Pernod Ricard, a global leader in spirits and wines, has finalized the sale of its strategic international wine portfolio to Australian Wine Holdco Limited (AWL), effective April 30, 2025. AWL, a consortium of institutional investors and owner of Accolade Wines, has merged these assets with its own to create Vinarchy—a bold new player in the global wine industry. First announced in July 2024, this deal marks a pivotal step in Pernod Ricard’s portfolio rationalization, freeing the company to focus on premium spirits and champagne.
Vinarchy unites iconic labels like Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, and St Hugo, spanning vineyards and wineries in Australia, New Zealand, and Spain. With annual production exceeding 10 million 9-liter cases and seven wineries under its belt, the company operates an integrated platform from grape to glass. Pernod Ricard will continue distributing these brands for a few months to ensure a smooth global transition, a move that underscores its commitment to operational continuity.
This strategic divestment aligns with Pernod Ricard’s push for premiumization, channeling resources into its powerhouse spirits lineup, including Absolut vodka, Chivas Regal, Jameson Irish whiskey, and Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes. The company retains a limited wine footprint in key markets like the U.S. and France, ensuring a targeted presence in the category.
Backed by investors like Bain Capital and Intermediate Capital Group, Vinarchy—its name blending “vin” (French for wine) and “archy” (Greek for leadership)—aims for category leadership. Operating 11 wineries across Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Spain, the company is poised to tackle the wine industry’s consolidation trend and evolving consumer preferences. Its portfolio, centered on global pillars like Jacob’s Creek and Campo Viejo, blends premium trade-up brands with local favorites, positioning Vinarchy to drive innovation and growth.
As Pernod Ricard doubles down on spirits and champagne, Vinarchy steps onto the global stage with ambitions to reshape the wine industry—a bold move amid shifting consumer tastes and mounting consolidation pressures.
Key Brands in Vinarchy’s Portfolio
- Global Pillars: Jacob’s Creek, Campo Viejo, Hardys
- Key Regional Brands: Brancott Estate (New Zealand), St Hugo (Australia), Azpilicueta (Spain)
- Production Scope: Over 10 million 9L cases annually, 11 wineries across four countries
