Gallo announces purchase of Napa Valley’s Rombauer Vineyards

E. & J. Gallo Winery has announced the acquisition of Rombauer Vineyards in Napa Valley. The purchase price was undisclosed.

Founded in 1980 by Koerner and Joan Rombauer, the winery is one of Napa Valley’s most recognizable brands and had remained family owned for the last 43 years, with three generations at the helm.

Producing about 340,000 cases of wine per year, Rombauer is recognized for helping define the California chardonnay of the 1980s and ‘90s with its rich, buttery wines that appealed to the masses.

The acquisition includes the Rombauer Vineyards brand, three winery and production facilities, two tasting rooms and over 700 acres of vineyards in Carneros, Atlas Peak, St. Helena, Calistoga, the Sierra Foothills and Sonoma County, including Carringer Vineyards in Sonoma Valley, which the winery purchased last year.

“The Rombauer brand and family have built a reputation around quality and integrity,” said Joseph C. Gallo, vice president and general manager of Gallo’s Luxury Wine Group, in a press release Tuesday. “It’s an iconic brand rooted in distinctive and respected wines.”

He added that Rombauer’s “values, along with their long-term focus, align seamlessly” with Gallo's culture.

“Our shared goal is to honor and build on this legacy,” he said.

You can reach Staff Writer Sarah Doyle at 707-521-5478 or sarah.doyle@pressdemocrat.com. On Twitter @whiskymuse.