Bibendum-PLB signs up with CNDP’s only co-op

Bibendum PLB Group has become the UK distributor of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s only co-operative, Cellier des Princes.

Cellier des Princes is made up of 189 winegrowers who own vineyards across Chateauneuf-du-Pape and other areas of the Southern Rhone (Photo: Cellier des Princes)

Bibendum PLB Group will distribute the wines of the Rhône Valley co-op across all channels in the UK from 1 May.

Cellier des Princes wines will be sold to the on-trade via Bibendum, to the off-trade via PLB and to independent retailers via the Walker & Wodehouse subsidiary of the Bibendum PLB Group.

Established in 1925, Cellier des Princes is located in the commune of Courthezon, with 580 acres of vineyards throughout Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the Southern Rhône.

The co-operative is made up of 189 winegrowers, each of whom owns a small vineyard and works for the common interest of the co-operative cellar.

Cellier des Princes’s range includes its flagship Châteauneuf-du-Pape as well as an IGP Vaucluse, Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Rhône Villages, Vacqueyras and Gigondas.

“Cellier des Princes is one of the leading co-operatives in the Rhone Valley and the only one in Chateauneuf du Pape,” said Pierre Cohen, general manager of Cellier des Princes.

“It is our aim to work with the leading distributors in each of our key markets to develop the business. Bibendum PLB is the leading distributor in the UK, as the only supplier to have equal expertise in the on and off-trade. We therefore believe that we have found the best partner for us in the UK.”

Alastair Pyatt, France buyer for the Bibendum PLB Group, added: ‘I’m thrilled to begin our new relationship with Cellier des Princes.

“On top of a fantastic quality vs value proposition, Cellier des Princes has the diversity, flexibility and scale which makes them a perfect fit for Bibendum PLB’s requirements for the on and off-trade, and a significant addition to our French range.”