Enotria signs another big name

Ste Michelle Wine Estates has moved the UK distribution for its brand portfolio, which includes top Napa producer Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, to Enotria.

Chateau Ste Michelle

Effective from January 2015, the move offers a significant boost to Enotria’s US range. In addition to Stag’s Leap from California, the UK importer will also now represent Washington State brands Chateau Ste Michelle, Columbia Crest, Red Diamond, Two Vines and 14 Hands, as well as Oregon producer Erath.

Announcing the news, Enotria CEO Troy Christensen said: “SMWE bring with them a diverse and quality portfolio of wine that suits the Enotria business and our growth ambitions – we’re look forwarding to working in partnership to achieve great results.”

In particular, he noted: “What appealed to us is the forward-thinking nature of the SMWE business. They are true pioneers and the breadth and depth of their offering is truly exceptional. The portfolio gives us flexibility through the brand hierarchy – providing an opportunity to over-index and over-deliver in the US and more specifically the Washington State category.”

Formerly represented in the UK by Berkmann Wine Cellars, Ste Michelle Wine Estates’ CEO & president Ted Baseler commented: “We know Enotria will be a valuable partner as we look to expand our presence in the UK for our portfolio of ultra-premium winery estates.”

This marks the latest in a series of recent additions to the Enotria portfolio, including Australian producers d’Arenberg and Burch Family Wines, and France’s Les Vignobles André Lurton.

This month has also seen a major new personnel development at the company, with the announcement that Buckingham Schenk managing director Jon Pepper MW will join Enotria as director of buying and retail. Earlier this year former Accolade Wine and Constellation front man Christensen himself relocated from the US to take on the role of CEO.