Leading Australian wine producer, BRL Hardy Wine Company, has today signed a three year deal with the Rugby Football Union to become its Official Wine Supplier.

The six-figure deal, which runs until the end of 2004-05 season, will mean that rugby fans will be able to experience Hardys wines at Twickenham for the first time.

Spectators will be able to taste Hardys wines in the West Car Park both before and after matches as well as selecting it from wine lists in various Twickenham entertainment and hospitality areas.

Hardys will be supporting England Rugby throughout the season in various forms, including supplying wines for corporate dinners and official functions and staging wine tastings at Twickenham.

Christopher Carson, CEO, BRL Hardy Europe Ltd said, ‘Australian wines are extremely popular in the UK and Hardys is the country’s best selling wine brand with a fantastic reputation for quality.

‘This is a great opportunity for us to build affinity for wines such as Hardys Nottage Hill among rugby players and spectators alike whilst they enjoy one of their favourite sports.’

Paul Vaughan, Commercial Director, Rugby Football Union commented, ‘This partnership is great news for England Rugby. With their wide Australian wine portfolio, Hardys can bring something to Twickenham that will add to the match day experience offered.’

For more details contact:

Liney Abbott, PR Manager, BRL Hardy Wine Company
01372 473 000 or 07810 555 248

or

RFU Media Office
0208 831 6513 or 0208 831 6626