect for Italy , family , and the tradition of quality winemaking infuse each of her wines . A Banville & Jones favourite , Lia ’ s wines are quickly cultivating local and international reputations that would make Aunt Laura very proud indeed . �

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