The group that owns Stolichnaya vodka has acquired a minority stake in renowned Argentinian producer Achaval-Ferrer.
SPI Group, which owns the premium vodka brand as well as having shares in Tenuta dell’Ornellaia and Marchesi Frescobaldi estates in Tuscany, announced last week it had bought a ‘significant’ share in the Mendoza estate, for an undisclosed sum.
Santiago Achaval and Manuel Ferrer will remain in control of the board. Achaval will remain president and majority shareholder of the winery and will also sit on the Frescobaldi board.
Achaval-Ferrer winemaker Roberto Cipresso sold his shares in order to buy out his partners at his Montalcino-based winery Fattoria La Fiorita. He will continue to consult at the Argentinian winery.
Achaval-Ferrer is one of Argentina’s most lauded wineries. Its UK agents Corney & Barrow describe its principles as ‘not only to produce exceptional quality but also to remain faithful to the wines’ origins. This is fundamental to the company’s philosophy.’
Its three single-vineyard Malbecs – Finca Altamira, Finca Bella Vista and Finca Mirador – are produced from some of the highest vineyards in the world, from vines up to 80 years old.
Written by Adam Lechmere
