Lalique Group SA, the esteemed Swiss luxury company, is expanding its opulent portfolio by acquiring the prestigious Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey vineyards in Bordeaux. This addition complements their existing range of offerings, including perfume brands, upscale hotels, gourmet restaurants, exquisite crystal artwork, and fine Scotch whisky.
In a statement released recently, the Zurich-based firm revealed its acquisition of a 75% stake in Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, a renowned Sauternes wine producer, for €18 million ($19 million) from its Chairman, Silvio Denz. This strategic move enhances Lalique’s presence in the world of luxury. The estate boasts the distinguished Premier Grand Cru Classé status and is situated in close proximity to the illustrious Chateau d’Yquem, owned by the LVMH fashion empire.
The deal is expected to be finalized in December and involves Lalique issuing new shares to Denz at 40 Swiss francs ($44) per share, thereby increasing his stake in the company to 53%. The announcement has already led to a 6.2% increase in Lalique’s shares, reflecting strong investor confidence in the acquisition.
This expansion into the vineyard business is not Lalique’s first foray into this sector. Two years ago, the company successfully completed a related deal with Denz, acquiring a 75% stake in the Sauternes domain’s chateau, which was subsequently transformed into a luxurious high-end hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant, set amidst seven hectares of picturesque land.
Lalique Group’s rich heritage is deeply rooted in the legacy of its founder, René Lalique, a French jeweler who initiated his collection in Paris in 1888. Over the years, the brand has diversified into perfume bottles, glassworks, and interior design. In 2008, Chairman Silvio Denz’s Art & Fragrance acquired the business, forming the foundation of today’s Lalique Group.
The company now not only offers a diverse range of luxury products but also distributes perfumes under renowned brands such as Bentley, Brioni, Gres, Jaguar, and Lalique itself. Additionally, Lalique Group owns a 50% stake in the Glenturret distillery in Scotland and oversees the Villa René Lalique and Chateau Hochberg, which includes top-tier restaurants and hotels in France’s picturesque Alsace region.
Lalique Group’s strategic expansion into the vineyard business is a testament to its unwavering commitment to delivering excellence and luxury across a wide spectrum of industries. This move further solidifies its reputation as a leading luxury conglomerate.