Renowned California wine producer purchased in nearly $2 billion blockbuster deal

Founded in 1976, Duckhorn boasts a curated portfolio of premium wine brands, including Duckhorn Vineyards, Decoy, Sonoma-Cutrer.Photo byRodrigo AbreuonUnsplash

The Duckhorn Portfolio, a leading luxury wine producer in California's Napa Valley, has announced its acquisition by Los Angeles-based private equity firm Butterfly Equity. The all-cash transaction values Duckhorn at approximately $1.95 billion, with stockholders set to receive $11.10 per share—a 65.3% premium over the average share price over the past 90 days.

Founded in 1976, Duckhorn boasts a curated portfolio of premium wine brands, including Duckhorn Vineyards, Decoy, Sonoma-Cutrer, and Kosta Browne. Its wines are distributed across five continents and in over 50 countries. Following the acquisition, Duckhorn will remain headquartered in St. Helena, California, and continue operating under The Duckhorn Portfolio name.

Duckhorn President and CEO Deirdre Mahlan expressed optimism about the deal, stating it represents an excellent opportunity for stockholders and a strong future for the company. “Butterfly brings a proven track record of strengthening its portfolio companies while helping them advance their long-term strategic objectives,” Mahlan noted.