Seattle, WA (May 14, 2024) — Ackley Brands, a family-owned beverage company in Seattle with a portfolio of iconic brands across the Pacific Northwest, proudly announces its milestone acquisition of Betz Family Winery. The Woodinville, Washington winery will retain its operations team, including longtime winemaker Louis Skinner and consultant Bob Betz, MW. With the purchase of Betz Family Winery, SUNU and The Untold Story wines, Ackley Brands makes a strategic move in premium Washington wine and solidifies its commitment to quality.
Established in 1997 by Cathy and Bob Betz, MW, Betz Family Winery holds an esteemed position in the domestic wine landscape. Bob Betz, a rare Master of Wine and winemaker, brings decades of expertise, notably from his tenure as VP of Winemaking Research at Chateau Ste. Michelle. In 2011, Betz Family Winery sold the business to Bridgit and Steve Griessel. Over the past several vintages, they’ve built a strong reputation as one of the country’s premier producers of Bordeaux and Rhône-style red wines. Betz wines continually receive high acclaim from international critics and have created a loyal DTC following.
The acquisition of Betz Family Winery expands Ackley Brands’ footprint in Washington and neighboring Oregon. SUNU, Betz Family Winery’s sister brand in the Willamette Valley, offers vineyard designate bottlings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. SUNU aligns with Ackley Brands’ existing Oregon portfolio, which includes Montinore Estate and Landlines Estates, both champions of Biodynamic® viticulture in the Willamette Valley.
Brandon Ackley, the driving force behind Ackley Brands, expressed his admiration for Betz Family Winery. “When I entered the wine industry, Betz was a priority on my list of wineries to engage with—I hold immense respect for the individuals behind these notable wines. This acquisition marks another milestone in our pursuit of stewarding historic and iconic brands,” Ackley said.
Steve Griessel explained, “Bridgit and I had huge shoes to fill with the purchase of Betz Family Winery from Bob and Cathy and are so grateful for Bob’s continued guidance to this day. It’s now time to pass the baton to another family equally passionate to be the custodians of Betz Family’s next chapter. We have found that family.”
“We are inspired with the vision that Brandon has to grow and strengthen the Washington wine industry, and we are thrilled that Betz Family Winery has been included in this journey,” said Bridgit Griessel. “The Ackley stewardship is additive; we are confident the wines will continue to reflect our quest for quality and the significance of vineyard precision and expression.”
“With its recent acquisitions, Ackley Brands has made an unmistakable statement about its commitment to the future of Washington wine. I’m eager to see Betz Family as part of this dynamic portfolio,” said Bob Betz, MW, who will remain a consultant for the winery. In 2023, Ackley acquired Washington’s famed Mac & Jack’s Brewery. Just last month Ackley announced the acquisition of two of Washington’s famed heritage brands, Columbia Winery and The Hogue Cellars.
The acquisition closed on May 10, 2024. Ackley Brands is committed to preserving Betz Family Winery’s legacy while ushering in a new era of growth and innovation.
Erik McLaughlin, CEO of METIS, LLC, represented the seller during the transaction.
ABOUT ACKLEY BRANDS
Ackley Brands, headquartered in Seattle, WA, is a family-owned enterprise renowned for its premium beverage brands throughout the Pacific Northwest. With a passionate and discerning team, Ackley Brands curates a diverse portfolio that pays homage to the distinct regions and terroirs from which they originate. From the vibrant cityscape of Seattle, Washington, to the serene landscapes of Northern Italy, Ackley Brands marries tradition with innovation, crafting beverages that embody the essence of their origins. For more information, visit ackleybrands.com.
