Gallo expands in Central Coast

Published: 29 June, 2011

E & J Gallo Winery is buying Edna Valley Vineyard for an undisclosed sum.

The San Luis Obispo estate is currently jointly owned by Diageo and Paragon Vineyard Company. Gallo said it would continue to work with Paragon as a source of grapes for the Edna Valley Vineyard wines.

Edna Valley Vineyard produces a range of wines, specialising in Chardonnay. The deal includes the winery, the brand, and 62 acres of vineyard, of which 44 acres are planted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The purchase will expand Gallo's presence in California's Central Coast. In 2004, it bought the Bridlewood Estate Winery in the Santa Ynez Valley of Santa Barbara County. In 2007, it added the William Hill Estate Winery in Napa.

Roger Nabedian, senior vice president and general manager of Gallo's premium wine division, said: "Edna Valley will help us expand both our footprint in the Central Coast and in the Chardonnay category. The brand represents wines from a superior appellation and is well positioned to offer consumers wines of extraordinary value long into the future."

The transaction is expected to be completed in the next few weeks.

Printer friendly version