Valletta has lent its name to a limited edition of wines made by the Knights of the Order of St John.

After building the World city almost five centuries ago, the Knights are celebrating the capital's birth with the launch of the Valletta 444 wines, which will be limited to 2,000 sets.

The classic Merlot and refreshing Friulano were produced at the Knights' 450-year-old Rocca Bernarda Estates in Italy's Udine and were launched yesterday to mark Valletta Day tomorrow.

The Order's emblem, a white eight-pointed cross on a red background, stands out on the two dark bottles that are presented in a white box and are available for €50.

Although the capital turns 443 years this year, the wine reflects the city's forward-looking stance, which it why the bottles' labels carry the 444 mark, Max Castagna, the managing director of importing company Casa Vini, explained.

Speaking under the vaulted ceilings at the Order's Embassy in Valletta, mayor Alexei Dingli said this was a significant launch as the wine would be made available to local and foreign markets.

The set will be launched in Italy next week during the Vin Italy festival in Verona.

"The name of Valletta and of Malta will take centre stage during this important event," Jesmond Saliba, the managing director of Corporate Identities, said.

For more information call freephone 8007 3787.