Boisset partners with Monterey’s Lockwood

Burgundy-based Boisset has added to its portfolio of California producers by entering into a strategic partnership with Monterey's Lockwood Vineyard.

Jean-Charles Boisset: ‘soil reminds me of Chablis’

Under the terms of the deal, Boisset will add the 75,000-case winery to its Boisset Family Estates portfolio, handling sales and marketing around the world.

Meanwhile, Lockwood founders Paul Toeppen, Phil Johnson and Butch Lindley will retain ownership of their vineyard, which currently has 670ha under vine.

Boisset vice-president Jean-Charles Boisset said the deal offered an ‘immense opportunity’ to showcase the food-friendly profile of Monterey’s wines.

He added: ‘With Lockwood, I was immediately struck by a Chardonnay reminiscent of southern Burgundy – Pouilly-Fuissé and Mâcon-Villages in particular.

‘Simultaneously, the soil profile reminds us somewhat of Chablis as each boast the influence of fossilised sea shells.’

The vineyard, which was established in 1980, produces estate wines from Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec.

Paul Toeppen said Lockwood’s founders were ‘excited’ by the prospect of finding a partner to continue ‘the legacy of the Lockwood brand’.

Boisset’s California producers already include DeLoach Vineyards in the Russian River Valley, Raymond Vineyards in the Napa Valley, Buena Vista in Carneros and Lyeth Estate in Alexander Valley.

Written by Richard Woodard