Wine typically went from the winery to a wholesaler and then to the retailer. More than 95% of U.S. wine was delivered through the producer-wholesaler-retailer chain. Wholesalers typically handled scores of wine brands. As a result, wine companies with larger brand portfolios and larger volumes enjoyed increased leverage over distributors, and large wineries often established or purchased their own wholesaling companies. Distribution channels were generally becoming more concentrated due to consolidation.