FAIRPORT, N.Y., Aug 1, 2001 /PRNewswire/ -- Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE: STZ; STZ.B) announces that Pacific Wine Partners begins operations today. Pacific Wine Partners is a joint venture equally owned by Constellation Brands and BRL Hardy, the second largest wine company in Australia. Pacific Wine Partners produces, markets and sells a global portfolio of premium wines in the US, including a range of Australian imports, the fastest growing wine category in the industry.

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Pacific Wine Partners have exclusive distribution rights in the United States and the Caribbean to seven brands-Banrock Station, Hardys, Leasingham, Barossa Valley Estate and Chateau Reynella from Australia; Nobilo from New Zealand and La Baume from France. The new company also owns Farallon, an award-winning wine from California's Central Coast, and the Riverland Vineyards winery in Monterey County, California. The joint venture also controls 1,400 acres of vineyards in Monterey.

Jose F. Fernandez, formerly Chief Executive Officer of BRL Hardy's North American business, has been appointed President and CEO of Pacific Wine Partners.

About Constellation

Constellation Brands, Inc. 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. Leading brands in Constellation's portfolio include: Franciscan Oakville Estate, Simi, Estancia, Ravenswood, Corona Extra, Modelo Especial, St. Pauli Girl, Almaden, Arbor Mist, Talus, Vendange, Alice White, Black Velvet, Fleischmann's, Schenley, Ten High, Stowells of Chelsea, Blackthorn and K.

SOURCE Constellation Brands, Inc.

CONTACT:
Investor Relations,
Mark Maring,
+1-716-218-2132,

or

Media Relations,
Ginny Clark
+1-716-218-2167
both of Constellation Brands, Inc.