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Butterfly Equity, a US private equity firm focused on the food and beverage sector, has appointed former Constellation Brands executive, Robert Hanson, as CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio, effective 1 February.

The move comes after Butterfly's acquisition of the luxury wine company for $1.95 billion in October last year.

Hanson succeeds Deirdre Mahlan, who will assist with the transition until that date and then serve as an advisor. He most recently led Constellation Brands' Wine and Spirits Global Portfolio from 2019 to 2024 and served on the company’s board from 2013 to 2019.

Adam Waglay, co-founder and co-CEO of Butterfly, said: “On behalf of the entire Butterfly team, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Deirdre for her exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to Duckhorn. Her efforts have positioned the company as a true leader in the luxury wine market."

"We are excited to welcome Robert, whose proven track record and deep experience make him the ideal leader to take Duckhorn into its next phase of growth. Under Robert’s leadership, I am confident Duckhorn will unlock new opportunities for growth, building on its strong foundation, world-class operations, and unmatched ability to deliver premium wine to consumers globally.”

Hanson said: “I am honoured to lead Duckhorn at such an exciting and pivotal time for the industry. The Duckhorn Portfolio’s pioneering spirit, relentless focus on quality and commitment to innovation have cemented its position as the category leader in luxury wine. The company begins this next chapter from a place of exceptional strength, with a proven strategy for growth and market expansion that I look forward to building on.”

Deirdre Mahlan, Duckhorn's president and CEO, added: "Our portfolio of winery brands has become synonymous with quality in the market, and this is the perfect moment to pass the baton to Robert, who is the right leader to accelerate our growth trajectory. I look forward to working closely with the senior leadership team alongside Robert as he begins in the role and embarks on this bright new chapter in Duckhorn’s history.”

Top image: © Duckhorn Wine Company

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