September 22, 2025 (Rolling Hills, CA) — Castle Rock Winery, one of the nation’s leading family-owned wineries known for producing high-quality, value-driven wines, today announced a new distribution partnership with Empire Merchants, New York’s premier distributor of fine wine and spirits.
Under this new agreement, Empire Merchants will manage Castle Rock Winery’s portfolio throughout New York, strengthening the brand’s presence in one of the most important wine markets in the country.
“Empire Merchants has a long-standing reputation for excellence and strong relationships across New York’s retail and restaurant trade,” said Greg Popovich, Founder and President of Castle Rock Winery. “As a family-owned winery, we are especially proud to partner with Empire Merchants to expand our reach in a key state while continuing to deliver on our commitment to quality and value for our customers.”
Empire Merchants will now distribute Castle Rock’s award-winning lineup, including its highly acclaimed Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé of Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The partnership also includes two of the winery’s fastest-growing projects: Kosmic Kitty Wines, a dynamic new lifestyle brand with bold, playful labels and fruit-forward varietals; and Dressage Wines, represented by U.S. Olympic Dressage rider Sabine Schut-Kery, who serves as the brand’s ambassador.
Recently, Castle Rock wines — including Kosmic Kitty and Dressage Wines — have received multiple 90+ point ratings from Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, and James Suckling, further cementing their reputation for exceptional quality at affordable prices.
“New York is one of the most competitive and influential wine markets in the country,” said Stephen Ross, Vice President & National Sales Manager for Castle Rock Winery. “By partnering with Empire Merchants, we gain not only their logistical strength but also their deep connections with key on- and off-premise accounts. This gives us the ability to introduce our Castle Rock classics, as well as exciting brands like Kosmic Kitty and Dressage Wines to a broad audience of retailers, restaurants, and consumers across the state.”
“Castle Rock Winery, Kosmic Kitty, and Dressage Wines are ideal additions to our portfolio,” said David Drucker, Executive Vice President of Sales for Empire Merchants. “Our team is deeply connected to New York’s on-premise scene — from the city’s world-class restaurants and hotels to its vibrant neighborhood wine bars. That gives us a unique ability to put these wines in the right places at the right time. Their reputation for quality and innovation, combined with our reach, ensures that consumers across New York will have greater access to these exciting wines.”
About Castle Rock Winery
Founded in 1994 by Greg Popovich, Castle Rock Winery is a family-owned winery dedicated to producing high-quality wines sourced from the finest appellations on the West Coast, while maintaining a focus on value pricing. With a diverse portfolio and a loyal following, Castle Rock has become one of the most trusted names in American wine.
About Kosmic Kitty Wines
Kosmic Kitty is Castle Rock Winery’s newest lifestyle wine brand, designed to engage a new generation of wine drinkers with playful branding and easy-to-enjoy varietals, including Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Priced at an accessible $12, Kosmic Kitty is rapidly expanding nationwide.
About Dressage Wines
Dressage Wines is a premium project from Castle Rock Winery, inspired by the artistry and precision of dressage riding. The brand is represented by U.S. Olympic Dressage rider Sabine Schut-Kery, who serves as ambassador, embodying the balance, elegance, and craftsmanship that define the wines.
About Empire Merchants
Empire Merchants, formed through the historic 2007 merger of Charmer Industries and Peerless Importers, is New York State’s premier distributor of fine wines and spirits. With more than 1,000 employees, a fleet of 300 delivery vehicles, and over 8 million cases sold annually, Empire Merchants represents some of the world’s most recognized and respected brands. The company’s influence in New York’s on-premise market — from Michelin-starred dining rooms to neighborhood restaurants and bars — makes it an unparalleled partner for family-owned wineries like Castle Rock that are looking to grow both heritage and lifestyle brands such as Kosmic Kitty and Dressage Wines. Its state-of-the-art distribution centers in Brooklyn, Coxsackie and Lyons, NY ensures efficient logistics across the entire state, solidifying Empire Merchants as a trusted leader in the beverage industry.
