September 10, 2025 (Sancerre, France) — Albert Bichot USA today announced new distribution agreements in California following the recent changes in RNDC’s California operations. These partnerships ensure uninterrupted access to Albert Bichot USA’s esteemed portfolio of imported and domestic wines, reaffirming the company’s commitment to quality service and long-term growth in the U.S. market.
Effective immediately:
- Winebow will represent the Albert Bichot USA import portfolio, including Domaines Albert Bichot, Maison Lorgeril, Champagne Mandois, Joseph Mellot, C’est la Vie, and Horizon de Bichot.
- The Albert Bichot USA domestic portfolio, specifically Merryvale Family of Wines (Merryvale, Starmont, Profile), can now be purchased at Mosaic Wine Alliance in Southern California, and Astoria Wine Group in Northern California.
“This transition marks an important step forward as we strengthen our footprint in California,” said Jim Opalka, President of Albert Bichot USA. “By partnering with Winebow, Mosaic, and Astoria, we ensure that both our international and domestic portfolios are represented with the same dedication to excellence, accessibility, and sustainability that defines our producers.”
“For producers of fine wines, choices have often been limited between large portfolios or boutique distributors,” said Pierre Lemieux, Founder & CEO of Mosaic Wine Alliance. “Mosaic bridges this gap with a knowledgeable team and a selective, family-owned portfolio. Our partnership with Albert Bichot USA and the Merryvale Family of Wines reflects that mission.”
“We’re proud to partner with Albert Bichot USA in bringing the Merryvale Family of Wines to Northern California,” added Mark Ellis, President of Astoria Wine Group. “For over 30 years, Astoria has represented producers who combine heritage, quality, and innovation, and Albert Bichot USA embodies that ethos.”
The announcement comes at a time when Albert Bichot USA continues to expand its reach across the U.S. with a curated portfolio that blends multi-generational European producers with pioneering American wineries.
“Winebow is excited to represent the import portfolio of Albert Bichot USA in California,” said Dean Ferrell, President and CEO of Winebow. “We appreciate the portfolio’s extraordinary craftsmanship from multi-generational, family-owned wineries, each with respect for the environment.”
About Albert Bichot USA
Albert Bichot USA is a leading wine importer of esteemed French wines, including Domaines Albert Bichot as well as Maison Lorgeril, Champagne Mandois and Joseph Mellot. The national sales team, led by President, Jim Opalka, are known for their fine wine expertise, industry relationships and extraordinary service to their brands, which extend beyond sales to marketing, brand development and a long term commitment to client relations. The group continues to build its portfolio with exceptional brands that represent a similar core philosophy and that are focused on quality and eco-responsibility.
About Winebow
Winebow is a national importer and distributor, offering a dynamic portfolio of fine wine and spirits from around the world. Since 1980, the company has represented some of the most established properties in prominent growing areas, as well as a new generation of winemakers and distillers who are dedicated to innovation and quality. Winebow Wholesale’s national distribution platform comprises 18 markets, covering 60 percent of the wine consumption in the U.S. Winebow Imports services all U.S. States and Territories, representing over 130 estates from Europe (Heritage Portfolio), as well as the Southern Hemisphere and emerging domestic areas (Pioneer Portfolio). Winebow Imports balances its impressive growth with a culture of specialization and excellence. For more information, please visit www.winebow.com.
About Mosaic Wine Alliance
Mosaic Wine Alliance offers personalized attention to customers and wineries through a dedicated wine knowledgeable staff that covers all of Southern California. Their proven strategic approach through the industry creates a seamless process to offer next day delivery service to the vast customer base in the territory.
Since 1991, Mosaic Wine Alliance has navigated an increasingly complex and competitive wine market, while continuing to give the highest level of service to both winery partners and customers.
The core focus of the organization is specialization and knowledge of their wines. A deep understanding of the wine world and its secrets guide Mosaic Wine Alliance in positioning wines and wineries in the marketplace. With a strong legacy plan in place, Mosaic Wine Alliance continues to build on decades of success in California and capitalizing on long-term relationships formed since their inception and the proud team behind every achievement.
About Astoria Wine Group
For over thirty years, Astoria Wine Group desired to connect exceptional wines with those who truly appreciate them. Our diverse team of industry professionals, from Sommelier to winemaker offer decades of experience in wine brokerage, hospitality, and import/export, giving us a unique perspective on both the artistry and the business of wine.
