#USA #Hand Picked Selections #wine importers #fine wines #Warrenton, Virginia

Hand Picked Selections: A Journey Through 40 Years of Excellence

This year, Hand Picked Selections, a notable player in fine wine importing, proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary. Founded by Dan Kravitz in 1985, the company has not only built a stellar reputation for its French wine portfolio but also fostered relationships with independent winemakers, focusing on small to mid-sized family domaines. Under Kravitz's leadership, the brand was synonymous with quality, and its wines earned a devoted following, known for their superb balance and exceptional value.

A New Chapter

With the dawn of 2025, Hand Picked Selections transitions into a new era, one characterized by changes in ownership and management. Sunil Khanna, who has played a central role in the company since 2007 as General Manager, along with industry veteran Chris Desor, concluded a successful buyout on December 31, 2021. Khanna's extensive experience in operations and sourcing will complement Desor's strong sales and marketing background,
which spans over 25 years in fine wine distribution. Together, they are positioned as joint Managing Partners, ready to lead the famed importer into a future filled with promise.

Khanna expressed his enthusiasm about the change, stating, "Having worked with a mentor like Dan for over 15 years and then acquiring the business is incredibly special and a dream realized for me." Meanwhile, Desor remarked on the unique nature of their endeavor, saying, "We are essentially a 40-year-old start-up, and we see this as an exciting time for Hand Picked Selections!"

Strong Growth Amidst Change

Since the leadership transition, Hand Picked Selections has seen remarkable growth, boasting a more than 50% increase in sales. The new ownership duo is reinvigorating the company's approach by prioritizing organic, biodynamic, and sustainably-grown wines. Their emphasis extends to deepening representation in France and developing new partnerships in renowned wine regions such as the Rhône Valley, Burgundy, and Beaujolais.

Currently present in 42 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, and the Caribbean, the company is also gearing up for a wholesale operation in Virginia. Khanna and Desor are harnessing modern marketing strategies, including social media and technology, to engage with trade partners and consumers more effectively than ever before.

A Bright Future

The former owner, Dan Kravitz, is pleased with the transition and has retained an advisory role that allows him to guide the new team. He stated, “It was bittersweet to depart after dedicating my life’s work to Hand Picked Selections, but I am thrilled to leave it in such capable hands.” His sentiment underscores the bond created over years of collaboration and growth.

Hand Picked Selections is not just an importer; it is a conduit for artisanal wines from independently owned vineyards in France and Spain. The team emphasizes honesty and integrity in their business dealings, ensuring that every wine brings joy to its drinkers while maintaining pleasurable relationships with partners. The portfolio they manage includes traditional domaines and innovative winemakers who certainly represent some of the key benchmarks in the industry.

As they celebrate this significant milestone, Hand Picked Selections looks forward to many more years of success, contributing to the fine wine landscape while cherishing the values that have shaped their past. The next chapter for Hand Picked Selections is set to be as exciting as its rich history.

For more information about Hand Picked Selections and their curated wine offerings, visit Hand Picked Selections.