California-based wine importer Quintessential has acquired all of the US-produced wines within Accolade Wines’ portfolio, effective 1 August.
The purchase deal encompasses the production, global sales and marketing of four of Australia-headquartered Accolade’s labels: Geyser Peak, Atlas Peak, Outlot and XYZin.
Quintessential says that it has enrolled consulting winemaker Robert Pepi, Jr. to support the ‘rebirth’ of the Geyser Peak brand, a 140-year-old label native to California.
The news follows Accolade’s appointment of Quintessential, announced in May, as US importer of several of its ‘flagship’ brands from Australia, New Zealand, Italy and the UK. Among the names included in the partnership were Hardys, St Hallett, Mud House and the Echo Falls Fruit Fusions range.
“It is an honour to procure such a prestigious and historic portfolio of wines, including the iconic Geyser Peak,” said Dennis Kreps, co-owner of Quintessential.
“As the Geyser Peak brand enters its 140th anniversary this year, our main focus will be in growing its footprint and continuing to restore the wine to its former glory.”
Accolade Wines chief executive, Robert Foye, added: “Our decision to exit wine production in the US reflects our sharpened focus on building core international brands and markets. We could not think of better custodians of Geyser Peak and its sister brands than the Kreps family.
“The North American market remains enormously important for Accolade Wines. Through our partnership with Quintessential, we are tapping into the huge potential to grow some of our iconic labels, including Hardys, Grant Burge, St Hallett and Mud House.”
The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.
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