TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 10/16/2006 -- Sleeman Breweries Ltd. ("Sleeman") (TSX: ALE) and Sapporo Breweries Ltd.:

What:  In anticipation of the closing of Sapporo Breweries Ltd.'s
       acquisition of Sleeman Breweries Ltd., the companies will hold a
       media conference in downtown Toronto(1). At this conference,
       representatives of both companies will be on hand to discuss:

       - The deal and its importance to both organizations
       - The future of Sleeman in Canada
       - Sapporo's outlook for the North American market

       In conjunction with this press conference, Sleeman will discuss a
       new product introduction - an initiative supported by both Sapporo
       and Sleeman.

Who:   John Sleeman, CEO, Sleeman Breweries
       Rick Knudson, President and COO, Sleeman Breweries
       Nobuhiro Hashiba, Senior Operating Officer, International
       Division, Sapporo Breweries
       Kenny Sadai, General Manager, International Division, Sapporo
       Breweries

When:  Wednesday, October 18, 2006(1)
       11:45 a.m.
       Lunch and refreshments will be served

Where: Le Royal Meridien King Edward Hotel
       37 King St. East
       Toronto, Ontario
       Sovereign Room

Teleconference Details:
Media and analysts outside Toronto are invited to participate via
teleconference. Please call 1-866-250-4909 just prior to 11:45 a.m.

(1) NOTE:  This event is scheduled tentatively pending official
           closing of the transaction.