Glen Ellen, Calif.— The Wine Group has acquired Benziger Family Winery and Imagery Estate Winery in Sonoma Valley. Mark Burningham, who has worked with the family for almost 30 years, will take over as general manager of North Coast Operations. Chris Benziger, brother to Mike Benziger, will assume the role of vice president of trade relations at Benziger Family Winery, and Joe Benziger, also brother to Mike Benziger, will maintain his position as Imagery Winemaker, according to a statement released by the two companies.

The Wine Group is based in Livermore, Calif., and the third largest wine company in the world by volume. The company’s portfolio of brands includes Cupcake, Chloe and Concannon Vineyards.

“As we continue to move into the super- premium category, we have been thoughtful in our search for a winery that produces exceptional wines while sharing our values of integrity, social responsibility, and innovation,” said Brian Vos, CEO of The Wine Group. “The Benziger family is not only celebrated for its outstanding wine quality, but their strong team will be a great cultural fit within The Wine Group.”

Founded by the Benziger family in 1981, Benziger Family Winery is located on a biodynamically certified 85-acre estate adjacent to Jack London State Park in the town of Glen Ellen, Calif. Benziger produces a wide range of wines sourced from Sonoma County, with many of the grapes grown in its six vineyards located in the Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, Sonoma Mountain and Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak AVAs. The Wine Group will also acquire the Imagery Winery and tasting room, which is approximately two miles east of Benziger Family Winery.

“With the knowledge that we’re selling the winery to a privately held company that shares our values, now is the perfect time for me to pursue other passions.,” said founder and CEO Mike Benziger. “We are certain that The Wine Group will carry on the Benziger family’s legacy of quality.”