OREANDA-NEWS. SPI Group announces the appointment of Alejandro Rivara as CFO of Achaval Ferrer, the award-winning boutique winery located in Mendoza, Argentina. In his new role, Alejandro will lead the financial strategy for the winery and will be based in Mendoza.

SPI Group expanded their wine holdings in 2011 by acquiring a majority stake in Achaval Ferrer. This was the group's second successful venture in the premium wine sector following the acquisition, in 2006, of a significant stake in the prestigious Tenuta dell'Ornellaia, Castelgiocondo and Luce della Vite estates, all part of the Marchesi de'Frescobaldi family holdings.

“Alejandro's previous financial management experience and deep-seeded knowledge of the wine industry will be precious to growing our business within key markets both regionally and globally.” said Val Mendeleev, CEO of SPI Group. “I am very happy to welcome Alejandro to the group.”

Alejandro joins SPI Group from Familia Schroeder Winery, where he was CFO. Prior to Familia Schroeder Winery, Alejandro worked at Clos de los Siete S.A, managing all financial aspects of the vineyard and winery.

SPI group owner Yury Shefler, recently announced that the company is looking to expand its global wine business and the appointment of such new talent is a solid move in that direction.