Marchesi Antinori acquires full ownership of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

Marchesi Antinori and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates announce change of ownership of historic winery in Napa Valley.

Marchesi Antinori, one of the oldest family-owned premium wine companies, and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, the largest winery in the Pacific Northwest and among the best companies in the U.S. for producing premium wines, announce that Marchesi Antinori will acquire full ownership of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, after 16 years of partnership with the prestigious American company.

"There are few opportunities like this in a lifetime when an important and historic entity like Stag's Leap is available. I have to thank Ste Michelle Wine Estates for this opportunity given to us," says Piero Antinori, Honorary Chairman of Marchesi Antinori.

"It is a source of pride for me and my family to have the opportunity to confirm the promise made to my friend Warren Winiarski 16 years ago: to preserve the legacy and values of such a prestigious winery as Stag's Leap Wine Cellars," adds Piero Antinori.

"Over the past 16 years, it has been an honor to partner with the Antinori family, continuing the incredible story of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. We wish the Antinori family the best as they continue this journey in the future," says Shawn Conway, chief executive officer of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.

"Our roots-from our founding 90 years ago-are in the U.S. Pacific Northwest, and that is where the future of our company lies. This move allows us to better focus our energy and resources on the part of our business with the greatest growth potential: our portfolio in the Pacific Northwest territory." adds Conway.

The family is the only Italian producer to own a winery in Napa, where it has had a presence since 1985.

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is confirmation of Antinori's strong belief in the potential of this extraordinary terroir.

The ownership change will be effective by the end of June.