Energetic Mornington Peninsula vigneron Garry Crittenden will combine with the publicly listed Wine Investment Fund Ltd (Wine Invest) to dramatically expand the production of the Dromana Estate and Garry Crittenden ‘i’ label of Italian varietals. In a 75 acre deal which will incorporate the Mornington Estate vineyards and brand, Wine Invest will provide initial funding as a first step prior to a public listing within six months. Crittenden anticipates an initial capital raising of $5,000,000 resulting in a company with a market capitalisation of $10,000,000 before listing. He believes a lack of resources has prevented the brands from reaching their full market potential. Although the 2000 vintage will be completed at the existing Dromana Estate facilties, Crittenden anticipates the construction of new winery, possibly prior to the 2001 harvest. He will continue in his existing role of CEO, chief winemaker and director of the company and with Hugh and Isabelle Robinson of Mornington Estate will own 60% of the company’s initial capital raising.
