In The News

NEW YORK, NY – July 14, 2022 – Frederick Wildman and Sons announced today that Marc Hirten has left his position as President and COO of Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd.

Corrado Casoli, Chairman of Frederick Wildman, and Roberta Corrà, CEO, along with all the other shareholders, would like to thank Marc for his contribution over the years to the leadership of the company. Roberta Corrà will cover Mr. Hirten’s role until a replacement is named.

Frederick Wildman has great pleasure in announcing the appointment effective July 15, 2022 of Mr. Matt Munn in the role of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). Mr. Munn can boast long and varied experience in the Wine and Spirits sector having worked for over twenty years at leading Suppliers and Distributors such as E&J Gallo, Schieffelin & Somerset (now Moet Hennessy USA), and most recently with Southern Glazer’s where he was Senior Vice President and General Manager. The Sales, Logistics, and, on an interim basis, Marketing Management teams will report directly to Mr. Munn.

“I am sure that the entire company will benefit from the contribution of this new managerial figure and that he will lend great support to all the Sales team thanks to his professionalism and commercial know-how” states Chairman Corrado Casoli.

“With the arrival of Matt Munn in Frederick Wildman, we are taking a significant step towards continued company growth and all of the French partners wish him every success and much satisfaction,” says Laurent d’Harcourt, CEO of Champagne Pol Roger, commenting on behalf of the French shareholders.

The Chairman, CEO, and all the shareholders will continue working to ensure that Frederick Wildman is, and continues to be, a benchmark company in the industry.

ABOUT FREDERICK WILDMAN AND SONS

Frederick Wildman and Sons is a New York-based fine wine importer offering the leading properties from France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, and other regions. The portfolio includes more than 75 brands, including Pol Roger, Olivier Leflaive, Pascal Jolivet, Château Fuissé, Famille Hugel, Domaine Faiveley, Marchesi di Barolo, as well as Cantine Riunite; CIV’s full portfolio, and the fine wines of Gruppo Italiano Vini including Nino Negri, Santi, and Re Manfredi. For more information, visit frederickwildman.com.

FROM THE FWS DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION COMMITTEE

Every year the U.S. recognizes March as Women’s History Month. The theme of Women’s History Month 2022 is “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope,” which is both a tribute to the ongoing work of caregivers and frontline workers during this ongoing pandemic and a recognition of the thousands of ways that women of all cultures have provided both healing and hope throughout history.

Women’s History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary achievements and contributions women have made and continue to make. Progress has been inextricably linked to the courage and commitment of women who have worked to build a brighter future for us all. Those born female and those who identify as women are equal in our eyes and continue to contribute to our success. We are proud that over half of the employees of Frederick Wildman are women.

While the wine industry has made progress in being more inclusive of women, there is still much to be achieved. Let us continue to draw inspiration from those who carried the torch of progress and celebrate the re-imagining of women’s roles in the workforce. Frederick Wildman & Sons is dedicated to supporting women and, in keeping with our values, is a proud corporate sponsor of Women of the Vine & Spirits (WOTVS).

We invite you to join us in attending the WOTVS Annual Conference: WOTVS Global CONNECT!

Each year on the third Monday of January, we observe Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and reflect on the work that still needs to be done for racial equality. This January 17th let’s make the holiday more than just a day off. Take time to reflect on and engage in civil rights issues, create dialogue, and have discussions about racial injustice. Through conversation, we educate each other, share experiences, and work to create a brighter future.

Dr. King inspired millions of people in his lifetime and continues to inspire us today. Across the globe, activists look to him for inspiration and courage, and modern movements for racial equity and justice are extensions of the work he started.

History has taught us Dr. King’s lessons are relevant to the way Frederick Wildman and Sons conducts its business and how we conduct our personal lives. MLK Day should encourage kindness and patience in how we treat one another. It should also shape how we consider the unique and often unspoken personal experiences and challenges of our colleagues, friends, families, fellow citizens, as well as the customers and communities we serve. This holiday reinforces the virtue of our own Frederick Wildman and Sons’ values of respect, excellence, and community.

Please join us in making a positive difference in the life of customers and communities every day.

NEW YORK, NY – May 17, 2021 – Riunite, America’s beloved Italian wine for over seven decades, today announced the launch of its newest innovation, Lambrusco available in cans. Lambrusco, the varietal many associate with the heritage brand, is a semi-sweet and slightly-bubbly wine that has been given new life in its on-the-go format. Lambrusco joins the existing line of Riunite wines in a can, including both Red and White Sangria. The newest addition will be available across the U.S. in June.

With the can category up 61 percent and preference for semi-sweet wines on the rise, this new launch gives consumers exactly what they are looking for. Just in time for backyard BBQs or lakeside picnics, the Lambrusco Cans have hints of cherries and dark berries with a sweet and fizzy flair and are best enjoyed chilled and making memories with family and friends.

The launch of the new Lambrusco format coincides with Riunite’s new creative campaign and restyle of the full line of cans, as well as the Lambrusco, Moscato, and Peach Moscato glass bottles. Both the new campaign and restyle reimagines one of the most prominent heritage Italian wine brands in the United States. The fresh, new brand identity, slogan, and label will give an updated touch to Riunite, while drawing inspiration from its rich heritage and origins.

REUNITE WITH DELIGHT

The campaign’s new tagline, “Reunite with Delight,” nods to Riunite’s decades-long tradition of being present at convivial moments between families and friends. Additionally, Riunite’s restyle modernizes the brand’s image introducing a contemporary design and logo that honors its heritage and core values. The new branding features a floral motif of poppy flowers—a popular plant in the hillsides of the Emilia Romagna region of Italy, where Riunite’s vineyards are located. The floral design encircles a rustic sketch of an Italian villa, which celebrates Riunite’s history as a wine-growing cooperative that is currently owned by 1,700 families of vine growers all united under the same passion for quality wine.

“We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our can line, with the launch of Riunite Lambrusco,” said Elena Lottici, Export Director at Riunite. “Riunite is a legacy brand that has stood the test of time and has continued to evolve with its consumers. The newest can launch, alongside the complete revamp of the brand’s look and feel, will help in introducing these approachable and refreshing wines to new generations of wine drinkers.”

Along with the launch of the Lambrusco Can Line and restyle of the brand overall, Riunite will be debuting the new integrated marketing campaign nationally with an emphasis in the local markets of NY, CA, TX, FL, MI, IL, GA, and AZ. In addition to investing in radio, online, print, and digital media, Riunite will be creating a multicultural campaign titled, “Somo Nosotros,” which will prioritize key Hispanic markets.

Hitting shelves this June, the line of Riunite Lambrusco Cans will be sold in individual 250ml cans and 4-pack cases of 250ml cans at a suggested retail price of $2.50 and $9.99, respectively. For more information, visit Riunite.com.

ABOUT RIUNITE

Riunite, America’s number one and most loved Italian wine for decades, is the leading source of classic wines from Central Italy’s Emilia Romagna Region. The Cantina Cooperative Riunite was started by nine wine producers in the 1950’s and today is still owned by 1700 families of vine growers. Riunite is most closely identified with the Lambrusco grape, a variety native to central Italy, and said to be one of the oldest grapes in history. When you are drinking Riunite, you are drinking history. For more information, visit Riunite.com.

We are excited to announce the launch of Frederick Wildman’s newest innovation, an augmented reality (AR) experience unlocked via QR code, with two of the company’s fine Italian wine brands – Santi and Nino Negri. This is part of an initiative to incite consumers to discover fine Italian wines and all they have to offer. This new experience will allow the brands to connect directly with consumers in an increasingly digital world observing social distancing sharing tools such as: a guided wine tasting, food pairings and the history of the winery.

Frederick Wildman is embracing digital innovation to create a deeper connection with their consumers. The AR feature provides an elevated wine tasting experience with each bottle, created by AR studio, TACTIC, and powered by technologies from 8th Wall and Metastage. Thank you to all our partners who worked to bring this this to life.

Examples of the augmented reality (AR) experience:
Santi:
Santi Ventale 15second video
Santi Ventale 30second video

Nino Negri:
Nino Negri Quadrio 15second video
Nino Negri Quadrio 30second video

To get the full augmented reality experience, visit: https://www.frederickwildman.com/AR and follow the on-screen instructions.

March 3rd, 2021.
Drinks International has named Pol Roger as the #2 World’s Most Admired Champagne Brand in 2021, a magazine which ranks champagne brands from 1-30 based on the votes of the world’s top wine experts.

The poll is now in its eighth year. The brands featured on the list are all established, prestigious and widely enjoyed across the world. They have generally displayed high levels of consistent quality over a long period of time.

The Drinks International Academy of professional wine experts now has more than 300 members who all vote in the definitive survery, which dictates the list of admired champagne brands.

We are excited to announce our partnership with ReserveBar.com for E-Commerce sales.

ReserveBar was born out of the passion of its founders to allow friends and customers to celebrate and share good times in a uniquely American fashion – by giving the best of premium, reserve spirits, luxury champagne and fine wine as the perfect gift for any holiday, occasion or celebration.

The following brands and wines are available for purchase through ReserveBar.com (Updated 10/26/2020)

Italy

MARCHESI DI BAROLO
– Barolo Sarmassa, Riserva della Casa, Coste di Rose, Barolo del Comune di Barolo, Barbaresco Tradizione, Barolo Tradizione, Dolcetto Madonna del Dono, Gavi Black Label, Moscato D’Asti Zagara

SANTI
– Proemio Amarone della Valpolicella Classico , Santico Amarone della Valpolicella

NINO NEGRI
– Sfursat Carlo Negri, 5 Stelle Sfursat di Valtellina, Quadrio Valtellina Superiore, Inferno

TENUTA RAPITALÀ
– Alto Nero D’Avola, Nuhar Nero D’Avola, Conte Hugues Chardonnay, Hugonis

J. HOFSTÄTTER
– Pinot Nero Meczan, Pinot Nero Barthenau, Pinot Bianco Barthenau, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio

FATTORIA DEI BARBI
– Brunello di Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, Rosso di Montalcino

LUNGAROTTI
– Montefalco Rosso, Rubesco Riserva Vigna Monticchio, Vigna il Pino, Montefalco Sagrantino

DR. FISCHER
– Ockfener Bockstein Riesling Kabinett, Ockfener Bockstein Riesling Spatlese

France

CHAMPAGNE POL ROGER
– Brut Reserve ‘White Foil’, Rose 2012, Brut Vintage 2012, Vintage Blanc de Blancs 2012

DOMAINE PASCAL JOLIVET
– Sancerre Rose, Blanc Fume, Le Chene Marchand

ATTITUDE BY PASCAL JOLIVET
– Attitude Rose, Sauvignon Blanc

OLIVIER LEFLAIVE FRERES
– Bourgogne Blanc, Puligny-Montrachet, Bourgogne Rouge

FAMILLE HUGEL
– Pinot Gris Classic, Riesling Estate, Gewurztraminer Classic, Riesling Grossi Laue

DOMAINE FAIVELEY
– Mercurey Clos des Myglands, Gevrey Chambertin, Corton ‘Clos des Cortons’, Nuit St. Georges

CHATEAU MONT-REDON
– Chateauneuf-du-Pape Red, Chateauneuf-du-Pape White, Cotes du Rhone Red, Cotes du Rhone White, Cotes du Rhone Rose, Gigondas

By M. Carrie Allan
November 19, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. EST

Carthusian monks developed the recipe for Chartreuse over centuries, refining the instructions for an “elixir of long life.” It wasn’t until the mid-1800s that liqueur versions were released. The herbs shown here are speculative; only a few members of the order know all the botanicals used to make Chartreuse. Image credit: Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post

In the 11th century, Bruno of Cologne, a renowned cleric and intellectual from a noble German family, rejected the chance to become a bishop. Forswearing the career bump of higher placement in the Church, he instead went into the snowy wilderness of the Chartreuse Mountains in France and built a remote retreat, founding a cloistered order that over nine centuries has remained perhaps the strictest and most austere in Catholicism. Even today, postulants who enter the order, which has chapters around the world, mostly spend their days alone, in spartan cells in prayer and contemplation, mixed with some manual labor. The monks go to sleep early and wake in the middle of the night to pray for several hours together. They rarely speak and eat a simple, humble diet.

Elements of life inside the Grand Chartreuse monastery were captured in Philip Gröning’s 2005 documentary “Into Great Silence.” Stretches could be mistaken for stills, what’s happening on-screen is so slow and quiet. A robed monk in his cell prays for long minutes, motionless on the hard wood kneeler. Snow falls. Light shifts in a corridor. Not until 20 minutes in do you even hear human voices, of the monks chanting nighttime prayers. At one point the director captures, far above, a plane flying overhead. Buglike and too far away to hear the engine, the enormous machine and its world of commerce and motion are dwarfed by the light and silence of the monastery.

With views of the Brooklyn Bridge from One Hotel rooftop as our backdrop for the evening, we hosted 18 journalists (and guests) for an intimate dinner that showcased Pol Roger’s distinguished wines and history. Some of the outlets represented at last night’s event included Forbes, Manhattan Magazine, Fortune, BlackBook, Wine Enthusiast, xoJohn, Times Square Chronicle, and Resident Magazine.

The evening kicked off with a reception on One Hotel’s rooftop, where guests mingled with Hubert de Billy, who is a fifth-generation winemaker of the family-owned Champagne Pol Roger brand. As the sun set on the Brooklyn Bridge, Hubert toasted to the iconic landmark, whose presence bears witness to the important “league” (to borrow Hubert’s locution) between Champagne Pol Roger and New York City. Hubert also discussed the history of the Bridge’s vaults being used as a cellar to store Pol Roger bottles prior to Prohibition.

Following the rooftop reception, Hubert and guests enjoyed a 4-course dinner that was paired with Blanc de Blancs 2009, Brut Vintage 2012, Rosé 2009, the highly-coveted Sir Winston Churchill 2008 (which is sold out in France), and the demi-sec Rich NV. Throughout the evening, Hubert discussed Pol Roger’s heritage and also gave fascinating anecdotes on the creation of these wines (it took, for example, his father over 10 years to convince his grandfather to produce a Rosé).

Overall, a wonderful event was had by all, and it could not have been a more picture perfect night (and weather!)

Tom Hyland, Forbes Magazine
September 9th, 2019
There is always a challenge for the new generation of wine producers, no matter where they live. Namely, how do we proceed in our work? Do we continue to make wines in the style our fathers and grandfathers did? Or do we implement a few changes to show our approach?

This is certainly true in Alsace, that lovely corner of northeast France, where some of the world’s greatest white wines are crafted. But the younger generation has other issues they must address to stay relevant in today’s wine industry. Namely, how do they get more consumers and wine buyers to take a look at Alsatian wines, which are criminally under represented on wine lists and retail shelves in America? Also, how do we compete with other white (and red, to a lesser degree) wines from around the world and make our wines better known and more attractive to younger wine drinkers?

All across the U.S. wine lovers are opening bottles to celebrate! Maschio Prosecco, Bolla Prosecco, and Cavicchioli 1928 Prosecco are included in a National Prosecco Day roundup article in Newsweek today, August 13th, 2019.

About Maschio Prosecco: “An early-in-the-week drink may be cause for something on the lighter side—after all, it is only Tuesday. If you’re celebrating this day of bubbles but want to keep it cute, consider Cantine Maschio Prosseco Brut. It’s an inviting, fruit-forward sparkling wine that tastes of peach and floral effervescence.” – Janice Williams

About Bolla Prosecco: “Bolla’s sparkler is extra dry and crisp. Essentially it’s a no-fuss prosecco with subtle hints of stone fruit, like apple and pear. If you like big, bold and sturdy bubbles filling your champagne flutes, this is the sparkling wine for you.” – Janice Williams

About Cavicchioli 1928 Prosecco: “The Glera grapes in this sparkling wine are just as its name suggests: Extra dry. It’s refined acidity is rounded out with aromas of candied fruits, like apricot and mango, rolled in sweet flowers. The finish, meanwhile, is fresh and lingering. The dry texture of this particular prosecco makes it a good one to use in a mimosa.” – Janice Williams

NEW YORK, NY – June 11, 2019 – Frederick Wildman and Sons today closed a deal with Cantine Riunite & CIV. As U.S. importer of Cantine Riunite & CIV along with Bolla and Fontana Candida from GIV, Frederick Wildman will provide sales and marketing services for these leading brand portfolios. These new partnerships allow Frederick Wildman to further build its position as one of the leading wine importers in the U.S.

“Our relationship with Cantine Riunite & CIV grows both our global portfolio and our company resources significantly,” said Frederick Wildman President and COO Marc Hirten. “Riunite and Bolla are two of the largest Italian brands in the United States, and we are excited to have the opportunity to fuel further development and growth for these brands that are already well established in the American market.”

Frederick Wildman and Sons will maintain its the current best in class distributor network, including Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits and MS Walker. In addition, Frederick Wildman will take on the highly successful Riunite network of distributors including Republic National Distributing Company, Breakthru Beverage Group and Empire Merchants.

Founded in 1934, Frederick Wildman is recognized as one of North America’s preeminent importers, with a portfolio that includes Gruppo Italiano Vini (GIV), Champagne Pol Roger, Famille Hugel, Domaine Olivier Leflaive, Jean-Jacques Vincent/Château Fuissé and Domaine Pascal Jolivet.

Cantine Riunite & CIV started producing wine in 1950 as a consortium in the Province of Reggio Emilia and has since grown to be one of Italy’s most admired winemakers. Cantine Riunite & CIV, along with Gruppo Italiano Vini (GIV), includes globally recognized wine brands Riunite, Cantine Maschio, Bolla, Fontana Candida, Fratelli Cella, Albinea Canali and Movendo.

Frederick Wildman will maintain its existing fine wine division while adding a dedicated division for the newly represented brands. This will allow the importer to continue calling on the premier dining segment with an increased focus on independent retailers and leading national accounts in both on-premise and off-premise channels. For over 80 years, Frederick Wildman’s fine wine portfolio has gained the respect of sommeliers, leading restaurateurs and fine wine retailers across the country. The fine wine division will continue to provide premiere dining establishments and retail accounts with a selection of prestigious wines.

NAPA VALLEY, Calif. – June 6, 2019 – Founded in 1969, Napa Valley’s Cuvaison winery is excited to announce that it will be celebrating its golden 50th anniversary throughout 2019. As one of the pioneering wineries of the modern era—and one of the few to remain independent and family-owned—Cuvaison joins a short list of iconic wineries that have achieved this remarkable milestone. To honor this important anniversary, Cuvaison created a one-of-a-kind anniversary auction lot for the 2019 Auction Napa Valley, which was sold for a bid of $170,000. The winery will also be hosting a number of special events and experiences throughout 2019, including a celebratory wine club dinner on July 12th featuring a selection of library wines, and a 50th Anniversary Reunion and Community Celebration for 200 people at the winery on July 13th. In addition, Cuvaison will be releasing commemorative 50th anniversary bottlings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir crafted from special blocks of the winery’s historic estate vineyard in the Los Carneros appellation of Napa Valley.

Originally founded by Thomas Parkhill and Thomas Cotrell, Cuvaison’s inaugural vintage of Napa Valley Chardonnay was crafted in 1969. A decade later, Cuvaison was acquired by the Schmidheiny family. As fourth-generation vintners, the Schmidheiny family immediately began cementing Cuvaison’s emerging focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir by acquiring 400 acres of highly prized land north of San Pablo Bay in Napa Valley, establishing initial plantings for what would help establish the Los Carneros AVA. The site was selected for its ideal mix of clay and loam soils, and for its unique marine-influenced microclimate, where summer temperatures rarely exceed 80o F, providing ideal conditions for Burgundian varieties. In the years since, Cuvaison has been recognized for playing a key role in pioneering cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in California, while helping to catapult Napa Valley onto the global stage as one of the world’s most revered wine regions.

“When my mother first visited Napa Valley more than 40 years ago, she was so taken with the beauty of the land and its potential for making world-class wines that she brought home a sample of the soil in a handkerchief to show our family,” says Cuvaison’s owner, Thomas Schmidheiny. “Our family’s connection with the land has endured for over four decades. As one of California’s first post-Prohibition wineries, and an early champion of the cool-climate wines of Los Carneros, we are honored to have played a role in the storied history of Napa Valley.”

Working with longtime Winemaker Steve Rogstad, and renowned wine industry executive Dan Zepponi, who was named Cuvaison’s president and CEO in 2016, the Schmidheiny family is dedicated to keeping Cuvaison family owned for generations to come. “Over the last several years, we have worked to ensure that Cuvaison remains as relevant and dynamic throughout the next half century, as it has been over the course of its first 50 years,” says Zepponi, whose father, Gino Zepponi, cofounded ZD Wines the same year Cuvaison was established. “We have done extensive replanting of our 200-planted-acre estate, unveiled new wines, branding and packaging, as well as a new website, and have made significant investments in our winemaking and hospitality programs. We have also expanded our team to include Consulting Winemaker Scott McLeod and Viticulturist Kelly Maher to help focus our winemaking and winegrowing direction into the future.”

“When you look at the world’s most revered wineries, there are several common threads,” adds Zepponi. “They are often family-owned wineries that have spent generations focusing on a few core varieties, while nurturing a remarkable piece of land. They are also wineries that have helped to pioneer and define their regions, while making wines that captured the imagination of wine lovers with an intimate sense of place. These ideas have always been the cornerstones of Cuvaison, and they are the foundation we are building on as we look toward our next fifty years.”

Contact: Miriam Pitt, Miriam@jam-pr.com, 510.280.5795

Cantine Riunite & CIV join the acclaimed importer’s global portfolio of wines along with Bolla and Fontana Candida from GIV

NEW YORK, NY – March 12, 2019 – Frederick Wildman and Sons has entered into a partnership with Cantine Riunite & CIV. Effective June 11, 2019, Frederick Wildman will provide sales and marketing services for the Cantine Riunite & CIV portfolio throughout the United States along with Bolla and Fontana Candida from GIV. Founded in 1934, Frederick Wildman is recognized as one of North America’s preeminent importers with a portfolio of fine wines and specialty spirits. Cantine Riunite started producing wine in 1950 as a consortium in the Province of Reggio Emilia and has since grown to be one of Italy’s most admired wine producers.

“This new relationship brings diversity to our outstanding portfolio along with new resources and investment for further transformational growth,” said Frederick Wildman President and COO Marc Hirten. Frederick Wildman and Sons will maintain the current best in class distributor partnerships such as Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits and MS Walker, plus add the highly successful Riunite network including Republic National Distributing Company, Breakthru Beverage Group and Empire Merchants.

Frederick Wildman and Sons will maintain its existing fine wine division while adding a dedicated division for the newly represented brands. This will allow Frederick Wildman and Sons to continue calling on the premier dining segment along with a significant increase in focus on independent retailers and leading national accounts in both the on-premise and off-premise channels. For over 80 years Frederick Wildman’s fine wine portfolio has gained the respect of sommeliers, leading restaurateurs and fine wine retailers across the US. Our fine wine division will be enhanced through incremental resources including the addition of connoisseur wine ambassadors. This will allow us to further meet the needs of the preeminent fine wine retailers everywhere.

Corrado Casoli, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Frederick Wildman and Sons, expressed on behalf of the Italian shareholder, Gruppo Italiano Vini, his satisfaction for this important achievement of Frederick Wildman reporting that “thanks to this transaction the company earns a top position among US wine importers with the unique characteristic of offering both premium fine wines and highly distributed wines for US consumers.”

Pascal Jolivet commented on behalf of the French shareholders that “this is a momentous day in the continued growth of Frederick Wildman and Sons. These brands have tremendous marketplace importance in the US, which will benefit the entire portfolio including our fine wine business.”

ABOUT CANTINE RIUNITE & CIV
In 1950 a group of 9 wine producers from the Province of Reggio Emilia set up Cantine Cooperative Riunite. Eleven years later, 4 wineries from the Province of Modena followed their lead and founded CIV. In 2002, Cantine Riunite bought Cantine Maschio, leading Prosecco producer ranking among the top 3 in Italy. Cantine Riunite & CIV was founded in 2008 and became the hub of Lambrusco production and one of Italy’s leading wine companies. With 4,500 hectares of vines in Emilia and Prosecco areas, Cantine Riunite & CIV is the undisputed leader in the production of sparkling and “frizzante” wines in Italy. Cantine Riunite & CIV includes globally recognized wine brands Riunite, Cantine Maschio, Fratelli Cella, Albinea Canali and Movendo. For more information, visit www.riuniteciv.com.

Icons of Gin UK 2019 has awarded David Wilkinson as the proud recipient of ‘Distiller of the Year’, as well Edinburgh Gin’s Brand Home has received ‘Distillery Attraction of the Year’.
Congratulations to both!

Drinks International has named Pol Roger as the World’s Most Admired Champagne Brand in 2019, a magazine which ranks champagne brands from 1-30 based on the votes of the world’s top wine experts.

This is the sixth edition of the supplement, which is produced in collaboration with champagne expert Giles Fallowfield, and Pol Roger beat Krug to the top spot while last year’s number one Louis Roederer completes the podium.

The Drinks International Academy of professional wine experts now has more than 300 members who all vote in the definitive survery, which dictates the list of admired champagne brands.

Cuvaison and Brandlin Vineyard join the acclaimed importer’s global portfolio of wines.

NAPA VALLEY, Calif. – January 01, 2019 – Cuvaison Estate Wines, which includes Napa Valley’s iconic Cuvaison winery in Los Carneros, and Brandlin Vineyard on Mount Veeder, is excited to announce that it has entered into a sales partnership with Frederick Wildman and Sons. Effective January 1, 2019, Frederick Wildman will provide sales services for the Cuvaison Estate Wines portfolio throughout the United States. Founded in 1934, Frederick Wildman is recognized as one of North America’s preeminent importers, with a portfolio that includes Gruppo Italiano Vini, Champagne Pol Roger, Famille Hugel, Domaine Olivier Leflaive, Jean-Jacques Vincent/Château Fuissé and Domaine Pascal Jolivet.

“We are excited to be working with Frederick Wildman and Sons, and honored to be a part of their renowned portfolio of wines,” said Cuvaison Estate Wines President and CEO Dan Zepponi. “Like Wildman, we are a historic American wine company that has stayed relevant and dynamic because of our absolute focus on quality. While this focus hasn’t changed, the way in which wines are marketed and sold throughout the United States has. As Cuvaison celebrates its 50^th anniversary throughout 2019, this partnership will help to ensure that our next fifty years are as successful as our first fifty.”

As part of the strategic sales partnership, Cuvaison Estate Wines will realign its current distributor network with Wildman’s national network of distributors, which includes Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits in more than 30 states. Cuvaison Estate Wines Vice President of Sales Steve Richards will continue to oversee the company’s international sales, while working closely with Frederick Wildman’s acclaimed team to expand Cuvaison Estate Wines’ reach in the North American wholesale market.

“We are proud to partner with Cuvaison Estate Wines,” said Wildman President and COO Marc Hirten. “Not only do they have a rich and storied history, but Cuvaison’s focus on estate-grown, vineyard-driven wines helped to shape the modern era of California winemaking. In addition, Brandlin Vineyard has long been a leader on Mount Veeder, and is recognized for making exceptional mountain-grown wines. As a company that is dedicated to working with the world’s finest wineries, we are thrilled to welcome both Cuvaison and Brandlin to our portfolio.”

ABOUT CUVAISON ESTATE WINES

Cuvaison Estate Wines is an independent, family-owned Napa Valley estate vintner. Established in 1969, with the founding of Cuvaison winery in Napa Valley, today Cuvaison Estate Wines also includes Brandlin Vineyard on Mount Veeder. With an estate program that includes Cuvaison’s historic Los Carneros vineyard, which features over 200 planted acres largely devoted to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and the 48-acre Brandlin Vineyard on Mount Veeder, which is primarily planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and other red Bordeaux varieties, Cuvaison Estate Wines exclusively makes ultra-premium, estate-grown wines. For more information, visit cuvaison.com and brandlinvineyard.com.

In the region of Alto Adige in northeastern Italy, wine producers are often jack-of-all-trades, as they work with a wide range of grape types, most of which are ideally suited to the cool climate. You have famous varietals such as Pinot Grigio and Pinot Nero (known as Pinot Noir everywhere else in the world), but you also have Lagrein and Schiava, two red varieties you don’t find anywhere else. Finally, many producers also craft notable versions of Pinot Bianco, a nice everyday alternative to Pinot Grigio, and Gewürztraminer, one of the most distinctive whites from any wine region.

The region is a nice mix of independent producers along with cooperatives, companies where the grape growers are also members. One of the finest producers belonging to the former category is J. Hofstatter, situated in the town of Tramin.

Martin Foradori Hofstatter is the proprietor/winemaker here, and he’s an engaging, positive individual who has been one of the most consistent vintners in Alto Adige for more than a decade. Given that this is Alto Adige, I’d say that Hofstatter deserves more attention for the remarkable quality of his wines; perhaps if he were making wine in Piemonte or Toscana, he’d be better known. No matter, his wines are of excelllent to outstanding quality year in and out.

– Tom Hyland, 12/18/2018

This grand opening is the culmination of two full years of renovation works which began in February 2016.

Nuits-Saint-Georges, July 2018—On the 18th and 20th of June, Erwan and Eve Faiveley unveiled their new ‘38’ vat house in Nuits-Saint-Georges. The festivities catered to partners, local customers, fellow winemakers and the resident artisans who contributed to the project. As Erwan Faiveley explains, “this grand opening is the culmination of two full years of renovation works which began in February 2016.” ‘38’ refers to the new address of the cellars – 38 rue de Tribourg, Nuits St. George.

The ‘38’ building, as it is called, dates to 1823 and it previously served as a winery for the Crémants de Bourgogne production. It has housed Domaine Faiveley’s wines now for over 40 years. Chalon-based architect, Gilles Gauvain, was entrusted with the task of opening the vat house onto the vineyards and restoring the building to the style of its era, an era of industrial revolution and railways. This Eiffel-inspired style has been combined with state-of-the-art vinification facilities. Renovating the ‘38’ was the last step in a three-stage process that was implemented by Erwan Faiveley over the course of the last 11 years, just about when Erwan took over the business from his father. He made significant technical investments in Nuits-Saint Georges in 2007 to improve vinification facilities. To ensure consistently high quality, the second stage of the project involved fully renovating the Mercurey vat house in the spring 2016, and hence allow the domain style to come into its own and showcase their deep, smooth and intense wines.

As we approach the Domaine Faiveley’s 200th anniversary, the Faiveley family is happy and proud to make the ‘38’ an integral part of the Burgundian landscape. The ‘38’ in figures translates to a total of 14,299sq. ft. of renovated premises, to include: 6068sq. ft. for the Grand Cru and stainless-steel vat houses; a reception area; a 1500sq. ft covered courtyard, and over 6800sq. ft of cellars with a storage capacity for up to 2700 barrels! The Grand Cru vat house offers 36 ft. ceilings and houses 32 temperature-controlled, truncated wooden vats.

SANTI, Illasi, Verona — The Santi winery under the direction of celebrated winemaker, Cristian Ridolfi, has just launched a new wine, ‘VENTALE’, a Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC. The name Ventale means the winds and is a tribute to the winds that flow over the valleys of Valpolicella.

Ventale is predominantly made of Corvina, the grape which Ridolfi feels gives the wine its elegant, fruity style. The blend is 80% Corvina 10% Corvinone and 10% Rondinella from vineyards cultivated on coarse-textured calcareous marl soils. Grape bunches are hand-picked in the second week of October and fermentation takes place in truncated conical oak barrels called Tini, at a temperature of 22-24˚C, for about three weeks with unscheduled manual pumping over from barrel to barrel. In keeping with Ridolfi’s philosophy to use local woods to enhance Santi’s wines, the wine is aged for 18 months in 500L casks made up of 70% oak, 20% native chestnut and 10% native cherry-wood. Ruby-red in color with purple tinges, the 2016 Santi VENTALE has a fragrant and intense aroma with hints of ripe cherry, blackcurrant, blackberry and green pepper, followed by hints of cocoa and dried fruit. On the palate, its vibrant juiciness is accompanied by velvety tannins. The wine has a lingering and tangy aftertaste.

Founded in 1843 at Illasi in the province of Verona, the Santi winery dedicated itself right from the beginning to classic Veronese wines such as Amarone and Valpolicella and has always been distinguished by the quality level of its wines and for its attention to the most advanced vinification techniques. Ridolfi perfected his Valpolicella and Amarone skills at Bertani, where he stayed until 2015. Today, back at Santi, Ridolfi has a detailed knowledge of the Veronese wine lands—their origins, the terroirs as well as the particularities of what exactly has been developed to obtain the best interpretation of every valley. The deep knowledge of the local winemaking tradition and of the terroir where he works, has enabled Ridolfi to identify a clear winemaking philosophy that has become a cultural identity.

“To make contemporary wines following the fundamental principles of the Valpolicella tradition,” says Ridolfi, “is what I am about and what I am aiming for at Santi.”

The arrival of Cristian Ridolfi as oenologist and director of the Santi winery fits perfectly with Gruppo Italiano Vini’s (GIV) plan for further growth of the top of the range products. Thanks to his knowledge of the region, the Santi winery is set to become an important star in the Valpolicella wine panorama.”

Champagne Pol Roger is delighted that the Pol Roger Brut Reserve Non Vintage was served at the reception at Windsor Castle following the wedding of His Royal Highness Prince Harry of Wales to Ms. Meghan Markle on 19th May 2018.

Pol Roger and the Royal Warrant

Pol Roger, founded its House in 1849 in Aÿ, its native village. For the next 50 years and until his death in 1899, he carved out one of the most flattering reputations in the select circle of the leading champagne brands. Export sales developed rapidly, especially in England where the dry style is preferred. After almost 170 years, Pol Roger is proud to have remained fiercely independent and unrivaled in its reputation for quality by handcrafting champagnes internationally acclaimed by lovers of fine wines.

The Royal Warrant to supply champagne came in 1877… Any Royal Warrant may only be granted if a business has supplied goods and services to the Royal Household for at least five years…

Considering Pol Roger is very often referred to as “the most British of champagnes”, being granted the Royal Warrant is both very consistent with who we are and the utmost privilege the House could ask for. Let’s not forget that the very first bottle of Pol Roger was not sold in France but on the other side of the Channel! Were it only for historical reasons, Pol Roger’s fate was to be linked with the UK. And Sir Winston Churchill himself would not disagree!

Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd. Is proud to announce its appointment as national importer for Cantine BIGI, wines from Orvieto. The addition of the notable Orvieto estate, owned by Gruppo Italiano Vini (GIV), accompanies the already established 21-brand Italian estates Wildman portfolio.

Umbria is known as “the green heart of Italy” and is the only landlocked province in Italy. The region, located south of Tuscany, at a crossroads between the North and the South, between the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian seas has seen vines and wines since the ancient Etruscans. The Etruscans built Orvieto, Umbria’s capital in the province of Terni, on a tufa base (tufa is a variety of limestone), a key component in the Orvieto appellation’s terroir. The Romans, who conquered the Etruscans, called it Urbs Vetus (old city). The city’s name also graces Umbria’s most prestigious white wine, Orvieto, which Cantine BIGI has, for decades, been one of its most renowned producers.

Cantine BIGI was founded in 1880 and owns more than 600 acres planted to classic white and red grape varieties; the former most notably Trebbiano, Grechetto and Drupeggio, among others. Cantine BIGI provides authentic white and red Umbrian wines, with each bottling maintaining typicity in a modern and approachable style.

The Orvieto Classico DOC appellation was established in 1931 by the Italian Government; its vineyards cover the central and best areas of Orvieto. Those areas are the source of the grapes for BIGI’s Orvieto Classico DOC and Amabile wines.

BIGI wines will be available as of May 2018 through Wildman’s network of national distributors. The suggested retail price for the whites is $11.99.

Casimiro Maule, departing chief winemaker and director of Nino Negri, began his career at the historical winery in 1971. Maule was one of many young winemakers who vied for the job and was chosen by Sciur Carluccio (Carlo Negri), then owner of the winery.

Known as one of the most respected and admired oenologists in Italy, Casimiro was born in the Trento province but has worked all his professional life in Valtellina. He has 40 harvests under his belt spent amongst the vines, notwithstanding his numerous awards from around the world, including Winemaker of the Year 2007 from Gambero Rosso and eight ‘Tre Bicchieri’ honors received for the intrinsic value of the traditional Sfursat method that he championed with the ‘5 Stelle’ Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG.

Despite Casimiro’s numerous accolades, he has remained feet firmly planted on a ground he knows to be so difficult to work. The heroic nature of the viticulture in Valtellina (the use helicopters, forced manual techniques, most terraced vineyards), and the unique character of the Chiavennasca clone of Nebbiolo that Casimiro brought to the world stage, are just a few of the efforts Maule has brought to Valtellina which now enjoys a place on the viticulutral (world) map.

“I am proud to have been part of the Nino Negri/GIV family for so many years,” claimed Casimiro. “Lots of hard work allowed to me reach one of the highest positions of the wine sector both in Italy and abroad,” continued Maule, “I am now ready for my next venture—spending more time with my family and traveling with world with my wife, Marisa.”

Corrado Casoli, President of Gruppo Italiano Vini added, “I have asked Casimiro Maule to continue to be part of the Board of Directors of the Group and make his invaluable experience available to the representatives of the shareholders, thereby contributing to the future successes of GIV.”

Frederick Wildman and Sons, LTD., announces the addition of consumer-marketing veteran, Derek Blackburn to SVP, Marketing. Blackburn’s primary responsibility will be to oversee consumer, shopper and trade activities with Wildman’s already established team of professionals in the sales and marketing department.

Marc Hirten, President, Frederick Wildman and Sons, stated, “I am pleased to add Derek to our team and take the marketing of Wildman’s brands to a next and new level. Derek brings unsurpassed skills in leadership, strategic marketing and management that will lead us to new grounds in the promotion of our core brands and long-term business goals.” Blackburn was most recently SVP at BMC Strategic Associates, a leading beverage-related management consulting corporation. He led major projects aimed at identifying key strategic issues, such as marketing and competitive assessment, consumer shopper insights and brand building. Prior to BMC, Derek spent time in the wine and spirits industry with Diageo as SVP and GM in the US as well as Canada. Before entering the lucrative wine industry, Derek worked at Colgate-Palmolive in sales and marketing.

Hirten added, “The new organization structure at Wildman with the addition of Derek, allows us to continue to better develop the strategy of our company and the long-term path for building our core brands in the Wildman portfolio.”

Derek Blackburn’s appointment is effective, March 26th, 2018.

Frederick Wildman and Sons, LTD., announces the promotion of Martin Sinkoff to VP, Director of Education, Fine Wine and Spirits. In addition to this primary responsibility, Sinkoff has been named National Director of Bordeaux Sales.

Marc Hirten, President, Frederick Wildman and Sons, stated, “I am extremely pleased that Martin Sinkoff has accepted this new role at Frederick Wildman & Sons. Education is a key component in our business model and Martin will excel in this role. As National Director of Bordeaux Sales,” Hirten added, “Sinkoff will help build a footprint for our Bordeaux brands in our US distribution network. Both are critical in realizing our long-term strategy.”

Martin Sinkoff has been instrumental over the past ten years building our portfolio, helping to secure our valued supplier relationships and helping our sales and marketing teams grow. Both positions are considered critical to delivering our future strategy, vision, and mission. Martin’s appointment is effective, April 1, 2018.

Altia, the parent company to O.P. Anderson, has partnered with Frederick Wildman and Sons to introduce their well-known Aquavit to the US market. O.P. Anderson Original will be launched in the USA in the beginning of 2018.

“The addition of O.P. Anderson Aquavit to Wildman spirits portfolio will certainly bring much enthusiasm to the [national] marketplace,” says Tim Master, Director of Specialty Spirits Division. “The trend throughout the US continues to move toward niche quality spirits, and bartenders and enthusiasts are embracing them wholeheartedly.”

“We are excited to introduce O.P. Anderson to the US market. There is a growing interest in aquavits in the cocktail scene right now, which makes this modern classic very contemporary,” says Janne Halttunen, Senior Vice President in charge of exports at Altia. “Distribution will be built starting in the east coast with focus in the on-premise market.”

The tradition of adding herbs in spirits started out in herbal medicine and came to Sweden in the late 16th century. People began to drink this spiced aquavit for non-medical reasons and the foundation was made for a tasty Swedish tradition. In 1891, Carl August Anderson launched his own aquavit version, named it O.P. Anderson after his father, and seasoned it with caraway, aniseed and fennel, and matured in oak barrels for eight months. This is one of the oldest aquavits on the Swedish market and it is still one of the most popular. Since 2002, O.P. Anderson has been made from all organic ingredients.

Pascal Jolivet, 55, has the animated energy of someone constantly looking for a new thrill. His namesake brand celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, and the vigneron is showing no signs of slowing down.

Jolivet comes from a wine family. His grandfather Lucien and great-uncle Louis had both been chefs de cave at Pouilly-Fumé’s Château de Tracy and created their own négociant company in 1926. The young Pascal was working at the Pommery Champagne house when his father, Jacques, suggested he take over a small négoce firm he had bought a few years before. In 1987, at age 25, Jolivet got his feet wet as an entrepreneur in the wine business.

Soon, he wanted his own vines. He built a winery in 1990 and, in 1993, bought a 15-acre vineyard in Bué, just outside Sancerre, from his cousins.

He has gradually expanded over the years and now owns around 123 acres, both in Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé.

He drew on his experience with Champagne’s house-style model as he developed his vision for the Jolivet brand, starting with the regular Sancerre cuvée. “Here, we don’t have three varietals and one type of soil,” he says. “It’s the other way around: We have three types of soil and one varietal. The Jolivet Sancerre, I imagined it as finding harmony between limestone, silex and clay.”

Pascal Jolivet now makes more than a dozen cuvées. The higher-end, single-vineyard bottlings showcase the various terroirs of both Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. The limestone Sancerre Les Caillottes and clay-limestone Pouilly-Fumé Terres Blanches are both from 40-year-old vines. Two unfiltered cuvées—Sancerre Sauvage from limestone soils and Pouilly-Fumé Indigène from silex—are at the top of the range. The former was the first Jolivet wine to be made organically. The estate makes two other organic wines: Le Chêne Marchand, from limestone in Sancerre, and Le Roc, from a small silex plot also in Sancerre, which is fermented in one-third cement egg and two-thirds stainless steel.

As of this year, Jolivet plans to convert the entire single-vineyard range to organic winemaking, a continuation of his founding philosophy. From the beginning, he has strongly believed in indigenous yeasts, long natural fermentations and minimal amounts of sulfur. The wines age one year on the lees, none of it in oak, and none of the wines go through fining.

Looking around the winery, gravity-operated from sorting to bottling, one will find a cement egg here, an amphora cuve there. Jolivet is also in the early stages of trials with biodynamics.

A new face at the estate indulges him in his thirst for experimentation. In 2013, Jolivet’s longtime enologist quit suddenly, two months before harvest. Jolivet recalls saying to him, “OK, but you have to help me find someone, and they need to be better than you. And I’m not going to be around forever, so they need to be better than me too.” Valentina Buoso, 31, proved to be a perfect match. She had experience in Chile, Australia, New Zealand, Mendocino and Oregon and had completed a thesis on indigenous yeast. She has been with the domaine ever since.

New York, New York – November 1st, 2017— Marc Hirten has been named the new President and COO of Frederick Wildman and Sons as of November 1st.

Hirten comes to Wildman from William Grant & Sons where he was General Manager of Commercial Strategy. He has held positions previously with Moet-Hennessy and Diageo that have spanned across general management, strategy, sales and marketing.

“We are excited about Marc’s appointment as the new leader of Wildman”, said Corrado Casoli. “The Board of directors, made up of Gruppo Italiano Vini and the group of French Shareholders, has total confidence in this new appointment.”

On behalf of the French shareholders, Pascal Jolivet commented, “we are looking forward to working with Marc and successfully strengthening the company’s portfolio operations and national growth and distribution. As a seasoned veteran in the wine and spirits industry, Marc is, without a doubt, the right person to lead Wildman to continued success,” continued Jolivet.

Marc’s role will be to oversee sales, marketing, operations, finance, supplier and distributor relations as well as Wildman’s dedicated wholesale division. He will serve as the main point of contact for Frederick Wildman and Sons and will represent the company in all professional business capacities. Working alongside Marc, are Bill Seawright, (National Sales), Martin Sinkoff (Marketing), Jim DiCicco (Finance), Greg Taylor (Wholesale Operations), and their respective teams. Additionally, John Sellar will supervise the familiar world of Fine Wines and Spirits as Senior V.P., Fine Wines and Spirits/Business Development.

“I’m honored to lead Frederick Wildman and Sons and build on the company’s early successes,” said Hirten. “I look forward to pursuing the vision of Wildman’s namesake founder and dedicate myself to working closely with our supplier partners, distributors and employees in selling and marketing Wildman’s celebrated portfolio.”

Marco Gobbi, CEO of Wildman added, “I look forward to working closely with Marc and the dynamic Wildman team. The company is clearly poised for future growth and we will remain the dynamic industry leader we pride ourselves to be and continue reaching new heights.”

Marc resides in Fairfield, Connecticut with his wife Lisa of 32 years and are the parents of two adult children. He is a California native and spent many years in San Francisco and Napa Valley. He graduated from Santa Clara University with an Economics degree. Marc enjoys music, the beach, boating, fishing and playing paddle tennis.

With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, there is no better time to begin planning your Thanksgiving holiday menu and include the perfect wines to complement the always-abundant and scrumptious spread. HUGEL, of course, has a wine for each course!

Tricky job finding the right wine to go with the variety of tastes, textures and aromas that make up the never-ending repast. HUGEL is the brand! And, retailers across the nation will begin—on HUGEL DAY, NOVEMBER 4th—running wine specials on Rieslings, among other varieties, for this favored national holiday! Participants will offer FREE IN-STORE WINE TASTINGS & ‘a little something extra’ to get everyone excited. Exact times for times and locations will be listed on http://hugelday.com

Everyone can join in by posting a fun photo to Instagram, Twitter and Facebook by simply adding the hashtag #hugelday to a post.

From the FAMILLE HUGEL to yours—Cheers!

Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is privileged to announce its appointment as national importer for Weingut Dr. Fischer, the famed wines from Saar River, Germany. The addition of the prestigious estate, owned and managed by winemaker Nik Weis and Martin Foradori Hofstatter, enriches Frederick Wildman’s stellar, yet small, German-estate portfolio.

“We are delighted to expand our German portfolio with the wines from such an esteemed producer, Weingut Dr. Fischer”, said Wildman President, John Sellar. “German wines enjoy a special place in the fine wine market. We are glad to bring Dr. Fischer back to our large base of restaurant customers and fine wine merchants in the United States”.

In March 2014, Winemaker Nik Weis from Weingut St. Urbans-Hof on the Mosel and Martin Foradori Hofstätter from Weingut J. Hofstätter, Alto Adige, Italy, seized the welcome opportunity to participate in a joint ownership and revitalization of the historic Weingut Dr. Fischer-Bocksteinhof. The wines of Hofstatter are also imported by Frederick Wildman and Sons.

“I am delighted to have both brands now represented by Frederick Wildman and Sons in the United States” said Martin Foradori Hofstätter. “The company’s vision of the market, their experience with Rieslings from Germany, and my relationship with their management and their portfolio, made our decision an easy one”.

The historic Weingut Dr. Fischer estate is in Ockfen, a small village in a tributary valley near the confluence of the Saar and Mosel rivers in far western Germany. Written records of winemaking in Ockfen date back to the Villa Occava convent, which was founded in AD 975; viticulture, however, was brought to the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago, according to wine historians.

The Dr. Fischer estate is a member of the prestigious vintner association Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter (VDP) and its world-famous Bockstein vineyard has been meticulously demarcated and classified by the association as a “Grosse Lage”, the equivalent of a French Grand Cru vineyard – the peak of the VDP quality classification system. The Dr. Fischer-Bocksteinhof estate vineyards are planted exclusively with Riesling. In another project, Nik Weis and Martin Foradori Hofstätter, produce a wine from sourced grapes from the Mosel region called Steinbock. A “Bock” means ‘wild mountain goat’ in German, and “Stein” is a rock; the name reflects the fact this animal inhabits the steep slopes on the Mosel’s vineyards.

Weingut Dr. Fischer wines will be available as of September 2017 through Wildman’s network of national distributors.

Bruce Sanderson highlights the 2014 and 2015 vintages for white Burgundy, read excerpts below, read the full article at Winespectator.com

Combined with the young 2015s now arriving in the United States, these are the most exciting back-to-back vintages for white Burgundy since the 1995 and 1996 duo two decades ago, or 1985 and 1986 a decade before that. If you love white Burgundy, buy as many of the top wines from these two years as you can. In terms of overall quality, the 2014 vintage earns a classic rating of 96 points, while the potentially classic 2015 harvest receives a preliminary rating of 93-96 points until more wines are reviewed.

In an impressive showing, Domaine Faiveley produced three wines that earned classic ratings of 95 to 100 points on Wine Spectator’s 100-point scale: the Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet (97 points), Corton-Charlemagne (96 points) and Bâtard-Montrachet (95 points). “I think that the 2014 could be my best vintage since I started at Faiveley in 2007,” says winemaker Jérôme Flous. “I love the ’09s, but the ’14s have more freshness, more precision and more minerality. I think they will have a very nice evolution in bottle.”

Among the highest-scoring wines [is the] complex Olivier Leflaive (98 points)

From Chablis, the Billaud-Simon Chablis Les Clos 2014 (95 points) offers a core of peach, apple and mineral flavors matched to an opulent frame, and the Domaine Christian Moreau Père & Fils Chablis Les Clos 2014 (95 points) combines freshness and depth with a supple texture, embracing lemon-lime, Granny Smith apple, tart green plum and oyster shell flavors.

While the 2014s offer impeccable balance, delineated fruit and vibrant structures, the 2015s are riper, a touch more generous and fleshy, with the best examples possessing ample backbone and acidity for aging.

The best 2015s reviewed to date are a trio from Olivier Leflaive: its Chevalier-Montrachet Domaine (96 points), Montrachet (95 points) and Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine (95 points).

Having made excellent wines in both vintages, Olivier Leflaive winemaker Franck Grux understands their differences as well as anyone. “My global preference is for 2014, but I am satisfied with many 2015s, because I looked always for a fresh style,” explains Grux, referring to the early picking he did in 2015 to preserve acidity. “For me, 2014 is a more gentle season than 2015, except the hail episode [in June], which occurred mostly in Meursault.”

From the Côte Chalonnaise, Domaine Faiveley’s Mercurey White Clos Rochette 2014 (90 points) is a standout value.

Summer 2017— FOLONARI, the pioneering Italian brand that helped put Pinot Grigio on the (wine) map and on every household table in the US, has a new look for the Bag-in-Box line of wines! Amore, Italia– Folonari, available starting this September, is the perfect wine for those large-group gatherings!

The new redesign—slimmed down size and vibrant colors—comes after on-going quantitative and qualitative research projects that culminated in outlining the definitive demographics for Folonari and for the BIB format. The brand message—Amore Italia Folonari, The Passion of Italy in Every Bottle (or Box)—continues to capture the interest among the 24 – 45-year-old age group as well as the trade and our distributor partners.

“This target audience,” stated Francine Kowalsky, AVP of Marketing for Wildman’s Park Division, “is a group that makes most of its purchasing decisions at the point of purchase, in-store, and is attracted to packaging that speaks to the idea of authenticity, and tradition in a more modern way.” Kowalsky continued, “‘Folonari’ delivers just that!”

What to expect from Folonari’s new Bag-in-Box in 2017:

• Varietal, color-coded, slimmed-down boxes;
• Vibrant point-of-sale material, certain to attract the consumer and encourage product take-away at point of purchase;
• On-going Folonari brand messaging across all social media channels;
• Brand-dedicated website (www.folonariwines.com) and Facebook pages;
• Trade advertising;
• In-store promotions and displays.

The new Folonari BIB look will be available through Wildman’s network of US distributors as of September 2017. At a suggested retail price of $19.99 for a 3L box—that’s quite a deal for wine-savvy bargain hunters.

Summer 2017 – FOLONARI, the iconic brand which brings ‘the passion of Italy in every bottle’ as revealed in the ongoing ‘AMORE, ITALIA, FOLONARI’ campaign, has partnered this year with the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance. Joining forces with OCRFA gives Folonari a national platform to reach a larger audience and continue their fight against ovarian cancer with the ‘Time to Teal with Folonari’ campaign.

In its 7th annual mission, Frederick Wildman and Sons will continue working together with its trade partners—wholesalers, retailers and restaurants—in promoting Folonari as THE wine that ‘gives back’ to Ovarian Cancer Awareness. Throughout the month of September—Ovarian Cancer Awareness month—Folonari will donate .50c of every bottle sold, to the OCRFA, for up to $10,000.

“We are delighted to have partnered with such an important organization dedicated to advancing ovarian cancer research and awareness,” said Francine Kowalsky, AVP/Marketing for Folonari. “The organization has invested over $70 million in research and since 1998, helped secure over $2.2 billion in federal dollars to ovarian cancer research and awareness. We are hopeful that the ‘Time to Teal with Folonari’ campaign and the generosity and participation of the wine trade associated with Frederick Wildman, will help the alliance in raising more funds for this important cause,” continued Kowalsky.

Millions of consumers have been reached through wine promotions and tastings with retailers, restaurants and clubs since Wildman began the program began in September of 2010. Eye-catching retail displays and social media campaigns have generated visual awareness and creative activations. In a total of seven years, Wildman has ‘given back’ over $100,000 to this cause.

Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is honored to announce its appointment as national importer for J. Hofstätter, wines from Alto Adige. The addition of the prestigious Hofstätter estate, owned and managed by fourth-generation Martin Foradori Hofstätter, further enriches Frederick Wildman’s stellar Italian estate portfolio which spans almost all great wine producing regions of Italy and now includes the important Alto Adige.

“We are delighted to represent Martin Foradori Hofstätter, his family and their celebrated estate”, said Wildman President, John Sellar. “Italian wines are central to our portfolio and the arrival of Hofstätter from Alto Adige, a region up to now not present in our portfolio, is vital.”

Josef Hofstätter founded the winery in the year 1907 and is comprised of 124 acres of vineyards on both the west and east sides of the Adige River—the only family estate that can make this claim. With altitudes reaching 800 to 2600 feet above sea level, the estate is blessed with many singular microclimates which allow perfect ripening of both red and white varietals resulting in standout wines from Pinot Grigio, Pinot Bianco, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir and Lagrein among others. The Hofstätter wines are some of the highest expressions of Alto Adige’s terroir. The Gewürztraminer from the Kolbenhof estate and the Pinot Noir Vigna S. Urbano from the Barthenau estate are among the first single vineyard wines of these varieties to be produced in Alto Adige and always carry the Italian word “Vigna” (the equivalent to the french ‘cru’) in their name.

“I am delighted to be represented now by Frederick Wildman and Sons in the United States” said Martin Foradori Hofstätter. “The company’s vision of the market, my relationship with their management and their portfolio made our decision an easy one”.
J. Hofstätter wines will be available as of May 2017 through Wildman’s network of national distributors.

Churchill’s Port, the youngest Port Wine Company to be established in 50 years, is launching the “Celebrate New Traditions” international campaign to express the revival of traditions in the modern world. The campaign—Rethink Port Wine—goes in line with the company’s new brand positioning associating a sophisticated, fashionable, easier and more relaxed image of Port Wine—an effort to change consumer’s perception and connection with this traditional drink. The campaign has launched in markets where Churchill’s Port is being sold including Portugal.

Maria Emilia Campos, CEO of Churchill’s Port, offers ‘three moments’ in which the brand introduces the campaign:

1) Celebrate a new family tradition
“Grandparents are much more open to new things and the relationship with the younger generations has changed dramatically. The generational ‘moment’ shows a grandfather and a grandson sharing a Late Bottled Vintage Port bottle while they take a selfie together after a relaxed dinner in a modern restaurant…

2) Celebrate a different kind of Sunday afternoon…
In the fast pace in which we live the day-to-day routine, a normal moment can become very special. Presenting the parallelism between old and new traditions, the second moment of this campaign shows a father and a son in a traditional barber shop sharing a bottle of 10 Years Old Tawny Port, while the son cuts his hair and the father waits to trim his beard…

3) Celebrate a new “for me” moment
Today’s women are powerful and independent. Confronting the cliché that only men truly drink and enjoy Port Wine, the third moment of the campaign shows a woman enjoying a glass of Dry White Port on a terrace, while reading The New York Times…

To appeal to younger and bolder consumers, Churchill’s creative consulting agency—The Asteroid— selected ‘fashion-style’ photography, working with photographer Ricardo Lamego and Art Director Ana Trancoso, who regularly produce campaigns for major fashion magazines, such as Vogue and the like.

“Celebrate New Tradition” is another effort Churchill’s aims to challenge consumers to ‘rethink’ moments and traditions associated with Port Wine.

Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is proud to announce its appointment as national importer for famed Rhône producer and grower, Château Mont-Redon.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Abeille and Fabre families and their iconic and beloved Château Mont-Redon to our family and company. Château Mont-Redon is one of the world’s great estates. The estate’s Côtes du Rhône, Lirac and Châteauneuf-du-Pape bring depth and prestige to our Rhône offerings and perfectly complement our larger French portfolio”

Château Mont-Redon has been in the Abeille and Fabre families for four generations. The third generation, Jean Abeille and Didier Fabre, together with the fourth generation, Pierre Fabre (winemaker) and Yann Abeille (vineyard manager), are ready to continue the work at the domaine. Patrick Abeille, sales and administrative manager for the French market make it an ‘affaire de famille’.

Jerome Abeille, Commercial director for Mont-Redon, added: “we have fostered a recent close connection with Wildman and are excited in re-energize our brand in the United States and becoming a natural addition to the family-owned portfolio Wildman is known for.”

Château Mont-Redon owns 100 hectares of the most perfectly-sited vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. More than half of their vineyards are planted on the highest plateaus of the appellation—500 feet high. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grown in pebbly red soil, produce wines that are generous, powerful, tannic and concentrated. Thirteen grape varieties (white and red) can be used to make a Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine and Château Mont-Redon cultivates and vinify all thirteen.

The full line of Château Mont-Redon wines is available through Wildman’s network of distributors throughout the US.

Pursuing the vision of our namesake founder, Frederick Wildman and Sons is dedicated to sourcing, distributing and marketing the world’s finest wines and spirits to provide profit to our partner suppliers and distributors, a livelihood for our employees and pleasure to wine and spirit lovers throughout the United States.

Excerpt: “Looking ahead, Sellar says, “Our unique makeup of shareholder family brands and national distribution network positions us perfectly for strong, innovative growth.”

While the portfolio is based on such longtime suppliers as Christian Moreau and Olivier Leflaive, growth will come from recent additions, like Vidal-Fleury, Hewitson and Lungarotti, alongside a growing spirits lineup.

“Our portfolio with vital new suppliers complements our roster of stellar and second-to-none shareholders and partners,” says Martin Sinkoff, Wildman’s director of marketing.

He’s optimistic about Wildman’s position in an ever-more-competitive marketplace.

“We have now the best marketing team in our industry and offer services to our suppliers, sales managers, client distributors and retail customers that include Internet, social media, event planning, creative services, education, brand planning and promotion, competitive set analysis,” says Sinkoff.

Accordingly, and in tribute to that familiar Wildman oval—created by the Colonel and featured on every bottle that the company imports—the editors of Wine Enthusiast are pleased to recognize Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., as its 2016 Importer of the Year. —David Lincoln Ross

New York, November 10th, 2016—Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is delighted to announce it has been selected as “Importer of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Each year, Wine Enthusiast honors individuals and companies that have made outstanding achievements over the past year in the wine and beverage world. Wildman will be featured in the magazine’s special “Best of Year” issue, and will receive the award at a black-tie gala on Monday, January 30, 2017, along with winners from 15 other categories (some yet to be announced), at NOBU Eden Roc, Miami.

“I thank the Wine Enthusiast and am honored and privileged to accept this award on behalf of the entire team at Frederick Wildman and Sons”, expressed President, John Sellar. “Our team encompasses our employees, our shareholders and our amazing winery and distributor partners across this great country.” Sellar continues, “Special recognition should be given to Richie Cacciato, former President and CEO, who led the company for over 25 years to the prominence it enjoys now. He is an industry icon and a mentor to me.”

Pursuing the vision of the company’s namesake founder, Frederick Wildman and Sons, is dedicated to sourcing, distributing and marketing the world’s finest wines and spirits to provide profit to our partner suppliers and distributors, a livelihood for our employees and pleasure to wine and spirit lovers throughout the United States.
The familiar Wildman Oval—created by the Colonel and present on every bottle that the company imports—has remained constant and is still consistently recognized worldwide as a symbol of quality.

October 21, 2016—Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is proud to announce its appointment as national importer for famed Rhône producer and grower, Vidal-Fleury.

“We are excited to continue growing our Rhône Valley portfolio,” said Wildman President, John Sellar. “The Rhône Valley and Frederick Wildman have been a love story since our company beginnings and we are delighted to start a new chapter with this announcement.”

Founded in 1781 from its vineyard in Côte-Rôtie, Vidal-Fleury is the Rhône’s oldest continuing grower/négociant House firm. Thomas Jefferson’s visit in 1787 was its first contact with the United States; he called the wines “justly celebrated”. Guigal acquired the company in 1984, a logical union for the Vidal-Fleury and Guigal families, who had always worked together. Marcel Guigal’s father, Etienne, was the vineyard manager and cellar master, hired by Joseph Vidal-Fleury in 1924. When the Vidal-Fleury family decided to sell the House, as none of its heirs was available, it naturally turned to the Guigal family. As result, the company remains a family affair.

Philippe Guigal, managing director of E. Guigal, noted “We have completely renovated the Vidal-Fleury winery, wines and brand.

We intend to re-establish Vidal-Fleury to its rightful place as a leading producer from the Rhône Valley”. Guigal also noted “Vidal Fleury has been independent since my family acquired the firm in 1984. The wines, the brand and the distribution are unique to Vidal-Fleury and we not only intend to maintain this independence, we insist on it for the success of the company”.

Guy Sarton du Jonchay, managing director of Vidal-Fleury, added : “Starting our collaboration with Wildman, we have reviewed our quality and style ; we are releasing new wines from Vidal-Fleury that are, as is said in the United States, ‘game changers’. We are looking forward with excitement to re-energizing our brand in the United States with our partner Frederick Wildman and Sons”.

ABOUT FREDERICK WILDMAN AND SONS:

Importers of fine wines and spirits since 1934, the familiar Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., oval is found on every bottle sold and is recognized around the world as a symbol of quality assurance.
For more information on the new Rhône Portfolio wines., and all Frederick Wildman brands, please contact: Odila Galer-Noel @ (212) 230-0911 or o.galer-noel@frederickwildman.com. Visit facebook.com/frederickwildman.

Notes to Editors: Bottle Images, labels and samples are available upon request.

Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is proud to announce its appointment as national importer for Domaine de Bonserine and Domaine Philippe and Vincent Jaboulet. The new Rhône additions are part of Wildman’s plan to build a portfolio of Rhône-area family domains covering well-known appellations from North to South.

“We are delighted to renew our ‘relationship’ with the Rhône Valley,” said Wildman President, John Sellar. “Since the early days of Wildman, Rhône wines were an integral part of the portfolio and today, we are rebuilding a collection with domains, all family owned and operated.”
Domaine Philippe and Vincent Jaboulet was born in 2006 after the sale of Paul Jaboulet Aîné to the Frey family. Philippe, who previously managed Jaboulet’s vineyards and grape purchasing, retained 32 acres most notably from a parcel of the original ‘Thalabert’ vineyard in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. They have since added 37 acres to the newly-formed domain and have renamed the Thalabert parcel “Nouvelère” to commemorate the ‘new era’. The domain owns other vineyard holdings in Crozes-Hermitage; produces red and white Ermitage wines (the latter made from 100% Roussanne grapes), as well as a Cornas from a plot of 1.7 acres. The domain has received the HEV (High Environmental Value certification from the French Ministry of Agriculture, a recognition of the domain’s efforts to respect environmental practices.

“The partnership with Philippe and Vincent Jaboulet is an historic one, as we have fostered close ties with the Jaboulet family throughout the years,” added John. “Taking on the brand was a natural decision and an important addition to the family-owned portfolio Wildman is known for.”
In the town of Vereney, northeast of Ampuis and known for Côte-Rôtie wines, lives Domaine de Bonserine, an estate founded in 1962 and purchased by the Guigal family in 2006. Independently operated with its own winemaking, commercial and logistics teams, the domain specializes in Côte-Rôtie (27 acres in both Côte-Blonde and Côte-Brune) and Condrieu (about 2.5 acres). All vineyard work at Domaine de Bonserine is conducted following sustainable practices—no herbicides, chemicals or pesticides are ever employed. Three wines from Côte-Rôtie, and one Condrieu are produced by Domaine de Bonserine.

“Winemaker Stephane Carell, and estate manager, Ludovic Richard, produce wines that show purity, elegance and rare concentration,” says Martin Sinkoff, Vice-President, Director of Marketing at Frederick Wildman and Sons. “We are delighted to represent this exceptional team and domain.”

Both Domaine de Bonserine and Domaine Philippe and Vincent Jaboulet wines are available through Wildman’s network of distributors throughout the US.

Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is pleased to announce the appointment as national importer of Lungarotti wines from the Umbria region. The addition of this prestigious and iconic family property to the Wildman portfolio complements the highly regarded Italian Estates collection already sold by Wildman.
“We are delighted with the addition of such a respected estate”, said Wildman President, John Sellar. “Lungarotti’s signature wine Rubesco put Umbria on the world wine map in the 50’s,” continued Sellar, “and today, we are very proud to bring this historic estate and its beloved and acclaimed wines back to the states and include them on our Italian portfolio.”

Inspired by the passion for Umbria’s grape varieties, Giorgio Lungarotti decided to turn his family’s agricultural business in the 1950s into a specialized wine estate. Lungarotti is recognized for having campaigned for the creation of Torgiano DOC, one of the very first DOCs in Italy. The Lungarotti family owns two wineries, one in Torgiano on which they own approximately 600 acres, and the more recent one built in 2000, with holdings of about 50 acres in Montefalco. 2003 was the first vintage of the famous Sagrantino DOCG, one of Italy’s most characteristic indigenous grape varieties. As of 2014, the estate is organically certified and is a leader in the use of sustainable practices.

The estate presently run by Chiara Lungarotti (CEO) and Teresa Serevini (Enologist), is considered one of Italy’s most successful female-powered companies. Their mother, Maria Grazia focuses her time running the Lungarotti Foundation, a world-renowned museum of wine artefacts collected by the family since 1974, as well as the Olive and Olive Oil Museum created in 1990.
“The ladies of Lungarotti, Chiara and Theresa, are deeply bound to their region of Umbria and to their land,” explained Hilary Ruesch, Italian Estates Brand Manager for Frederick Wildman. “Following in the footsteps of Giorgio Lungarotti, they have ensured that the name continues to be synonymous with high-quality wines.”

The new partnership between Lungarotti and Frederick Wildman and Sons, ltd., is an exciting addition to 2016 and a move towards many more years of building Wildman’s Italian estates portfolio.

Frederick Wildman and Sons, Ltd., is proud to announce its appointment as national importer for Hewitson wines from the Barossa Valley, Australia. The addition of this young family-owned winery to the Wildman family blends perfectly with the rest of the expansive portfolio that caters to a demanding traditional, as well as, “New World” wine enthusiast.

Family-owned since 1987, the Hewitson family takes pride in being a globally relevant brand producing a range of wines that are both affordably delicious and iconic from the region. “’Family owned. Locally loved. Globally respected’ is Hewitson family motto”, states Francine Kowalsky, AVP/National Brand Marketing Director and Hewitson’s newly-appointed brand manager. “Hewitson brings a complete offering of ‘New World’ quality wine and quality experience from a region made up of ‘old world’ traditions. The style of the wine is one of balance, structure, elegant concentration without the fruit-bomb and alcoholic qualities.”

Family member and winemaker, Dean Hewitson completed his degree at Australia’s world-famous Roseworthy Agricultural College in 1986. After traveling throughout France and working vintages in Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne and Provence, to name a few, Dean went on to complete his Masters in Winemaking from UC Davis, California and then immediately immersed himself in the winemaking of wines from Santa Barbara, Napa and Sonoma as well as Oregon and Washington states.

Hewitson wines are almost exclusively made from single vineyard sites and are all vinified at the winery. The mourvèdre vines found at Hewitson date back to 1853 making them the oldest in the world! Soon to open will be a ‘cellar door’ (tasting room) and accommodations offering a true winery and vineyard experience in the heart of the Barossa Valley.

“I am having the time of my life working with family and bringing the family roots to the business”, explained Dean Hewitson. “All of our wines have some family connotation, such as our ‘Lulu Sauvignon Blanc’, named after my wife; ‘Ned and Henry’s Shiraz’, named after Ned and Henry Hewitson (Dean’s sons), and ‘Miss Harry’, named after Harriet Hewitson, his daughter. A family business to be proud of and working with Wildman means family,” continued Hewitson.

John Sellar, President of Frederick Wildman and Sons, adds, “the Australian category at the premium level is showing the beginning of a trend up. Our partnership with Dean puts us in a great position with a family that is dedicated to high-quality winemaking with a vision for the future.” Sellar added, “we have fostered close ties with the Hewitson family throughout the years while in our wholesale division, therefore taking the brand nationally is a natural addition to the family-owned portfolio Wildman is known for.”
The full line of Hewitson wines is available through Wildman’s network of distributors throughout the US.