Viña Carmen partners with Schenk Family to expand UK presence
The Chilean winery has announced a new strategic distribution partnership with Schenk Family in the UK. From this month, Schenk Family will manage the Carmen portfolio across both the on- and off-trade channels.
Under the new agreement, Schenk Family will distribute Viña Carmen wines, looking to accelerate growth and strengthen Carmen’s position in one of the world’s most competitive wine markets.
Schenk has revealed it will take “a multi-tiered approach” to building Carmen’s presence. On the one hand it plans to target the on-trade and specialist retailers with Carmen’s single-vineyard wines Carmen Gran Reserva, Carmen Delanz,and Carmen Gold Reserve, while on the other hand it will take a more “insight-led, marketing-supported approach” to Frida Kahlo by Carmen to deliver a more “consumer-focused offering.”
With this multi-tiered strategy, Carmen says, it will “lay the foundation for long-term brand growth.”
Shared vision
“This partnership brings together two companies with proud histories and a shared vision for the future,” said Terry Pennington, export director for the UK, ROI and Iberia markets for Santa Rita Estates, parent company to Viña Carmen. “Schenk’s premium offering, strong multi-channel presence, and outstanding reputation make it an ideal partner to take Carmen to the next level in the UK. Their deep roots, proven track record across major wine regions, and commitment to organic viticulture and sustainable growth ensure that together we can build a strong foundation for long-term success.”
Partner Content
Schenk Family, founded in 1893 in Rolle, is one of Europe’s largest family-owned wine groups. It takes over from Bibendum in managing the distribution of Carmen wines in the UK.
“Schenk Family UK are delighted to begin our partnership with Viña Carmen. Their commitment to producing authentic, sustainable, and high-quality wines aligns perfectly with our own values,” says Helena Martin, managing director of Schenk Family UK. “As a family-owned business, we share a common vision of bringing brands to life through compelling storytelling and genuine passion. We look forward to building a strong and successful relationship together.”
Schenk Family UK’s sales director, Andy Rawlinson, will act as the key point of contact for all Carmen-related enquiries in the UK.
Read our exclusive interview with Carmen winemaker Ana Maria Cumsille to find out why she is putting more than 12 different coopers through their paces to find the perfect barrel for Maipo Valley Cabernet.
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