NEW YORK, NY, June 27, 2007; At last, consumers can taste (across the country in retail outlets and restaurants) what all the buzz is about surrounding the highly-praised 2005 Rhône Valley wines ? and the numbers only back it up: in 2006 (compared to 2005), exports of Côtes du Rhône wines (red, white and rosé) to the U.S. were up significantly, +32% in terms of volume and +29% in terms of value ? these were the highest export numbers for any French wine region. The full-bodied and well-balanced wines of 2005 boast complex flavors, elegance and structure and display fresh fruit aromas and flavors. Whether they are drunk now or saved for a special occasion, one thing is certain: these extraordinary Rhône Valley gems are not to be missed!

Celebrating Now!
The whites and rosés, as well as the softer, more accessible reds, from Côtes du Rhône or Côtes du Rhône Villages, are drinking well now and are perfect for commemorating present-day engagements, births and graduations. The whites have a distinct freshness with delicate fruity and floral aromas, while the rosés, which are deep in color, display dominant aromas of red fruit. The reds are approachable now, with elegant structure, robust and rich, ripe fruit flavors.

Celebrating Later!
It is the reds from this vintage that shine the brightest and are, by far, the most impressive. The 2005 reds, especially the Northern Crus, are age-worthy and well-structured - ideal for buying now and cellaring until ready to be drunk. Know someone special who graduated in the “Class of 2005," was born in 2005 or said ?I Do? that year? Give a top-tier, remarkable red from Côte-Rôtie or Hermitage, or an outstanding, yet less expensive one from Lirac or Gigondas, that can be enjoyed a bit sooner.

Characteristics of the 2005 vintage:

WHITES
Maintain a distinct freshness from the reasonable summer temperatures
Boast delicate fruit and flower aromas that characterize young wines

ROSÉS
Beautiful and often deep color because of high levels of concentration of the grapes
Display rich and complex aromas of elegant, red fruits

REDS
Outstanding; offering a perfect combination of balance and finesse
Approachable now but also have great aging potential due to their remarkable structure

Whenever they are enjoyed and whatever the celebration, one thing is unmistakable, the 2005 vintage from the Rhône Valley are truly the ?crème de la crème? and should not be passed by. For more information on Côtes du Rhône, please visit www.rhone-wines.com.

Inter-Rhône c/o Sopexa USA
Louise Jordan DWS / Ashley Benaroya
Tel: (212) 477-9800 x 114 / x109
louise.jordan@sopexa.com / ashley.benaroya@sopexa.com