Wine World Estates appointed importer for Castello di Gabbiano.

ST. HELENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 16, 1995--Wine World Estates announced Monday that it has been appointed the importer for Castello di Gabbiano, one of the leading brands of Chianti in the United States.

Castello di Gabbiano is situated in the center of the Chianti Classico region not far from Florence, Italy. Its owner, Rino Arcaini, dates the Castello, or castle, of the estate back to the 11th century. The wines from this famous estate are easily recognizable by their label, a bold depiction of an Italian knight on horseback.

"This new alliance is an exciting addition to our current portfolio of imported wines," stated Wine World Estates President Walter Klenz. Wine World Estates currently imports Travaglini Gattinara, the leading Gattinara wine in the United States, and Cune Rioja wines, one of Spain's most respected wineries.

Like many of its famous neighbors, Castello di Gabbiano has planned new varietals to their estate vineyards and forged what are being called "Super Tuscan wines." These wines, such as Ania, named after one of Arcaini's daughters, have received much acclaim from wine critics. Although most of the estate's Chiantis are aged in traditional oak cooperage, Arcaini has brought in over 600 small French oak barrels for "Super Tuscan wines" and Riserva Chianti.

"This is an outstanding property," added Klenz. "It is the perfect blend of old and new -- great vineyards producing wines in the traditional Chianti style, and a modern, state of the art winery equipped to make Giabbiano a leader in Tuscany, both today and tomorrow."

Wine World Estates also produces and markets Beringer Vineyards, Meridian Vineyards, Chateau Souverain and Napa Ridge wines from California.

CONTACT: Wine World Estates, St. Helena

Tor Kenward, 707/963-7115