News Briefs

Ernest Gallo, founder of E&J Gallo Winery, has died at the age of 97. Gallo, along with his brother Julio, created the largest family-owned wine business in the world, which today employs more than 4,600 people and sells products in more than 90 countries.
Fiji Water LLC, Los Angeles, announced an on-premise distribution partnership with Young’s Market Co. based in Orange, Calif. The partnership will expand distribution of Fiji Water in the on-premise channel, specifically targeting luxury hotels and restaurants in addition to bars and nightclubs.
Heineken USA, White Plains, N.Y., was named Wal-Mart’s alcohol beverage supplier of the year. The award, which recognizes Heineken USA’s commitment to quality, innovation and professionalism, was presented at the retailer’s Supplier Summit.
Lifestyle Beverages Inc., New York City, announced its agreement with Boening Brothers Inc. and Oak Beverages to distribute TrimWater in the New York area. TrimWater will be the flagship non-alcohol beverage for the companies, which distribute Guinness, Yeungling and Sam Adams beer in and around New York City.
Mountain Valley Spring Co., Hot Springs National Park, Ark., launched its premium bottled spring and sparkling waters in Japan. Its products will be carried by FL Japan Co. Ltd., an affiliate of California’s FL Trading Network, which exports beverages and food to the Asian market.
Reyes Holdings LLC, Rosemont, Ill., acquired Gate City Beverage Distributors, Indio, Calif., which distributes Miller, Corona, Heineken, Guinness and other brands in Southern California.
Paterno Wines International will now be known as Terlato Wines International. The name change reflects the leadership of the Terlato family, especially Anthony J. Terlato, who built the luxury wine marketing company based in Lake Bluff, Ill.
Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee, Fort Worth, Texas, announced all its manufacturing facilities are now certified organic by the Organic Crop Improvement Association as well as the United States Department of Agriculture. The private label manufacturer of coffee and tea products has operations in Texas as well as Canada.