E. & J. Gallo Winery awarded U.S. distribution rights for New Zealand’s Saint Clair Family Estate
8.01.2017
MODESTO, Calif., (August 1, 2017) - E. & J. Gallo Winery (Gallo) announced today that it has been awarded the exclusive rights to distribute New Zealand’s Saint Clair Family Estate wines in the United States, effective immediately.
Known for producing some of the best Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand’s Marlborough region, Saint Clair Family Estate is the latest addition to Gallo’s premium import portfolio. "Saint Clair Family Estate is well-known around the world and we are excited to introduce this award-winning Sauvignon Blanc to American consumers," said Roger Nabedian, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Gallo’s Premium Wine Division.
Owners Neal and Judy Ibbotson first planted vines in 1978, and were one of the early family pioneers to the Marlborough wine industry. Today, Saint Clair Family Estate owns fifteen vineyards located throughout the Wairau, Awatere, and Omaka Valleys of Marlborough, as well as Hawkes Bay. This allows the winery to specialize its plantings by grape variety in the sub-regions that provide the most suitable terroir for each.
"Saint Clair Family Estate is thrilled to have entered into a partnership with E. & J. Gallo Winery as the exclusive national distributor for the Saint Clair brand in the USA," said founder Neal Ibbotson. He added, "We share many of the same values – family, passion and quality and the move is an exciting opportunity for us to further develop our brand in the USA market."
The Saint Clair name originated from the vineyard property, first settled by the Sinclair family. Pioneer James Sinclair built one of the first homes in Blenheim and was closely associated with the early development of the town. Over time the name of the property reverted to the original Saint Clair.
The Saint Clair Family Estate Sauvignon Blanc will retail for $28. While the wine is already available in select states, the national roll-out is scheduled for Q1 2018.
About GALLO
Founded in 1933 by brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo, GALLO is a family-owned company and global leader in wine, spirits, malt beverages, and RTDs. With a goal of serving joy in moments that matter, GALLO is deeply committed to sustainability and providing the highest quality products for every occasion. GALLO’s entire portfolio is featured here: https://www.gallo.com/portfolio/