Opici Wines & Spirits to Acquire Pacific Highway Wines 

Multigenerational importer and producer Opici Wines & Spirits has confirmed an agreement to acquire Pacific Highway Wines from owners Robert Oatley Vineyards and Giesen Group. From October 1, 2023, the Pacific Highway Wines brands and team will move under the umbrella of Opici Wines & Spirits and will be led by CEO Don Opici, with Mark Giordano taking on the role of president, Opici Wines & Spirits. “This acquisition is a unique strategic opportunity to add a complementary portfolio and drive growth for our national business,” Opici announced in an internal company memorandum. “Bringing the Pacific Highway Wines family into our Opici family business provides the opportunity to add resources to support national account and local sales efforts across the country. The multigenerational wine brands, luxury offerings, and innovative nonalcohol premium wines coming into our portfolio are spectacular. Together our portfolio sets us apart as one of the most coveted, family-centric importers in the U.S. today.” The Pacific Highway portfolio showcases family-owned and independent brands from coveted wine regions across the globe, with offerings from premium brands spanning Argentina, Australia, California, Chile, France, Italy, New Zealand, Oregon, Spain, and Uruguay. The portfolio offers category leadership in innovative nonalcoholic wine offerings, alternative formats, and certified-organic and fair-trade offerings.

Founded in 1913 and reestablished upon the repeal of Prohibition in 1934, Opici has been a household name for wine in the U.S. The portfolio showcases more than 40 brands from around the world, with an emphasis on Italian imports. With the addition of the Pacific Highway Wines portfolio, Opici Wines & Spirits business will exceed 1 million 9-liter cases annually. “Pacific Highway Wines had been poised for large-scale growth, and we opted to partner to take our brands to the next level at a much faster pace. We share a like-minded approach to the wine business with the Opici family and great camaraderie. Joining forces is a win-win for both sides of our businesses and each of the brands we represent. We are incredibly excited for this next chapter together,” says Giordano.