Alice White Merlot Goes National
Top-Selling Aussie Import Now Offers Six Varietals Throughout U.S.

CONCORD, Calif., Jan. 27, 2003—The wait is over.  It's everywhere.  Alice White's hot new Merlot, previously seen only in a limited number of states, is now available nationally.

"Merlot is an American favorite, and Americans have come to love the bold, yet approachable Australian style of Alice White," said Tim Peters, brand manager for Alice White.  "Put the two together and it's obvious why consumers find this wine so appealing."

The South Eastern Australian Merlot fits the famous Alice White (www.alicewhite.com) profile, featuring ripe, sweet fruit and a full, balanced and complete palate.  It's a wine that's great for everyday enjoyment, with a suggested retail price of $7.99.

With the addition of Merlot, Alice White now offers six exciting Australian varietals, including Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet-Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Semillon-Chardonnay.

Alice White Merlot first hit shelves early last year with the 2001 vintage release going out to 13 select states.  The release of Merlot nationally is the third significant move by the brand in recent months, following up on its introduction of the 187ml "Lil' Joeys" and the announcement of new packaging for the entire line of wines.

Since its introduction in 1996, American consumers have embraced the quality wines of Alice White – consistent Wine Spectator "Best Buy" selections.  Alice White has quickly become one of this country's fastest-growing wine brands.  Alice White is the fifth ranking Australian brand in the U.S. in volume sales.

Alice White is made by Canandaigua Wine Company, a division of Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE: STZ, STZ.B). Canandaigua Wine, the world's second largest wine company, satisfies millions of consumers nationwide by providing quality wines for the enjoyment of everyday life. Canandaigua Wine produces, markets and sells more than 40 well known brands. Leading table wine brands include Alice White, Almaden, Columbia, Covey Run, Dunnewood, Inglenook, Talus and Vendange. Constellation Brands, Inc. is a leading producer and marketer of beverage alcohol brands, with a broad portfolio of wines, spirits and imported beers. The Company is the largest single-source provider of these products in the United States, and both a major producer and independent drinks wholesaler in the United Kingdom.  

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Balzac Communications, Jennifer Scott @ (707) 255-7667.