Korbel Champagne Cellars Sparkles in Washington, DC; America's Premium Champagne Named the Official Champagne of the Inaugural.

Business Editors/Food & Wine Writers

GUERNEVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 10, 2001

As George W. Bush is sworn in as the first United States President of the 21st century next week, Korbel Champagne Cellars will be on hand to toast the new president and vice president during this momentous occasion in America's history. For the fifth consecutive Presidential Inauguration, Korbel will be the official champagne of the inaugural, featured at inaugural functions and the Congressional Luncheon.

Korbel has prepared a commemorative inaugural cuvee of its super-premium Korbel Natural Champagne for the occasion. Among various festivities, the Korbel Natural Inaugural Cuvee will be featured at the Inaugural Luncheon, which immediately follows the swearing-in ceremony, January 20. The luncheon, held in Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol Building, will honor President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney and will be hosted by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.

A Korbel inaugural cuvee was also created for the Presidential Inaugurations of Ronald Reagan in 1985, George Bush in 1989 and Bill Clinton in 1993 and 1997.

"Such an historic celebration deserves to be toasted with an American champagne with roots in our country's most memorable occasions. That is why we are thrilled that Korbel will once again be on hand for this tradition," said Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), the Chairman of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.

A limited number of 750-ml bottles of the Korbel Natural Inaugural Cuvee will be available for sale in selected markets throughout the country. The special bottling will carry a commemorative neck label that includes the Inaugural Seal.

"Korbel's 119-year heritage has allowed us to play a part in America's greatest traditions and celebrations," said Gary Heck, President and Chairman of Korbel Champagne Cellars. "As America's favorite premium champagne, we are honored that Korbel is the champagne of choice for such an important occasion."

Established in 1882, Korbel Champagne Cellars has been a supplier and licensee of the 1996 Olympic Games, a supporter of Team Dennis Conner for the 1995 America's Cup and the first global sponsor of Times Square 2000 -- a sponsorship that lasts through 2007. As an Official Supporter of the 2000, 2002 and 2004 U.S. Olympic Teams and the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Korbel is the number one selling premium methode champenoise-produced champagne in America.

Korbel encourages you to celebrate responsibly.