Cosentino

The Company

Cosentino Signature Enterprises, Ltd., LLC (CSEL) is engaged in the production,
wholesale distribution, and retail sale of California varietal wines. The company is a Napa Valley-based winery with three properties that have been successfully combined to make a rare portfolio proposition in the Ultra-premium/Icon wine category. CSEL’s wines are sold through high-end restaurants, wine shops, and direct to consumers at the company’s wine tasting rooms or through CSEL’s wine clubs.

The Situation

The shareholders of CSEL were evaluating a number of options for the business, including the possible sale of the company to a strategic or financial buyer or a potential public offering. CSEL was in need of an adviser with deep knowledge of the industry that could assist with identifying and evaluating its strategic alternatives.

The Transaction

KPMG Corporate Finance was retained by CSEL to conduct a limited auction process to identify strategic and financial partners that offered an ideal combination of value and strategic fit with the company. Simultaneously, KPMG Corporate Finance assessed the option for the company to pursue a public offering. The shareholders ultimately determined that a public listing was the best alternative for CSEL. In November 2005, CSEL completed a public offering, simultaneous with a private placement, and was listed on London’s AIM Stock Exchange. KPMG Corporate Finance’s team advising the company consisted of a global team of specialists in the wine industry that added value to the process, through their deep industry knowledge, global relationships, and a local presence, to assist CSEL in a successful transaction.