Landmark Vineyards has added to its portfolio, agreeing to acquire Russian River Valley-based Hop Kiln Winery for an undisclosed amount.

 

Founded in 1974, Landmark is owned by Stewart and Lynda Resnick, who also own Fiji Water and Pom Wonderful among other brands through their $4 billion company, Roll Global.

 

The deal is the latest in a string of consolidations in the industry, and includes Hop Kiln’s 100 acres of vineyards planted in pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, which are currently highly attractive to buyers as vintners are seeking out premium grapes to produce more profitable high end wines.

 

““We are excited to integrate Hop Kiln’s historic estate and vineyards into our luxury wine portfolio,” said David Ricanati, President of Landmark Vineyards in a company statement.  “Hop Kiln’s vineyards further Landmark’s commitment to quality and match our dedication to producing handcrafted, ultra-premium wines from Sonoma County.”

 

Hop Kiln had been the focus of controversy last year, according to The Press Democrat, after the previous owners applied to the Sonoma County Board of Zoning Adjustments to expand the winery’s production and events business. After much push-back from local activists who claim that the area has become too congested, the board said it would allow the winery to increase its output from 20,000 cases to 30,000 cases, and would allow the construction of a 15,550 square foot production facility. However, it also allowed for only four promotional events per year out of the sixteen that were requested. The winery is allowed to partake in eight yearly industry events, and all outdoor events must end by 5pm and all indoor events must end by 9pm.
The winery appealed the decision, but the appeal has not yet come before the Board. Landmark has not disclosed if it will press the action.