Almaden Bag-In-The-Box Wines Introduced In Japan

Canandaigua Wine Company, a division of Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ and STZ.B), announced today that Almaden Bag-in-the-Box wines will be introduced to Japanese consumers beginning in late February. To distribute the brand in Japan, Canandaigua Wine Company has formed an alliance with Asahi Breweries, Ltd. of Japan.

Canandaigua Wine Company, a division of Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ and STZ.B), announced today that Almaden Bag-in-the-Box wines will be introduced to Japanese consumers beginning in late February. To distribute the brand in Japan, Canandaigua Wine Company has formed an alliance with Asahi Breweries, Ltd. of Japan. As Japan's number one brewery, Asahi Breweries also serves as a major wine importer with a strong presence in both on and off-premise establishments. “We are very excited about our new alliance with Asahi Breweries,” says Doug Kahle, Vice President of Canandaigua Wine’s International Division. “Asahi has tremendous sales and distribution capabilities and we believe this product is being introduced at the right time in the Japanese market. Wine consumption is growing steadily in Japan and consumers are looking for accessible, quality wines at affordable prices. For these reasons, we believe that Almaden Bag-in-the-Box will attract and satisfy consumers in this market." Almaden Bag-in-the-Box wines, in the 5.0-liter size, will be available in both red and white styles. The innovative Bag-in-the-Box packaging is expected to be popular with on-premise establishments, where restaurateurs seek quality wines in cost effective and convenient packaging. As the number two Bag-in-the-Box brand in the U.S., the brand is known for maintaining its great taste and freshness as the inside pouch empties, without allowing the wine to become exposed to oxygen. Canandaigua Wine, a division of Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE: STZ, STZ.B), is the second largest wine company in the United States. Canandaigua Wine 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, including Alice White, Almaden, Arbor Mist, Columbia, Cook’s, Covey Run, Dunnewood, Inglenook, K Cider, Paul Masson Grande Amber Brandy, Talus and Vendange. Constellation is a leader in the production and marketing of beverage alcohol brands in North America and the United Kingdom and is a leading independent drinks wholesaler in the United Kingdom.