Kobrand Signs Long-Term Agreement With Tia Maria

PURCHASE, NY--(Marketwire - Aug 29, 2012) - The Kobrand Corporation (Purchase, NY), dynamic home to some of the wine and spirits industry's finest luxury brands, announced this day a long term marketing and sales agreement to exclusively represent Tia Maria Dark Liqueur, from Illva Saronno S.p.A., in the United States.

This exclusive marketing and sales agreement between Kobrand Corporation & Illva Saronno S.p.A., a respected leader in the global spirits business took effect on August 1^st, 2012. The Kobrand network of high quality distributor partners are delighted to represent the Tia Maria brand, as this highly regarded dark liqueur has a most captivating history and remains one of the world's most recognized brands. As the commercial transition unfolds, Kobrand, in partnership with Illva Saronno, looks forward to evolving this mysterious yet alluring brand by capitalizing on its iconic image and exceptional taste profile.

"The legend of Tia Maria, which dates back to the mid-17^th century, was part of the original Espresso Martini created by Dick Bradsell and given the brand's abundantly rich and complex taste profile we plan to launch a number of other delicious cocktails, including some amazing 'lower calorie' cocktails in support of the wants and needs of the energetic American consumer," said John A. Pennacchio, Kobrand's Director of Spirits.

Tia Maria Dark Liqueur will reside in the rapidly growing Spirits Division of Kobrand Wines & Spirits which is headed by Tom Congdon, Vice President, and Managing Director of Spirits. A highly experienced brand marketing team under John A. Pennacchio, Director of Spirits will be responsible for the assimilation, transition, strategic direction and day to day management of this dynamic liqueur.

Tom Congdon, VP and Managing Director of Spirits, said, "Tia Maria has been a strong presence in both the on-premise and off-premise segment of our industry since its emergence in the 1950s, and with Illva's strategic global conceptualization, we know that the brand's high profile will capture even greater consumer affection and respect as we go forward."

Robert DeRoose, Kobrand's President and CEO, shared his thoughts by reiterating the excitement the entire Kobrand team has expressed toward the addition of this legendary brand to our rapidly expanding spirits portfolio. He added, "While Tia Maria remains a mixologist favorite it famously expands our liqueur and luxury after dinner drinks offerings."

KOBRAND CORPORATION
Kobrand Corporation was founded in 1944 and to this day remains one of the few family-owned wine and spirits companies. Kobrand's portfolio of wine and spirits was meticulously selected according to a single, unerring principle: quality. This continued focus has made the Kobrand name synonymous with wines and spirits of the highest caliber for over 60 years. Kobrand is the exclusive agent for an outstanding selection of fine wines and spirits that include Maison Louis Jadot Burgundies, Champagne Taittinger, St. Francis, Sequoia Grove, Benziger Family Winery, Cakebread Cellars, Sassicaia, The Fladgate Partnership of Ports, Alizé Passion Liqueurs and Alize Coco, Appleton Estate, Antica Sambuca, Delamain Grande Champagne Cognacs and Vikingfjord Vodka.

Illva Saronno S.p.A. (Industria, Lombarda, Liquori, Vini & Affini)

Illva Saronno S.p.A. was founded in 1947 and through it many diversified holdings is a leading Italian conglomerate operating in the wines and spirits sector, ice cream preparations, baked goods, optical lenses, flavors and real estate across the globe. Illva Saronno S.p.A is a family run company founded and owned by the Reina family. Augusto Reina, son of the founder Domenico Reina, has presided over the company as the Chairman & CEO since the 1990's and today Illva Saronno S.p.A operates in over 160 countries as it affectionately produces and sells an array of quality brands associated with Italian tradition and craftsmanship.