Constellation Brands secures Napa’s Domaine Curry, expanding its luxurious Prisoner Wine Co. range
Acquisition of Domaine Curry by Constellation Brands
After seven months of negotiations, Domaine Curry has been acquired by Constellation Brands from Coup De Foudre in Napa Valley for an undisclosed amount.
Ayesha Curry, the spouse of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors point guard Steph Curry, has divested her shares in the Napa Valley wine venture she co-founded with her sister-in-law, selling it to Constellation Brands.
Negotiations and Integration with Constellation Brands
Negotiations about a potential acquisition with Ayesha and Sydel Curry-Lee started in December 2022, according to Constellation. The prominent beverage company sought to strengthen its Prisoner Wine Co. range by integrating this esteemed Napa producer. The Domaine Curry label will now be incorporated into Prisoner’s portfolio of brands, which includes Prisoner, Saldo, Blindfold, and Unshackled. Domaine Curry wines, which have persistently received ratings of 94 or more in critical tastings, will now be crafted by Chrissy Wittman, the winemaker at Prisoner’s.
Exciting Opportunity and Collaboration
“The purchase of Domaine Curry signifies an exciting opportunity for us. It’s a brand founded by women of color, known for its entrepreneurial success, compelling storytelling, and community engagement. This acquisition will allow us to collaborate with Ayesha and Sydel to construct a luxury wine brand with cultural relevance,” expressed Bukky Ekundayo, the Vice President and General Manager of The Prisoner Wine Company. “Inviting them into The Prisoner Wine Company’s portfolio is consistent with our tradition of enhancing the luxury wine industry with innovative brands, wines, and principles..” According to Ekundayo, Curry and Curry-Lee will maintain a creative role in the brand.
Statement from Domaine Curry
A statement has been added to the Domaine Curry website: “We are absolutely delighted to unveil the magnificent news that Domaine Curry has been gracefully acquired by a truly illustrious entity led by a remarkable woman: The Prisoner Wine Company. Their proven, innovative, and trailblazing portfolio makes for an ideal partnership, allowing us to further develop our luxury wine offerings while maintaining cultural relevance. Together, we aim to deliver more high-quality Napa Valley wines, along with introducing new enticing blends and varieties.”
Social Media Announcement
Curry made the announcement on Instagram, sharing a series of stories about the sale to her followers. “Sydel Curry-Lee and I embarked on this exciting venture. Feeling blessed and enthusiastic,” she captioned one post.
Beliefs and Aspirations
In a unified statement, the former owners, Curry and Curry-Lee, shared their excitement about partnering with a company that aligns with their beliefs and aspirations. They also acknowledged the company’s commitment to sourcing, winemaking, and providing best-in-class DTC, e-commerce, and hospitality resources, which they believe will create more opportunities for women of color in the luxury wine industry.
Investment in Black and Minority-Owned Businesses
The incorporation of Domaine Curry is in line with Constellation’s plan to invest US$100 million in businesses owned by Black and minority individuals by 2030.
