E. & J. Gallo Winery (Gallo) announced today that it has purchased Orin Swift Cellars, a brand known for their excellent wines, bold imagery, memorable names and creative labels. Founded in 1998 by innovator and winemaker Dave Phinney, Orin Swift’s creative and exciting approach to brand innovation has led it to become a multinational luxury wine brand with a large consumer following. In addition to creating strong consumer loyalty, Phinney’s expressive winemaking style is continuously recognized by noteworthy wine critics and has garnered numerous 90-plus point scores, as well as being named to Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list several times.
The acquisition includes the Orin Swift Cellars brand, related inventory, and control of the elegant and popular tasting room located in St. Helena. The Napa Valley tasting room, which opened in 2013, is a popular destination for the brand’s loyal followers and will remain open to the public.
According to Roger Nabedian, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Gallo’s Premium Wine Division, “We are excited to work with Dave Phinney who has a long history of creating memorable and bold brands. His winemaking expertise yields consistent high scores by top publications and we are thrilled that he will continue to provide creative and winemaking direction for these brands in the future. He added, “This purchase supports the company’s strategy for continued growth in the luxury wine segment.”
“I’ve known and done business with the Gallo family for over a decade and it makes me very proud that a company that I have such a deep respect for will become the steward of the brand that bears my family’s name,” said Orin Swift founder Dave Phinney. He added, “I’m looking forward to a long and productive relationship where together we can propel Orin Swift Cellars to even greater heights.”
Zepponi & Company served as the exclusive financial advisor to Orin Swift Cellars. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.