Burgundy’s Faiveley Family Takes Minority Stake In Williams Selyem

Burgundy’s famed Faively family has purchased an undisclosed minority stake in Russian River Valley Pinot Noir stalwart Williams Selyem. Financial details weren’t released.

In a letter to members of their mailing list, Williams Selyem owners John and Kathe Dyson said the move is part of their succession plan for the business, but that there will be no day-to-day change in winery operations now or in the immediate future, adding that they plan to stay in control for at least three years. Director of winemaking Jeff Mangahas and his team will in place as well. Williams Selyem has annual production of around 20,000 cases.

The Faiveley family has made wine in Burgundy for seven generations, and holds 331 acres of vineyards across the Côte de Nuits, the Côte de Beaune and the Côte Chalonnaise. Erwan Faiveley, the head of the domaine, said the family had been searching for the right opportunity in the U.S. for over a decade before striking this partnership. He’ll now join Williams Selyem’s advisory board. Wine Spectator has more on what the deal means for the future of Williams Selyem.—Daniel Marsteller

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