Pioneering Rutherford estate at the heart of Napa Valley looks to the future
December 11, 2017 (Rutherford, CA) – VITE USA has entered into an agreement to purchase the historic Sullivan Estate in Rutherford, California. Future plans focus on enhancing the prestige and legacy of this unique property through a new long-term vision and significant investment in the vineyards, winemaking, hospitality and people. The transaction is planned to close in mid-January 2018.
Juan Pablo Torres-Padilla, CEO of VITE USA, states “Over the past five years we have explored the world’s most recognized wine appellations, seeking the right combination of winery and vineyards. We fell in love with Napa Valley and are very excited about this estate and its bright future. There are great synergies and shared values between us and the founding family, which is ideal for paying tribute to their legacy. It’s our intention to build on what they established to develop one of the most refined and sophisticated experiences in Napa Valley, while continuing to craft world class Cabernet Sauvignon.”
“We couldn’t be happier with VITE USA as the buyer of Sullivan Estate and are confident that our legacy is in good hands. My parents settled here in 1972 to farm Cabernet Sauvignon and were early visionaries in bringing together chefs, artists, and musicians from all over the world to create a top destination. The vision and passion of Juan Pablo and his group embraces what my family built and we are confident they will achieve great success going forward,” comments Ross Sullivan, President of Sullivan Vineyards & Winery.
Ross Sullivan will continue on as a long term strategic advisor to Juan Pablo and VITE USA. In addition, the winery’s well-regarded winemaker, Jeff Cole, will continue to focus on crafting small lot wines from the estate’s 23 acres of primarily Bordeaux varietals. Cole, a Napa County native, has been with Sullivan since 2013, coming from previous positions with Laetitia Winery, Windward Vineyards and Schramsberg Vineyards. He obtained a degree in Wine and Viticulture from California Polytechnic University in 2006.
“I have been impressed by the quality of Jeff’s wines. His attention to the vineyards and their sustainable health, as well as his application of the finest winemaking techniques, are essential to creating wines of distinction and elegance. I’m really looking forward to Jeff’s future vintages,” enthuses Torres-Padilla.
About VITE USA
VITE USA, a small group of experienced and successful international business people led by Juan Pablo Torres-Padilla, was created with the purpose of entering the fine wine industry in Napa Valley. This cohesive team has worked together for over 20 years and shares common values of long term relationships, meritocracy, effort, passion and excellence. The goal of VITE USA is to apply their approach to give rise to one of Napa Valley’s finest wineries and create a highly sought-after hospitality experience. Sullivan Estate, founded by a pioneering family in the coveted Rutherford AVA, provides a perfect opportunity for Torres-Padilla to apply his extensive experience and passion for wine to achieve these goals.
About Sullivan Vineyards & Winery – www.sullivanwine.com
Situated on Galleron Road, just a half mile from Hwy 29, the Sullivan Estate has been Rutherford’s Cabernet Sauvignon hideaway for over 45 years. Founded by Jim and JoAnna Sullivan in 1972, this 26-acre estate is known for producing small quantities of Bordeaux varietals in the heart of the Rutherford AVA, home to many of Napa Valley’s highly coveted Cabernet Sauvignon wines. The hospitality experience combines fine wine with fine art, and offers intimate table side seating amidst the estate’s plush gardens and peaceful reflection pond. Winemaker Jeff Cole is dedicated to crafting world class wines that reflect a traditional style and his mastery of today’s finest winemaking techniques.
