Vintage Wine Estates, Santa Rosa, Calif., has appointed Jeff Nicholson to the new role of chief operating officer. Most recently, Nicholson was an operating partner at AGR Partners. AGR Partners is an investment firm dedicated to food and agribusiness who acquired a minority equity stake in Vintage Wine Estates in April 2018. Nicholson will continue to be on the Advisory Board for AGR Partners.

Bodega Luigi Bosca | Familia Arizu, Mendoza, Argentina, announced that it has received a strategic investment from the Latin American fund of L Catterton, a global consumer-focused private equity firm.

In collaboration with South Norwalk, Conn.-based Direct Wines Inc., Virgin Wines, Largo, Fla., is introducing the ultimate club for wine and music fans, the company says. Since the 1970s, Virgin has been a major force in the music world. Through Virgin Wines, the brand is bringing together wines from around the world and curated playlists for each bottle. Additionally, Virgin Wines is releasing an exclusive selection featuring bottles inspired by some of the legends of rock, it says.

Vintage Wine Estates, Santa Rosa, Calif., has purchased wine brand Qupé. Founded in 1982 by Bob Lindquist, Qupé is internationally recognized for cool-climate, high-scoring Rhône varietals on California's Central Coast; notably Syrah, Grenache, Roussanne and Marsanne, the company says.

Miami-based Friends Fun Wine and FIFCO USA, Rochester, N.Y., announced their intent to enter into a strategic marketing and distribution agreement. The partnership allows the Friends Fun Wine brand to expand across the U.S. market. Friends Fun Wine features a collection of Fun Wine drinks with a 5.5 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) and 71-94 calories in each 4.2-ounce serving, and a slight effervesce. 

Prestige Beverage Group, Mendota Heights, Minn., announced that its Risata Wine brand, Moscato d’Asti offering will be available in 187-ml single-serve bottles.