Who Owns Ruffino? A Look at a Famous Tuscan Brand's Journey

The history of the Ruffino wine brand, a name synonymous with Tuscan wine, is a fascinating case study in the modern global wine market. The journey from a family-owned business to a multinational powerhouse is a complex one, and the details of who owns what can be a bit confusing. Let's break down the facts.

The Folonari Family and Ruffino

The Folonari family did, in fact, own Ruffino for a very long time, having acquired the historic winery in 1913. They are widely credited with building the brand's reputation for quality Italian wine, particularly its iconic Chianti.

The Initial Split and Constellation Brands' Entry

The idea that the Folonari's initially split the sale between Constellation Brands and Kobrand is where the facts get a little muddled. The reality is more of a phased acquisition.

• In 2004, Constellation Brands, a global beverage alcohol company, acquired a 40% interest in Ruffino.

• The Folonari family, specifically the company MPF International, retained the majority ownership and management of the company.

• Kobrand's role was as a long-time U.S. importer and distributor for Ruffino. They had a strong relationship with the Folonari family, and this partnership was key to Ruffino's success in the American market. The ambiguity likely stems from this distribution relationship, as Kobrand was a significant partner for the brand's U.S. presence, even while ownership was changing.

The Final Sale to Constellation Brands

It took some time but Constellation Brands snapped up the whole company.

• In 2010, Constellation increased its stake to 49.9%.

• In 2011, Constellation Brands acquired the remaining 50.1% of Ruffino from MPF International, giving them full, 100% ownership.

The transaction solidified Constellation's position in the Italian fine wine market and gave them complete control over the Ruffino brand and its production facilities. The Folonari family, meanwhile, went on to focus on their other wine interests under the new company, Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari Tenute, which also works with Kobrand for U.S. distribution on some of its other brands, further adding confusion around Ruffino's ownership.

Who Owns Ruffino Today?

Based on public records and company announcements, there is no ambiguity. Constellation Brands is the sole owner of the Ruffino wine brand and its assets. The transaction was completed in 2011. While Kobrand was a crucial partner in Ruffino's history, their role was that of a distributor, not an owner. The legacy of the Folonari family lives on in the brand's heritage, but the company's future is in the hands of Constellation Brands, which continues to invest in and grow the brand on a global scale.