Hill Smith Family’s Yalumba brand will be distributed by fine wine distributor John E Fells in the UK from 11 June. Credit: Hill Smith Family.

Australian wine-maker Hill Smith Family’s Yalumba brand will be distributed by fine wine distributor John E Fells in the UK from 11 June.

As part of the deal the Hill Smith Family will join other family wine producers the Symington family and Torres family as shareholders in Fells, which the Symington family, who own Fells, claims will consolidate the distributor’s position as one of the UK’s leading fine wine importers.

Hill Smith Family Vineyard’s Robert Hill Smith commented: “My family and the Yalumba team are excited by this venture with John E Fells and joining such respected wine people as the Symington and Torres families. Our Negociants team has done a wonderful job in the UK since 1990, but the time has come to align our aspirations with a new market approach.

“The Fells list is fabulous and our Yalumba and family estate folio sit comfortably within it. We hope to continue our success across all channels while making further impact on the HORECA channel and building deeper relationships with the independent trade.”

Symington Family Estates’ Paul Symington commented: “When my family originally bought Fells in 1976, none of us envisaged that it would occupy the position that it does today in the UK wine trade. It is with great pride that we now welcome the Hill Smith family into Fells, and we look forward to working with Robert, his family and their wonderful wines in the years to come.”

Yalumba was established by the Hill Smith Family Vineyards in 1849. It is best known for its Cabernet and Shiraz blend, but it also produces rosé and white wines.