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Australian Vintage has announced a strategic partnership with Burch Family Wines, acquiring international ownership of the Western Australian wine brand MadFish.

Under the agreement, Australian Vintage will also take on exclusive distribution of Howard Park Wines in the UK, Ireland, Europe and Canada. Burch Family Wines will retain the brand rights and distribution for both MadFish and Howard Park within Australia.

The deal also includes a long-term sourcing and processing partnership to support quality and scalable growth.

Australian Vintage CEO Tom Dusseldorp said: “MadFish is currently one of the top Australian wine brands in the UK market and growing, while Howard Park is a premium brand from the distinguished Margaret River region".

“These brands will complement Australian Vintage’s existing stable of award-winning labels, providing increased volume and value without increased overhead. Australian Vintage continues to focus on advancing shareholder value by accelerating capital-light growth through partnerships and innovations.”

Burch Family Wines CEO Jeff Burch added: “MadFish began as a personal tribute to my coastal home –a love affair with place and wine – and has grown into something far greater than we ever expected. Partnering with Australian Vintage allows MadFish to scale internationally, while keeping the brand and its essence anchored in Western Australia, and our focus on crafting high-quality wines."

“Australian Vintage’s global customer relationships, distribution, bottling and network are world class and we are confident they can accelerate both MadFish and Howard Park’s presence across the globe.”