Robert Hanson appointed CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio 

UK – Butterfly Equity, a U.S.-based private equity firm specializing in the food and beverage sector, has named Robert Hanson as the new CEO of The Duckhorn Portfolio, effective 1 February.  

The appointment follows Butterfly’s US$1.95 billion acquisition of the luxury wine company in October last year. 

Hanson, a seasoned industry leader, brings extensive experience from his previous roles at Constellation Brands, where he led the Wine and Spirits Global Portfolio from 2019 to 2024 and served on its board from 2013 to 2019.  

He will succeed Deirdre Mahlan, who will assist with the transition before transitioning to an advisory role. 

Commenting on the leadership change, Butterfly Equity co-founder and co-CEO Adam Waglay expressed gratitude for Mahlan’s contributions, stating, “Her efforts have positioned the company as a true leader in the luxury wine market.”  

Waglay added, “We are excited to welcome Robert, whose proven track record and deep experience make him the ideal leader to take Duckhorn into its next phase of growth.” 

Hanson expressed enthusiasm about his new role, saying, “I am honored to lead Duckhorn at such an exciting and pivotal time for the industry. The company begins this next chapter from a place of exceptional strength, with a proven strategy for growth and market expansion that I look forward to building on.” 

Founded in 1976, The Duckhorn Portfolio is renowned for its premium wine brands, including Duckhorn Vineyards, Decoy, and Kosta Browne. It distributes its wines globally to over 50 countries. 

The company recently expanded its portfolio by acquiring Californian Chardonnay specialist Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards from Brown-Forman in late 2023.  

Brown-Forman’s subsequent 21.5 percent stake in Duckhorn was valued at approximately US$419 million following Butterfly Equity’s takeover. 

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