Gallo to buy Edna Valley Vineyard

E. & J. Gallo Winery is reportedly set to buy Edna Valley Vineyard, a prominent winery on California’s Central Coast.

The terms of the deal have not been disclosed but it includes the winery in San Luis Obispo, the brand and 44 acres of vineyards, according to reports.

Edna Valley, a joint venture between global drinks giant Diageo and Paragon Vineyard Company, was founded in 1980 and produces around 300,000 cases annually.

The majority of its production is Chardonnay, but it also produces Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Niven family, which owns Paragon and has grown grapes in the region since the early 1970s, has agreed to continue selling grapes to Edna Valley’s new owners.

“Edna Valley will help us expand both our footprint in the Central Coast and in the Chardonnay category,” said Roger Nabedian, general manager of Gallo’s premium wine division. The deal is expected to close within a few weeks.

Gallo owns a second Central Coast winery, Bridlewood Estate in nearby Santa Ynez Valley, which it bought in 2004.