Manfred Bauer is the Owner and CEO of Wein-Bauer, Inc., one of the leading importers of Austrian and German wine. Manfred personally travels the globe to bring to the marketplace special wines, beers and spirits that are among the best in the world.

Born in Stockerau, Austria, Manfred spent most of his childhood and early years working in his father's winery. In 1980, he founded Wein-Bauer, Inc. located in Franklin Park, Illinois. For years, Manfred traveled between Europe and the U.S. to lead and direct his business here and abroad. In 1984, he and his wife Gaby relocated full time to the United S tates to hands-on manage their quickly expanding import company. Manfred soon saw the potential to fill a market niche in the United States through importation of fine European wines, spirits and beers. In 1988, when Mr. Bauer saw a need for a specialized distribution company to handle his own wines as well as those from carefully selected domestic wineries, he opened Wein-Bauer, Distribution, Inc.

Today, Wein-Bauer, Inc. and Wein-Bauer Distribution, run as separate companies, are fast becoming heavy-hitters in the ever-changing alcoholic beverage industry. Items such as Turn Me Red from Austria, Turn Me Riesling from Germany and the soon to arrive Turn Me Sweet from Spain (100% Tempranillo – sweeter style) have been very well received and sales are far exceeding expectations. Aside from their home office in llinois, Wein-Bauer, Inc. has regional offices on both coasts and in Wisconsin as well as brokers in other key areas. This ensures that Wein-Bauer is able to properly service their country-wide distribution network.

Today, Manfred, Gaby and their two teenage children live in Glenview, IL. Lately, they ar e kept quite busy with their son's sporting events as well as keeping active in cultural and charitable events throughout Chicagoland. Manfred is also a member of the European Wine Knighthood. Outside of work he enjoys skiing, reading, traveling and playing racquetball.

 Corporate Background