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Constellation Brands has agreed to purchase US winery Sea Smoke to bolster the company's focus on high-end wines and portfolio growth strategy. Based in Santa Barbara, California, Constellation says that the vineyard is "one of the most highly rated and acclaimed pinot noir houses in the world". With the acquisition, Sea Smoke becomes part of Constellation’s Fine Wine & Craft Spirits portfolio, which encompasses wine and spirits brands such as Schrader Cellars, Lingua Franca, Booker Vineyard, To Kalon Vineyard Company, Mount Veeder Winery, Robert Mondavi Winery, The Prisoner Wine Company, High West Distillery and Casa Noble Tequila, among others.

Sam Glaetzer, EVP and president of Constellation's wine and spirits division, said: “As we continue to pursue growth aligned with consumer-led premiumisation trends through our higher-end brands of the wine and spirits business, we are excited to add Sea Smoke to our fine wine portfolio". "Not only does Sea Smoke offer a uniquely acclaimed estate vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills AVA, but its highly acclaimed wines also align with our target consumer preferences as they continue to shift to the higher end. We look forward to working with the Sea Smoke team to grow this exceptional winery while upholding its impeccable tradition of quality and customer experience.” Victor Gallegos, vice president, general manager and director of winemaking for Sea Smoke, added: “We are extremely excited to collaborate with Constellation Brands as we begin writing a new chapter in the Sea Smoke story. They have the right team with the right resources and the expertise to help us grow and thrive in a highly competitive market." "It was clear early on that both Constellation Brands and Sea Smoke share an unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability and strategic growth – qualities that will enable us to continue our mission to make some of the world’s great estate-grown wines.” Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.