Pernod Ricard to close and sell Morris of Rutherglen Wines

By Andy Young

Pernod Ricard Winemakers (PRW), the owners and operators of Morris of Rutherglen Wines, has confirmed plans to close and sell the fortified wine producer.

PRW said it was closing the business as it wasn’t “sustainable” following a decline in consumption of fortified wine. The move will bring to an end 157 years of wine production by six generations of the Morris family.

In a statement about the decision, Pernod Ricard said "Regrettably, we have made the difficult decision to close our Morris Winery and Vineyard".

"The final date for the proposed changes is yet to be confirmed but we expect it to before the end of 2016, and we anticipate that the cellar door will close on the 31st January 2017."

The company added that as it remains committed to the future of the Australian wine category, it needs to prioritise resources to maximise the long-term growth potential of its other leading wine brands.

Angus Barnes, brand heritage manager of PRW, told Wine Business Magazine: "It’s a sad day for the winery. It’s a decision that has not been taken lightly or quickly."

Pernod Ricard bought the winery in 1970, but the Morris family has continued to work at the site and make wines since then.