The German sparkling wine and wine industry is losing a key innovator. On March 31, 2025, Christof Queisser will step down as CEO of Rotkäppchen-Mumm, leaving both the company, headquartered in Freyburg/Unstrut and Eltville, and the industry. Queisser announced his decision at a virtual press event on November 27, 2024.
Silvia Wiesner to take over as CEO
Silvia Wiesner, who previously managed the Belgian and Luxembourg markets at Unilever and led the group’s food business in the DACH region, has been named Queisser’s successor. She will take over as CEO of the sparkling wine producer in 2025. "I am very much looking forward to contributing my experience and ideas to a broad-based and innovative company and working with a strong team," Wiesner said in a press release.
Queisser, who has led Rotkäppchen-Mumm for 12 years, said his departure was a difficult decision. "I carry the company and the Rotkäppchen-Mumm brands in my heart," he said in an interview with WEINWIRTSCHAFT.
Queisser’s decision came as a surprise, even within the company. Press spokesperson Anne Schmidt revealed she learned about his departure only two days before the announcement, while staff were informed just one hour prior to the press event.
No strategic shift planned
Rotkäppchen-Mumm has emphasixed that Wiesner’s appointment does not signify a strategic shift. The company, guided by decisions made within its owners' advisory board, will continue to pursue its long-term strategy while maintaining its innovative and bold approach. "Silvia Wiesner will certainly bring her own management style," Queisser said.
Innovations and expansions under Queisser
Despite price increases, Rotkäppchen performed well in 2024, with consumers remaining loyal to the brand. Sales of sparkling wines—including Rotkäppchen, Mumm, and Geldermann—remained stable, though still wines, particularly Blanchet, faced declines.
With the launch of Secconade, a low-alcohol mixed drink that combines the flavors of sparkling wine and homemade lemonade, Rotkäppchen-Mumm said it remains on innovation. Queisser also oversaw major expansions, such as the acquisition of Bremen wine merchant Eggers & Franke, which brought the successful Doppio Passo brand into the company’s portfolio.
Doppio Passo’s Success and Ruggeri Acquisition
Doppio Passo, initially known for its Primitivo wines, achieved success under Queisser’s leadership. With multiple line extensions, it became the most successful brand in Germany’s food retail sector, achieving annual sales of €135m in 2023 and reporting a 156% growth in revenue during the first three quarters of 2024. Queisser also played a pivotal role in the acquisition of the Prosecco house Ruggeri.
For the second consecutive year, Rotkäppchen-Mumm will not have a stand at ProWein, Queisser confirmed. Instead, the company will be represented at the stand of Ruggeri in the Italy hall. "I don’t want to rule out participating again in the future," Queisser said.
"Christof Queisser has done an excellent job of combining stability with a willingness to innovate, strengthening the company in the long term," said Petra Roller, Chairwoman of the Rotkäppchen-Mumm Advisory Board.
