Terroir Capital To Purchase Mulderbosch Vineyards
Monday, 6 December, 2010
Mulderbosch Vineyards
Stellenbosch, South Africa, December 1, 2010 - Terroir Capital, the California-based investment group focused on wine-related hospitality, recently entered into an agreement to purchase South Africa's Mulderbosch Vineyards, based in the Koelenhof area of Stellenbosch.
The Terroir team is headed by American Charles Banks, former partner in cult California Cabernet producer Screaming Eagle. The freshlyinked deal is scheduled to close later this month.
Mulderbosch has been imported into the US by premier South African importer Cape Classics for nearly two decades and has become one of the most sought-after and widely available premium South African wine brands in the American market. Widely recognized both at home and abroad as one of South Africa's top wine producing estates, Mulderbosch was recently invited to participate in Wine Spectator's first-ever "New World Wine Experience" as well as the elite Davos du Vin conference in Lake Como, Italy.
Banks and his Terroir Capital group were eager to invest in South Africa after their first visit to the Cape in 2008. "We are convinced of the immense global potential of fine South African wine, and are truly excited about the opportunity to build on the tremendous Mulderbosch legacy and enhance the already stellar reputation of this great brand," Banks remarked.
The Mulderbosch production team will remain in place under the new ownership, whilst Terroir plans to bring some fresh perspectives and new approaches to the brand. Andy Erickson, the winemaker for Screaming Eagle and other blue chip California estates, will lead the winemaking team, beginning with the 2011 vintage.
About Terroir Capital: Terroir Capital invests in, develops, and operates small ultra-luxury resorts and wine assets worldwide. Based in California, Terroir and its principals are owners of best-in-class hotels, wineries, spas and restaurants. A clear focus on fine wine, gourmet dining, and discrete understated accommodation and service, combined with a compelling business model, make Terroir Capital a unique investment partner in the acquisition, development and operation of luxury resorts and wine estates.
About Mulderbosch Vineyards: Founded in 1989, Mulderbosch quickly captured the attention and respect of the wine world with their racy Sauvignon Blanc, helping to create a reputation for South Africa as a source of world-class wines. Widely recognized as one of South Africa's finest producers, Mulderbosch has attained great critical and commercial success, crafting an award-winning range of wines that consistently earn top ratings and Wine Spectator "Smart Buy" and "Outstanding Value" accolades. The brand's distinctive labels were designed by former cellar master Mike Dobrovic, who found inspiration in a Cuban cigar band.