|
Talking
to Subhash Arora, Randy Dufour, export director of Inniskillin, a part
of the Vincor Canada, disclosed that the plans have been finalised with
Sula Vineyards at the recently concluded London Wine Show.
Inniskillin was founded by Don Ziraldo and was merged into Vincor Canada
which was bought over by Constellation, the biggest wine company
in the world. It commands a leadership position in icewine and has actually
brought the Canadian icewine industry on the world map, challenging the
existing, undisputed Germany and Austria.
Disclosing this to Subhash Arora at the ongoing Vinoble 2008 in Jerez,
on Monday, Randy also indicated that initially the flagship label, made
with the hybrid Vidal grapes will be sold in India. Riesling and Cabernet
Franc version may follow later.
Vinoble 2008 is the world's biggest and most exclusive wine show for
the display of sherry wines and dessert wines. Held bi-annually,
it has over 1200 participants from around 40 countries. Inniskillin is
one of the many icewine producers participating at the show. Today is
the last day for the 4-day show that opened on 25th when the weather
turned inclement with heavy rains blessing the show, followed by pleasant
weather on subsequent days.
The deal, if it becomes reality, will be a boost to Sula's import business,
which has taken an upward swing during the last couple of years. Also
this would be an entry for them in the super premium segment. They are
already planning to launch Heidsieck Monopole Champagne soon. Hardy's
label from Australia is also selling very well, making them one of the
10 biggest importers in India.
Talking of Hardy's, it is curious that both Hardy's and Inniskillin
are part of the same Constellation group. Is Sula getting more into Constellation
for its imports or is the later planning for some strategic alliance
with Sula in the domestic market?
Only time will tell as Rajeev Samant, the CEO of Sula won't. After spurning
the offers from Diageo, are their parlays going on between the two? Keep
watching this space.
Subhash Arora
May 28, 2008 |