Centerplate Introduces Innovative Wine Program for Tampa Bay Rays' Fans

STAMFORD, Conn., April 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Centerplate, the leading hospitality provider to North America's premier sports stadiums and convention centers, announced today their partnership with Zachys Wine & Liquor Inc. in launching a unique wine program at Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays. The new program, debuting today when the Rays host the Orioles in the season's first home game, will offer fans a high end wine experience at each of Tropicana Field's two new custom-built wine bars.

"The partnership between Centerplate and Zachys takes the fan experience to another level," says John Sergi, Chief Design Officer for Centerplate. "We are looking at this program as a beta test to use wine to further the sense of hospitality in a sports stadium. The Zachys guys are a dynamic group and one of the top wine businesses in the country. The Rays are the perfect partner for this program, as they are committed to providing quality eating, drinking and entertainment options for their fans throughout the stadium."

The wine program is a key feature of Centerplate's commitment to increasing value menu options for the customer, enhancing the overall fan experience and raising the level of hospitality at Tropicana Field.

"We are extremely happy to be assisting in the creation of a broader unique wine program at Tropicana Field with Centerplate," said Andrew McMurray, Vice President, Zachys Wine & Liquor Inc. "The Zachys team is committed to bringing Rays fans an extraordinary range of wines, from exceptional values to the newest, hottest selections from up-and-coming wine regions around the world."

"We are especially excited to have the Zachys wine concepts available for our fans," says Brian Ault, Senior Vice President of Business Operations. "We feel like this is the type of strategic thinking that will help the Rays further enhance hospitality at Tropicana Field."

Wine bars positioned on the first and third base concourses will offer customers the opportunity to "sniff, swirl and swill" a variety of wines from around the world. Grouped into such provocative categories as "Workers," "Sleepers," and "High Steppers," the selection of wines will rotate throughout the season and will be priced at $9-$11 per glass. The initial wine selections will include:

• A crisp and refreshing Prosecco
• Juicy California Cabernet perfect for hot dogs and burgers
• Classic steely New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
• A Super-Tuscan that is easy on the wallet
• Global standouts from marquee producers

About Centerplate

Centerplate crafts and delivers "Craveable Experiences. Raveable Results." in 250 prominent sports, entertainment and convention venues across North America. Centerplate has provided services to 12 Super Bowls, 20 World Series, key events for the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, Art Basel Miami Beach, 15 official U.S. Presidential Inaugural Balls and the largest plated dinner in history at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Centennial Celebration.  Visit the company online at www.centerplate.com.

About Zachys

Zachys is a third-generation family-owned business based in Scarsdale, New York, whose holdings include its retail store Zachys Wine & Liquor, Zachys Wine Auctions, New York Fine Wine Storage and comprehensive web site at www.zachys.com. A proven leader in the field of fine wine and spirits since 1944, Zachys has been servicing America's fine wine needs for the better part of 65 years. Zachys has built its name and reputation in the wine business by making the world of wine fun and exciting while maintaining the utmost level in quality. What truly sets Zachys apart as an auction house and retail store is the commitment to exceptional customer service.

SOURCE Centerplate