Murray valley vineyards may go in Foster's sale

 Vineyards in the Murray Valley are believed to be among 36 to be sold by the beverage giant Foster's to try to save $100 million a year.

It is understood the list includes the Lake Cullulleraine vineyard near Mildura, that employs about seven people, and another similar-sized operation at Pomona, north of Wentworth.

The only Australian winery to close is understood to be in the in the Hunter Valley and 400 staff at the Karadoc winery were reassured yesterday the company remained committed to the site.

Foster's will also discontinue about half its wine brands, but chief executive Ian Johnston is refusing to detail any of the measures.

"We've taken the decision not to disclose which brands are on that list and that is primarily to make sure we can have an orderly run-down of our commitments," he said.