California’s Rodney Strong Wine Estates has strengthened its presence in the state’s Russian River Valley appellation, acquiring River West Vineyard.
The transaction, for an undisclosed sum, brings a further 335 acre of vineyard under Rodney Strong’s control. According to the company, River West has provided a “single vineyard source” of Chardonnay for its brands since the late 1970s.
As well as Chardonnay, the vineyard is also planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel vines. Rodney Strong’s footprint in California’s Sonoma County, home to Russian River Valley, now totals just under 1,160 acres.
“Our acquisition of this vineyard, which is perfectly situated on West Side Road in the heart of the Russian River Valley, … is an important step of our ‘Ladder to Luxury’ strategic plan that will drive our winery in the coming decades,” said senior VP of winegrowing and winemaking Justin Seidenfeld.
Almost exactly a year ago, Moët Hennessy bought Joseph Phelps Vineyards, which held 13 vineyards in both Napa and Sonoma Valleys in the state.
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