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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)


ý

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period December 31, 2002

or

o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                              to                             

Commission File Number: 1-14305


GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

DELAWARE   77-0412761
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

607 AIRPARK ROAD, NAPA, CALIFORNIA

 

94558
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(707) 254-4900
(Registrant's telephone number,
including area code)

NONE
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year,
if changed since last report)


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

        ý Yes            o No

The number of shares of the Registrant's Class A and Class B Common Stock outstanding as of February 13, 2003 was 4,342,528 and 5,170,459 shares, respectively.





GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Item No.

  Page

PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION


Item 1—Financial Statements


 


 
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2002 and June 30, 2002

 

3
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and Six Months Ended December 31, 2002 and 2001

 

4
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Six Months Ended December 31, 2002 and 2001

 

5
 
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

6

Item 2—Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

10

Item 3—Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

18

Item 4—Controls and Procedures

 

19


PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

Item 4—Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

26

Item 6—Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

26

2



PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements


GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(UNAUDITED, IN THOUSANDS)

 
  December 31,
2002

  June 30,
2002

 
ASSETS              
CURRENT ASSETS:              
  Cash and equivalents   $ 873   $ 59  
  Trade and other receivables—net     15,887     9,823  
  Inventories     33,765     33,976  
  Refundable income taxes         1,067  
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets     403     253  
   
 
 
      Total current assets     50,928     45,178  
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT—Net     68,000     69,936  
ASSETS HELD FOR SALE     11,039     16,216  
OTHER ASSETS     1,426     1,483  
   
 
 
TOTAL ASSETS   $ 131,393   $ 132,813  
   
 
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY              
CURRENT LIABILITIES:              
  Bank line of credit   $ 16,000   $ 14,500  
  Cash overdraft         978  
  Accounts payable     2,300     6,904  
  Payable to growers     1,645     182  
  Payroll and related liabilities     917     918  
  Accrued interest     240     410  
  Other accrued liabilities     190     521  
  Income taxes payable     654      
  Deferred income taxes     385     204  
  Current portion of long-term debt     5,803     6,508  
   
 
 
      Total current liabilities     28,134     31,125  
LONG-TERM DEBT     26,347     30,039  
DEFERRED COMPENSATION     775     733  
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES     11,602     10,483  
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:              
  Common Stock:              
    Class A common stock, par value $.01; 6,000,000 shares authorized; 4,342,528 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2002 and at June 30, 2002, respectively     43     43  
    Class B common stock, par value $.01; 54,000,000 shares authorized; 5,192,343 shares issued at December 31, 2002 and at June 30, 2002     52     52  
  Additional paid-in capital     45,058     45,058  
  Retained earnings     19,528     15,426  
   
 
 
    Total common stock, paid-in capital and retained earnings     64,681     60,579  
  Treasury stock (21,884 shares at December 31, 2002 and June 30, 2002, respectively)     (146 )   (146 )
   
 
 
    Total stockholders' equity     64,535     60,433  
   
 
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY   $ 131,393   $ 132,813  
   
 
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

3



GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(UNAUDITED, IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

 
  Three Months Ended
December 31,

  Six Months Ended
December 31,

 
 
  2002
  2001
  2002
  2001
 
REVENUES:                          
  Bulk wine   $ 19,408   $ 22,163   $ 29,127   $ 29,838  
  Wine grapes     898     311     1,355     2,249  
  Case goods     4,459     6,065     11,064     12,031  
  Brandy and spirits     6,578     7,421     7,613     9,241  
   
 
 
 
 
      Total revenues     31,343     35,960     49,159     53,359  
COST OF SALES     23,910     27,582     37,030     42,015  
   
 
 
 
 
GROSS PROFIT     7,433     8,378     12,129     11,344  
GAIN ON SALE OF VINEYARD ASSETS     1,578         1,578      
SELLING, GENERAL AND
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
    (2,689 )   (2,773 )   (5,143 )   (5,426 )
   
 
 
 
 
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS     6,322     5,605     8,564     5,918  
INTEREST EXPENSE     (1,204 )   (945 )   (2,216 )   (1,784 )
   
 
 
 
 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES     5,118     4,660     6,348     4,134  
INCOME TAXES     (1,826 )   (1,613 )   (2,246 )   (1,431 )
   
 
 
 
 
NET INCOME   $ 3,292   $ 3,047   $ 4,102   $ 2,703  
   
 
 
 
 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:                          
  BASIC   $ 0.35   $ 0.32   $ 0.43   $ 0.28  
   
 
 
 
 
  DILUTED   $ 0.35   $ 0.31   $ 0.43   $ 0.28  
   
 
 
 
 
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING:                          
  BASIC     9,513     9,513     9,513     9,515  
   
 
 
 
 
  DILUTED     9,513     9,683     9,513     9,747  
   
 
 
 
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

4



GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(UNAUDITED, IN THOUSANDS)

 
  Six Months Ended
December 31,

 
 
  2002
  2001
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:              
  Net income   $ 4,102   $ 2,703  
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:              
    Depreciation and amortization     4,381     4,355  
    Loss (gain) on disposal of assets     (1,569 )   331  
    Provision for doubtful accounts     200      
    Change in cash surrender value of life insurance policies     15     11  
    Change in market value of deferred compensation     (2 )   (8 )
    Deferred income taxes     1,300     255  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:              
      Trade and other receivables     (6,264 )   (9,085 )
      Inventories     (404 )   (8,885 )
      Prepaid expenses and other current assets     (150 )   4  
      Accounts payable     (4,604 )   597  
      Payable to growers     1,463     2,348  
      Payroll and related liabilities     (1 )   (59 )
      Other accrued liabilities     (331 )   (711 )
      Accrued interest     (170 )   (45 )
      Deferred compensation     44     189  
      Income taxes refundable/payable     1,721     2,157  
   
 
 
          Net cash used in operating activities     (269 )   (5,843 )

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Purchases of property, plant and equipment     (900 )   (7,435 )
  Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment     5,890      
  Refund (payment) of deposits     10     (156 )
   
 
 
          Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities     5,000     (7,591 )

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Borrowings on line of credit     18,200     26,100  
  Payments on line of credit     (16,700 )   (10,100 )
  Cash overdraft increase (decrease)     (978 )    
  Proceeds from lease financing     2,750      
  Payments on long-term debt     (7,189 )   (2,219 )
  Purchases of treasury stock         (64 )
   
 
 
          Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     (3,917 )   13,717  
   
 
 
INCREASE IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS     814     283  
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD     59     488  
   
 
 
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD   $ 873   $ 771  
   
 
 
OTHER CASH FLOW INFORMATION:              
  Interest paid   $ 2,364   $ 1,760  
   
 
 
  Income taxes paid (refunded), net   $ (775 ) $ (979 )
   
 
 
  Property acquired under capital lease   $ 42   $ 312  
   
 
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

5



GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

Note 1—Basis of Presentation:

        In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (which include all normal and recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the Company's financial position at December 31, 2002 and its results of operations for the three and six month periods ended December 31, 2002 and 2001 and its cash flows for the six-month periods ended December 31, 2002 and 2001. Certain information and disclosures normally included in the notes to financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted from the accompanying financial statements. The unaudited financial statements set forth in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K (the "10-K") for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2002, on file at the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The Company's results for the three and six months ended December 31, 2002 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2003.

        Certain reclassifications have been made to the fiscal 2002 amounts in order for them to conform to the fiscal 2003 presentation.

Note 2—Inventories:

        Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):

 
  December 31,
2002

  June 30,
2002

 
  (Unaudited)

   
             
Bulk wine   $ 22,385   $ 18,187
Cased and bottled wine     6,840     7,341
Brandy     3,123     1,713
Supplies and other     845     834
Unharvested crop costs     572     5,901
   
 
  Total   $ 33,765   $ 33,976
   
 

Note 3—Assets Held for Sale

        In June 2002, the Company's Board of Directors approved a plan to sell certain excess assets. Such assets include a bulk wine and bottling facility, a warehouse, a tasting room and certain vineyards. After operations started at the new American Canyon facility in December 2001, the bulk wine and bottling facility and the other warehouse facility were no longer necessary for custom crushing, bottling or storage. Assets classified as held for sale are not subject to depreciation. Had these assets not been held for sale, net income for the six-months ended December 31, 2002 would have been $144,000 less than net income as reported if such depreciation was required.

        In December 2002, escrow closed on the sale of 827 acres of vineyards located in Fresno County. Proceeds on the sale were approximately $3.4 million with a gain on the sale of approximately $1.5 million. This property collateralized long-term debt and the lender required the proceeds to be applied to the loan principal ($3.0 million) and to a prepayment penalty of $388,000, which is included in interest expense.

6



        In October 2002, escrow closed on the sale of the Lost Hills Vineyard. Proceeds on the sale were approximately $2.6 million of which $1.5 million was used to repay a loan with an insurance company. A $68,000 gain was recognized on the sale in fiscal 2003; however, an asset impairment charge of $1.9 million was included in wine grape cost of sales in fiscal 2002.

        Assets held for sale, at the lower of carrying value or fair value, were $11.0 million and $16.2 million at December 31, 2002 and June 30, 2002 respectively.

Note 4—Long-Term Debt

        In September 2002, the Company entered into a $2.7 million, 7-year capital lease agreement to finance expenditures incurred on construction of the bottling line and warehouse improvements for its American Canyon facility.

        Effective October 22, 2002, escrow closed on the sale of the Lost Hills Vineyard. This vineyard served as collateral for a note payable to an insurance company with a principal balance outstanding of $1.5 million.

Note 5—New Accounting Pronouncements

        In 2001, the FASB issued four statements: No. 141, Business Combinations, No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, and No. 143, Accounting for Assets Retirement Obligations and No. 144, Accounting for Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. SFAS No. 141 requires the purchase method of accounting for business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001. SFAS No. 142 provides that goodwill and certain identifiable intangible assets will not be amortized and requires impairment tests for goodwill and certain identifiable intangible assets. SFAS No. 143 provides that asset retirement obligations be measured at fair value and be discounted. Dismantlement and restoration costs should be recognized as a liability when incurred. SFAS No. 144 provides that impairment losses be recognized only if the carrying amount of the long-lived assets is not recoverable from undiscounted cash flows. Any impairment loss recognized would be the difference between the carrying value of the asset and its fair value. In 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145 Rescission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44 and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections and SFAS No. 146, Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities. SFAS No. 145 provides that debt extinguishments that are part of a Company's risk management strategy should not be reported as extraordinary items because they do not meet the criteria as unusual and infrequently occurring events. This statement also requires sale-leaseback accounting for certain lease modifications whose economic effects are similar to sale-leaseback transactions. SFAS No. 146 may affect the timing of recognizing future restructuring costs as well as the amounts recognized. This statement requires that the liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized when the liability is incurred, rather than at the date of the Company's commitment to an exit plan. SFAS No. 146 also establishes that the liability should initially be measured and recorded at fair value. SFAS Nos. 144 and 145 were effective for the Company July 1, 2002 and the provisions of SFAS No. 146 are effective for future exit activities initiated after December 31, 2002. The Company adopted SFAS Nos. 141, 142 and 143 effective July 1, 2001 and 144 and 145 effective July 1, 2002. Adoption of these statements did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The Company will apply the provisions of SFAS No. 146 to future restructuring charges.

7



Note 6—Business Segment Information

        The Company's chief decision makers evaluate performance based on the gross profit of the following four segments: bulk wine, wine grapes, case goods, and brandy. The bulk wine segment includes production and sale of bulk wine, custom crushing services, storage of bulk wine in tanks and barrels and delivery of bulk wine barreling services, such as racking and topping. The Company's wine grapes segment consists of the farming and harvesting of Company owned vineyards and subsequent sales or internal use of produced grapes as well as grapes purchased by the Company for resale. The case goods segment includes production of proprietary and private label bottled wine, alcoholic beverages and custom bottling and storage services and providing custom bottling services for malt-based alcoholic beverages to two major customers. The Company's brandy segment includes production of brandy and spirits and brandy barrel storage and related barreling services. The Company also analyzes information on capital expenditures, depreciation and amortization and assets utilized by each of the four segments.

8



        Segment information as of December 31, 2002 and June 30, 2002 and for the three and six month periods ended December 31, 2002 and 2001 is as follows (unaudited, in thousands):

 
  Three Months Ended
December 31,

  Six Months Ended
December 31,

 
  2002
  2001
  2002
  2001
Revenues, net:                        
  Bulk wine   $ 19,408   $ 22,163   $ 29,127   $ 29,838
  Wine grapes     898     311     1,355     2,249
  Case goods     4,459     6,065     11,064     12,031
  Brandy     6,578     7,421     7,613     9,241
   
 
 
 
    Total revenues, net     31,343     35,960     49,159     53,359
Cost of Sales:                        
  Bulk wine     12,592     14,876     19,735     21,046
  Wine grapes     878     282     1,289     2,062
  Case goods     5,446     6,118     10,182     11,121
  Brandy     4,994     6,306     5,824     7,786
   
 
 
 
    Total cost of sales     23,910     27,582     37,030     42,015
Gross Profit:                        
  Bulk wine     6,816     7,287     9,392     8,792
  Wine grapes     20     29     66     187
  Case goods     (987 )   (53 )   882     910
  Brandy     1,584     1,115     1,789     1,455
   
 
 
 
    Total gross profit   $ 7,433   $ 8,378   $ 12,129   $ 11,344
   
 
 
 
Capital Expenditures:                        
  Bulk wine   $ 172   $ 520   $ 426   $ 2,608
  Wine grapes         526     (24 )   638
  Case goods     316     1,376     501     2,347
  Brandy     16     74     16     326
  Corporate     14     1,066     23     1,828
   
 
 
 
    Total   $ 518   $ 3,562   $ 942   $ 7,747
   
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization:                        
  Bulk wine   $ 1,566   $ 1,817   $ 2,655   $ 2,851
  Wine grapes     82     29     128     136
  Case goods     396     362     885     703
  Brandy     458     375     505     470
  Corporate     100     100     208     195
   
 
 
 
    Total   $ 2,602   $ 2,683   $ 4,381   $ 4,355
   
 
 
 
 
 
December 31,
2002

  June 30,
2002

   
   
Total Assets:                        
  Bulk wine   $ 72,096   $ 61,988            
  Wine grapes     15,989     26,230            
  Case goods     29,686     31,467            
  Brandy     8,890     8,039            
  Corporate     4,732     5,089            
   
 
           
    Total   $ 131,393   $ 132,813            
   
 
           

9



Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

        The following discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations of Golden State Vintners, Inc. ("we" or "us" or the "Company") contains "Forward-Looking Statements," as defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-Looking Statements are statements other than historical information or statements of current condition and relate to future events or the future financial performance of the Company. Some Forward-Looking Statements may be identified by use of such terms as "believes," "anticipates," "intends" or "expects." Such Forward-Looking Statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such Forward-Looking Statements. Our results may differ materially from those anticipated in such Forward-Looking Statements as a result of a number of factors, including without limitation, (i) difficulties in the bulk wine market; (ii) loss of key customers or contracts and ability of customers to pay; (iii) competition from various domestic and foreign wine producers; (iv) interest rates and other business and economic conditions which could increase significantly the costs and risks of projected capital spending; and (v) the effect of weather and other natural forces on growing conditions and, in turn, the quality and quantity of grapes we produce. Each of these factors, and other risks pertaining to our business, the premium wine industry and general business and economic conditions, are more fully discussed herein and from time to time in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the year ended June 30, 2002. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any Forward-Looking Statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Significant Accounting Policies

Critical Accounting Policies

        Our significant accounting policies are described more fully in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to its revenue recognition policy, the collectibility of accounts receivable, the valuation of inventories, and the valuation of its long-lived assets and deferred tax assets. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. In the past, actual results have not been materially different from our estimates.

        Some of our significant accounting policies involve a higher degree of judgment or complexity than our other accounting policies. The policies described below have been identified as critical to our business operations and the understanding of our results of operations. The impact and associated risks related to these policies on our business operations are discussed throughout Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Revenue Recognition

        Sales of bulk wine, juice and brandy are recognized at the time the product specifications of the purchase contract are met and the product has been accepted by the buyer, title has passed to the buyer, and there is no right of return in the contract. In certain cases the contract requirements specify that we store such product after it has been sold and require the buyer to pay a storage fee. Sales of

10



wine grapes and cased goods are recognized at the time of delivery to the customer. Wine processing and storage fees are recognized as those services are provided.

Trade Receivables

        A substantial portion of our accounts receivable are due from wine distributors and major wineries located in California. We perform periodic credit evaluations of our customers' financial condition and generally do not require collateral for our sales. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts to reflect expected credit losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments on such accounts. A considerable amount of judgment is required to assess the ultimate realization of the customer accounts receivable and the credit-worthiness of each customer. Furthermore, these judgments are continually updated and evaluated. Estimates of potential losses are based on historical as well as current data, including the aging of the receivables, specific customer analysis, recent bankruptcy trends, delinquency rates, historical charge-off patterns, recovery rates and other data. Other factors, including the general economic environment in the wine industry, are also considered. However, if the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payment, adjustment to those estimates may be required.

Inventories

        Bulk wine, case goods and brandy are stated at the lower of average cost or net realizable value. Inventories of supplies are stated at the lower of the first-in, first-out method or market. Costs associated with the current year's unharvested grape crop are deferred and recognized in the subsequent year when the grapes are harvested. Wine inventories are classified as current assets in accordance with recognized trade practice although some products will not be sold in the following year. We write down our inventory for estimated obsolescence or unmarketable inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated market value based upon assumptions about historical usage, future demand and market conditions. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required.

        Our bulk wine inventory at December 31, 2002 is approximately $22.4 million and substantially in excess of committed sales contracts. Our case goods inventory at December 31, 2002 has increased by approximately 69,000 cases relative to a year ago at this time. We have reduced pricing on certain labels and implemented various sales discount and incentive programs given current challenging market conditions. Although management believes that this excess inventory can be sold on the spot market at prices at or above the carrying value, no assurance can be given that the Company will not experience losses on the sale or disposition of a portion of the inventory, and such losses could be material.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

        Our long-lived assets consist primarily of property and equipment, assets held for sale and other assets. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. With respect to vineyards, we perform an evaluation of whether an impairment charge should be made whenever particular vineyards experience unfavorable operating results. A vineyard's assets are evaluated for impairment by comparing its estimated undiscounted cash flows over its estimated life to its carrying value. If the cash flows are not sufficient to recover the carrying value, a loss equal to the difference between the carrying value and the discounted future cash flows of the vineyard is recognized. Estimates of future cash flows are based on a variety of factors, including historical experience with yields and expected grape sales prices. Various uncertainties, including but not limited to bad weather, pests and diseases, and excess inventory levels in the industry could adversely impact the expected cash flows to be generated by a vineyard. If actual performances of the remaining vineyards are less favorable than our

11



projections, future asset impairment charges may be necessary. Similar procedures are used when analyzing other corporate assets for impairment.

        In fiscal 2002, we recognized an impairment reserve of approximately $1.9 million to reflect the anticipated loss on the sale of Lost Hills Vineyard. This loss was partially offset by a reversal of a contingent note payable to a related party of $0.9 million. The sale closed in October 2002.

        In June 2002, the Company's Board of Directors approved a plan to sell certain excess assets. These assets, which include a bulk wine and bottling facility, a warehouse, a tasting room and certain vineyards, are included in the accompanying financial statements as assets held for sale. We expect that proceeds from the sale of the excess assets will be used for debt reduction and/or operating purposes.

Recent Developments

        Bulk wine and case goods industry trends continue to indicate downward pressure on sales volumes and margins resulting in surplus domestic and international bulk wine and case goods inventories and a reduction in the number of long-term bulk wine sales contracts relative to previous years. Consistent with such trends, our bulk wine inventory at December 31, 2002 continues to be substantially in excess of committed sales contracts. In addition, our case goods inventories have increased by approximately 69,000 cases at December 31, 2002 relative to a year ago at this time. Although we believe that this excess inventory can be sold on the spot market at sales prices at or above the carrying value, no assurance can be given that we will not experience losses on the sale or disposition of a portion of the inventory, and such losses could be material. We have reduced each of the bulk wine and case goods inventory by approximately $.2 million, during the six months ended December 31, 2002 to write down such items to market based on our current assessment of market conditions.

        Our ready-to-drink ("RTD") bottling unit has not met our originally anticipated profit levels due to lower than expected customer demand, higher than expected start-up costs, unplanned capital expenditures and expenditures to improve bottling line throughput. Furthermore, two of our three largest customers have terminated their contracts for bottling services. Revenues for the year ended June 30, 2002 related to these contracts were approximately $7.3 million or 26% of case goods segment revenues. We continue to actively pursue alternate customer relationships to increase revenues for the RTD line. No assurances can be given as to what extent such efforts will be successful. Because such efforts continue to be unsuccessful, it is increasingly likely that we will ultimately record an impairment charge on this asset. An impairment charge on the RTD bottling unit would adversely affect our ability to satisfy the financial covenants of our long-term debt financing arrangements.

        In December 2002, we sold 827 acres of vineyards in Fresno County at a gain of approximately $1.5 million. The property collateralized long-term debt and the lender required the entire proceeds of approximately $3.4 million to be applied to loan principal and to a prepayment penalty of $388,000.

        In October 2002, we sold the Lost Hills Vineyard located in Kern County. Proceeds on the sale were approximately $2.5 million of which $1.5 million was used to repay a loan with an insurance company. A $68,000 gain was recognized on the sale in fiscal 2003; however, an asset impairment charge of 1.9 million was included in wine grape costs of sales in fiscal 2002. This charge was partially offset by a reversal of a contingent note payable to a related party of approximately $0.9 million.

        We have experienced and expect to continue to experience seasonal and quarterly fluctuations in our revenues. Because of the inherent seasonality of our operations, we have historically reported our highest revenues and net income in our second fiscal quarter as we sell most of our bulk wine in the second quarter, immediately after crush, and perform many of our wine processing services in the first

12


and second quarters. As a result, we typically report lower revenues and net income (loss) in the third and fourth fiscal quarters. In the current fiscal year, we continue to anticipate decreased bulk wine revenues as a result of a reduced number of long-term bulk wine sales contracts relative to previous years. We believe such decrease in long-term bulk sales contracts is attributable to 1) plantings of new vineyards 2) current and anticipated lower bulk wine market prices 3) higher levels of wine inventory held by our customers and 4) increased international competition. We anticipate that these market pressures will continue.

        Approximately 8.1% and 7.9% of our revenues in the first six months of fiscal 2003 and 2002 respectively were derived from the sale of wine and wine products internationally. We export bulk wine and case goods to Europe, Canada and Asia. Our international case goods revenues have decreased in the first six months of fiscal 2003 by approximately $0.3 million as compared to revenues in the first six months of fiscal 2002. Increased international competition and international wine supplies have negatively impacted our sales efforts.

Three Months Ended December 31, 2002 and 2001

        Total revenues for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 were $31.3 million, a decrease of $4.7 million or 13.1%, as compared to revenues of $36.0 million for the second quarter of 2002. The overall decrease in revenues is due to decreases in bulk wine, case goods and brandy revenues as partially offset by increased wine grape revenues.

        Bulk Wine and Related Services.    For fiscal 2003, revenues from bulk wine and related services were $19.4 million, a decrease of $2.8 million or 12.6%, as compared to revenues of $22.2 million in the second quarter of 2002. The period to period decrease was a result of lower average sales prices per gallon totalling approximately $4.5 million partially offset by an increase in bulk wine contract and spot sales of approximately 0.9 million gallons or approximately $2.4 million. In addition, bulk storage and custom bulk wine processing revenues decreased by approximately $0.7 million from fiscal 2002.

        Wine Grapes.    In the second quarter of fiscal 2003, revenues from grape sales were $0.9 million, an increase of $0.6 million or 200.0%, as compared to revenues of $0.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. Wine grape revenues include sales of grapes grown on the Company's vineyards and grapes purchased from outside growers and resold to various third parties or "resold grapes". The increase in this segment's revenues is due to increased volume of wine grapes sold of approximately $1.7 million, partially offset by price decreases totalling approximately $1.5 million. Resold grape price increases totalled approximately $0.5 million partially offset by volume decreases totalling approximately $0.1 million.

        Case Goods and Related Services.    For the second quarter of fiscal 2002, revenues from case goods and related services were $4.5 million, a decrease of $1.6 million or 26.2%, as compared to revenues of $6.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. The period to period decrease was a result of decreased RTD production revenues of $1.9 million. Case goods revenues partially offset such decrease with higher average sales prices per case totalling approximately $1.2 million at lower sales volume of $0.7 million.

        Brandy.    For the second quarter of fiscal 2003, revenues from the sale of brandy and grape spirits were $6.6 million, a decrease of $0.8 million or 10.8%, as compared to revenues of $7.4 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2002. The period to period decrease in brandy revenue was due to reduced contracted prices with an effect of approximately $0.9 million as partially offset by increased proof gallons sold of approximately $0.1 million.

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        For the second quarter of fiscal 2003, total cost of sales was $23.9 million, a decrease of $3.7 million or 13.4%, from $27.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2002. As a percentage of revenues, cost of sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 was 76.3%, a decrease from 76.7% for the second quarter of fiscal 2002. The decrease in cost of sales on a percentage of revenue basis was a result of reduced bulk wine and brandy cost of sales as a percentage of revenues due to reduced grape component costs partially offset by reduced case goods and ready-to-drink service revenues relative to associated division fixed operating costs due to reduced production volume.

        In the second quarter of fiscal 2003, we realized gross profit of $7.4 million, a decrease of $1.0 million or 11.9%, as compared to $8.4 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. As a percentage of revenues, gross profit for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 was 23.7%, an increase from 23.3% in the second quarter of fiscal 2002, for reasons discussed above under "Cost of Sales."

        In December 2002, escrow closed on the sale of 827 acres of vineyards located in Fresno County. Proceeds on the sale were approximately $3.4 million with a gain on the sale of approximately $1.5 million.

        For the second quarter of fiscal 2003, selling, general and administrative expenses were $2.7 million, a decrease of $0.1 million or 3.6%, from $2.8 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. The period to period decrease was due principally to decreased general and administrative payroll and related expenses partially offset by increased sales and marketing costs.

        For the second quarter of fiscal 2003, interest expense was $1.2 million, an increase of $0.3 million or 33.3%, as compared to interest expense of $0.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. The period to period increase resulted from increased average borrowings on our line of credit partially offset by decreased long-term debt and lower overall interest rates. In addition, a prepayment penalty of $388,000 was incurred in the second quarter of fiscal 2003 due to lender requirement to pay down long-term debt with proceeds on sale of certain land and vineyards located in Fresno County. We did not capitalize any interest in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. Interest capitalized in the second quarter of fiscal 2002 was approximately $0.1 million.

        The effective tax rate of our income tax expense was 35.7% and 34.6% for the second quarters of fiscal 2003 and fiscal 2002 respectively.

        For the second quarter of fiscal 2003, net income was $3.3 million an increase of $0.3 million, as compared to net income of $3.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. Net income for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 was impacted by factors covered above.

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        For the second quarter of fiscal 2003, diluted earnings per share was $0.35 compared to diluted earnings per share of $0.31 for the second quarter of fiscal 2002.

Six Months Ended December 31, 2002 and 2001

        Total revenues for the first six months of fiscal 2003 were $49.2 million, a decrease of $4.2 million or 7.9%, as compared to revenues of $53.4 million for the first six months of 2002. The overall decrease in revenues is due to decreases in all business segments. Revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2002 were favorably impacted by a $1.5 million termination settlement and a $0.5 million small brewers credit.

        Bulk Wine and Related Services.    For fiscal 2003, revenues from bulk wine and related services were $29.1 million, a decrease of $0.7 million or 2.3%, as compared to revenues of $29.8 million in the first six months of 2002. The period to period decrease was a result of lower average sales prices per gallon of bulk wine contract and spot sales totalling approximately $5.2 million and decreased custom bulk wine processing and storage services of approximately $1.1 million. Such decreases were partially offset by an increase in bulk wine contract and spot sales of approximately 2.0 million gallons or $5.2 million.

        Wine Grapes.    In the first six months of fiscal 2003, revenues from grape sales were $1.4 million, a decrease of $0.8 million or 36.4%, as compared to revenues of $2.2 million in the first six months of fiscal 2002. The decline in this segment's revenues is due to reduced volume of wine grapes sold of approximately $0.4 million. The reduction in sales of Company grown grapes is consistent with our plan to use more Company grown grapes in our operations. Resold grape volume decreases totalled approximately $0.6 million partially offset by increased pricing totalling approximately $0.1 million.

        Case Goods and Related Services.    For the first six months of fiscal 2002, revenues from case goods and related services were $11.1 million, a decrease of $0.9 million or 7.5%, as compared to revenues of $12.0 million in the first six months of fiscal 2002. The period to period decrease was a result of decreased RTD production revenues of $3.3 million. Partially offsetting such decrease were proceeds of approximately $1.4 million on a termination settlement with the largest of our RTD customers to buy out the remaining contract production requirement. In addition, we recognized approximately $0.5 million of income from a small brewers excise tax credit for calendar 2001. Also, partially offsetting the decrease were higher average sales prices per case totalling approximately $1.9 million at lower case sales volume of $1.8 million.

        Brandy.    For the first six months of fiscal 2003, revenues from the sale of brandy and grape spirits were $7.6 million, a decrease of $1.6 million or 17.4%, as compared to revenues of $9.2 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002. The period to period decrease in brandy revenue was due to reduced contracted prices with an effect of approximately $1.0 million and decreased proof gallons sold of approximately $0.6 million.

        For the first six months of fiscal 2003, total cost of sales was $37.0 million, a decrease of $5.0 million or 11.9%, from $42.0 million for the first six months of fiscal 2002. As a percentage of revenues, cost of sales for the first six months of fiscal 2003 was 75.3%, a decrease from 78.7% for the first six months of fiscal 2002. The decrease in cost of sales on a percentage of revenue basis was a result of reduced bulk wine and brandy cost of sales as a percentage of revenues due to reduced grape

15


component costs. Such decrease was partially offset by reduced case goods and ready-to-drink service revenues relative to associated division fixed operating costs due to reduced production volume.

        In the first six months of fiscal 2003, we realized gross profit of $12.1 million, an increase of $0.8 million or 7.1%, as compared to $11.3 million in the first six months of fiscal 2002. As a percentage of revenues, gross profit for the first six months of fiscal 2003 was 24.7%, an increase from 21.3% in the first six months of fiscal 2002, for reasons discussed above under "Cost of Sales."

        For the first six months of fiscal 2003, selling, general and administrative expenses were $5.1 million, a decrease of $0.3 million or 5.6%, from $5.4 million in the first six months of fiscal 2002. The period to period decrease was due principally to decreased general and administrative payroll and related expenses partially offset by increased sales and marketing costs.

        For the first six months of fiscal 2003, interest expense was $2.2 million, an increase of $0.4 million or 22.2%, as compared to interest expense of $1.8 million in the first six months of fiscal 2002. The period to period increase resulted from increased average borrowings on our line of credit partially offset by decreased long-term debt and lower overall interest rates. In addition, a prepayment penalty of $388,000 was incurred in the second quarter of fiscal 2003 due to lender requirement to pay down long-term debt with proceeds on sale of certain land and vineyards located in Fresno County. We did not capitalize any interest in the first six months of fiscal 2003. Interest capitalized in the first six months of fiscal 2002 was approximately $0.3 million.

        The effective tax rate of our income tax expense was 35.4% and 34.6% for the first six months of fiscal 2003 and fiscal 2002 respectively.

        For the first six months of fiscal 2003, net income was $4.1 million, an increase of $1.4 million, as compared to net income of $2.7 million in the first six months of fiscal 2002. Net income for the first six months of fiscal 2003 was impacted by factors covered above.

        For the first six months of fiscal 2003, diluted earnings per share was $0.43 compared to diluted earnings per share of $0.28 for the first six months of fiscal 2002.

        Our working capital position at December 31, 2002 was $22.8 million, compared to $14.1 million at June 30, 2002. The increase in working capital is due to increased net income and proceeds from fiscal 2003 vineyard sales partially offset by debt payments from proceeds from vineyard sales. We maintain a revolving line of credit for working capital purposes which is secured by inventory, accounts receivable, the current year's wine grape crop and other collateral. Borrowings under the line typically peak in November, during our second fiscal quarter. The revolving line of credit balance was $16.0 million at December 31, 2002, an increase from $14.5 million at June 30, 2002. Unused availability under the line of credit was $6.0 million at December 31, 2002. On July 19, 2002, we renewed the revolving bank line

16


of credit to provide $22.0 million through February 5, 2003 and $18.0 million thereafter. The line expires July 5, 2003 and we intend to renew or obtain similar financing from other sources, however, no assurances can be given that such financing can be achieved on similar terms.

        Our loan payable bearing interest at 8.99% to an insurance company contains a balloon payment requirement of $10.7 million due on April 1, 2005. We intend to renew or obtain similar alternative financing from other sources to meet this requirement, however, no assurances can be given that such financing can be achieved at similar or more favorable terms.

        As discussed in Recent Developments, our RTD bottling unit has not met our originally anticipated profit levels due to lower than expected customer demand and the termination of two of our three largest bottling service contracts. If efforts to identify alternate customer relationships are unsuccessful, it is increasingly likely that we will ultimately record an impairment charge on this asset. An impairment charge on the RTD bottling unit would affect our ability to satisfy the financial covenants of our long-term debt financing arrangements.

        Net cash used in operating activities in the six months ended December 31, 2002 was $0.3 million, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $5.8 million in the six months ended December 31, 2001. The decrease in cash used in operations resulted from reduced increases in accounts receivable and inventories relative to the prior year.

        We have classified a bulk wine facility, a warehouse, a tasting room and certain vineyards with a net book value of $11.0 million as assets held for sale at December 31, 2002. Proceeds from the sale of these assets will be used for operating purposes and/or debt reduction. Escrow closed on an agreement to sell the Lost Hills Vineyard in October 2002 and a vineyard in Fresno County in December 2002. These vineyards served as collateral for notes payable to insurance companies. The buyer assumed a $1.5 million note in the Lost Hills Vineyard sale and proceeds from the Fresno County sale were applied to the loan principal and a prepayment penalty.

        Capital expenditures in the six months ended December 31, 2002 were $0.9 million, compared to $7.4 million in the six months ended December 31, 2001. We have funded these expenditures in 2003 from our working capital line. We refinanced certain expenditures under a $2.7 million capital lease in September 2002 and intend to finance future major capital expenditures through long-term financing arrangements. We believe that cash flows from operations and the line of credit are sufficient to cover operating needs for the year, however, as discussed above, the line of credit expires July 5, 2003. We expect to renew the line of credit or obtain alternate financing.

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

        We can choose from several variable rate options on certain of our debt. All of our balance sheet items and sales are in U.S. dollars, therefore we have no foreign currency exchange rate risk related to these financial data. We do not use financial instruments for trading purposes.

        Certain of our debt is subject to variable interest rate options. The following chart indicates our fixed and variable rate long and short-term debt at December 31, 2002, and estimates the balances of such debt in future periods assuming no additional debt will be obtained or required. This analysis does not, therefore, constitute in any way our forward plan and should not be used by investors as such. ($ millions):

 
  December 31,
  June 30,
 
 
  2002
  2003
  2004
  2005
  2006
  2007
 
Bank line of credit and long-term debt:                                      
  Variable Rate:                                      
    Average Outstanding*   $ 17.8   $ 14.5   $ 14.1   $ 13.7   $ 13.3   $ 12.9  
    Weighted average rate per period     3.4 %   3.9 %   6.7 %   6.8 %   6.9 %   7.0 %

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Long-term Debt:                                      
  Fixed Rate:                                      
    Average Outstanding   $ 33.0   $ 31.9   $ 24.3   $ 18.9   $ 4.6   $ 2.6  
    Weighted average rate per period     8.3 %   8.1 %   8.1 %   8.2 %   6.9 %   7.0 %

*
Based on current anticipated cash flow, we believe that our bank line of credit (including anticipated renewals) will be periodically used to fund operations in our peak season.

        During our annual business cycle, we utilize a variable interest rate working capital line at various borrowing levels. Our existing working capital loan agreement offers interest rate options at spreads over LIBOR and/or lender cost of funds, at maturities we selected. For the six months ended December 31, 2002, the average outstanding balance under this line was approximately $16.4 million, with a weighted average interest rate of approximately 3.4%.

        We financed capital expenditures for our American Canyon facility under a seven-year, variable rate $2.7 million capital lease in September 2002. The lease bears interest at 2.13% over LIBOR. At December 31, 2002, the balance on our variable rate capital lease was $2.7 million and carried a weighted average interest rate of 4.0%.

        At December 31, 2002, the balance on our fixed rate long-term debt was $29.5 million and carried a weighted average interest rate of approximately 8.2%. The weighted average interest rate for the six months ended December 31, 2002 for all our debt was approximately 6.3%.

        For strategic reasons, we enter into forward product sales and material supply contracts, most of which have staggered maturity dates. Under SFAS 133 and related pronouncements, these contracts qualify as normal sales and purchases contracts, under which we expect to take physical delivery. Of our four primary lines of business, bulk wine, grape sales and brandy production are subject to multi-year contracts, while case goods sales occur on a short-term basis. The primary raw material component for most of our products is wine grapes. We enter into long and short-term grape purchase contracts to ensure an adequate and cost effective source of raw material for production. We currently have several contracts to purchase grapes at costs anticipated to exceed market for the 2002 crush. We are in the process of renegotiating such contracts but no assurance can be given that such efforts will be successful. Product sales contracts are substantially fixed over the term of the contract as to quantity and price. Wine grape contract terms are similarly fixed at inception for the term of the contract, although a portion of these contracts contains annual harvest market price adjustment clauses,

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including individual harvest year minimum pricing. For fiscal 2002, or the 2001 harvest year, none of our total wine grape purchases on a dollar basis were adjusted upward against contract minimum prices following the harvest.

        A certain portion of our annual wine and brandy production is committed under sales contracts. We maintain a certain amount of uncommitted product inventory to meet customer demand. Bulk wine sold under long-term contracts decreased from 11.7 million gallons in fiscal 2001 to 10.0 million gallons in fiscal 2002. At June 30, 2002, our reported inventory value of bulk wine and brandy was approximately $19.9 million, of which approximately $3.7 million, or 18%, is committed to sales contracts. Uncommitted inventory of approximately $16.2 million, or 82% is reserved for future case goods sales and for spot market bulk wine sales. We generally match preproduction contractual sales with contracted material supply agreements and will continue to maintain certain uncommitted inventory.


Item 4. Controls and Procedures

        Within the 90-day period prior to the filing of this report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO have concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms; and include controls and procedures to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in such reports is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure. Subsequent to the date of their evaluation, there were no significant changes in the Company's internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect the disclosure controls, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

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RISK FACTORS

        In evaluating the Company, its business, operations and financial position, the following risk factors should be carefully considered, in addition to the other information contained in this Form 10-K. The following factors, among others, could affect the Company's actual future operating results and could cause such results to differ from the results discussed elsewhere in this Form 10-K.

Much of Our Revenues Are Derived From Only a Few Customers, the Loss of Any One of Which Would Harm Our Business

        During fiscal 2002, five of our customers accounted for approximately 49% of our revenues, with Constellation and Diageo accounting for approximately 17% and 13%, respectively. While some of our largest customers have entered into some form of long-term contract with us, there can be no assurance that each of these relationships will continue following the expiration of these contracts or that the volume of business we are currently conducting with such customers will continue at such levels. The loss of any one of our major customers or a significant reduction in the sales prices or volume of their business with us could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Loss of a Major Bulk Wine Customer Could Adversely Affect Our Operations

        Bulk wine and related services accounted for approximately 52% of our revenues in fiscal 2002. We continue to provide resources for expanding this portion of our business. Any loss of a major bulk wine customer could reduce our bulk wine revenues, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our Customers Inability to Pay Would Adversely Affect Our Revenues and Operating Results

        From time to time we have provided extended payment terms to certain of our customers subject to the credit risk of such customers. If one of these customers fails to pay amounts owed us, or does not pay such amounts on time, our revenue, operating results and/or liquidity would suffer.

Inability to Sell Our Inventory Would Harm Our Business

        Due to continued surplus domestic and international bulk wine and case goods inventories and a reduction in the number of our long-term bulk wine sales contracts compared to previous years, our bulk wine inventory is substantially in excess of committed sales contracts. In addition, our case goods inventories, including private label inventories, have significantly increased over the past year. There can be no assurance that we will be able to sell this excess inventory on the spot market at prices at or above our carrying value. As a result, we may experience losses on the disposition of this inventory which would have an adverse affect on the results of our operations.

Decreasing Amounts of Our Bulk Wine Revenues Are Derived From Long-Term Contracts

        During fiscal 2001, approximately 11.7 million gallons were sold under long-term contracts. In fiscal 2002, approximately 10.0 million gallons were sold under long-term contracts. As a result of our decreasing reliance on long-term contracts, our ability to accurately predict our future revenues, required inventory levels and the volume of our business has declined. Furthermore, our operating expenses are relatively fixed and cannot be reduced on short notice to compensate for unanticipated variation in the demand of bulk wine and related services. As a result, any termination, significant reduction or modification of our business relationships with any of our significant customers, or with a number of smaller customers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

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We Use Pesticides and Other Hazardous Substances in Our Business

        Our current operations emit ethanol and require the periodic use of various chemical herbicides, fungicides and pesticides, some of which contain hazardous or toxic substances. The emission and usage of these chemicals are, to varying degrees, subject to federal and state regulation. We believe that our properties and operations have been and continue to be in material compliance with relevant environmental regulations. At the same time, if hazardous substances are discovered to have emanated from our properties, we could be subject to material liability arising from the remediation of such potential harm. Additionally our processing operations generally require the disposal of water-based effluents. As environmental regulations tighten we cannot be assured our current waste water management practices will meet such standards.

        Currently, water board audits are being conducted at two of our facilities. Although results of these audits have not been finalized, excess nitrates were identified in the ground water at one of the facilities. This may require drilling a new well at a cost yet to be determined.

Decreased Customer Demand for Our RTD Bottling Unit Could Adversely Affect Our Business

        Our ready-to-drink ("RTD") bottling unit has not met originally anticipated profit levels. due, in part, to lower than expected customer demand. Furthermore, two of our three largest RTD customers have terminated their contracts for bottling services. Revenues for the year ended June 30, 2002 related to these contracts were approximately $7.3 million or 26% of case goods segment revenues. We are actively pursuing alternative customer arrangements to replace the revenues lost as a result of this customer's termination. If we are unable to locate new RTD customers, or if we fail to retain our existing RTD customers, the resulting loss or decrease in RTD revenues could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operation. In addition, assets utilized in our RTD operations could be subject to impairment reserves should minimum profitability requirements not be achieved. See "Recent Developments" in Management's Discussion and Analysis.

Decreased Demand for Our Case Goods Could Harm Our Business

        Sales of case goods and related services accounted for approximately 33% of revenues in fiscal 2002. A significant portion of our case goods revenues consists of private label case goods sales. There is generally no contractual obligation for our private label customers to deplete all produced inventories. Accordingly, alternative market possibilities would have to be identified at possibly lower sales prices or destruction of such cases could become necessary. Additionally, our higher margin proprietary case goods revenues resulted from sales of our relatively unknown proprietary brands of premium wines. We have reduced pricing on certain labels and implemented various sales discount and incentive programs given current challenging market conditions. Any significant increase in the supply of premium wine in the California wine market that is not met by a corresponding demand could adversely affect our case goods sales. See "Recent Developments" in Management's Discussion and Analysis where we discuss the effect of reduced demand in our case goods business.

Wine Grape and Bulk Wine Price Declines Would Harm Our Business

        Recent market developments resulted in oversupply and declining prices for certain wine grapes and bulk wine categories, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Such developments include (1) plantings of new vineyards, (2) yield enhancements through technological advances and (3) denser plantings of vines. Anticipated high levels of grape production will continue to exert pressure on our bulk wine sales volume and margins. As a result, we may experience lower than expected revenues and increased inventories which would materially adversely affect our business and future results. See "Recent Developments" in Management's Discussion and Analysis where we discuss the effect of current difficulties in the bulk wine market on our business.

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A Decrease in Customer Spending Would Harm Our Business

        The growth of the wine industry and the success of our business depend to a significant extent on a number of factors relating to discretionary consumer spending, including the general condition of the economy, general levels of consumer confidence, federal, state and local taxation, and the deductibility of business entertainment expenses under federal and state tax laws. The current economic downturn both in the U.S. and abroad could adversely affect discretionary consumer spending generally, or purchases of wine specifically, which could have a material adverse effect on our business. Current market pressures could negatively impact our lower of cost or market reserves for inventories. In addition, reduced sales could result in increased inventories on hand and possible deterioration of inventory quality.

Decreased Cash Flow Could Limit Our Ability to Service Our Debt

        As a result of incurring debt, we are subject to the risks normally associated with debt financing, including the risk that cash flow from operations will be insufficient to meet required payments of principal and interest. Our ability to satisfy our obligations to pay interest and to repay debt is dependent on our future performance. Our performance depends, in part, on prevailing economic conditions and financial, business and other factors, including factors beyond our control. To the extent we use a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to pay the principal and interest on our indebtedness, that cash flow will not be available to fund future operations and capital expenditures. Our debt level may also limit our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future capital expenditures, debt service, working capital and other general corporate requirements. It could also make us more vulnerable to general economic downturns and competitive pressures. We can give no assurances that our operating cash flow will be sufficient to fund our future capital expenditure and debt service requirements or to fund future operations. In addition, our debt is secured by substantially all of our assets. If we are unable to meet our debt service obligations due to adverse economic conditions, we risk the loss of some or all of our assets to foreclosure. See "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Management's Discussion and Analysis where we discuss our existing line of credit.

Our Debt Financing Agreements Contain Restrictive Covenants with Which We May Not Be Able to Comply

        Our existing line of credit and long-term debt financing agreements contain restrictive financial covenants. These covenants require us, among other things, to maintain specified levels of net income, working capital, tangible net worth and financial ratios. We were out of compliance as of June 30, 2002 with certain financial covenants. We received waivers of such covenants in addition to amendment of covenant requirements for fiscal 2003.

        Our ability to comply with restrictive financial covenants depends upon our future operating performance. Our future operating performance depends, in part, on general industry conditions and other factors beyond our control. We can give no assurance that we will be able to comply with these covenants. If we fail to comply with these covenants in the future, we may not succeed in renegotiating our debt financing agreements or otherwise obtaining relief from the covenants. If we default under some or all of our debt financial agreements, our lenders may require that we immediately repay the full outstanding amount we owe them. In such event, we may have to pursue alternative financing arrangements. If we are not in compliance with financial covenants at the end of any compliance period, our future results of operations and liquidity could be materially adversely affected.

Bad Weather, Pests and Diseases Could Adversely Affect Our Business

        Grape production is subject to a variety of agricultural risks. Extreme weather conditions can materially and adversely affect the quality and quantity of grapes produced. There can be no assurance that inclement weather in the future will not affect a substantial portion of our vineyards in any year and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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        Vineyards are also susceptible to certain diseases, insects and pests, which can increase operating expenses, reduce yields and damage or kill vines. In recent years phylloxera, a louse that feeds on and may ultimately destroy the roots of grape vines, has infested many vineyards in the wine grape producing regions of California, causing grape yields to decrease. Phylloxera infestation has been widespread in California, particularly in Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino and Monterey Counties, where the soil and climate provide an ideal environment for the pest. As a result of this widespread infestation, thousands of vineyard acres throughout the State of California have been replanted with phylloxera-resistant rootstock or, in some cases, taken out of production completely. The cost of controlling this pest was significant to affected vineyard owners.

        Substantially all of our vineyards are planted on their own rootstock that is not phylloxera-resistant. In the fall of 1997, phylloxera was discovered in certain acres of our vineyards located in Fresno County. We believe that the scope of this phylloxera infestation is modest, though there can be no assurance in that regard. Additionally, we believe the climate, soil and water conditions in California's San Joaquin Valley slow the development of phylloxera in vineyard roots. Further, recent harvest yields from our phylloxera-infested acres were not notably lower than yields from surrounding, non-infested acreage. There can, however, be no assurance that phylloxera will not spread throughout adjoining vineyard acres, or infest any of our other vineyards which could reduce yields and require a significant investment in replanting with disease-resistant root stock, all of which would have a material adverse effect on the Company.

        In recent years the Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter ("GWSS") has emerged as an efficient vector of Pierce's disease. Pierce's disease is a serious threat to wine grapes and combined with large GWSS populations can destroy vineyards over a several year period. The GWSS has been discovered in low populations throughout many of California's grape regions. A number of vineyards in a small grape growing region in Southern California have been destroyed by Pierce's disease. We have engaged a consultant to monitor the pest and advise regarding the latest research developments. To date, the GWSS has not been found on our vineyards and we believe there is no immediate Pierce's threat. While the grape industry is hopeful the spread of Pierce's disease can be controlled, an infestation of our vineyards would have a materially adverse effect on our operations and profitability.

        Other pests that may infest vineyards include leafhoppers, thrips, nematodes, mites, insects, orange tortrix and various grapevine diseases. Pesticides and the selection of resistant rootstocks reduce losses from these pests, but do not eliminate the risk of such loss. Gophers, rabbits, deer and birds can also pose a problem for vineyards, and wine grapevines are also susceptible to certain viral infections which may cause reduction of yields. In addition, the presence of potentially harmful nematodes in relatively high numbers has been detected in certain acres of our vineyards. While we believe that none of these infestations or infections currently poses a major threat to our vineyards, they could do so in the future and could subject our vineyards to severe damage, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position and results of operations.

Intense Competition in the Wine Industry Could Adversely Affect Our Business

        The wine industry is extremely competitive. We compete with several well-capitalized companies in the production of bulk wine. Further, many of our current and prospective competitors have substantially greater financial, production, personnel and other resources than us. In order to meet near-term shortfalls in supply, a number of wineries have commenced purchases of wine from foreign sources. Because of higher production costs in the United States some wineries can achieve significant cost savings, even after taking into account shipping costs, by importing bulk wine from abroad. Some countries, such as France and Australia, have launched marketing campaigns to increase their sales in the United States. Foreign competition can be expected to continue and increase. In addition, our principal winery customers compete with each other and with other wineries located in the United States, Europe, South America, South Africa and Australia. Wine also competes with other alcoholic, and to a lesser degree, nonalcoholic beverages, and to the extent wine consumers reduce consumption

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of wine in favor of such other beverages, demand for wine and the Company's products and services could decline.

Vineyard Removal and Replacement Could Affect Our Financial Condition

        We currently own approximately 4,600 acres of vineyards in a number of grape varieties. From time to time, we remove underperforming vineyards due to age, variety and/or harvest yield trends. As all of our vineyards currently carry remaining net book value, removals incurred in the near term will result in loss recognition including removal costs. The development period for newly planted vineyards can range from 3-5 years and capital requirements are substantial. Historically, we have financed vineyard plantings through issuance of debt and internally generated funds. We anticipate finalizing a long-term vineyard strategy plan within the next twelve months resulting in identification of vineyards for removal, replacement and/or sale. For those vineyards designated for removal and/or replacement, depreciation will be accelerated for the revised remaining useful lives of those assets. In addition, possible external and/or internal capital sources will be identified to meet vineyard development costs requirements. As a result, our vineyard strategy will likely have a material effect on our business, results of operations and our financial condition.

Difficulties in Production of Bulk Wine Could Affect Our Financial Condition

        While we have substantial experience in producing and processing bulk wine, we may still experience production difficulties and delays with respect to the delivery of finished wine. We generally guarantee the quality of the wine produced, which could result in our bearing financial responsibility for wine that fails to meet agreed upon quality standards. From time to time, we have received claims from customers based on alleged defects in wine we produce. Such production difficulties could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Adverse Public Opinion About Alcohol May Harm Our Business

        In recent years there has been substantial publicity regarding the possible health benefits of moderate wine consumption. The results of a number of studies suggest that moderate consumption of wine (or other alcoholic beverages) could result in decreased mortality and other health benefits. Alternatively, anti-alcohol groups have, in the past, successfully advocated more stringent labeling requirements and other regulations designed to discourage consumption of alcoholic beverages, including wine. More restrictive regulations, negative publicity regarding alcohol consumption, publication of studies that indicate a significant health risk from moderate consumption of alcohol or changes in consumer perceptions of the relative healthfulness or safety of wine generally could adversely affect the sale and consumption of wine and the demand for wine and wine grapes and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The Seasonality of Our Business Could Cause Our Stock Price to Fluctuate

        The wine grape business is extremely seasonal and we recognize the vast majority of our revenues in the first six months of our fiscal year. We are not positioned to maximize quarter-to-quarter results, and our quarterly results should not be considered indicative of those to be expected for a full year. We recorded 64% of our revenues during the first six months of our 2002 fiscal year. We have historically operated at a loss in the last two fiscal quarters due to limited sales during such quarters. Seasonality of revenues also affects our cash flow requirements. In the past, we have borrowed funds under lines of credit from late summer through the fall to finance inventory build-up during the fall crush season. We also historically borrow funds through the spring and summer to finance crop production costs through harvest. Such seasonality in revenues and borrowings may lead to significant fluctuations in our reported quarterly results. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."

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Because We Have Fixed Farming Costs, a Weak Harvest Would Reduce Our Profit

        We incur relatively fixed annual farming costs per vineyard acre. Revenues from grape sales and wine processing and production are not realized until harvest and vary depending upon numerous factors. Vineyard productivity varies from year to year depending upon weather and other factors, and significant variations in annual yields should be expected from time to time. Because production costs are not significantly variable in light of productivity or revenue levels, weak harvests or lower grape prices cannot be fully mitigated by cost reductions and could have an adverse effect upon our profitability.

Loss of Key Personnel Could Harm Our Operations

        We believe our continued success depends on the active involvement of Jeffrey B. O'Neill, the Company's Chief Executive Officer and President, and our key personnel, including John G. Kelleher, the Company's Chief Financial Officer. There can be no assurance that these persons will remain in their management positions, and the loss of the services of any of these persons could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

New or Changed Regulations Could Significantly Impact Our Business

        We are subject to a broad range of federal and state regulatory requirements regarding our operations and practices. These regulations are subject to change and conceivably could have a significant impact on operating practices, chemical usage and other aspects of our business. There can be no assurance that new or revised regulations pertaining to the wine grape production industry will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

        Wine production and sales are subject to extensive regulation by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the California Department of Alcohol Beverage Control and other state, local and federal governmental authorities that regulate licensing, trade and pricing practices, labeling, advertising and other activities. In recent years, federal and state authorities have required warning labels on beverages containing alcohol. Restrictions imposed by government authorities on the sale of wine could increase the retail price of wine, which could have an adverse effect on demand for wine in general. In addition, imposition of excise or other taxes on wine could also negatively impact the wine industry by increasing wine prices for consumers. There can be no assurance that there will not be new or revised laws or regulations pertaining to the wine industry which could have a negative impact on our business.

Our Stock Price May Be Volatile

        The market price of the shares of our Class B Common Stock has declined sharply since our initial public offering in late July 1998. The market price for such shares could continue to be volatile and may be significantly affected by factors such as actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results, industry consolidation, conditions and trends in the wine industry, changes in recommendations and estimates by security analysts, general market conditions and other factors. There can be no assurance that an active trading market of our Class B Common Stock will be sustained. In addition, stock markets from time to time have experienced price and volume fluctuations that have affected the market price for many companies and that frequently have been unrelated to the operating performance of those companies. Such market fluctuations may adversely affect the market price of our Class B Common Stock.

Our Stock Could Be Delisted from the Nasdaq National Market

        Furthermore, due to the volatility of our stock price, we could be subject to delisting from The Nasdaq National Market. To maintain the listing of our Class B Common Stock on The Nasdaq National Market, we are required to meet certain listing requirements, including a minimum bid price of $1.00 per share. The market price of our Class B Common Stock has never fallen below $1.00 per share, however, if our stock price fell below that level for an extended period, we could be subject to delisting from The Nasdaq National Market. On October 14, 2002, our stock price traded at an intraday low of $1.00 and closed at $1.08. Delisting could materially affect the market price and market liquidity of our capital stock and our ability to raise necessary capital.

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PART II—OTHER INFORMATION


Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

        The Company's 2002 Annual Meeting of Stockholders was held at the Company's executive offices, 607 Airpark Road, Napa, California, on November 15, 2002. In attendance, in person or by proxy, were 4,342,528 shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock and 4,096,031 shares of the Company's Class B Common Stock, or, approximately 97.7% of the total votes outstanding. The following actions were taken:

        Election of Directors.    All eight positions on the Company's Board of Directors were to be filled for new one-year terms, and all nominees were duly elected, each nominee receiving in excess of 99% of total votes. The directors thus elected, with the precise votes for, against and abstaining, were:

Director

  For
  Against
  Abstain
Jeffrey J. Brown   47,507,071   0   14,040
Jeffrey B. O'Neill   47,507,071   0   14,040
Nicholas B. Binkley   47,507,071   0   20,040
Lawrence R. Buchalter   47,506,571   0   15,040
David Gale   47,506,571   0   19,540
Paul M. Ginsburg   47,507,471   0   13,640
M. Scott Hedrick   47,507,071   0   14,040
Jean-Michel Valette   47,507,571   0   13,540

        Ratification of Auditors.    The selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company's independent auditors for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2003, was ratified, with 47,515,044 votes for, 5,854 votes against, and 213 votes abstaining.

        Approval of the Amendment of the 1996 Stock Option Plan.    The amendment to the 1996 Stock Option Plan to increase the number of shares of the Company's Class B Common Stock available for issuance thereunder by 500,000 from 1,393,925 to 1,893,925 was approved with 43,707,916 votes in favor, 472,911 votes against and 2,200 votes abstaining.

        Approval of the Amendment of the 1998 Director Stock Option Plan.    The amendment to the 1998 Director Stock Option Plan to increase the number of shares of the Company's Class B Common Stock available for issuance thereunder by 100,000 from 348,000 to 448,000 was approved with 43,728,341 votes in favor, 452,286 votes against and 2,400 votes abstaining.


Item 6. Exhibits and Reports On Form 8-K.

(a)
Exhibits

Exhibit Number
   
11   Statement Regarding Computation of Per Share Earnings (Loss)

99.1

 

Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. Section 1350.)

99.2

 

Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. Section 1350.)

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

        Golden State Vintners, Inc.
(Registrant)

February 13, 2003

Date

 

 

 

/S/ JOHN G. KELLEHER
John G. Kelleher
Duly Authorized Officer and
Chief Financial Officer

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CERTIFICATION

        I, Jeffrey B. O'Neill, certify that:

        1.    I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Golden State Vintners, Inc.;

        2.    Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report.

        3.    Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly represent in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report.

        4.    The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

        5.    The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

        6.    The registrant's other certifying officer and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

Date: February 13, 2003    

 

 

 
/s/  JEFFREY B. O'NEILL      
Jeffrey B. O'Neill
Chief Executive Officer
   

 

 

 

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CERTIFICATION

        I, John Kelleher, certify that:

        1.    I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Golden State Vintners, Inc.;

        2.    Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report.

        3.    Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly represent in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report.

        4.    The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

        5.    The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

        6.    The registrant's other certifying officer and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

Date: February 13, 2003    

 

 

 
/s/  JOHN KELLEHER      
John Kelleher
Chief Financial Officer
   

 

 

 

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QuickLinks

GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED, IN THOUSANDS)
GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED, IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED, IN THOUSANDS)
GOLDEN STATE VINTNERS, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
RISK FACTORS
PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
SIGNATURES
CERTIFICATION
CERTIFICATION