For The Love Of Port

Posted: **Thu Jan 24, 2008 9:34 am**

PRESS RELEASE

Quinta de Roriz: João van Zeller and Family Symington end amicably partnership

Quinta de Roriz, 24 January - João van Zeller and Family Symington communicate that after seven years of a productive association decided, the convergence of the interests and wishes of both sides, concluded amicably its partnership.

João van Zeller Family and Symington would like to record its satisfaction that the partnership has achieved since 2000, particularly with respect to improvements in the property vineyards and reconstruction of a new warehouse for winemaking DOC Douro wines in one of the historic buildings of the property. Moreover, the partnership produced at the Quinta de Roriz several wines of Vintage Port and Douro DOC of extraordinary quality, which have been successfully launched in world markets, and year after year earned from leading critics of the specialty rankings exceptional, and thus consolidating the unique identity and bisecular Brand "Quinta de Roriz."

Both João van Zeller as the Family Symington believe that the Quinta de Roriz is today an excellent position to continue its journey for themselves, and continue to develop its historic position as one of the most emblematic and míthic farms in Douro.

João van Zeller will announce today a new team which will in the future work with the Quinta de Roriz, and that in a period of transition work closely with a team of Symington Family until June 30.

The Family Symington would also like to send their best wishes of success for the future Quinta de Roriz.

Vila Nova de Gaia, January 24, 2008

This is a Symington Press Release

Posted: **Thu Jan 24, 2008 9:00 pm**

Joao,
Thank you for sharing this with us. I've read a lot about Quinta de Roriz & I really like the traditional way they make their VP's, as well as it's exuberant nature. It's not for everyone, but it's a fine wine. Roriz has certainly had their struggles over their long history. Since the early '90's they've been independent, with Noval and then with Symington. I guess they really want to be independent again. I hope things turn out well for them and I hope they continue to make fine VP.

BC

Posted: **Fri Jan 25, 2008 2:01 am**

In the early days, the reputation of Roriz was considerable, but it dropped out of sight after the Phylloxera disaster.

The wine has discreetly propped up several famous blends over the years before finally reappearing under it's own name with the Symington/Zeller partnership.

While the wines are all too young still, the reviews at release have been very promising - indicating a wine style that is unashamedly one for the long haul.

Hopefully, this change of management will not result in any change of approach.

Tom

Posted: **Fri Jan 25, 2008 1:25 pm**

Joao,

Thanks for breaking that news here. VERY interesting to say the least. I'd love to know which side made the decision, but in the end, it really doesn't make that much difference. I am always curious though.

Posted: **Fri Jan 25, 2008 10:52 pm**

Thanks João. Interesting to see this development! I've been impressed by the latest Roriz wines. I hope they continue to improve!
-Dave-

For The Love Of Port

Symington Family and João Van Zeller (Quinta de Roriz)

Symington Family and João Van Zeller (Quinta de Roriz)

Re: Symington Family and João Van Zeller (Quinta de Roriz)