DGB acquires a majority shareholding in Backsberg

DGB, a major producer-wholesaler, has concluded a deal to acquire the majority shareholding in Backsberg, that has been in the hands of the Back family for over a century. The transaction follows the sale of Backsberg’s main Simondium farm late last year.

Backsberg’s cellar equipment will be relocated to Franschhoek where the portfolio of wines will now be produced under the newly-formed entity Backsberg Family Wines – the new Backsberg winery will be housed in a property adjacent to the Franschhoek Cellars winery,

The transaction also includes the Kosher wines under the “Unorthodox” trademark, together with the Tread Lightly and Backsberg Sydney Back Brandy brands. The estate’s alembic brandy pot still will be incorporated into a new artisanal distillery DGB is building in Franschhoek under the name of The Old Road Distillery Co.

The Back family will continue its involvement with the brand, current Backsberg CEO Simon Back remaining as a director of the new business.