In a bid to increase competitiveness in the sector and boost the European wine market, a series of new reforms have been introduced by the European Commission.
The agreements - set to be introduced on August 1 2008 – include a new voluntary three-year grubbing up scheme plus greater environmental protection in wine growing regions.
On top of this, the EU reneged on its intention to outlaw chaptalisation and the process will now continue to be permitted.
But who benefits? And how will the reformed Common Market Organisation for wine affect your business in 2008?
Let us know your thoughts below.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Julie
14 Jan 2008 12:26:00
I think this wine reform is great news for the Old World Wine Industry. Plus from a consumer's perspective. I once use to love red wine, but since they started to use technological innovation to enhance wine. I have not touched one drop. I say, thank goodness for the new reform, finally consumers will get the quality of wine that reflects the terroir of the grape; and then we can choose the regional wine on the international market that suits are tastes.
Harry Haff
07 Mar 2008 09:39:30
How about a different view from an American?
Chapatalization deflates the whole concept of terroir. Either the fruit is ripe or not, don't fake it. The EU blew this one.
Instead of a pull scheme, take away the subsidies. When people cannot sell their wine, they will switch to other crops.
With climate change, the EU should be looking at scrapping grapes permitted by law and let vintners decide. Quality producers will produce quality ahead of what regulators can dictate. Does anyone really think Pinot Noir will still be the number one red grape in Burgundy in 50 years?
Thanks.
Harry Haff
Chef Instructor of Wines and Beverages, Le Cordon Bleu, Atlanta
Philip
13 Feb 2008 09:54:13
Reform is need, but why the grants? As a UK merchant I would love to have grants to sell my unwanted stock.
Barb
22 Jan 2008 16:46:47
I must be reading the wrong reform text, because I don't see where the poster Julie is getting her reassurances about quality and terrôir.
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