Robert Hanson Takes the Helm at The Duckhorn Portfolio

Robert Hanson Takes Charge of The Duckhorn Portfolio

In a significant leadership shift, Robert Hanson has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of The Duckhorn Portfolio, a leader in luxury wines in North America. This announcement follows a substantial $1.95 billion transaction involving Butterfly Equity, a notable private equity firm specializing in the food and beverage sector.

A Smooth Transition

Mr. Hanson will officially take on his new role effective February 1, 2025. He is set to succeed Deirdre Mahlan, who has been instrumental in leading Duckhorn and will assist during the transitional period. Deirdre’s guidance will continue, ensuring a seamless handover that will help set the stage for Duckhorn’s ongoing success.

Robert Hanson's Extensive Experience

Hanson brings with him a wealth of experience from the consumer brands sector. His most recent role was with Constellation Brands, where he oversaw the Wine and Spirits Global Portfolio from 2019 to 2024. His prior experience includes leading L Catterton-backed John Hardy and serving as CEO of American Eagle Outfitters. His career spans over two decades at Levi Strauss & Co., where he climbed the ranks to serve as Global President of the Levi's Brand.

The Duckhorn Portfolio: A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1976, The Duckhorn Portfolio is recognized for its premium winery brands, including Duckhorn Vineyards, Decoy, and Kosta Browne. It operates across five continents, offering luxury wines to consumers in over 50 countries. The brand is known for its commitment to quality and careful curation of its diverse offerings.

The Vision Beyond the Transition

Adam Waglay, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Butterfly, expressed enthusiasm about the future under Hanson's leadership. He stated, "Robert’s proven track record makes him the ideal leader to take Duckhorn into its next phase of growth." This sentiment reflects a broader confidence in Hanson's ability to leverage Duckhorn's existing strengths and capabilities to explore new avenues of growth and market expansion.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

During his announcement, Hanson remarked on the exciting times ahead for both The Duckhorn Portfolio and the luxury wine industry. He highlighted the company’s solid strategy for growth and expressed his eagerness to build on the existing foundation. The commitment to quality and innovation at Duckhorn aligns well with his vision for driving the company forward.

Partnership with Butterfly

Hanson is particularly excited about working alongside the established team at Butterfly, which has a holistic ‘seed-to-fork’ ethos. He appreciates their commitment to excellence, evident in all aspects of their business strategy. This alignment in values is expected to foster a strong collaborative effort in navigating the challenges and opportunities facing the luxury wine market.

A Bright Future Ahead

Deirdre Mahlan’s reflections on her tenure resonate strongly within the industry. She noted, "Our portfolio of winery brands has become synonymous with quality in the market." Her sentiments underscore the legacy that Robert Hanson now inherits, as he prepares to lead Duckhorn into an exciting new era.

About The Duckhorn Portfolio

The Duckhorn Portfolio has established itself as North America’s premier luxury wine company, possessing eleven wineries and over 2,200 acres of vineyards across multiple states and regions. With brands like Decoy and Sonoma-Cutrer under its umbrella, Duckhorn aims to provide a seamless experience for consumers, offering exceptional wines across a broad price range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the new CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio?

Robert Hanson has been appointed as the new CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio.

What experience does Robert Hanson bring?

Hanson has extensive experience leading major consumer brands, including roles at Constellation Brands and American Eagle Outfitters.

What is The Duckhorn Portfolio known for?

The Duckhorn Portfolio is known for its premium luxury wines, featuring brands such as Duckhorn Vineyards and Kosta Browne.

When will Robert Hanson officially take over as CEO?

Robert Hanson will officially become CEO on February 1, 2025.

What is Butterfly's role in this transition?

Butterfly Equity is the private equity firm involved in the recent transaction and is collaborating closely with Duckhorn's leadership team during this transition.

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