CHEVY CHASE, MD -- (MARKET WIRE) -- June 14, 2007 -- When the power elite of Russia are not meeting at The Kremlin, chances are they may soon be found "power dining" around the corner from Red Square at Jeroboam, the restaurant of three star Michelin chef Heinz Winkler in Moscow's most talked about luxury hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow, where room rates begin at $1,000 per night.* Opening July 1, 2007, the hotel's debut symbolizes the evolutionary changes taking place in Moscow. The city is quickly emerging on the world's stage as a sophisticated and stylish destination for business and leisure travelers. Tverskaya 3, a historic hospitality address for centuries, is the site of the $350 million, 334-room hotel featuring an imperial Russian façade and chic, elegant interior with unique contemporary accents. This will be the first property in Russia for the award winning hotel company and its seventh location in Europe. "Having such an impressive presence in Moscow is part of our ongoing strategy to develop world class hotels in cities where the economy is growing and the demand for luxury lodging is high," said Simon F. Cooper, president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. "We believe the service will be as exceptional as the surroundings, and the hotel will be the first choice for the local community, as well as visitors." The place now occupied by The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow was an 18th century tavern for travelers seeking lodging. Decades later it became known as the hotel "Paris," a popular gathering spot for Russian writers and poets to share their creative thoughts. In 1970, The Hotel "Intourist" took its place as a lodging landmark before eventually being demolished to make way for the architectural firm of Mosproject and famed designer Peter Silling's vision for The Ritz-Carlton. Tverskaya Street has long been known as a progressive section of Moscow, with the first gas street lamps and first horse-drawn railway debuting there in 1860. O2 IS THE "BUZZ" OF MOSCOW Featuring the most spacious guestrooms in Moscow, The Ritz-Carlton fuses elements of classic design with surprisingly contemporary features. An elevator ride to the rooftop bar on the 12th floor reveals The O2 Lounge, with its dramatic glass dome. A polished black tile floor, edgy red velvet cocoon chairs and white leather furnishings, plus the sound of dance music spun by a disc jockey, are expected to make O2 the new Moscow after hours "insider spot." In addition to spectacular views of Red Square, the O2 Lounge will showcase the talents of celebrity chef Seiji Kusano, known for his sushi creations including a gourmet roll prepared with Beluga caviar and blue fin tuna, garnished with gold leaf. Guests wishing to visit other popular nightspots and restaurants can retain the services and advice of "the nightlife butler," whose connections are guaranteed to gain them access beyond the velvet ropes. No visit to The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow would be complete without experiencing the "cuisine vitale" menu at Jeroboam, overseen by Germany's renowned three star Michelin chef Heinz Winkler. The restaurant's design is accented by a glass dome with Italian marble and Venetian influences. Paintings of Baden-Baden in Germany and Combray in Northern France were created by noted European artist Junior Toscanelli. Wine aficionados will enjoy Petrus, the intimate wine room available for small groups to select from more than 800 rare and vintage bottles collected from the finest vineyards in the world. This includes an extensive variety of Chateau Petrus from Bordeaux, and the opportunity to order a 1961 Grand Cru for $68,000. For fans of Macallen Single Malt Whiskey, Petrus will offer a complete selection to choose from when dining. The Macallan Fine and Rare Collection vintage 1969 can be savored for $400 a shot. For the ultimate "over the top" experience, with a distinctly Russian flavor, consider the Tsar's Breakfast with a royal $700 per person cost. Included in what may be the world's most expensive morning meal: A bottle of Crystal champagne; Kobe beef steak with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and truffle omelette; foie gras "Au Torchon" with caramelized apple and pain brioche; selection of imported Italian prosciutto and cheese; 56 grams of Beluga caviar with blinis, sour cream and quail eggs, seasonal fruits, pastries, freshly squeezed juices and hot beverages.** VODKA SOMMELIER EXPERTISE Guests wishing to relax will appreciate the library-like atmosphere of The Lobby Lounge, where they can consult the "vodka sommelier," who can not only explain the differences and nuances of some 400 types of the Russian drinks, but can also suggest the best ways to combine drinking vodka while savoring another native specialty, caviar. Visitors selecting accommodations on The Ritz-Carlton Club, accessible only by elevator key, will enjoy spectacular views of Red Square from the lounge area. An outdoor terrace overlooking the iconic landmarks is the perfect place to enjoy food and beverage offerings throughout the day, including an evening caviar presentation. A multi-lingual concierge is available to assist guests with any request during their stay. Meetings at The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow can be held in a variety of settings from the largest ballroom in the city, accommodating up to 700, to smaller venues including breakout rooms, pre-function space, and a small board room. The total meeting space is 14,000 square feet/ 1,300 square meters. For those wishing to visit a spa or the fitness center, The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow offers a 21,520 square feet/ 2,000 square meter spa by ESPA, a heated indoor swimming pool, and complete work out area equipped with the latest machines for daily exercise. This will be the largest and most lavish spa in Moscow. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md operates 64 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, The Middle East, and Africa. Over 35 projects are under development around the globe with future openings including Guangzhou, Dublin, Beijing and Dallas. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognized outstanding customer service. For more information, contact The Ritz-Carlton toll free reservations line at 1 (800) 241-3333, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, or consult a travel professional. *The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow will offer a "Summer Special" through the month of August, with room rates ranging from $385 plus 18 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT). The nearly 50 per cent reduction from published rack rates is subject to some restrictions and availability. **Available at a future date Images available upon request Contact: Vivian Deuschl Corporate Vice President, Public Relations 4445 Willard Avenue, Suite 800 Chevy Chase, Md. 20815 Tel: (703) 941-6225 Fax: (703) 941-7492 Cell: (202) 255-5786 Email: [email protected]