~Assumes one-year term as chairperson of the largest advocacy and public policy association for the California wine industry~
San Francisco, June 14, 2013 - Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE: STZ and STZ.B), a leading beverage alcohol company, announced today that Chris Fehrnstrom, chief marketing officer, Wine and Spirits division, has been named Chairperson of Wine Institute's Board of Directors.
"The California wine industry is exciting, and rapidly evolving," said Fehrnstrom. "Our passion for this industry is unwavering and Wine Institute represents California's wine interests to policymakers with the goal of increasing exports. We take great pride in the quality of our California wine, which is a great example of the best American-made products."
"Our high quality grapes and production of world-class wines is a signature California industry that contributes billions of dollars to the local, regional and national economies," said Jay Wright, Constellation's president, Wine and Spirits division. "We are proud that Chris has been chosen by his peers to work on behalf of Wine Institute with wineries, communities, partners and elected officials throughout the state to positively impact this important industry."
"Chris is widely respected because of his hard work and dedication to the California wine industry," said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, president and chief executive officer of Wine Institute. "His passion, strong industry relationships and understanding of the legislative, regulatory and economic challenges that our members face make him a natural leader. He will continue to drive Wine Institute's mission to initiate and advocate for public policies that enhance the ability to responsibly produce, promote and enjoy wine."
Fehrnstrom also praised outgoing Chairperson Kathleen Heitz Meyers. "Kathleen exemplifies all that is good about the California wine industry and I would like to congratulate her on her steadfast service."
California is the nation's top winemaking state, producing 90 percent of U.S. wine, and the 4th largest producer worldwide after France, Italy and Spain. Constellation has a strong presence in this important region including our Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Ravenswood, Simi, Franciscan Estate, Wild Horse and Woodbridge wineries. Because of this presence, Constellation has had a longstanding relationship with Wine Institute.
Fehrnstrom has been with Constellation since 2002, first serving as senior vice president of marketing and then president for the company's former luxury division, Icon Estates. He then became president of Constellation's super-premium business before advancing to chief marketing officer for Constellation Brands worldwide in 2009. Prior to joining the company, Fehrnstrom held key roles at the former Wine.com as well as Domaine Chandon and E. & J. Gallo Winery.
About Constellation Brands
Constellation Brands is a leading wine, beer and spirits company with a broad portfolio of premium brands. Constellation is the world leader in premium wine, the number one beer importer and the number three beer company in the U.S. The company's brand portfolio includes Arbor Mist, Black Box, Blackstone, Clos du Bois, Estancia, Franciscan Estate, Inniskillin, Kim Crawford, Mark West, Mount Veeder, Nobilo, Ravenswood, Rex Goliath, Robert Mondavi, Ruffino, SIMI, Toasted Head, Wild Horse, Corona Extra, Corona Light, Modelo Especial, Negra Modelo, Pacifico, Black Velvet Canadian Whisky and SVEDKA Vodka.
Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ and STZ.B) is an S&P 500 Index and Fortune 1000® company with more than 100 brands in our portfolio, sales in approximately 100 countries and operations in approximately 40 facilities. The company believes that industry leadership involves a commitment to our brands, to the trade, to the land, to investors and to different people around the world who turn to our products when celebrating big moments or enjoying quiet ones. We express this commitment through our vision: to elevate life with every glass raised. To learn more about Constellation, visit the company's website at www.cbrands.com (http://www.cbrands.com/).
About Wine Institute
Wine Institute is the public policy advocacy association of nearly 1000 California wineries and affiliated businesses whose members account for 95 percent of California wine production and 85 percent of U.S. wine production. Based in San Francisco, with offices in Sacramento, Washington, D.C., six regions across the U.S. and 15 foreign countries, Wine Institute is guided by 80 vintners who are members and alternates of an active board of directors. The board elects the chairman and officers on an annual basis. For more information visit www.wineinstitute.org (http://www.wineinstitute.org/)
| CONTACTS Constellation Brands: Jennifer Hodges: 415-912-3852 |
Wine Institute:
Gladys Horiuchi: 415-356-7525
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Source: Constellation Brands Inc via Thomson Reuters ONE
