Inside the art of wine curation and how one leading importer builds its portfolio after 20 years in operation.

A collection of French wines in the Vintus portfolio.

When it comes to choosing wines for import, the decisions made by a company can define not just its portfolio but also its identity in a competitive global market.

These decisions are increasingly important as the global wine industry has struggled over the last few years due to several contributing factors, including inflation and climate change. According to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, global wine consumption fell to a 27-year low in 2023. In addition, global wine production saw a decline this year compared to the last, with 237.3 million hectoliters produced, a drop from 262.6 million hectoliters in 2022, according to Statista.

For Vintus, a wine importer that has experienced steady growth since its inception in 2004, curating the perfect collection is a blend of artistry and scientific precision. Throughout the last twenty years, the company has curated a portfolio featuring over 50 iconic wine brands from a diverse set of countries, including France, Spain, Italy, Argentina, and New Zealand.

Michael Quinttus, the founder and CEO of Vintus, shared during a Zoom interview that the company’s approach emphasizes a harmonious mix of smaller family-owned estates along with more widely recognized producers.

“When Vintus evaluates the possibility of incorporating a new wine brand into its portfolio, it seeks specific essential traits that resonate with its strategic vision, values, and market positioning,” said Quinttus. “The most crucial factor is the quality of the wine, which must have a distinct sense of place and showcase a brand’s dedication to excellence. Wine should be intimately connected to its terroir—comprising the geography, climate, and soil that play a vital role in shaping the wine’s features.”

He noted that the key challenge is balancing well-known, globally recognized producers with smaller, family-run estates that provide unique, artisanal wines. Every new addition to the company’s portfolio is a thoughtful choice, motivated by a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and authenticity.

“Our producers prioritize sustainable, organic, or biodynamic farming methods,” stated Quinttus. “Any new brand should reflect our commitment to providing premium and luxury wines.”

This approach seems to be paying off, as the company has experienced over 50% growth in the past five years. Quinttus points to significant decisions, like the establishment of Vintus’ own distribution branch in New York in 2019, as pivotal in this success.

“Relocating our office to Manhattan in 2020 and adding event and tasting spaces was another crucial investment,” he noted, emphasizing that these initiatives have enabled Vintus to connect more closely with its customers on both local and national levels. “This has allowed us to collaborate directly with restaurants and retailers to enhance our brands in the most vital fine wine market in the U.S.”

In addition to its operational growth, Vintus has greatly expanded the variety of brands it represents. Since 2020, the company has welcomed several domestic and international estates, including Gary Farrell, Marietta, and Iron Horse from Sonoma, as well as renowned names like William Fèvre Chablis, Château de La Chaize Beaujolais, and Juvé & Camps Cava.

Although the company is experiencing growth, it is also grappling with challenges within the industry, particularly related to changing consumption habits and economic pressures. Factors such as inflation, elevated interest rates, and a shift in preferences among younger consumers are affecting the wine sector overall.

Quinttus recognizes these hurdles but maintains a hopeful outlook.

“Luckily, our emphasis on premium wines positions us advantageously since demand in this segment has proven to be more stable,” he remarked. “There are positive recent trends in the economy, including strong employment figures, declining inflation, and the latest half-point interest rate reduction by the Federal Reserve, which should create a more conducive environment for the ongoing growth of our business.”

In light of the increasing appeal of ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and non-alcoholic alternatives, Vintus is actively seeking ways to broaden its product range.

“A significant long-term concern is the shifting consumption habits, as younger consumers are consuming less alcohol compared to former generations and are increasingly open to alternative products,” Quinttus stated. “By staying agile and responsive, we aim to address these industry challenges while maintaining our growth.”

Looking ahead, Vintus is poised for further expansion, particularly beyond its primary focus on wine. Quinttus highlights forthcoming additions to the portfolio, especially from Italy and Spain. The company also intends to invest in technology and process enhancements to improve its relationships with distributors and customers.

“We will also explore developing categories that complement our wine business,” Quinttus noted. “Non-alcoholic beverages are one example, and while spirits currently constitute a small portion of our business, they are certain to grow in significance in the coming years.”

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