Home News
by James Bailey
Published: July 09, 2024
Freixenet Copestick has entered into a strategic partnership with Spanish company Zamora to distribute its wines in the UK and Northern Ireland, starting from 1 September 2024.
Zamora, a family-owned company founded in 1946, is a leader in fine wines with a presence in over 80 countries. The partnership includes the distribution of Ramon Bilbao, Mar de Frades and Cruz de Alba wines.
At the forefront of the Zamora portfolio is Ramon Bilbao, celebrating its centenary and renowned for its Rioja wines. Freixenet Copestick will manage the entire Ramon Bilbao range, from the classic Crianza and Reserva to the exclusive La Lumba.
A prominent name in the Rías Baixas region, Mar de Frades covers 66 hectares and works with more than 200 vineyards. The range includes the flagship Albariño, the sparkling Albariño and other fine wines, all under the supervision of winemaker Paola Fandino.
Meanwhile, Cruz de Alba, a leading producer of biodynamic products in Ribera del Duero, has 40 hectares in the region’s “Golden Mile”. Freixenet Cubistique will distribute the entire range, including the famous Finca Los Huiales.
This collaboration comes after Henkell Freixenet, the parent company of Freixenet Copestick, took over the distribution of Zamora spirits in Germany in 2023.
“We are excited to enter into this partnership with Zamora,” said Rob Hilton of FXC. “We feel there is strong synergy between our businesses and believe we can help them grow their impressive wine portfolio.”
“This is an important year for Ramon Bilbao as we celebrate 100 years of modern and innovative Rioja wine production, and as the brand seeks to strengthen its presence in key countries in the international market,” added Jeremy Rockett, UK and Ireland Area Director for Zamora.
“Freixenet Copestick is one of the largest suppliers to the UK market, where we are seeing an increase in our customers. The company has a strong presence in the UK market, which is a vital channel for our wines. The company has the visibility, the tools and the access to customers, and we have the wines we need, from Ramon Bilbao, and sister brands Mar de Frades and Cruz de Alba, in the very sophisticated UK trade landscape.”