The Winebow Group Acquires Grape Beginnings, Expanding Distribution Network Into Minnesota

RICHMOND, Va., Sept. 1, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The Winebow Group, a national importer and distributor of fine wine and craft spirits, announced today the acquisition of Grape Beginnings of Minnetonka, Minnesota. The companies will combine their efforts in Minnesota and operate as Grape Beginnings, a member of The Winebow Group.

The Winebow Group was founded in 2014 with the merger of two companies that each date from 1980 with a focus on quality, education and customer service: The Vintner Group and Winebow. With the addition of Minnesota, The Winebow Group increases its distribution network to 17 states, including Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington D.C.

"We are thrilled to welcome Grape Beginnings into our family," said David Townsend, President and CEO of The Winebow Group. "Peter and Katie Carroll, who founded Grape Beginnings in 1995, have been our main distribution partners in Minnesota, where they are leaders in fine wine distribution. Their dedication to exceptional wines and the highest standards of customer service fits in line perfectly with our vision. We are very excited for this opportunity to expand our presence in the Midwest and to work with their impressive team in growing their operations in the Minnesota market."

"We congratulate The Winebow Group on the acquisition of our company," said Katie Carroll. "Peter and I have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with David Townsend and The Winebow Group team and we feel this is a natural next step for our company. Grape Beginnings and our staff will benefit from an expanded offering of exciting and highly respected brands, as well as increased levels of service and coverage."

"The Winebow Group and Grape Beginnings share a commitment to fine wine culture, education and excellent customer service, so we couldn't be more comfortable and proud to be a part of this highly respected organization," adds Peter Carroll. "With this acquisition, we are looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead."

Joe Siler will oversee Grape Beginnings as General Manager of The Winebow Group's Midwest region. Peter and Katie Carroll will stay on with the company, managing day-to-day operations.

The Winebow Group
The Winebow Group comprises national importer and distribution houses that offer comprehensive portfolios of fine wine and craft spirits from around the world. The company represents some of the most established, family-owned properties in prominent growing areas, as well as a new generation of winemakers and distillers who are dedicated to innovation and quality. With a focus on education and outstanding customer service, The Winebow Group's distribution network reaches nearly half of the wine consumption in the U.S. and includes the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington D.C. This unprecedented reach and level of service make the company unique in the fine wine and craft spirits sector. For more information, please visit TheWinebowGroup.com.

SOURCE The Winebow Group

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http://www.thewinebowgroup.com