Lambert Estate is looking to reinvigorate its market position with an expanded distribution network and heightened brand focus available through Palmateer Wine Group. Founded by Gordon Palmateer in 2009, Palmateer Wine Group specializes in increasing sales and visibility for family-owned wineries across the United States.
“While many distributors have de-emphasized the category, we remain bullish on the quality and value of wines from Australia. We appreciate the opportunity to work with the Lambert family on developing the market here for their beautifully crafted wines,” says Gordon Palmateer. Palmateer Wine Group’s strategy is to rebuild distribution networks, clean up alignments, and create new interest one account at a time. In addition, U.S. businessman and transplant to AustraliaJim Lambert, who literally rebuilt the estate from the ground up starting in 2003replanting vines, will take on a more prominent role stateside as the Lambert family spokesperson, visiting key accounts.
“That hands-on commitment is reflected in the quality of the wines,” says Palmateer. In today’s market, with distributors looking for value supported by underlying volume, initial emphasis will be on Lambert Estate’s “Mustang Sally” Shiraz and “Black Sheep” Red Blend, each with an SRP of $18.
“After we open doors with those two wines, we can then follow with a premium offering, such as Lambert’s “Thoroughbred” Cabernet Sauvignon (SRP $33).” Another door-opener that has been especially well-received is Lambert Estate’s “The Chocolatier” (SRP $25), a singular aged tawny blended with dark chocolate.
“In light of the challenges posed by the current pandemic, Palmateer’s success in opening new accounts is especially impressive. It speaks to the fact that the 13-member Palmateer sales team has an average of 25 years’ experience in this business, and only takes on a few producers, which means you receive a lot of undivided attention,” said Jim Lambert.
New distribution has already been secured in Wisconsin, Illinois, Florida, and Texas, Washington, DC, and Maryland, with New York, California, Colorado, and North Carolina soon to follow suit.