Fulkerson Winery News

(August 8, 2007) — More markets and a broader consumer base are expected as a result of the acquisition of Finger Lakes Premium Wines by Opici Wine Group of Glen Rock, N.J.

The consolidation, effective Sept. 1, means the sales staff for the distribution of products from the 16 Finger Lakes wineries that the company represents grows from three to 30, said Ron Reals, president of Finger Lakes Premium Wines.

Opici Wine Group is one of the largest independent and family-owned premium wine companies in the United States, distributing in the New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida markets. The company, which has operated for more than 70 years, wanted to expand its base in upstate New York, according to Patrick Botten, executive vice president and general manager.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"For Finger Lakes wines, this makes sense," said Derek Wilber, president of White Springs Winery near Geneva. "It's a great opportunity to broaden our distribution and presence."

Wilber said Opici has a good reputation, and he praised the company for bringing on Reals as New York state wine manager. "He knows the market and knows us (the 16 wineries) as a supplier."

Reals said he contacted Opici officials in April to discuss a possible deal involving his 4-year-old distributorship, which he said couldn't grow because of the size of its current sales staff. When Opici showed interest, talks began.

"I could not take the business any further without a significant investment," he said. "It's a very good opportunity for everyone involved."

Botten said the deal means more visibility for the wineries at the retail and restaurant level.

"We recognize the importance of the Finger Lakes region, which has gained more worldwide recognition," he said. "Opici wanted to be a part of that."

The Finger Lakes Premium Wines name will be retained and used in marketing, Botten said.

Reals said the deal will enable the wineries' business to grow in Albany, the Hudson Valley and the Adirondacks.

"Consumers will see better access to these products in more remote parts of the state and on restaurant wine lists," he said.

In addition to Wilber, several other wineries represented by Finger Lakes Premium Wines called the deal a good opportunity.

John Martini, president of Anthony Road Wine Co. in Penn Yan, Yates County, said Opici representatives met with the wineries last week to discuss the company's history and goals. Opici has a track record, good brands and a potential for growth, he said. "We got a good feeling from those guys."

John Earle, who, with his wife, Esther, owns Torrey Ridge Winery and Earle Estates in Penn Yan, said the consolidation will benefit everyone.

"It will open up more markets and ultimately the whole region will benefit," Earle said.