Accolade buys top NZ labels

(WBM) - Accolade Wines has reached an agreement to buy leading New Zealand brands Mud House and Waipara Hills from prominent New Zealand winemaker, the Mud House Wine Group.

The deal, which is subject to approval by New Zealand’s Overseas Investment Office, also delivers control of the Waipara Hills cellar door and café.

Accolade Wines’ general manager for Australia and New Zealand, Michael East, said the company saw the brands as a key part of its global portfolio strategy.

“The suite of brands, which also includes Dusky Sounds, Haymaker and Skyleaf, covers outstanding wines from key regions: Marlborough for Sauvignon Blanc, Central Otago for Pinot Noir and aromatics from the Waipara Valley including Riesling and Pinot Gris,” Mr East said.

The brands augment Accolade Wines’ existing portfolio of New Zealand brands and offer the opportunity to grow in significant markets such as Europe, North America and Asia.

Mud House Wine Group chairman Bob Major said, “Accolade’s extensive international sales networks, as well as its experience marketing New World wines, would enable Mud House to grow production and sales much faster and more cost efficiently than we do currently.”

Accolade Wines will be retaining the New Zealand team, headed by MJ Loza, who will be reporting to Michael East, and taking on all existing grower contracts under existing terms and conditions.