Joseph Phelps joins La Place

Napa Valley winery Joseph Phelps has become the latest international addition to La Place de Bordeaux, appointing several négociants to help distribute its wines more widely.

The American winery has followed in the footsteps of Francis Ford Coppla’s Inglenook property and appointed CVBG, Duclot (owned by the Moueix family) and Maison Joanne (owned by the Castéja family) to represent it outside of the Americas.

Inglenook and Argentine winery Catena Zapata announced they would use La Place for international distribution last year, joining the likes of Opus One, Masseto, Seña and Almaviva.

Mike McEvoy, vice president, director of sales at the winery, said: “We are delighted to partner with these three internationally-renowned négociants and we are confident that they will further expand global distribution of Insignia and Joseph Phelps Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

“As we enter our 47th year of winemaking excellence, we look forward to working with CVBG, DUCLOT and JOANNE to increase our international exposure.”

The négociants added in a joint statement: “Joseph Phelps was one of the great visionaries of the Napa Valley and the Phelps family has largely contributed in making the Napa Valley one of the most prestigious wine regions.

“Insignia and Joseph Phelps Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon have known an extremely large success in the US market where they are recognised by critics, professionals and consumers as leaders. We want to extend this success outside the US. Our three companies, CVBG, Duclot, and Joanne, feel honoured and privileged to take the international presence and reputation of these legendary names further.”