Pernod Ricard has “completed” its high-end wine portfolio with the purchase of a majority holding in southern France’s Château Sainte Marguerite. The Provence-based winery, which has been in existence since 1929, secured ‘Cru Classé’ status in 1955 for Côtes-de-Provence rosé. Current owners the Fayard family will retain operational control, with Sainte Marguerite’s wines poised to sit alongside Pernod’s Mumm and Perrier-Jouet Champagne brands. Financial and stake size details were not disclosed. “Château Sainte Marguerite is one of the 18 prestigious ‘cru classé’ wines of Provence,” said founder Jean-Pierre Fayard. “We are delighted to pass another milestone in our development, both in France and internationally, thanks to the expertise of Pernod Ricard and its incredible distribution network.” As well as the two Champagne marks, Pernod’s wine presence also includes the Campo Viejo and Montana brands, both of which are positioned price-wise below Sainte Marguerite’s EUR16 (US$17.90) to EUR38 SRPs. Late last year, Stoli Group headed to Provence, purchasing Angelina Jolie’s holding in rosé winery Chateau Miraval, 75km north of Sainte Marguerite in the region. Supply Chain Special – What’s the impact on wine? - Click here for a Just Drinks comment