Sogrape, Portugal's largest wine company, has made significant strides in strengthening its presence in Spain with the acquisition of Viña Mayor, nestled in the prestigious Ribera del Duero region's "Golden Mile".
This strategic move underscores Sogrape's commitment to expanding its Iberian portfolio and consolidating its position in some of Spain's most renowned wine regions.
A Union of Passion and Legacy
The acquisition of Viña Mayor brings together the passions of the Guedes and Entrecanales families, marking a pivotal moment in both companies' histories. Founded in 1986 and known for its commitment to sustainability as a certified Wineries for Climate Protection member, Viña Mayor was among the pioneers in the Ribera del Duero Designation of Origin. Under the stewardship of Entrecanales Domecq e Hijos, Viña Mayor has carved out a reputation for producing high-quality wines that resonate globally among critics and enthusiasts alike.
Strengthening the Iberian Position
Sogrape's expansion into Ribera del Duero follows earlier strategic acquisitions in Spain. In 2012, the company acquired Bodegas LAN in Rioja, followed by Bodegas Aura in Rueda in 2018, each contributing to its growing footprint in the region. With Viña Mayor now in its portfolio, Sogrape not only bolsters its presence in Ribera del Duero but also enhances its capability to leverage its strong distribution network for both domestic and international markets.
Commitment to Quality and Innovation
Fernando da Cunha Guedes, President of Sogrape, emphasized the strategic importance of Ribera del Duero within Spain's wine landscape. "We have always believed in the quality and potential of the wines from Ribera del Duero," he stated. "This acquisition aligns with our vision to excel in the 'four R's' of Spanish wine regions—Rioja, Rías Baixas, Rueda, and now Ribera del Duero."
Gonzalo Entrecanales, President of Entrecanales Domecq e Hijos, expressed confidence in the partnership with Sogrape. "We are excited about the future prospects for Viña Mayor under Sogrape's stewardship," he commented. "This deal allows us to focus on our boutique winery projects while ensuring Viña Mayor continues to thrive."
Looking Forward
As Sogrape embarks on this new chapter in Ribera del Duero, its focus remains on maintaining the legacy and quality standards set by Viña Mayor. The region's unique terroir and vineyard management practices will continue to influence the production of its wines, ensuring they reflect the essence of Ribera del Duero's rich winemaking heritage.
Conclusion
The acquisition of Viña Mayor by Sogrape represents more than a strategic business move—it signifies a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation in Spain's esteemed wine industry. With a strong foundation in Portugal and an expanding presence across Iberia, Sogrape is poised to elevate Viña Mayor's brand presence both domestically and on the international stage, promising exciting developments for wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Source: Sogrape