The wine importer Quintessential has become the custodian of all U.S.-produced wines in the Accolade Wines portfolio.
This acquisition, effective Aug. 1, includes production, global sales and marketing of four labels: Geyser Peak, Atlas Peak, Outlot and XYZin.
This news follows the partnership announced in May, when Quintessential became the exclusive U.S. importer of several of Accolade’s exported wines.
“It is an honor to procure such a prestigious and historic portfolio of wines, including the iconic Geyser Peak,” says Dennis Kreps, co-owner with his father, Stephen D. Kreps, of Quintessential. “As the Geyser Peak brand enters its 140th anniversary this year, our main focus will be in growing its footprint and continuing to restore the wine to its former glory.”
Geyser Peak was founded in California in 1880. To support the rebirth of the brand, Quintessential has enlisted Robert Pepi, Jr., consulting winemaker, known for his prowess with sauvignon blanc, the company says. Together with Pepi, and an expanded sales force, Quintessential seeks to rebuild and reinvigorate the 140-year-old label.
“Our decision to exit wine production in the U.S. reflects our sharpened focus on building core international brands and markets,” says Accolade Wines Chief Executive Robert Foye. “We could not think of better custodians of Geyser Peak and its sister brands than the Kreps family. The North American market remains enormously important for Accolade Wines. Through our partnership with Quintessential, we are tapping into the huge potential to grow some of our iconic labels, including Hardy’s, Grant Burge, St Hallett and Mud House.”
In addition to Geyser Peak, the acquisition deal includes Napa Valley’s Atlas Peak, Sonoma’s Outlot and XYZin wines.
