Constellation replies to the $25,000 donation (WIG-GATE)

Here is Constellation's official spin on the Albany Times Union story that disclosed their campaign  contribution to Governor Paterson (My comments in parenthesis):

Constellation’s contributions to the governor were not, in any way, connected with the wine in grocery stores issue, or any other specific issue.

(Excuse me.  No one I know gives away $25,000 without expecting something in return! Everyone knows that Governor Paterson has zero chance of getting his party's nomination, much less getting elected.  That being the case, why would anyone give him any money unless they wanted something he could deliver before he retires? Just a thought.)

Various Rochester community leaders organized a fundraiser for the governor in Rochester on January 12. Constellation was asked to participate in this event as a co-sponsor, which we agreed to do
because we support many of the governor’s policies and programs during these difficult economic times.

(Ah, so it is pay for play, but you just don't want to list what it is you are paying for.)

The contributions had been planned for at least a month before the fundraiser.

(I'd say that would be just about the time that rumors of WIG being back in the budget came out.)

A donation to the governor's election campaign should not, in any way, be construed as a vote for or against any provisions of his budget.

(See my first comment.  He's not going to be elected. Game over.)

In the past, our elected officials have considered the issue of allowing wine to be sold in grocery stores and, now, as in the past, we remain neutral on the issue.

(Now this one really burns me. I do a ton of business with this company annually, and this is how they thank me: by staying neutral while Paterson and the big box stores plot to put me out of business.  I, for one, think this "neutral" thing is a cop-out.  On this point, Constellation, you need to come out clearly in support of your present customers.)

When it comes to industry issues, it is our policy to work through trade associations, such as DISCUS and Wine Institute.

(Well the Coalition for the Last Main Street Store is another trade association too.  And many of your competitors like Diagio and Bacardi have contributed to it.  Even Southern Wine & Spirits, your exclusive New York wholesaler, has contributed to our cause.  They don't have a problem with 'remaining neutral.')

Constellation supports our distributor and retail partners and will continue to work with them no matter what the outcome of this debate is.

(Read: we'll make money from anyone, we're not proud or particular.  Come to think of it, since we own all the top wine labels on the planet in the supermarket price points we stand to gain quite a bit by having wine in big box stores.  That's because our competitors won't even make the cut.  We will own the shelf space just like Proctor & Gamble owns the toothpaste shelf.)

Cheryl Gossin
VP, Corporate Communications
Phone: 585-678-7191
Mobile: ***-957-****

207 High Point Drive, Building 100
Victor, New York 14564

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