Many wineries have responded to increasing competition and the narrowing of distribution channels by selling out to larger companies, but others have taken a less traumatic step: They've hired sales and marketing partners to increase their clout. "The world isn't exactly waiting for another $50 Cabernet," noted Dick Maher, chairman of Wilson-Daniels Company in St. Helena, CA. By joining the portfolios of these well-connected marketing firms, wineries acquire local sales representatives, rel...