Posted on November 16, 2016
Ackley Beverage Group Purchases Merriman Vineyard in Oregon’s Yamhill-Carlton AVA
Seattle based private equity group brings resources to the Northwest wine industry
November 15, 2016 (Seattle, WA) – Ackley Beverage Group, a private equity company based in Seattle, purchased Merriman Vineyard located in the foothills of the Oregon Coastal Range in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA in November. The 44-acre vineyard was planted in 1999 mostly to Pinot Noir with a few acres of Chardonnay. The Merriman Vineyard will expand fruit sourcing for Montinore Estate, Oregon’s eighth largest estate winery, which Ackley Beverage Group partnered with earlier this year.
Merriman Vineyard is made up of marine sedimentary soils that create rich fruit flavors with a finesse and elegance found in the highest quality Pinot Noir. Wines produced from neighboring vineyards are already some of the most sought after, due in large part to this marine sedimentary soil. This flavor profile is a unique combination in the Willamette Valley and will bring additional complexity to Montinore’s wines. Montinore’s current estate vineyard is one of the largest Demeter Certified Biodynamic® vineyards in Oregon.
Rudy Marchesi, President of Montinore Estate, was instrumental in the selection of Merriman Vineyard. “I’m looking forward to working with this vineyard and using its high-quality fruit for our wines,” said Marchesi. “Our partnership with Ackley Beverage Group has provided Montinore with new resources. This current vineyard purchase will allow us to expand our existing portfolio of single-vineyard and ultra-premium wine offerings.”
Ackley Beverage Group partnered with Montinore Estate in February this year. Operations at Montinore continue to be steadfast with the winemaking and management teams focused on crafting world-class wines. Ackley Beverage Group’s professional team contributes sales, marketing and operational support to Montinore.
“We are impressed with the number of outstanding producers in the Northwest,” said Brandon Ackley, President of Ackley Beverage Group. “Our partnership with Montinore Estate is a perfect example of the positive results that can come when great existing teams share long-term strategic goals.”
About Ackley Beverage Group:
Ackley Beverage Group is a family investment company based in Seattle, WA that brings financial capital and professional resources to partners in the wine industry. With a deep appreciation for the world-class wines produced in Oregon and Washington, Ackley Beverage Group is dedicated to supporting premium artisanal brands throughout the Northwest.