By Andy Young
Having recently bought Brand's Laira from McWilliams, Casella Family Brands has continued its program of expansion with the purchase of the Howcroft Estate Vineyards in South Australia.
Located in the northern part of the Limestone Coast area of the state, the Howcroft Estate's deal represents one of the first big vineyards deals of 2016.
Casella adds the vineyard to its growing portfolio, which includes Yellow Tail as well as Peter Lehmann, which it bought in 2014 and Brand's Laira, which was picked up at the end of 2015.
Fairfax Media reports that Casella paid just over $9 million for the 540 hectare property, which includes 412 hectares of planted vines.
When he purchased Brand's Laira, Casella's managing director John Casella said the company's vision was to champion "the South Australian wine industry in leading markets which will create many new opportunities for the business, our employees, partners and customers."
He added: "We have an exciting future ahead."
TheShout has contacted Casella Family Brands for comment on the Howcroft Estate Vineyards purchase.