Purple Wine Company expands into spirits
The owner of two California-based wine companies is readying to release an “artisanal” range of spirits later this year under a new umbrella company, Purple Wine and Spirits.
Purple Wine and Spirits comprises three divisions, including a “craft” spirits sectorFounded in 2001 by Derek Benham, Purple Wine Company produces branded wines and Sonoma Wine Company creates custom and private label wines.
Both companies will now fall under Purple Wine and Spirits, joined by a third “craft” spirits division called Graton Spirits.
Distillation at the firm’s distillery in Graton, California, West Sonoma County, is scheduled to begin mid-March with plans to launch gin and vermouth products this year, with hopes to eventually move into whiskey production.
“Over time, separate business units evolved to address specific customer needs,” commented Benham. “I felt it was time to harness the strength of all our capabilities to build the company as a whole as opposed to focusing on a single brand or individual item.
“We’re known as brand builders and will continue to create innovative new wine and spirits brands.
“Our commitment is to deliver extraordinary wines and spirits that surprise and delight our consumers.”
CFO Jeff Harris, who joined the venture in 2013, will take on the role of CFO/COO under the new business and will be in charge of operations including production, winemaking, wine contract services and finance and administration.
David Francke will come on board as executive vice president, sales and marketing, while Lisa Ehrlich will move into the position of executive vice president, branding and innovation.
Holly Evans has been appointed as director of communications.
