Pelican Brands will Import and Drive the National Rollout of Barking Sheep Wines from Argentina, the first Brand to be Launched Under this Agreement

Carmel, IN, USA – December 20, 2010 – Pelican Brands and Schwartz Olcott Imports, LLC (SOI Wines) jointly announced today the formation of a long term strategic agreement to launch Barking Sheep wines from Argentina following a successful limited test market in 19 states.

Barking Sheep wines are produced in Mendoza, Argentina, and are styled for the U.S. market. The launch will include a beautiful classic Malbec and a fresh clean fruity Chardonnay.

Barking Sheep wines are produced at Las Perdices by chief winemaker Carlos Muñoz, from high altitude vineyards 1,000 meters above sea level towards the Andes Mountains producing full bodied classical fruit.

During a one year limited test market at a major national chain Barking Sheep was the #1 red wine of all new featured red wines.

Norman Schwartz, Co-Founder & Chairman of SOI Wines said, “There are many fine importers who do a great job with established brands; however, without brand builders like Smoke Wallin and the Pelican team it’s impossible to build a national brand franchise.  With Pelican sharing our enthusiasm for Barking Sheep we are well positioned to rollout nationally and to launch other brands together”

J. Smoke Wallin, Chairman & CEO of Pelican Brands said “The Barking Sheep brand further expands the Pelican Brands wine platform to Argentina.  These wines offer the consumer great value with a fun attitude.  We have high expectations for their national rollout.”  Wallin continued, “Norman has created some incredible brands over the years.  We are very excited to begin our long term strategic partnership with The Barking Sheep brand.”


NOTE: I’m very excited to be working with Norman and the team.  Look for more exciting developments as we pool our resources!… Smoke