SELECT WINES TO DISTRIBUTE ARA WINES IN CANADA

Marlborough producer Ara today joins a select group of the world’s most prominent wine brands with the announcement that Select Wine Merchants is to distribute the full range of Ara wines across the ten provinces of Canada, as of today.

The Vancouver-based wine importer and distributor will distribute the following Ara wines through its nationwide network:

o        Ara Resolute Pinot Noir (RRP CAD$39.95) and Ara Resolute Sauvignon Blanc (RRP CAD$29.95)

o        Ara Composite Pinot Noir (RRP CAD$24.95) and Ara Composite Sauvignon Blanc (RRP CAD$19.95)

o        Ara Pathway Pinot Noir (RRP CAD$21.95) and Ara Pathway Sauvignon Blanc (RRP CAD$18.95)

Sue Henderson, Ara’s Commercial Director, said: “This agreement is a step-change for Ara as a market-led business. Select is a market leader in fine wine distribution and an ideal partner for us as we look to build on the production excellence that has been achieved to date at Ara.

“Select has a comprehensive understanding of the world of fine wines, and a sophisticated expertise in positioning fine wines in the Canada market. Select will help us to generate real sales presence in Canada by vigorously pursuing distribution of Ara wines through the government retail networks, fine wine outlets, and restaurants across the country.”

Scott Oliver, COO of Select, said: “From the modern, iconic packaging through to the undeniable quality in the bottle, ARA stands out.  I believe ARA is superbly positioned to become a material player in the New Zealand category.  We are delighted to be partnered with one of the most exciting prospects to come out of New Zealand in recent memory.”

Please contact for further information:

·         Sue Henderson, Winegrowers of Ara,  ( +61 408262943, email: sue.henderson@ara.co.nz

·         Scott Oliver, Select Wines, ( +1 416 367 5600, email: oliver@selectwines.ca