Enotria&Coe takes on California’s Bonterra in the UK

Californian organic wine producer Bonterra has signed a distribution deal with Enotria&Coe, which will become its exclusive UK importer as of 12 March.

Bonterra’s range of wines are made from 100% certified organic vineyards, with its winemaking philosophy based on a legacy of organic farming that dates back to 1987. Today, Bonterra is the leading US wine from organically farmed grapes, producing a collection of wines that “speak of the place from which they hail, full of character and flavour”.

“The UK is a sophisticated market and well suited for our range,” said Rodrigo Maturana, Bonterra organic vineyards vice president of marketing and exports. “We have a strong history here and we look forward to growing our presence in this key market. Enotria&Coe are the ideal partner to help us achieve this; with their expertise in multiple channels and the breadth of our portfolio, we have never been more confident in Bonterra’s future.”

Founded by winemaker Bob Blue, who was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at The 2014 Drinks Business Awards in recognition of his 25-year dedication to organic viticulture, today Bonterra’s day-to-day operations are overseen by winemaker Jeff Cichocki, who produces wines from nearly 1,000 acres of organic vineyards owned by the producer in Mendocino County.

While these sites form the backbone of its portfolio, the producer also buys in fruit from select organic growers – some of whom have worked with Bonterra for decades.

“We’re delighted to be working with Bonterra. The quality of their range is unmatched, and as a brand with a solid global presence the estate is well positioned to continue to their success as part of the Enotria&Coe cross-channel growth strategy,” said Enotria&Coe’s buying, marketing and retail director Jon Pepper MW.

Concha Y Toro bought organic producer Bonterra, together with a number of other brands including Fetzer, from Brown-Forman in March 2011.