Official Journal C 88 of the European Union
Volume 63 English edition Information and Notices 17 March 2020
Contents
II Information
INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
European Commission
2020/C 88/01 Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.9703 — SCP/real) (1) ...... 1
2020/C 88/02 Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.9739 — AXA/Groupe Crédit Agricole/ELL Luxembourg 2) (1) ...... 2
2020/C 88/03 Communication from the Commission on the body authorised to issue certificates of authenticity under Implementing Regulation (EU) No 481/2012 ...... 3
IV Notices
NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
European Commission
2020/C 88/04 Euro exchange rates — 16 March 2020 ...... 5
V Announcements
PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY
European Commission
2020/C 88/05 Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.9742 — Sinopec Group/Joint Stock Company Novatek/Gazprombank/SINOVA Natural Gas Company) Candidate case for simplified procedure (1) ...... 6
EN (1) Text with EEA relevance. OTHER ACTS
European Commission
2020/C 88/06 Communication of the approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector, as referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 . . . . 8
2020/C 88/07 Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 ...... 15
2020/C 88/08 Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 ...... 20 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Uni on C 88/1
II
(Information)
INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.9703 — SCP/real)
(Text with EEA relevance)
(2020/C 88/01)
On 4 March 2020, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available: — in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, — in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32020M9703. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to European law.
(1) OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1. C 88/2 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.9739 — AXA/Groupe Crédit Agricole/ELL Luxembourg 2) (Text with EEA relevance)
(2020/C 88/02)
On 5 March 2020, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available: — in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, — in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32020M9739. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to European law.
(1) OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1. 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Uni on C 88/3
COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION on the body authorised to issue certificates of authenticity under Implementing Regulation (EU) No 481/2012
(2020/C 88/03)
Council Regulation (EC) No 617/2009 of 13 July 2009 opening an autonomous tariff quota for imports of high-quality beef (1) was amended by Regulation (EU) No 464/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (2).
Commission Regulation (EC) No 620/2009 of 13 July 2009 providing for the administration of an import tariff quota for high-quality beef (3) was repealed and replaced by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 481/2012 of 7 June 2012 providing for the administration of an import tariff quota for high-quality beef (4).
Under Article 3 of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 481/2012, the release into free circulation of goods imported under the quota bearing the order number 09.2202, which replaced the quota bearing order number 09.4449 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 620/2009, is subject to the presentation of a certificate of authenticity.
The following issuing authorities are authorised to issue certificates of authenticity under Implementing Regulation (EU) No 481/2012:
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) of the Australian Government 18 Marcus Clarke Street Canberra City ACT 2601 AUSTRALIA
Contact point: Biosecurity Service Group Mr Greg READ, Executive Manager Tel. +61 262723594 Email: [email protected]
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Washington D.C., 20250 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Internet: http://www.fsis.usda.gov
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) 1400 Merivale Road Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0Y9 CANADA
Email: [email protected]
Internet: http://www.inspection.gc.ca
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Pastoral House 25 The Terrace PO Box 2526 Wellington 6140 NEW ZEALAND
Tel. +64 48940100 Fax +64 48940720 Email: [email protected] Internet: http://www.maf.govt.nz
(1) OJ L 182, 15.7.2009, p. 1. (2) OJ L 149, 8.6.2012, p. 1. (3) OJ L 182, 15.7.2009, p. 25. (4) OJ L 148, 8.6.2012, p. 9. C 88/4 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
Ministerio de Ganadería, Agricultura y Pesca Dirección General de Servicios Ganaderos División Industria Animal Ruta 8, km. 17.500 Montevideo URUGUAY
Tel. +598 22204000 Fax +598 22204000 Ext. 150 801 Email: [email protected] Internet: http://www.mgap.gub.uy/unidad-organizativa/direccion-general-de-servicios-ganaderos
Ministerio de Produccíon y Trabajo de la República Argentina Secretaría de Gobierno de Agroindustria Punto focal : Subsecretaría de Mercados Agropecuarios Av. Paseo Colón N° 982 (C1063ACW) CABA Buenos Aires ARGENTINA
Tel. +54 1143491625/26 + 54 1143492241 + 54 1143492266 Email: [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected] Internet: www.argentina.gob.ar/produccion 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Uni on C 88/5
IV
(Notices)
NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Euro exchange rates (1) 16 March 2020
(2020/C 88/04)
1 euro =
Currency Exchange rate Currency Exchange rate
USD US dollar 1,1157 CAD Canadian dollar 1,5539 JPY Japanese yen 117,76 HKD Hong Kong dollar 8,6682 DKK Danish krone 7,4731 NZD New Zealand dollar 1,8499 GBP Pound sterling 0,90918 SGD Singapore dollar 1,5868 KRW South Korean won 1 373,34 SEK Swedish krona 10,8998 ZAR South African rand 18,5602 CHF Swiss franc 1,0546 CNY Chinese yuan renminbi 7,8351 ISK Iceland króna 151,20 HRK Croatian kuna 7,5785 NOK Norwegian krone 11,4765 IDR Indonesian rupiah 16 756,20 BGN Bulgarian lev 1,9558 MYR Malaysian ringgit 4,8092 CZK Czech koruna 26,960 PHP Philippine peso 57,625 HUF Hungarian forint 344,97 RUB Russian rouble 83,5905 PLN Polish zloty 4,4070 THB Thai baht 35,937 RON Romanian leu 4,8343 BRL Brazilian real 5,5381 TRY Turkish lira 7,1568 MXN Mexican peso 25,4478 AUD Australian dollar 1,8198 INR Indian rupee 82,8075
(1) Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB. C 88/6 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
V
(Announcements)
PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.9742 — Sinopec Group/Joint Stock Company Novatek/Gazprombank/SINOVA Natural Gas Company) Candidate case for simplified procedure
(Text with EEA relevance)
(2020/C 88/05)
1. On 4 March 2020, the Commission received notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). This notification concerns the following undertakings: — Sinopec Gas Company Limited (China) (‘Sinopec Gas’), belonging to the China Petrochemical Corporation (‘Sinopec Group’), — Novatek Asia Development Holding PTE. LTD (Singapore) (‘Novatek Asia’), controlled by Joint Stock Company Novatek (‘Novatek’), — Joint Stock Company Gazprombank-Asset Management Combined Closed-End Mutual Fund ‘GAZPROMBANK – ARCTURUS’ (Russia) (‘Gazprombank Asset Management’), controlled by Joint Stock Company Gazprombank (‘Gazprombank’), — SINOVA Natural Gas Company Limited (China) (the ‘JV’).
Sinopec Gas, Novatek Asia and Gazprombank Asset Management acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) and 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of the JV.
The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares in a newly created company constituting a joint venture.
2. The business activities of the undertakings concerned are: — Sinopec Gas is mainly active in the construction and operation of liquefied natural gas (‘LNG’) projects and natural gas projects and the sale of LNG and natural gas. Sinopec Group is active in the oil and gas industry, — Novatek Asia is mainly active in equity holdings of Novatek’s joint venture projects and in investments in gas and power business and/or infrastructure projects in Asia. Novatek is active in the exploration, production, processing and marketing of natural gas and liquid hydrocarbons in Russia and abroad, — Gazprombank Asset Management is mainly active in asset management for institutional investors. Gazprombank provides a wide range of banking and financial services, particularly in such sectors as natural gas, oil, petrochemicals and power,
(1) OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘Merger Regulation’). 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Uni on C 88/7
— The JV is envisaged to be active in the import and export, as well as purchase and sale, of natural gas (including pipeline gas and LNG) and investment in natural gas related projects in China.
3. On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved.
Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under the Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.
4. The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. The following reference should always be specified:
M.9742 — Sinopec Group/Joint Stock Company Novatek/Gazprombank/SINOVA Natural Gas Company
Observations can be sent to the Commission by email, by fax, or by post. Please use the contact details below:
Email: [email protected]
Fax +32 22964301
Postal address:
European Commission Directorate-General for Competition Merger Registry 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel BELGIQUE/BELGIË
(2) OJ C 366, 14.12.2013, p. 5. C 88/8 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
OTHER ACTS
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Communication of the approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector, as referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33
(2020/C 88/06)
This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).
COMMUNICATION OF APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT
‘Savennières’
PDO-FR-A0158-AM01
Date of communication: 15 November 2019
DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT
1. Geographical area Under ‘Geographical area’ the text has been amended to read as follows: ‘All steps in production must take place in the geographical area comprising the territory of the following communes in the department of Maine-et-Loire, based on the 2018 Official Geographical Code: Bouchemaine, La Possonnière and Savennières. Maps of this geographical area can be found on the website of the National Origin and Quality Institute.’ This is an editorial change: the new list of administrative entities reflects mergers and other administrative zoning changes that have taken place since the specification was approved. For greater legal certainty, the list is now referenced to the latest version of the Official Geographical Code, updated yearly by the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE). The geographical area itself remains unchanged. Finally, in the interests of better public information, the product specification now states that maps of the geographical area can be found on the National Origin and Quality Institute’s website. Point 6 of the single document (Demarcated geographical area) has been amended accordingly.
2. Area in immediate proximity In Chapter I, Section IV(3), the list of communes has been replaced by: Angers, Beaulieu-sur-Layon, Bellevigne-en-Layon (the former territory of the delegated communes of Champ-sur-Layon, Faveraye-Mâchelles, Faye-d’Anjou, Rablay-sur-Layon and Thouarcé), Blaison-Saint-Sulpice (the former territory of the delegated communes of Blaison-Gohier and Saint-Sulpice), Brissac Loire Aubance (the former territory of the delegated communes of Alleuds, Brissac-Quincé, Charcé-Saint-Ellier-sur-Aubance, Luigné, Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, Saint-Saturnin- sur-Loire, Saulgé-l’Hôpital and Vauchrétien), Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Chaudefonds-sur-Layon, Chemillé-en-Anjou (the former territory of the delegated communes of Chanzeaux and Valanjou), Denée, Doué-en-Anjou (the former territory of the delegated commune of Brigné), Les Garennes sur Loire (the former territory of the delegated communes of Juigné-sur-Loire and Saint-Jean-des-Mauvrets), Mauges-sur-Loire (the former territory of the delegated commune of Saint-Laurent-de-la-Plaine), Mozé-sur-Louet, Mûrs-Erigné, Rochefort-sur-Loire, Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire, Saint- Melaine-sur-Aubance, Soulaines-sur-Aubance, Terranjou (the former territory of the delegated communes of Chavagnes, Martigné-Briand and Notre-Dame-d’Allençon) and Val-du-Layon (the former territory of the delegated communes of Saint-Aubin-de-Luigné and Saint-Lambert-du-Lattay).
(1) OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2. 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Uni on C 88/9
This change reflects the various mergers of communes that have taken place since the previous version of the product specification was published. The area in immediate proximity itself remains unchanged
Point 9 of the single document (Further conditions) has been amended accordingly.
3. Agri-environmental rule
The following has been added to Section VI(2) of Chapter 1: ‘Controlled green cover, whether naturally occurring or sown, must be in place between the rows; where there is no such green cover, the grower must perform weeding or justify the use of biocontrol products approved by the public authorities for use in winegrowing. Where biocontrol weedkillers are used on a parcel, no other weedkillers may be used.’
This amendment reflects how winegrowing practices throughout the Anjou area have evolved towards an agro- ecological approach, with technical procedures increasingly influenced by environmental concerns. Promoting the presence of green cover and the use of mechanical weeding or biocontrol products reduces chemical weedkiller use. This will help to protect vineyard soils and preserve their natural functions (fertility, biodiversity, biopurification), enhancing the quality and authenticity of wines and strengthening the concept of terroir.
The single document is not affected by this amendment.
4. Harvest announcement
The following sentence has been deleted from Section VII(1) of Chapter 1: The harvest start date is set in accordance with Article D645-6 of the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code.
It is no longer necessary to set a date for beginning the harvest, as growers now have a wide range of tools at their disposal to help them accurately gauge grape ripeness. Each winegrower has access to equipment, whether owned individually or collectively, that makes it possible to pinpoint the best date to start harvesting each parcel, depending on production targets.
The single document is not affected by this amendment.
5. Winery capacity
Rather than ‘All winemakers must have the capacity to make at least 1,4 times the holding’s average yield over the last five years’, Section IX(1)(c) of Chapter 1 now states that ‘All winemakers must have the capacity to make at least 1,4 times the average volume of wine made over the last five years’.
Rather than a volume-based capacity (expressed in hl or m3), the product specification used to refer to yield, i.e. harvest volume divided by production area (for example in hl/ha). The proposed amendment remedies this inconsistency in quantities, without any change to the substance of the rule (the minimum winery capacity is still 1,4 times the average volume of wine produced in previous years).
The single document is not affected by this amendment.
6. Circulation of wines
Point IX(5)(b) of Chapter 1, which stated the date on which wines could begin circulating between authorised warehousekeepers, has been deleted.
The single document is not affected by this amendment.
7. Record keeping
In point II(3) of Chapter 2, the word ‘potential’ has been replaced by ‘natural’.
In line with all the other product specifications from the Anjou Saumur area, the terms ‘potential alcoholic strength’ or ‘alcohol content’ have been replaced with ‘natural alcoholic strength by volume’. These amendments improve the readability of the product specifications. The rules on record-keeping have been harmonised to make it easier to draw up the inspection plan and check the records.
The single document is not affected by this amendment. C 88/10 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
8. Compliance checklist Chapter 3 has been revised to ensure consistency across the checklists included in the different product specifications for Anjou Saumur wines. The single document is not affected by this amendment.
SINGLE DOCUMENT
1. Name of product Savennières
2. Type of geographical indication PDO – Protected Designation of Origin
3. Category of grapevine product
1. Wine
4. Description of the wine(s)
Product characteristics The wines are still dry, medium-dry, semi-sweet or sweet white wines with the following main analytical characteristics: - The dry wines have a minimum natural alcoholic strength of 11,5 % by volume. - The other wines have a minimum natural alcoholic strength of 12,5 % by volume. - After fermentation, the dry wines have a fermentable sugar content (glucose + fructose) of not more than 4 g per litre, or 8 g per litre where the total acidity expressed as grams of tartaric acid per litre is not more than 2 g per litre below the fermentable sugar content. - After enrichment, the total alcoholic strength by volume of the dry wines should not exceed 13 %. The volatile acidity, total acidity and total sulphur dioxide content are those laid down by EU legislation.
General analytical characteristics Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) 11 Minimum total acidity Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)
Description The wines are white and usually dry, though they may sometimes contain fermentable sugars. Their colour ranges from pale to golden yellow. The nose generally features floral scents or aromatic notes (acacia, limeflower, etc.) together with fruity notes reminiscent of pear, peach, quince, toasted almond, raisins or honey, all complemented by a slight mineral flavour. The attack on the palate is full and thick, revealing the wine’s full aromatic complexity. The finish is a mixture of freshness, a mineral flavour and a touch of bitterness, bringing harmony and balance to the wine. These wines reach their full potential after several years in the bottle. The wines containing fermentable sugars have excellent ageing capacity.
5. Winemaking practices
a. Essential oenological practices
Specific oenological practice The use of wood chips is forbidden; after enrichment the dry wines should not have a total alcoholic strength by volume of more than 13 %; 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/11
For the other wines, all enrichment is banned. In addition to the above provisions, all winemaking practices followed must also comply with the requirements laid down at EU level and in the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code.
The wines must be aged until at least 15 March of the year following the year of harvest.
Planting density - Spacing
Cultivation method
Minimum planting density is 4 000 vines per hectare. Rows of vines may not be spaced more than 2,5 m apart. The vines making up a row must be spaced at least 1 m apart. The registered designation of origin may be used for vineyard parcels with a density of fewer than 4 000 – but at least 3 300 – vines per hectare, subject to compliance with certain vine-training and foliage height rules laid down in the product specification. On such parcels, the rows may not be spaced more than 3 m apart, and the vines making up a row must be spaced at least 1 m apart.
Vine pruning and training
Cultivation method
The vines must be pruned by 30 April, by the mixed pruning method, with a maximum of 12 buds per vine and 4 buds on the cane.
The foliage on the trellis must reach a height of at least 0,6 times the distance between the rows. This height is measured as the distance between the lower limit of the foliage (which must be at least 0,40 m above ground level) and the upper trimming limit (which must be at least 0,20 m above the upper trellis wire).
Vineyard parcels with a planting density of fewer than 4 000 – but at least 3 300 – vines per hectare are also subject to the following trellising rules: the trellis poles must reach at least 1,90 m above ground level, there must be four horizontal wires, and the top wire must be at least 1,85 m above ground level.
Irrigation
Cultivation method
Irrigation is not permitted.
Harvesting
Cultivation method
The grapes are selectively harvested bunch by bunch from the vine. The use of grape harvesting machines is prohibited.
b. Maximum yields
Dry and medium dry wines
50 hectolitres per hectare
Other wines
35 hectolitres per hectare
6. Demarcated geographical area
All steps in production must take place in the geographical area comprising the territory of the following communes in the department of Maine-et-Loire, based on the 2018 Official Geographical Code: Bouchemaine, La Possonnière and Savennières.
7. Main wine grape variety(ies)
Chenin B C 88/12 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
8. Description of the link(s)
1. Information on the geographical area
a) Description of the natural factors relevant to the link
The geographical area is located on the right bank of the river Loire, around 15 kilometres from the city of Angers. Its distinguishing feature is a range of south- and southeast-facing hills, varying from 500 m to 1 500 m in width and stretching for around 6 km along the Loire. In the north of the geographical area lies a large plateau, colder and exposed to the wind, which is mostly used for growing cereals and raising livestock.
The bedrock is composed of schist and schist-sandstone formations dating from the late Ordovician to the early Devonian periods, with localised seams of volcanic rock (rhyolite and spilite). At the edge of the plateau lie several Quaternary aeolian sand deposits, forming a layer of varying thickness. On the hills, the bedrock usually lies near the surface.
The geographical area stretches across the territory of three communes: Bouchemaine, La Possonnière and Savennières.
The climate is oceanic. In the Mauges area, which lies to the west of the vineyards, the oceanic characteristics are tempered by a foehn effect. The average annual rainfall is 650 mm, reflecting the area’s lack of exposure to humid winds, while on the hills of the Mauges it exceeds 800 mm. This discrepancy is even greater during the vine’s growth cycle, particularly from the month of June up until the harvesting period. The average yearly temperature is relatively high at around 12 °C. The river Loire plays a major role in regulating the temperature of the nearby hillsides, which are situated downwind of the prevailing winds, thus maintaining high temperatures at night. The Loire also plays a major role as its presence means that morning mists – essential for the development of noble rot – are a common occurrence at harvest time.
b) Description of the human factors relevant to the link
Vine-growing was initially confined to the lands near the large abbeys of Angers, but gradually spread throughout the surrounding area, and then to the hills of Pruniers and Bouchemaine in the 4th century. Towards 1130, the monks of the Abbaye Saint-Nicolas d’Angers planted a vineyard on a hill overlooking the Loire, thus giving La Roche aux Moines its name. In 1140, Benedictine nuns built a convent known as Le Prieuré in the town of La Possonière. At the time, the building was surrounded by a vast expanse of vineyards. From then onwards, ‘Savennières’ became a wine of choice for the nobility – notably so in the 15th century, at the table of ‘Good King René’ (René I of Anjou), who, after drinking a glass of wine from a plot of land to the east of the town while passing through the commune, dubbed it the goutte d’or (golden drop). Ever since, the plot of land in question has been known as Clos de la Goutte d’Or.
The main phase of the vineyards’ development took place in the 17th and 18th centuries. In Traité sur la nature et la culture de la vigne, published in 1749, Nicolas Bidet and Henri-Louis Duhamel du Monceau wrote: ‘The hills along the Loire, on both sides of the river, make up the different vineyards of Anjou; these hills are half a league or a quarter of a leagues distance from one another, and from Angers they extend for 7 or 8 leagues towards Brittany. They are nothing but rock, and were once completely sterile, covered in scrub, brushwood and old trees, making them inaccessible, impenetrable, and a haven for wild beasts and venomous creatures. The land, which was very difficult to clear, has now been fully cultivated and planted with vines, up until the place where the hill begins to level out and turn northwards, stretching over a quarter of a league or half a league. The hills on the right bank of the Loire going down towards Nantes are south-facing, and thus the wine made there is better and stronger than that from the hills on the left…’ The hills and plots of land near the town of Savennières were covered with vines, and every rural dwelling had several strips of land planted with vines. The registers of grievances drawn up by the Estates General shortly before the French Revolution describe the situation of the hillside vineyards. ‘Savennières: population 2 460, 1/3 planted with vines of an excellent cru … I have never seen a parish more heavily taxed than Savennières,’ wrote parish representative Monsieur Dertrou.
Substantial advancements in winemaking and plant health management in the 19th century led to a thorough transformation of the wine industry through the efforts of winery owners such as Pierre Guillory, who were keen to obtain high-quality wines and maintain the good reputation enjoyed by ‘Savennières’ wine. Many experiments were carried out; these included the use of different grape varieties (notably Madeiran Verdelho – according to Professor Maisonneuve, sixty vines were planted at the Coulée de Serrant vineyard) and experiments in terracing and trellising. Chenin B nevertheless remained the vineyards’ primary grape variety. Jules Guyot, during one of his visits there in 1865, wrote an excellent account of the methods used, including spur pruning, debudding, and harvesting when ‘many of the grapes are already overripe’. 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/13
The registered designation of origin ‘Savennières’ was recognised by decree on 8 December 1952. Initially, the decree primarily focused on wines containing fermentable sugars, but through the efforts of successive chairs of the ‘Savennières’ syndicat de défense, including Michèle Bazin de Jessey, it was updated to cover dry wines, optionally also including wines containing fermentable sugars, which more accurately reflects vineyard practice and the environment’s distinctive features. In 2009, there were 34 growers farming the vineyards.
2. Information on the quality and characteristics of the product The wines are white and usually dry, though they may sometimes contain fermentable sugars. Their colour ranges from pale to golden yellow. The nose generally features floral scents or aromatic notes (acacia, limeflower, etc.) together with fruity notes reminiscent of pear, peach, quince, toasted almond, raisins or honey, all complemented by a slight mineral flavour. The attack on the palate is full and thick, revealing the wine’s full aromatic complexity. The finish is a mixture of freshness, a mineral flavour and a touch of bitterness, bringing harmony and balance to the wine. These wines reach their full potential after several years in the bottle. The wines containing fermentable sugars have excellent ageing capacity.
3. Causal interactions The area of land parcels demarcated for grape harvesting consists of south-facing parcels on sheltered hills, with very shallow soils overlaying the schist and schist-sandstone formations of the underlying bedrock, or shallow soils overlaying aeolian sands. These soils are highly gravelly and not very fertile, with good drainage capacity and poor water reserves. Winemaking in these conditions requires optimal management of the vines and their production potential. This is achieved through careful vine training, strict pruning rules and selective harvesting of the grapes bunch by bunch, including for dry wines. The growers’ expertise is evident in their continued preference for the Chenin B grape variety, which is able to fully realise its potential and its originality in this environment. They have adapted themselves to its particular qualities and its complexity by diversifying their production methods. The wines’ fermentable sugar content has traditionally varied depending on the planting location, vine management and the weather during the year of vintage. When weather conditions at the end of the harvest are good, thanks to the thermoregulating action of the Loire, the winds channelled by the river – which help the grapes to dry out – or the morning mists, semi-sweet or sweet wines can be produced from grapes that are harvested after being raisined on the vine or that are affected with noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). The growers have also been swift to adapt their vinification techniques to include methods that enable them to bring out the best in the grapes. After fermentation, the wine is aged in vats for a while so as to allow it to develop complex aromas. To this end, the product specification stipulates that such ageing must last at least until 15 March of the year following that of the harvest. The combination of such a singular natural environment, a grape variety perfectly adapted to it, and growers who know how to make full use of its potential, enables the production of unique, original wines of historical renown. André Jullien, in Topographie de tous les vignobles connus (1816), did not hesitate to class them among the best, thereby recognising their originality, quality and reputation. The ‘Savennières’ vineyards, a symbol of la douceur angevine, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.
9. Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)
Area in immediate proximity Legal framework: EU legislation Type of further condition: Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area Description of the condition: C 88/14 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
The area in immediate proximity, in which winemaking can be performed by derogation, comprises the territory of the following communes, based on the 2018 Official Geographical Code: Angers, Beaulieu-sur-Layon, Bellevigne-en-Layon (the former territory of the delegated communes of Champ-sur-Layon, Faveraye-Mâchelles, Faye-d’Anjou, Rablay-sur- Layon and Thouarcé), Blaison-Saint-Sulpice (the former territory of the delegated communes of Blaison-Gohier and Saint-Sulpice), Brissac Loire Aubance (the former territory of the delegated communes of Alleuds, Brissac-Quincé, Charcé-Saint-Ellier-sur-Aubance, Luigné, Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, Saint-Saturnin-sur-Loire, Saulgé-l’Hôpital and Vauchrétien), Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Chaudefonds-sur-Layon, Chemillé-en-Anjou (the former territory of the delegated communes of Chanzeaux and Valanjou), Denée, Doué-en-Anjou (the former territory of the delegated commune of Brigné), Les Garennes sur Loire (the former territory of the delegated communes of Juigné-sur-Loire and Saint-Jean-des- Mauvrets), Mauges-sur-Loire (the former territory of the delegated commune of Saint-Laurent-de-la-Plaine), Mozé-sur- Louet, Mûrs-Erigné, Rochefort-sur-Loire, Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire, Saint-Melaine-sur-Aubance, Soulaines-sur-Aubance, Terranjou (the former territory of the delegated communes of Chavagnes, Martigné-Briand and Notre-Dame-d’Allençon) and Val-du-Layon (the former territory of the delegated communes of Saint-Aubin-de-Luigné and Saint-Lambert-du- Lattay).
Labelling Legal framework: National legislation Type of further condition: Additional provisions relating to labelling Description of the condition: All optional indications must be printed on the labels in letters that are no larger, either in height or in width, than twice the size of the letters spelling the name of the registered designation of origin. The registered designation of origin may be supplemented by the geographical name ‘Val de Loire’ in accordance with the rules laid down in the product specification. The geographical name ‘Val de Loire’ must be printed in letters that are no larger, either in height or in width, than two thirds the size of the letters spelling the registered designation of origin. In commercial documents and shipping documents and on labels, the wines must be described as ‘medium dry’, ‘semi- sweet’ or ‘sweet’ according to the fermentable sugar content (glucose and fructose), as defined by EU legislation. On labels, these terms must appear in the same visual field as the registered designation of origin. The name of a smaller geographical unit may appear on the labels of wines covered by the registered designation of origin, provided that: - it is a registered location; - it appears on the harvest declaration. The name of the registered location must be printed in letters that are no larger, either in height or in width, than half the size of the letters spelling the registered designation of origin.
Link to the product specification
https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-a87a8bc4-187d-4cf2-82e7-f4a10eb68f12 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/15
Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33
(2020/C 88/07)
This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).
COMMUNICATING THE APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT
‘RECIOTO DI SOAVE’
PDO-IT-A0465-AM02
Date of communication: 2 December 2019
DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT
1. Vine training systems
Description and reasons
Description
The vine training systems have been extended to include the GDC system and all types of trellises.
Reasons
The reason for this amendment is to adapt the Product Specification to the development of more modern and innovative vine training systems (particularly the various new kinds of trellises) and the need for agronomic methods to take account of climate change.
This amendment concerns Article 4 of the Product Specification but it does not affect the Single Document.
2. Vine density per hectare
Description and reasons
Description
As regards vine density per hectare (at least 3 300 hectares), the reference to the Decree of 7 May 1998 has been cancelled.
Reasons
This is a formal amendment as new vine plantings must have a minimum density of 3 300 plants per hectare.
The formal amendment concerns Article 4 of the Product Specification but it does not affect the Single Document.
(1) OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2. C 88/16 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
3. Use of Additional Geographical Mentions on the labels of wine covered by the ‘Recioto di Soave’ PDO
Description and reasons
Description It is permitted to add to ‘Recioto di Soave’ and ‘Recioto di Soave Classico’ PDO wines Additional Geographical Mentions referring to smaller units in the production area for the designation, which are located within the same production area and included on a list, on the condition that the product is made separately and that this is specifically stated in the annual grape production report.
Reasons The inclusion of references to smaller geographical units of particular interest located inside the demarcated production area and identified after careful zoning work has made it easier to trace where wine is from and thus reinforce its link with the territory. This amendment affects Article 5.1 of the Product Specification and section 1.9. (Further conditions) of the Single Document.
SINGLE DOCUMENT
1. Name of the product Recioto di Soave
2. Geographical indication type PDO - Protected designation of origin
3. Categories of grapevine product 1. Wine 5. Quality sparkling wine
4. Description of the wine(s)
‘Recioto di Soave’ — colour: golden yellow; — aroma: intense and fruity with hints of vanilla; — taste: sweet, velvety and well-rounded, sometimes with hints of vanilla and a traditionally lively flavour; — minimum alcoholic strength by volume: 12,00 % vol.; — minimum sugar-free extract: 27,0 g/l: — reducing sugar residues: not less than 70,0 g/l, Any analytical parameters not shown in the table below comply with the limits laid down in national and EU legislation.
General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) Minimum total acidity 5 g expressed as grams of tartaric acid per litre
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/17
‘Recioto di Soave’ spumante
— foam: fine and long-lasting;
— yellow in colour: golden of varying intensity;
— aroma: pleasant, intense and fruity;
— taste: semi-dry and sweet, velvety, harmonious, full-bodied;
— minimum sugar-free extract: 24,0 g/l:
— reducing sugar residues: minimum 70,0 g/l;
Wherever the value is left blank in the table below, the wines comply with the limits laid down in national and EU legislation.
General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) 11,50
Minimum total acidity 5 g expressed as grams of tartaric acid per litre
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)
5. Wine-making practices
a. Essential oenological practices
NONE
b. Maximum yields
Recioto di Soave; Recioto di Soave Classico
9 000 kg of grapes per hectare
Recioto di Soave Spumante
9 000 kg of grapes per hectare
6. Demarcated geographical area
A) Grapes used to produce wines with the ‘Recioto di Soave’ controlled and guaranteed designation of origin must be produced in the area which includes all or part of the territory of the municipalities of Soave, Monteforte d’Alpone, San Martino Buon Albergo, Mezzane di Sotto, Roncà, Montecchia di Crosara, San Giovanni Ilarione, Cazzano di Tramigna, Colognola ai Colli, Caldiero, Illasi and Lavagno in the province of Verona.
B) Grapes used to produce ‘Recioto di Soave’ Classico wine must be produced in the area approved by Ministerial Decree of 23 October 1931, which includes part of the territory of the municipalities of Soave and Monteforte d’Alpone.
7. Main wine grape variety(ies)
Garganega B.
Trebbiano di Soave B. - Trebbiano C 88/18 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
8. Description of the link(s)
Recioto di Soave The mineral substances contained in the basaltic soils of volcanic origin have a major influence on the fermentation processes of musts obtained from Garganega grapes, giving the wines their characteristic flavour. The traditional vine training systems based on the Veronese trellis help support the aromatic precursors and enable optimal grape health, which facilitates the raisining process of the fruit later on. A thin layer of mould known as ‘noble rot’ forms, enabling the development of intense aromas. ‘Recioto di Soave’ is a well-balanced wine: in addition to its sweetness and good structure, it also features fruity notes which enhance its lively flavour due to its significant acidity.
9. Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)
Use of Additional Geographical Mentions Legal framework: EU legislation Type of further condition: Additional provisions relating to labelling Description of the condition: The following Additional Geographical Mentions can be used in naming and presenting the wines ‘Recioto di Soave’ and ‘Recioto di Soave’ Classico: 1. Brognoligo 2. Broia 3. Ca’ del vento 4. Campagnola 5. Carbonare 6. Casarsa 7. Castelcerino 8. Castellaro 9. Colombara 10. Corte del Durlo 11. Costalta 12. Costalunga 13. Coste 14. Costeggiola 15. Croce 16. Duello 17. Fittà 18. Froscà 19. Foscarino 20. Menini 21. Monte di Colognola 22. Monte Grande 23. Paradiso 24. Pigno 25. Ponsara 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/19
26. Pressoni 27. Roncà - Monte Calvarina 28. Rugate 29. Sengialta 30. Tenda 31. Tremenalto 32. Volpare 33. Zoppega
Link to the product specification
https://www.politicheagricole.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/IT/IDPagina/14702 C 88/20 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33
(2020/C 88/08)
This notice is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1)
COMMUNICATION OF APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT
‘Var’
PGI-FR-A1145-AM01
Date of communication: 25 November 2019
DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT
1. Organoleptic description of the products
Chapter I(3.3) of the specification for ‘Var’ PGI has been amended to include a description of the organoleptic properties of each category of red, rosé and white wine.
These details have also been added to the Single Document under the heading ‘Description of the wine(s)’.
2. Geographical area
Chapter I (4.1) of the specification has been updated with a formal amendment to the description of the geographical area.
It now specifies the year of the Geographic Code (the national reference stating municipalities per department), in listing the municipalities included in each additional geographical mention. The relevant Geographic Code is the one published in 2018. The names of some municipalities have been corrected but there has been no change to the composition of the geographical area.
This amendment does not affect the Single Document.
3. Vine varieties
In Chapter I(5) of the specification, the following 9 varieties have been added to those listed for the production of wines eligible for the ‘Var’ PGI:
‘Artaban N, Floreal B, Monarch N, Muscaris B, Prior N, Solaris B, Soreli B, Souvignier Gris B, Vidoc N and Voltis B’.
These varieties are known to be resistant to drought and cryptogamic diseases. While they are similar to the varieties currently used to produce the PGI wines, they allow the use of plant protection products to be reduced. They do not affect the wines’ characteristics.
The introduction of these varieties does not affect the Single Document.
(1) OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2. 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/21
4. Link with the geographical area - specificity of the product
In the ninth subparagraph of Chapter I(7.2) of the specification, the following sentence has been deleted:
‘Under the current rules, these sparkling wines cannot be placed on the market with a geographical indication and this clearly undermines their value, particularly on the local market, where wines covered by the “Var” protected geographical indication predominate.’
This sentence has been deleted because it is no longer relevant now that quality sparkling wines with the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication have been recognised.
The Single Document is not affected by the deletion of this sentence from the specification.
5. Details of the competent control authority
In Chapter II of the specification, the details of the National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO, the competent control authority) have been corrected but there has been no change.
These amendments to the address have also been reproduced in the Single Document.
SINGLE DOCUMENT
1. Name of the product
Var
2. Geographical indication type
PGI - Protected Geographical Indication
3. Categories of grapevine product
1. Wine
5. Quality sparkling wine
4. Description of the wine(s)
Still red, rosé and white wines
The protected geographical indication ‘Var’ applies to still and quality sparkling red, rosé and white wines.
By way of derogation, the volatile acidity content for wines with a fermentable sugar content (glucose and fructose) of at least 45 grams per litre is as established by an Order jointly issued by the Minister for Consumer Affairs and the Minister for Agriculture.
In the case of still wines, the threshold or limit values for actual alcoholic strength (sparkling wines only), total alcoholic strength, total acidity, volatile acidity, total sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide (sparkling wines only) are as established in EU legislation.
The rosé wines (70 % of output) are generally pale in colour. They are typically lively with fruity aromas, with the variations to be expected given the vine varieties and wine-making techniques employed.
The red wines are generally full-bodied with good structure, tending towards strong in the case of the more concentrated wines. Their colour ranges from ruby red to deep garnet with purple tints.
The white wines are fine, fruity and lively. They are clear and pale yellow in colour with hints of green or shiny gold. C 88/22 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) 9
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)
Quality sparkling wines (red, rosé and white)
The sparkling wines have the same colours and organoleptic properties as their still counterparts but their finer and fresher aromas last longer and are enhanced by their elegant fine bubbles.
In the case of quality sparkling wines, the threshold or limit values for actual alcoholic strength, total alcoholic strength, total acidity, volatile acidity, total sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide (sparkling wines only) are as established in EU legislation.
General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)
5. Wine-making practices
a. Essential oenological practices
Specific oenological practice
The oenological practices for these wines must meet the requirements laid down at EU level and in the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code.
b. Maximum yields
120 hectolitres per hectare
6. Demarcated geographical area
The harvesting of the grapes and the vinification and processing of ‘Var’ PGI wines must take place within the municipalities included in the department of Var.
7. Main grape varieties
Gewurztraminer Rs
Goldriesling B
Gouget N
Sciaccarello N 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/23
Segalin N Seinoir N Select B Semebat N Semillon B Servanin N Sylvaner B Syrah N - Shiraz Tannat N Tempranillo N Téoulier N Terret blanc B Terret gris G Terret noir N Tibouren N Tourbat B Tressot N Ugni blanc B Valdiguié N Varousset N Velteliner rouge précoce Rs Verdesse B Vermentino B - Rolle Villard blanc B Villard noir N Mauzac rose Rs Mayorquin B Melon B Mérille N Merlot blanc B Merlot N Meslier Saint-François B - Gros Meslier Meunier N Milgranet N Molette B Mollard N Mondeuse Blanche B Mondeuse N Monerac N Montils B Morrastel N - Minustellu, Graciano Mourvaison N C 88/24 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
Mourvèdre N - Monastrell Mouyssaguès Müller-Thurgau B Muresconu N - Morescono Muscadelle B Muscardin N Muscat à petits grains blancs B - Muscat, Moscato Muscat à petits grains rouges Rg - Muscat, Moscato Muscat à petits grains roses Rs - Muscat, Moscato Muscat cendré B - Muscat, Moscato Viognier B Artaban N Floreal B Monarch N Muscaris B Prior N Solaris B Souvignier gris Rs Vidoc N Voltis B Portugais bleu N Précoce Bousquet B Précoce de Malingre B Prunelard N Raffiat de Moncade B Riesling B Riminèse B Rivairenc blanc B - Aspiran blanc Rivairenc gris G - Aspiran gris Rivairenc N - Aspiran noir Rosé du Var Rs Roublot B Roussanne B Roussette d’Ayze B Sacy B Saint Côme B Saint-Macaire N Saint-Pierre doré B Sauvignon B - Sauvignon blanc Sauvignon gris G - Fié gris Carignan blanc B 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/25
Carignan N Carmenère N Castets N César N Chardonnay B Chasan B Chatus N Chenanson N Chenin B Cinsaut N - Cinsault Clairette B Clairette rose Rs Clarin B Claverie B Codivarta B Colombard B Corbeau N - Douce noire Cot N - Malbec Couderc noir N Counoise N Courbu B - Gros Courbu Courbu noir N Couston N Crouchen B - Cruchen Duras N Alicante Henri Bouschet N Aligoté B Alphonse Lavallée N Altesse B Aramon blanc B Aramon gris G Aramon N Aranel B Arbane B Arinarnoa N Arriloba B Arrouya N Aubin B Aubin vert B Graisse B Gramon N C 88/26 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
Grassen N - Grassenc Grenache blanc B Grenache gris G Grenache N Gringet B Grolleau Gris G Grolleau N Gros Manseng B Gros vert B Joubertin Jurançon blanc B Jurançon noir N - Dame noire Knipperlé B Lauzet B Liliorila B Listan B - Palomino Lledoner pelut N Macabeu B - Macabeo Mancin N Manseng noir N Maréchal Foch N Marsanne B Marselan N Mauzac B Aubun N - Murescola Auxerrois B Bachet N Barbaroux Rs Baroque B Béclan N - Petit Béclan Béquignol N Biancu Gentile B Blanc Dame B Bouchalès N Bouillet N Bouquettraube B Bourboulenc B - Doucillon blanc Brachet N - Braquet Brun argenté N - Vaccarèse Cabernet franc N Cabernet-Sauvignon N 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/27
Caladoc N Calitor N Camaralet B Carcajolo blanc B Carcajolo N Muscat d’Alexandrie B - Muscat, Moscato Muscat de Hambourg N - Muscat, Moscato Muscat Ottonel B - Muscat, Moscato Négret de Banhars N Négrette N Nielluccio N - Nielluciu Noir Fleurien N Oberlin noir N Ondenc B Orbois B Pagadebiti B Pascal B Perdea B Persan N Petit Courbu B Petit Manseng B Petit Meslier B Petit Verdot N Picardan B - Araignan Pineau d’Aunis N Pinot gris G Piquepoul blanc B Piquepoul gris G Piquepoul noir N Plant de Brunel N Plant droit N - Espanenc Portan N Durif N Egiodola N Ekigaïna N Elbling B Etraire de la Dui N Fer N - Fer Servadou, Braucol, Mansois, Pinenc Feunate N Folignan B Folle blanche B C 88/28 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
Fuella nera N
Furmint B
Gamaret
Gamay de Bouze N
Pinot blanc B
Soreli B
Gamay N
Gascon N
Genovèse B
8. Description of the link(s)
Specificity of the geographical area
Var is one of the departments located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in south-eastern France. It takes its name from the coastal river Var that used to mark the eastern boundary. It is bordered in the west by the department of Bouches-du-Rhône, in the north by the department of Alpes de Haute Provence, in the east by the department of Alpes- Maritimes and in the south by the Mediterranean Sea.
The relief in the geographical area is varied with two geologically distinct parts: a calcareous part to the west of the Toulon–Draguignan axis and a crystalline part to the east.
These two distinct geological formations are associated to two types of vegetation that are typical in the Mediterranean region, i.e.: ‘garrigue’ (brushwood) on the limestone soils and ‘maquis’ and forest (pine and holm oak) on the more crystalline soils. Neither of these types of vegetation provide more than a little humus. The soils in Var are generally poor with good drainage but liable to erosion. Vines can prosper in this kind of terrain. The Romans were not mistaken when they introduced vines 2 600 years ago to develop the Roman Province (or ‘Provence’).
One of the main hallmarks of the climate in Var is its sunshine. The department of Var benefits from a Mediterranean climate featuring hot, dry summers and mild winters with rainy seasons in autumn and in spring. These conditions are ideal for vine-growing and the temperature variations very often mean that certain parcels are devoted to grapes for making red and rosé wines.
The prevailing wind in the region is the Mistral (northerly). It is glacial in winter after having passed over the snow- capped Alps but it is a guarantee of freshness in summer. It can be harsh at times but wine-growers focus mostly on one essential quality: it preserves the vines from an excessively humid environment and from cryptogams such as mildew.
Specificity of the product
Production levels have continued to grow since the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication (Vin de Pays du Var) was created, stabilising at around 250 000 hl at the beginning of the 21st century.
Rosé wines are the main focus (70 % on average), mostly blended varieties.
Despite the continued importance of local varieties such as Grenache N, Cinsault N, Carignan N, Syrah N and Mourvèdre N for red and rosé wines and Vermentino B and Ugni Blanc B for whites, it must be said that the EU funds for restructuring vineyards have helped establish hallmark varieties from other French vineyards, such as Cabernet- Sauvignon N, Merlot N, Chardonnay B and, to a lesser extent, Viognier B. This range of varieties has made it possible to diversify the expression of the wines and contributed, in particular, towards developing the production of quality rosé wines.
One of the characteristics shared by most of the rosé wines, i.e. their very pale colour, is achieved thanks to the expertise in direct pressing of the bunches (whole or destemmed), often with the help of pneumatic presses, so that the clear juice immediately starts to ferment at a low temperature. The lively, fruity wines thus obtained are pale pink in colour. 17.3.2020 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union C 88/29
Other techniques are also employed, such as ‘saignée’ (bleeding off some of the juice), maceration of the skins or prior to fermentation (where musts are kept at a low temperature for between 8 and 24 hours before pressing), with a view to making rosé wines that are stronger in colour and which have a more consistent structure.
The red wines (which account for about 20 % of the eligible volume) are often strong and fleshy with good tannin structure. They are mostly made from the triad of Grenache N, Syrah N and Cabernet-Sauvignon N, although Merlot N and Cinsault N are often included too.
Accounting for a more modest proportion of the production (10 % of the eligible volume), the white wines appeal both to enthusiasts of varietal wine (Rolle B or Vermentino B, Viognier B or Chardonnay B) and to others, with blended wines that combine finesse and liveliness.
Quality sparkling wines are also made in the production area in question. The making of sparkling wine is not a new development in Provence. It is a traditional process that results in about a million bottles per year and which is guaranteed here by some fifty operators (producers, processors and traders). In the early 20th century, some cooperative wineries or winemakers such as ‘La Tête Noire’ were already trying to promote the quality sparkling wines produced in Provence.
One of the main characteristics of the sparkling wines covered by the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication is the fact that they are made from local vine varieties, as they are mostly rosé wines, which account for most of the still wines produced in the region.
Thus the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication would identify still wines associated with sparkling wines with relatively similar organoleptic profiles. Indeed, the sparkling rosé wines are very fruity and floral and they have the same roundness of flavour as the still rosé wines.
It is precisely these organoleptic properties (floral and fruity aspect and the nice roundness) that distinguish the sparkling wines made in the Var region from those made in other parts of France.
Causal link between the specificity of the geographical area and the specificity of the product
Given its favourable climate, diverse landscapes and seaside location, as well as its rich historical and cultural heritage, craftsmanship and traditions, the Var region has undeniable potential for tourism. Aided by all of these strengths, the department has built up a strong economy focusing on tourism.
This remarkably attractive region manages to draw in more than 14 million tourists a year. These tourists, many of whom come back again and again, will obviously learn to appreciate the cuisine and produce of Provence, including Var wines covered by a controlled designation of origin or protected geographical indication.
Since the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication was created under the rules that used to apply for ‘Vin de Pays’, its fame has grown largely thanks to the tourist activity in the region, as can be seen from the strong demand for the rosé wines at local level. Consumers appreciate and recognise the quality of the range of wines on offer.
Remarkably, producers have remained vigilant in continuing their progress in making their ‘Vins de Pays’ so as to always be aligned with consumer tastes (for example, the colour of the rosé wines).
This drive was apparent in the early 2000s when professional winemakers from Var took part in the creation of a national centre for research and experimentation focusing on rosé wine (in Vidauban - Var). Various projects were published (one on the nuances of rosé wines, for example) and this contributed in operational terms towards continuous improvements in the quality levels of the rosé wines. The sector also made major investments to ensure that it was equipped with the right tools to ensure perfect mastery of rosé wine-making. This state-of-the-art technology for rosé wines and the expertise of the producers are certainly beneficial for the production of wines covered by controlled designations of origin but they also have an impact on the wine-making process for wines covered by protected geographical indications.
Mention should also be made of the proximity of the Var vineyards to major regional urban centres and seaside resorts, a boon for producers wishing to increase the value of their offering who choose to bottle on site. Direct sales (bottled wine or bag-in-box) now represent about 50 % of the volume, with direct sales at the cellars alone accounting for 30 %. C 88/30 EN Offi cial Jour nal of the European Union 17.3.2020
Var is located in Provence, a region of acknowledged prestige. The image of Provence as a wine-producing region with a strong focus on quality rosé wines – world leader in the production of rosé – is well-established and has been validated by many spontaneous awareness surveys (source: cabinet Wine Intelligence Vinitrac - November 2009). This prestige and expertise with a strong focus on rosé wines is also true of the red, white and sparkling wines made by the same producers from the vineyards of Var located in the same geographical environment. The success of the rosé wines also undeniably reflects on the quality and reputation of the other wines produced in the department.
9. Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements) Labelling Legal framework: National legislation Type of further condition: Additional provisions relating to labelling Description of the condition: The following can be added to the protected geographical indication ‘Var’: the name/s of one or more vine varieties, the terms ‘primeur’ (early) or ‘nouveau’ (new). The terms ‘primeur’ (early) or ‘nouveau’ (new) are reserved for still wines only. The protected geographical indication ‘Var’ can be followed by the name of the following smaller geographical units, according to the conditions set out in the specification: ‘Argens’, ‘Coteaux du Verdon’, ‘Sainte Baume’. The PGI logo of the European Union must appear on the label if the words ‘Indication géographique protégée’ (‘Protected Geographical Indication’) are replaced by the traditional term ‘Vin de Pays’. Area in immediate proximity Legal framework: National legislation Type of further condition: Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area Description of the condition: The area in immediate proximity, defined by derogation for the making and development of the wines eligible for the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication, which may or may not be followed by the name of a smaller geographical unit, i.e. ‘Argens’, ‘Coteaux du Verdon’ or ‘Saint Baume’, consists of the districts bordering the geographical area, as follows: in the east, bordering on the department of Alpes-Maritimes: the district of Grasse; in the west, bordering on the department of Bouches-du-Rhône: the districts of Aix-en-Provence and Marseille; in the west/ north-west, bordering on the department of Vaucluse: the district of Apt; in the north, bordering on the department of Alpes de Haute-Provence: the districts of Forcalquier, Digne and Castellane.
Link to the product specification
https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-055c5a5e-f7b9-40dc-ab3a-c1ccb2400c4c
ISSN 1977-091X (electronic edition) ISSN 1725-2423 (paper edition)
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