Riverina and Barossa Valley winemaker Calabria Family Wines has acquired a piece of Australian wine history, McWilliam’s Wines.
The sale, which is set to be complete by April 30, will see the Griffith-based Calabria family take ownership of the McWilliam’s brands, intellectual property, and stock holdings as well as the Hanwood vineyard, winery and cellar door.
General Manager Michael Calabria said it was an honour to become the “custodians” of Australian winemaking history with the purchase.
“Despite recent challenges, we know the McWilliam’s name carries a long and prestigious reputation as one of Australia’s oldest wine producers,” Calabria said.
McWilliam’s was established in 1877 and has become one of Australia’s leading family-owned wineries.
With six consecutive generations of winemakers and over 140 years of experience, McWilliam’s has established a range of premium vineyard holdings across the Riverina and New South Wales.
“We are committed to honouring the McWilliam’s legacy as we bring their portfolio of outstanding wines into our very own,” Sales and Marketing Manager Andrew Calabria said.
Fifth-generation winemaker Greg McWilliam was pleased with the purchase and looks forward to working with the Calabria family.
“We have had a close and enduring relationship over many years and look forward to working with the Calabria family in the future,” McWilliam said.
As part of the transition process, Calabria Family Wines will work with KPMG and McWilliam’s to ensure a smooth transition as the business changes hands.