Constellation Brands has consolidated its presence within premium wine production by acquiring the US winery portfolio of Fortune Brands for $885m, amidst growing demand for higher quality products in the country.

The purchase will grant the company rights to a number of the US' leading wine brands such as Clos du Bois, Wild Horse, Geyser Peak along with five wineries situated in some of California's most prominent growing regions, Constelation Brands said.

Company spokesperson Mike Martin told BeverageDaily.com that the investment reflected the fact that US consumers simply want better wines.

He added that that the super premium and luxury wine categories were therefore two of the fastest growing areas for wine makers in the country.

"We are pleased that we have been able to take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen our position as the premium wine leader in the US marketplace and improve our ability to meet wine trade-up consumer trends," stated Group chief executive officer Rob Sands.

Although the investment will be concentrated specifically on meeting growing US demand, Martin said the group may consider pushing their new brands into other core markets like the UK and Western Europe.

"A specific integration plan for the acquisition has not yet been decided," said Martin.  "We will certainly look at further opportunities for profitability though."