Regular hamper feature Wolf Blass has just signed a contract that makes it the official wine of the England national rugby team.

The exclusive deal concludes in June 2012, meaning Wolf Blass will be a sponsor of the English side throughout the 2011 World Cup and Six Nations competitions.

Annabel Keech, senior brand manager at the company, confirmed that it is "an integral part" of its strategy to build a rapport with consumers via sporting events, "especially before the Six Nations and the build-up to the World Cup when awareness will be exceptionally high".

All the squad's home fixtures, at Twickenham, will be supplied wine by the Australian brand and feature pitch-side advertising. The estate's produce, made in the Barossa Valley region, will also be served to hospitality guests.

In another condition of the agreement, Wolf Blass has access to tickets and players and has the right to advertise in match day programmes.