Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 191 / Thursday, October 1, 2020 / Proposed Rules 61899

(3) Proceed along the Charles City DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Background on Viticultural Areas County boundary, crossing onto the TTB Authority Petersburg, Virginia, map and Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade continuing along the Charles City Bureau Section 105(e) of the Federal Alcohol County boundary to the point where it Administration Act (FAA Act), 27 intersects the Henrico County boundary 27 CFR Part 9 U.S.C. 205(e), authorizes the Secretary at Turkey Island Creek; then of the Treasury to prescribe regulations for the labeling of wine, distilled spirits, (4) Proceed north-northeasterly along [Docket No. TTB–2020–0009; Notice No. 194] and malt beverages. The FAA Act the concurrent Henrico County–Charles provides that these regulations should, City County boundary to its intersection among other things, prohibit consumer RIN 1513–AC59 with the Chickahominy River, which is deception and the use of misleading concurrent with the New Kent County Proposed Establishment of the San statements on labels, and ensure that boundary; then Luis Obispo Coast (SLO Coast) labels provide the consumer with (5) Proceed northwesterly along the Viticultural Area adequate information as to the identity Chickahominy River–New Kent County and quality of the product. The Alcohol boundary, crossing onto the Richmond, AGENCY: Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau Virginia, map to its intersection with the Trade Bureau, Treasury. (TTB) administers the FAA Act Hanover County boundary; then pursuant to section 1111(d) of the ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. Homeland Security Act of 2002, (6) Proceed northeasterly along the codified at 6 U.S.C. 531(d). The Hanover County–New Kent County SUMMARY: The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Secretary has delegated the functions boundary to its intersection with the and Trade Bureau (TTB) proposes to and duties in the administration and establish the 408,585-acre ‘‘San Luis King William County boundary at the enforcement of these provisions to the Obispo Coast’’ viticultural area in San Pamunkey River; then TTB Administrator through Treasury Luis Obispo County, California. TTB is (7) Proceed southeasterly along the Order 120–01, dated December 10, 2013 proposing to recognize both ‘‘San Luis King William County–New Kent County (superseding Treasury Order 120–01, Obispo Coast’’ and the abbreviated boundary, crossing onto the dated January 24, 2003). Tappahannock, Virginia–Maryland map, ‘‘SLO Coast’’ as the name of the Part 4 of the TTB regulations (27 CFR to the intersection of the concurrent proposed AVA. The proposed AVA is part 4) authorizes TTB to establish county boundary with the York River; located entirely within the existing definitive viticultural areas and regulate then Central Coast AVA and would the use of their names as appellations of encompass the established Edna Valley origin on wine labels and in wine (8) Proceed southeasterly along the and Arroyo Grande Valley AVAs. TTB York River, crossing onto the advertisements. Part 9 of the TTB designates viticultural areas to allow regulations (27 CFR part 9) sets forth Williamsburg, Virginia map, to the vintners to better describe the origin of intersection of the river with the standards for the preparation and their wines and to allow consumers to submission of petitions for the Chesapeake Bay north of Tue Point; better identify wines they may then establishment or modification of purchase. TTB invites comments on this American viticultural areas (AVAs) and (9) Proceed southeast in a straight line proposed addition to its regulations. lists the approved AVAs. to the shoreline of Marsh Point; then DATES: TTB must receive your Definition (10) Proceed southeasterly, then comments on or before November 30, southwesterly along the shoreline to the 2020. Section 4.25(e)(1)(i) of the TTB Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel; then regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(1)(i)) defines ADDRESSES: You may electronically a viticultural area for American wine as (11) Proceed southwest in a straight submit comments to TTB on this a delimited grape-growing region having line, crossing onto the Norfolk, proposal, and view copies of this distinguishing features, as described in Virginia–North Carolina map, to the document, its supporting materials, and part 9 of the regulations, and a name northeastern terminus of the Hampton any comments TTB receives on it within and a delineated boundary, as City boundary; then Docket No. TTB–2020–0009 as posted established in part 9 of the regulations. (12) Proceed southwesterly along the on Regulations.gov (https:// These designations allow vintners and Hampton City boundary to the point www.regulations.gov), the Federal e- consumers to attribute a given quality, where it intersects with the Newport rulemaking portal. Please see the reputation, or other characteristic of a News City boundary; then ‘‘Public Participation’’ section of this wine made from grapes grown in an area document below for full details on how (13) Proceed southwesterly, then to the wine’s geographic origin. The to comment on this proposal via northwesterly along the Newport News establishment of AVAs allows vintners Regulations.gov or U.S. mail, and for City boundary, returning to the to describe more accurately the origin of full details on how to obtain copies of beginning point. their wines to consumers and helps this document, its supporting materials, consumers to identify wines they may Signed: July 22, 2020. and any comments related to this purchase. Establishment of an AVA is Mary G. Ryan, proposal. neither an approval nor an endorsement Acting Administrator. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: by TTB of the wine produced in that Approved: August 3, 2020. Karen A. Thornton, Regulations and area. Timothy E. Skud, Rulings Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Requirements Deputy Assistant Secretary, (Tax, Trade, and Tax and Trade Bureau, 1310 G Street Section 4.25(e)(2) of the TTB Tariff Policy). NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005; regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(2)) outlines [FR Doc. 2020–17628 Filed 9–30–20; 8:45 am] phone 202–453–1039, ext. 175. the procedure for proposing an AVA BILLING CODE 4810–31–P SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: and provides that any interested party

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may petition TTB to establish a grape- distributed throughout the remaining below 1,800 feet, which is described in growing region as an AVA. Section 9.12 portion of the proposed AVA. The the petition as the approximate limit of of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 9.12) distinguishing features of the proposed strong marine influence. prescribes standards for petitions for the SLO Coast AVA are its topography, The northern boundary of the establishment or modification of AVAs. climate, and soils. Unless otherwise proposed AVA follows the northern Petitions to establish an AVA must noted, all information and data Piedras Blancas Grant boundary and include the following: contained in the following sections are separates the proposed AVA from the • Evidence that the area within the from the petition to establish the Los Padres National Forest. Beyond the proposed AVA boundary is nationally proposed AVA and its supporting northern boundary, the elevations rise or locally known by the AVA name exhibits. sharply and become more rugged. The specified in the petition; eastern boundary follows a series of • An explanation of the basis for Proposed SLO Coast AVA straight lines between peaks of the Santa defining the boundary of the proposed Name Evidence Lucia Range, as well as the boundary of AVA; The proposed SLO Coast AVA derives the Los Padres National Forest, to • A narrative description of the its name from its location in coastal San separate the proposed AVA from regions features of the proposed AVA that affect Luis Obispo County. The petition notes that are oriented away from the Pacific viticulture, such as climate, geology, that the region is often referred to as Ocean and receive little direct marine soils, physical features, and elevation, ‘‘SLO,’’ which is a reference to both the influence. The southern boundary that make the proposed AVA distinctive county’s initials and its relaxed culture. generally follows the Nipomo Mesa and and distinguish it from adjacent areas The petition states that although the full the boundary of the Oceano State outside the proposed AVA; name of the proposed AVA is ‘‘San Luis Vehicular Recreation Area. The region • If the proposed AVA is to be Obispo Coast,’’ the frequently-used south of this boundary is sandier than established within, or overlapping, an abbreviation ‘‘SLO’’ should also be the proposed AVA and also contains existing AVA, an explanation that both recognized by TTB in order to avoid State recreational area lands that are not identifies the attributes of the proposed consumer confusion. appropriate for vineyard development. AVA that are consistent with the The petition included a number of The western boundary of the proposed existing AVA and explains how the examples of the use of the name ‘‘SLO AVA follows the coastline of the Pacific proposed AVA is sufficiently distinct Coast’’ to describe the region of the Ocean. from the existing AVA and therefore proposed AVA. For example, a book Distinguishing Features appropriate for separate recognition; about Santa Barbara County and • The appropriate United States According to the petition, the California’s Central Coast contains a Geological Survey (USGS) map(s) distinguishing features of the proposed chapter titled ‘‘Coastal SLO’’ that uses showing the location of the proposed SLO Coast AVA are its topography, the phrase ‘‘SLO Coast’’ nearly a dozen AVA, with the boundary of the climate, and soils. Because the Pacific times.1 The petition shows that proposed AVA clearly drawn thereon; Ocean is to the west of the proposed businesses within the proposed AVA and AVA, the following sections will only • A detailed narrative description of include SLO Coast Jerky, SLO Coast compare the features of the proposed the proposed AVA boundary based on Diner, SLO Coast Catering, SLO Coast AVA to the surrounding regions to the USGS map markings. Realty, SLO Coast Insurance Services, north, east, and south. SLO Coast Custom Print and Laser, SLO Petition To Establish the San Luis Coast Construction, and SLO Coast Topography Obispo Coast (SLO Coast) AVA Coffee. An online magazine featuring The petition describes the proposed TTB received a petition from the SLO information about the region of the SLO Coast AVA as a region of coastal Coast AVA Association, proposing to proposed AVA is called SLO Coast terraces, foothills, and small valleys establish the ‘‘San Luis Obispo Coast’’ Journal.2 Finally, on his 2016 campaign along the Pacific Coast. The region is AVA. The petition also requested that website, State Senate Majority Leader oriented to the west, allowing the region TTB recognize the abbreviated name Bill Monning described his district as to experience marine fog and cool ‘‘SLO Coast’’ as an approved alternative encompassing ‘‘the SLO Coast towns of marine air. According to the petition, 97 name for the proposed AVA. For Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, and Arroyo percent of the proposed AVA is at or purposes of the remainder of this Grande,’’ 3 all of which are within the below 1,800 feet in elevation, which document, TTB will refer to the proposed AVA. corresponds to the approximate limit of proposed AVA as ‘‘SLO Coast.’’ Boundary Evidence the influence of the maritime climate. The proposed SLO Coast AVA is The petition states that the steady located in San Luis Obispo County, The proposed SLO Coast AVA is a maritime influence prevents California, and is entirely within the long, relatively narrow region that temperatures from rising too high or existing Central Coast AVA (27 CFR encompasses the portion of San Luis dropping too low for optimal vineyard 9.75). The proposed AVA would also Obispo County that is oriented towards conditions. encompass the existing Edna Valley (27 the Pacific Ocean and experiences an According to U.S.G.S maps provided CFR 9.35) and Arroyo Grande Valley (27 immediate marine influence. The with the petition, to the north of the CFR 9.129) AVAs. Within the 408,585- proposed AVA is 1.7 miles across at its proposed AVA, the elevations rise to acre proposed AVA, there are over 50 narrowest point and 15.1 miles across at over 3,000 feet and the terrain is steep wineries and approximately 78 its widest point. According to the and rough. The higher elevations are commercial vineyards, which cover a petition, approximately 97 percent of above the maximum extent of the total of approximately 3,942 acres. The the proposed AVA sits at elevations marine air and fog that characterizes the petition states that of those 3,942 acres proposed AVA. Additionally, the land 1 Wares, Donna. An Explorer’s Guide—Santa of vineyards, approximately 2,661 acres Barbara & California’s Central Coast. New York: north of the proposed AVA was are in the existing Edna Valley AVA, The Countryman Press, 2011. excluded because most of it is within 838 acres are in the existing Arroyo 2 slocoastjournal.net. the Los Padres National Forest and thus Grande AVA, and 398 acres are 3 http://www.billmonning.org/2016/district.html. is unavailable for commercial

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viticulture. To the east of the proposed Climate the average GDD accumulations and the AVA is the eastern side of the Santa corresponding Winkler Region for the Lucia Range. This region is oriented to The proposed SLO Coast AVA proposed AVA and the surrounding the east, away from the Pacific Ocean, petition included information on the regions. The information for the entire climate of the proposed AVA, including and is thus not as exposed to the marine proposed SLO Coast AVA is included in growing degree day 4 (GDD) influence as the proposed AVA. To the the following table, along with the accumulations and Winkler Regions 5, south of the proposed AVA is the Santa information for several established average maximum and minimum AVAs in the surrounding regions and Maria Valley, which has a much flatter temperatures, and cloud cover. topography. for the established Edna Valley and GDD accumulations and Winkler Arroyo Grande Valley AVAs, which are Regions: The petition included data on located within the proposed AVA.6

TABLE 1—GDD ACCUMULATIONS AND WINKLER REGIONS

AVA name GDD Winkler region (direction from proposed AVA) accumulation 7

Proposed SLO Coast ...... 2,493 I Edna Valley (within) ...... 2,738 II Arroyo Grande Valley (within) ...... 2,786 II Monterey (NE) ...... 2,594 II Arroyo Seco (NE) ...... 2,680 II York Mountain (E) ...... 2,772 II Paso Robles (E) ...... 3,425 III Santa Maria Valley (S) ...... 2,733 II Santa Ynez Valley (S) ...... 2,844 II

The data shows that the proposed within the proposed SLO Coast AVA, so moderates the average maximum SLO Coast AVA, as a whole, has a lower including the Arroyo Grande Valley and growing season temperature of the GDD accumulation and is in a lower Edna Valley AVAs would not be proposed AVA. Sea breeze circulation, Winkler Region than the surrounding inconsistent with the characteristics of driven by inland heating, keeps the regions. The established Edna Valley the rest of the proposed AVA. daytime temperatures lower along the and Arroyo Grande Valley AVAs, which According to the petition, low GDD coast than within the inland valleys east are located within the proposed AVA, accumulations limit which grape of the proposed AVA. According to the have higher individual GDD varietals can be successfully grown in petition, 21 percent of the proposed accumulations and are in a higher the region. The petition states that areas SLO Coast AVA has an average Winkler Region than the remainder of classified as Winkler Region I, like the maximum growing season temperature the proposed AVA. The petition majority of the proposed AVA, are well- of less than 70 degrees F, while another explains that both of these AVAs are suited for growing early-to-mid-season- 68 percent of the proposed AVA has an somewhat sheltered from the marine ripening varietals such as Chardonnay average maximum growing season influence but still receive more marine and Pinot Noir, which comprise 43 temperature of between 70 and 78 air and fog than the regions outside the percent and 35 percent, respectively, of degrees F.10 proposed AVA on the eastern side of the the total planted vineyard acreage By contrast, the region east of the Santa Lucia Range, such as the Paso within the proposed SLO Coast AVA. proposed AVA is sheltered by the Santa Robles AVA. The petition suggests that Average minimum and maximum Lucia Mountains from the moderating the Arroyo Grande Valley AVA’s GDD growing season temperatures: The influence of the Pacific Ocean. As a accumulation may be skewed high due petition states that the average result, the region has lower average to the fact that the far eastern portion of minimum growing season temperature minimum temperatures and higher that AVA, which represents for nearly 90 percent of the proposed average maximum temperatures than approximately 5 percent of the total SLO Coast AVA is between 47.5 degrees the proposed AVA. For example, the acreage of the proposed SLO Coast F and 52 degrees F.9 The petition majority of the established Paso Robles AVA, is in a narrow, sheltered canyon attributes the mild minimum AVA has an average minimum growing that is classified as a Winkler Region III. temperatures of the proposed AVA to its season temperature that is below 50 Furthermore, Appendices 4 through 6 of proximity to the waters of the Pacific degrees F, but a large portion of that the petition 8 include evidence that Ocean, which have a high heat capacity AVA is even cooler, with an average other protected pockets with Winkler that provides a constant moderation on minimum temperature below 46 degrees Region II GDD accumulations exist the climate. Likewise, the ocean F. The average maximum growing

4 According to the petition, GDDs for a particular III = 3,001–3,500 GDDs; Region IV = 3,501–4,000 7 Derived from climate data from 1971–2000. See region are calculated by adding the total mean daily GDDs; Region V = greater than 4,000 GDDs. petition for additional information regarding GDD temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit (F) for 6 The petition included GDD and Winkler Region calculations. 8 the days from April 1 through October 31. The information for additional established AVAs in See Appendices 4 through 6 to the petition in formula is based on the concept that most vine- California and Washington and wine regions in Docket TTB–2020–0009 at https:// shoot growth occurs in temperatures over 50 www.regulations.gov. France. However, TTB believes that the additional degrees F. 9 Derived from climate data from 1981–2015. See AVAs are too far from the proposed AVA to provide 5 See Albert J. Winkler, General Viticulture Appendix 7 to the petition in Docket TTB–2020– relevant comparisons. All GDD and Winkler Region (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2nd. ed. 0009 at https://www.regulations.gov. information from the petition can be found in the 1974), pages 61–64. In the Winkler scale, the GDD 10 Derived from climate data from 1981–2015. See regions are defined as follows: Region I = less than online docket at www.regulations.gov. Appendix 8 to the petition in Docket TTB–2020– 2,500 GDDs; Region II = 2,501–3,000 GDDs; Region 0009 at https://www.regulations.gov.

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season temperature within the Paso growing season. By contrast, the of sandstone and shale, and they have Robles AVA is above 80 degrees F. majority of the region east of the less clay than soils in the northern The region south of the proposed proposed AVA experiences fog less than portion of the proposed AVA. The AVA, which includes the established 30 percent of all nights during the higher sand content provides excellent Santa Maria Valley AVA, has a flatter growing season, while the region south drainage for vineyards, but often terrain than the proposed SLO Coast of the proposed AVA has fog over 55 requires irrigation during the growing AVA and is thus more exposed to the percent of all nights during the growing season. Examples of soil series in this marine air. As a result, the region to the season. group include Pismo, Briones, Tierrs, south has a higher average minimum The petition states that cloud cover in Gazos, Nacimiento, Linne, Balcom, and growing season temperature and a lower the form of nighttime fog has an effect Sorrento series. average maximum growing season on viticulture within the proposed The third group of soils found in the temperature than the proposed AVA. AVA. The fog prevents nighttime proposed AVA is derived from volcanic The petition states that the mild temperatures from dropping intrusion and represents a very small minimum and maximum growing significantly. As a result, the proposed proportion of the soils within the season temperatures within the AVA generally experiences temperature proposed AVA, occurring mostly in proposed SLO Coast AVA affect changes of no more than 20 to 30 isolated instances on very steep terrain viticulture. Mild minimum degrees F throughout the day. The within the Santa Lucia Mountains, as temperatures lead to a shorter period of moderate nighttime temperatures lead to well as along the rocky outcrops near wintertime vine dormancy and earlier longer growing seasons within the Morro Bay. Most soils in this group are spring bud breaks. However, early proposed AVA. By contrast, regions to thick and are found on excessively steep spring bud breaks are not a concern for the east with less nighttime fog terrain or rocky outcrops that are grape growers in the proposed AVA experience 40 to 50 degree swings and unsuitable for viticulture. because potentially damaging frost a greater risk of damaging early spring The fourth group of soils within the events that can damage or kill early vine frosts. growth in the spring are far less proposed AVA is derived from wind common in coastal regions than they are Soils deposits and comprises the sand dunes in inland valleys. Lower maximum The petition states that the soils of the and low areas near the coast. These soils temperatures lead to a reduced risk of proposed SLO Coast AVA can be comprise a very small portion of the fruit desiccation and also produce classified into four groups. The first proposed AVA, mainly along the higher levels of malic acid in the grapes, group is derived from older Franciscan coastline near Morro Bay and around which increases total acidities and Formation geology. This group the township of Nipomo. They consist lowers pH values. Finally, the petition represents the largest proportion of soils of very deep sands at low elevations and notes that the cooler temperatures of the within the boundaries of the proposed are excessively drained soils with a high proposed AVA can affect the flavor AVA and is found in the northern and sodium content, making them generally profile of certain grape varietals, central portions of the proposed AVA. unsuitable for viticulture. specifically Syrah. The petition claims These soils derive from sandstone, To the south of the proposed AVA, that Syrah grown in cooler climates shale, and metamorphosed sedimentary within the established Santa Maria such as the proposed AVA features rocks, and they vary from very thin, AVA, the soils are largely from younger more pepper and gamey flavors rocky soils on hills and mountains to geological periods and consist of deep, compared to the riper, fruitier flavors very deep clay and clay-loam soils along fertile, sandy soils that are well-suited found in Syrah grown in warmer lower-lying alluvial fans and terraces. for viticulture. These soils are derived regions. These soils are highly varied due to the from alluvial deposits and contain less Cloud cover: The petition also highly complex nature of the Franciscan clay and clay loam than the majority of provided information about nighttime Formation geology that produced these soils in the proposed AVA. To the east cloud cover over the proposed SLO soils. The soils of this group that are of the proposed AVA, within the Coast AVA and the surrounding regions. most suitable for viticulture are found established Paso Robles AVA, the soils The petition states that daytime fog is on foothills, terraces, and valleys and consist of alluvial and terrace deposits. typically present in coastal regions of have good drainage, moderate water The region north of the proposed AVA California, but that it quickly dissipates holding capacity, and a high mineral is characterized by rocky outcrops, as the air heats up. In the evening, land content. Examples of soil series in this shallow soils derived from sandstone temperatures decrease and the moist air group include Diablo, San Simeon, and metamorphic rock, and soils above cools to its dew point, resulting Shimmon, Conception, and Santa Lucia derived from igneous and granitic rocks. in nighttime fog. series. Summary of Distinguishing Features According to the petition, the majority The second group of soils found in of the proposed SLO Coast AVA the proposed AVA consists of younger The topography, climate, and soils of experiences nighttime fog cover marine deposits and basin sediments the proposed SLO Coast AVA between 35 and 55 percent of all nights from the Miocene and Pliocene periods. distinguish it from the surrounding during the growing season.11 The region These soils represent the second largest regions to the north, east, and south. To of the proposed AVA immediately proportion of soils in the proposed AVA the west of the proposed AVA is the adjacent to the coast, the Morro Bay and are mostly found in the southern Pacific Ocean. The following table area, and the southernmost region of the region of the proposed AVA. Most of summarizes the distinguishing features proposed AVA all experience fog 55 of these soils are composed of sandy loam of the proposed AVA and the 75 percent of all nights during the and loams derived from marine deposits surrounding regions.

11 Derived from climate data from 2003–2015. See Appendix 9 of the petition in Docket TTB–2020– 0009 at https://www.regulations.gov.

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TABLE 2—SUMMARY OF DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Region Topography Climate Soils

Proposed SLO Coast Coastal terraces, foothills, and Marine influenced climate with average GDD Majority of soils derived from AVA. small valleys with western ori- accumulation of 2,493, average minimum Franciscan Formation and ma- entations and elevations below growing season temperatures between rine deposits and basin sedi- 1,800 feet. 47.5 and 52 degrees F, average maximum ments, with some soils formed growing season temperatures between 70 from volcanic intrusion and and 78 degrees, and frequent nighttime fog. wind deposited sand. North ...... Steep, mountainous region with Less marine influence, higher GDD accumu- Shallow soils derived from sand- elevations over 3,000 feet. lations, lower average growing season min- stone and metamorphic rocks imum temperature, higher average growing and igneous and granitic rocks. season maximum temperature, less night- time fog. East ...... Eastern slope orientation ...... Less marine influence, higher GDD accumu- Alluvial and terrace deposits, as lations, lower average growing season min- well rock outcrop in the Santa imum temperature, higher average growing Lucia Mountain Range. season maximum temperature, less night- time fog. South ...... Flat valley terrain ...... Higher GDD accumulations, higher average Younger soils consisting of deep, growing season minimum temperature, fertile, sandy soils. lower average growing season maximum temperature, more nighttime fog.

Comparison of the Proposed SLO Coast Comparison of the Proposed SLO Coast encompasses the proposed SLO Coast AVA to the Existing Edna Valley AVA AVA to the Existing Arroyo Grande AVA. T.D. ATF–216 states that the The Edna Valley AVA was established Valley AVA Central Coast AVA is primarily by T.D. ATF–101, which was published The Arroyo Grande Valley AVA was distinguished by its marine-influenced in the Federal Register on May 12, 1982 established by T.D. ATF–291, which climate. The AVA experiences (47 FR 20298). The AVA is located in was published in the Federal Register maximum high temperatures, minimum the southeastern portion of the proposed on January 4, 1990 (55 FR 285). The low temperatures, marine fog intrusion, SLO Coast AVA and covers AVA is located in the southeastern relative humidity, length of growing approximately 35 square miles. T.D. region of the proposed SLO Coast AVA, season, and precipitation that are ATF–101 states that the Edna Valley adjacent to the Edna Valley AVA, and significantly different from conditions AVA consists of a natural valley that has covers approximately 67 square miles. on the eastern (inland) side of the a predominately Region II climate with T.D. ATF–291 states that the Arroyo Coastal Ranges. The proposed SLO Coast AVA shares a few pockets that classify as Region I. Grande Valley AVA is primarily some of the general viticultural features A gap in the coastal mountains allows distinguished by its climate, which is of the Central Coast AVA. For example, marine air and fog to enter the valley described as ranging from high Region both the proposed AVA and the and keep the summer temperatures I to Region II. The AVA experiences lower and the winter temperatures established AVA experience fog, have frequent morning and evening fog and temperatures that are influenced by warmer than the temperature farther to temperatures, and is moderated by the the east, beyond the Santa Lucia marine air, and are generally milder marine influence. than temperatures in the inland region Mountains. Elevations range from 120 to The proposed SLO Coast AVA shares to the east. However, due to its smaller 300 feet, and the soils are generally some of the general viticultural features size, the climate, topography, and soils sandy clay loam, clay loam, or clay. of the Arroyo Grande Valley AVA. For of the proposed AVA are less varied The proposed SLO Coast AVA shares example, both the proposed AVA and some of the general viticultural features than those of the much larger Central the established AVA experience Coast AVA. of the Edna Valley AVA. For example, morning and evening fog. They also temperatures within both the proposed both have temperatures that are TTB Determination AVA and the established AVA are influenced by marine air and are TTB concludes that the petition to influenced by marine air and fog and are generally cooler than temperatures in establish the 408,585-acre ‘‘SLO Coast’’ generally cooler than temperatures in the region to the east. However, the AVA merits consideration and public the region to the east. Both the proposed proposed AVA is described as having an comment, as invited in this proposed AVA and the established AVA also have overall cooler climate than the Arroyo rule. similar soils of clay and loam. However, Grande Valley AVA, which is in a more the proposed AVA also has some unique sheltered location within the proposed Boundary Description characteristics. For instance, the AVA and experiences less direct marine See the narrative boundary majority of the proposed AVA can be influence. descriptions of the petitioned-for AVA classified as a Region I climate with in the proposed regulatory text Comparison of the Proposed SLO Coast pockets of Region II microclimates, published at the end of this notice of AVA to the existing Central Coast AVA whereas most of the established Edna proposed rulemaking. Valley AVA is classified as a Region II The approximately 1 million-acre climate with pockets of Region I Central Coast AVA was established by Maps microclimates. Additionally, the T.D. ATF–216, which was published in The petitioner provided the required proposed SLO Coast AVA has a wider the Federal Register on October 24, maps, and they are listed below in the range of elevations than the Edna Valley 1985 (50 FR 43128). The AVA is a large, proposed regulatory text. You may also AVA. multi-county AVA that entirely view the proposed SLO Coast AVA

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boundary on the AVA Map Explorer on Public Participation Federal e-rulemaking portal, at https:// the TTB website, at https://www.ttb.gov/ www.regulations.gov. A direct link to Comments Invited wine/ava-map-explorer. that docket is available under Notice TTB invites comments from interested No. 194 on the TTB website at https:// Impact on Current Wine Labels members of the public on whether TTB www.ttb.gov/wine/wine- Part 4 of the TTB regulations prohibits should establish the proposed SLO rulemaking.shtml. Supplemental files any label reference on a wine that Coast AVA. TTB is interested in may be attached to comments submitted indicates or implies an origin other than receiving comments on the sufficiency via Regulations.gov. For complete the wine’s true place of origin. For a and accuracy of the name, boundary, instructions on how to use wine to be labeled with an AVA name topography, and other required Regulations.gov, visit the site and click or with a brand name that includes an information submitted in support of the on the ‘‘Help’’ tab at the top of the page. AVA name, at least 85 percent of the SLO Coast AVA petition. In addition, • U.S. Mail: You may send comments wine must be derived from grapes because the proposed SLO Coast AVA via postal mail to the Director, grown within the area represented by would be within the existing Central Regulations and Rulings Division, that name, and the wine must meet the Coast AVA and would encompass the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade other conditions listed in § 4.25(e)(3) of existing Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Bureau, 1310 G Street NW, Box 12, the TTB regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(3)). Valley AVAs, TTB is interested in Washington, DC 20005. If the wine is not eligible for labeling comments on whether the evidence Please submit your comments by the with an AVA name and that name submitted in the petition regarding the closing date shown above in this appears in the brand name, then the distinguishing features of the proposed document. Your comments must label is not in compliance and the AVA sufficiently differentiates it from reference Notice No. 194 and include bottler must change the brand name and the existing AVAs. TTB is also your name and mailing address. Your obtain approval of a new label. interested in comments on whether the comments also must be made in Similarly, if the AVA name appears in geographic features of the proposed English, be legible, and be written in another reference on the label in a AVA are so distinguishable from the language acceptable for public misleading manner, the bottler would Central Coast AVA that the proposed disclosure. We do not acknowledge have to obtain approval of a new label. SLO Coast AVA should not be part of receipt of comments, and we consider Different rules apply if a wine has a the established AVA. Finally, TTB all comments as originals. brand name containing an AVA name invites comments on whether the Your comment must clearly state if that was used as a brand name on a geographical features of either the Edna you are commenting on your own behalf label approved before July 7, 1986. See Valley or Arroyo Grande Valley AVA or on behalf of an organization, § 4.39(i)(2) of the TTB regulations (27 are so distinguishable from the business, or other entity. If you are CFR 4.39(i)(2)) for details. proposed SLO Coast AVA that one or commenting on behalf of an If TTB establishes this proposed AVA, both of the established AVAs should not organization, business, or other entity, its name, ‘‘San Luis Obispo Coast’’ or its be part of the proposed AVA. Please your comment must include the entity’s abbreviated name ‘‘SLO Coast,’’ will be provide any available specific name as well as your name and position recognized as a name of viticultural information in support of your title. If you comment via significance under § 4.39(i)(3) of the comments. Regulations.gov, please enter the TTB regulations (27 CFR 4.39(i)(3)). The Because of the potential impact of the entity’s name in the ‘‘Organization’’ text of the proposed regulation clarifies establishment of the proposed SLO blank of the online comment form. If this point. Consequently, wine bottlers Coast AVA on wine labels that include you comment via postal mail, please using ‘‘San Luis Obispo Coast’’ or ‘‘SLO the term ‘‘SLO Coast’’ or ‘‘San Luis submit your entity’s comment on Coast’’ in a brand name, including a Obispo Coast’’ as discussed above under letterhead. trademark, or in another label reference Impact on Current Wine Labels, TTB is You may also write to the as to the origin of the wine, would have particularly interested in comments Administrator before the comment to ensure that the product is eligible to regarding whether there will be a closing date to ask for a public hearing. use the viticultural area’s name ‘‘San conflict between the proposed area The Administrator reserves the right to Luis Obispo Coast’’ or the alternative names and currently used brand names. determine whether to hold a public abbreviated name ‘‘SLO Coast’’ as an If a commenter believes that a conflict hearing. appellation of origin. will arise, the comment should describe The approval of the proposed ‘‘San the nature of that conflict, including any Confidentiality Luis Obispo Coast’’ or ‘‘SLO Coast’’ anticipated negative economic impact All submitted comments and AVA would not affect any existing that approval of the proposed AVA will attachments are part of the public record AVA. If approved, the establishment of have on an existing viticultural and subject to disclosure. Do not the proposed SLO Coast AVA would enterprise. TTB is also interested in enclose any material in your comments allow vintners to use ‘‘San Luis Obispo receiving suggestions for ways to avoid that you consider to be confidential or Coast,’’ ‘‘SLO Coast,’’ or ‘‘Central Coast’’ conflicts, for example, by adopting a inappropriate for public disclosure. as appellations of origin for wines made modified or different name for the Public Disclosure from grapes grown within the SLO Coast proposed AVA. AVA, if the wines meet the eligibility TTB will post, and you may view, requirements for the appellation. Submitting Comments copies of this document, selected Furthermore, vintners whose wines You may submit comments on this supporting materials, and any online or meet the eligibility requirements to use proposal by using one of the following mailed comments received about this either ‘‘Edna Valley’’ or ‘‘Arroyo Grande two methods: proposal within Docket No. TTB–2020– Valley’’ as appellations of origin would • Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: You 0009 on the Federal e-rulemaking also be able to use ‘‘San Luis Obispo may send comments via the online portal, Regulations.gov, at https:// Coast,’’ ‘‘SLO Coast,’’ and ‘‘Central comment form posted with this www.regulations.gov. A direct link to Coast’’ as appellations of origin on those document within Docket No. TTB– that docket is available on the TTB wines. 2020–0009 on ‘‘Regulations.gov,’’ the website at https://www.ttb.gov/wine/

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wine-rulemaking.shtml under Notice PART 9—AMERICAN VITICULTURAL of the northern boundary of the Piedra No. 194. You may also reach the AREAS Blanca Grant boundary and the Pacific relevant docket through the Ocean. From the beginning point, Regulations.gov search page at https:// ■ 1. The authority citation for part 9 proceed southeast along the grant www.regulations.gov. For instructions continues to read as follows: boundary to its intersection with the on how to use Regulations.gov, visit the Authority: 27 U.S.C. 205. western boundary of Section 15, T25S/ site and click on the ‘‘Help’’ tab at the R6E; then top of the page. Subpart C—Approved American (2) Proceed northeast in a straight line All posted comments will display the Viticultural Areas to a marked 1,462-foot peak in Section commenter’s name, organization (if 11, T25S/R6E; then ■ lll any), city, and State, and, in the case of 2. Add § 9. to read as follows: (3) Proceed southeast in a straight mailed comments, all address §9.lll San Luis Obispo Coast. line, crossing onto the Piedras Blancas information, including email addresses. (a) Name. The name of the viticultural map, to a marked 2,810-fook peak in TTB may omit voluminous attachments area described in this section is ‘‘San Section 19, T25S/R7E; then (4) Proceed southeast in a straight or material that it considers unsuitable Luis Obispo Coast’’. ‘‘SLO Coast’’ may line, crossing onto the San Simeon map, for posting. also be used as the name of the to the 2,397-foot peak of Garrity Peak in You may also obtain copies of this viticultural area described in this the Piedra Blanca Land Grant; then proposed rule, all related petitions, section. For purposes of part 4 of this (5) Proceed east in a straight line to a maps and other supporting materials, chapter, ‘‘San Luis Obispo Coast’’ and marked 2,729-foot peak in Section 32, and any electronic or mailed comments ‘‘SLO Coast’’ are terms of viticultural that TTB receives about this proposal at T25S/R8E; then significance. (6) Proceed southeast in a straight 20 cents per 8.5 x 11-inch page. Please (b) Approved maps. The 24 United note that TTB is unable to provide line, crossing onto the Pebblestone States Geological Survey (USGS) Shut-In map, to the 3,432-foot peak of copies of USGS maps or any similarly- 1:24,000 scale topographic maps used to sized documents that may be included Rocky Butte in Section 24, T26S/R8E; determine the boundary of the San Luis then as part of the AVA petition. Contact Obispo Coast viticultural area are titled: TTB’s Regulations and Rulings Division (7) Proceed southeast in a straight line (1) Burro Mountain, 1995; to the 2,849-foot peak of Vulture Rock by email using the web form at https:// (2) Piedras Blancas, 1959; www.ttb.gov/contact-rrd, or by in Section 29, T26S/R9E; then photoinspected 1976; (8) Proceed southeast in a straight telephone at 202–453–1039, ext. 175, to (3) San Simeon, 1958; photoinspected request copies of comments or other line, crossing over the Lime Mountain 1976; map and onto the Cypress Mountain materials. (4) Pebblestone Shut-In, 1959; map to the 2,933-foot peak of Cypress photoinspected 1976; Regulatory Flexibility Act Mountain in Section 12, T27S/R9E; then (5) Lime Mountain, 1948; photo (9) Proceed southeast in a straight TTB certifies that this proposed revised 1979; line, crossing onto the York Mountain regulation, if adopted, would not have (6) Cypress Mountain, 1979; map, to the intersection of Dover a significant economic impact on a (7) York Mountain, 1948; Canyon Road and a jeep trail in Dover substantial number of small entities. photorevised 1979; The proposed regulation imposes no (8) Morro Bay North, 1995; Canyon in Section 14, T27S/R10E; then new reporting, recordkeeping, or other (9) Atascadero, 1995; (10) Proceed southwesterly, then administrative requirement. Any benefit (10) San Luis Obispo, 1968; southeasterly along the jeep trail to the derived from the use of a viticultural photorevised 1978; point where the jeep trail becomes an area name would be the result of a (11) Morro Bay South, 1965; unnamed light-duty road, and proprietor’s efforts and consumer photorevised 1978; continuing southeasterly along the road acceptance of wines from that area. (12) Lopez Mountain, 1995; to its intersection Santa Rita Creek in Therefore, no regulatory flexibility (13) Arroyo Grande NE, 1985; Section 25, T27S/R10E; then analysis is required. (14) Tar Spring Ridge, 1995; (11) Proceed easterly along Santa Rita (15) Nipomo, 1965; Creek to the point where the creek splits Executive Order 12866 (16) Huasna Peak, 1995; into a northern and a southern fork; It has been determined that this (17) Twitchell Dam, 1959; then proposed rule is not a significant photorevised 1982; (12) Proceed east in a straight line to regulatory action as defined by (18) Santa Maria, 1959; photorevised Cayucos Templeton Road, then proceed Executive Order 12866 of September 30, 1982; south along Cayucos Templeton Road, 1993. Therefore, no regulatory (19) Oceano, 1965; revised 1994 crossing onto the Morro Bay North map assessment is required. (20) Pismo Beach, 1998; and continuing along the road as it (21) Port San Luis, 1965; photorevised becomes Santa Rita Road, to the Drafting Information 1979; intersection of the road with the Karen A. Thornton of the Regulations (22) Cayucus, 1965; revised 1994; northeast boundary of Section 20, T28S/ and Rulings Division drafted this (23) Cambria, 1959; photorevised R11E; then document. 1979; and (13) Proceed southeast along the (24) Pico Creek, 1959; photorevised northeast boundary of Section 20 to its List of Subjects in 27 CFR Part 9 1979. intersection with the western boundary Wine. (c) Boundary. The San Luis Obispo of the Los Padres National Forest; then Coast viticultural area is located in San (14) Proceed south, then southeasterly Proposed Regulatory Amendment Luis Obispo County in California. The along the western boundary of the Los For the reasons discussed in the boundary of the San Luis Obispo Coast Padres National Forest, crossing over preamble, we propose to amend title 27, viticultural area is as described below: the Atascadero map and onto the San chapter I, part 9, Code of Federal (1) The beginning point is on the Luis Obispo map, to the intersection of Regulations, as follows: Burro Mountain map at the intersection the forest boundary with the boundary

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of the Camp San Luis Obispo National (28) Proceed southeast in a straight (46) Proceed due south in a straight Guard Reservation at the northeastern line to a marked 1,022-foot peak in line to the 100-foot elevation contour; corner of Section 32, T29S/R12E; then Section 29, T31S/R15E; then then (15) Proceed south, then generally (29) Proceed southwest in a straight (47) Proceed westerly along the 100- southwesterly along the boundary of line to a marked 1,310-foot peak in foot elevation contour to its intersection Camp San Luis Obispo National Guard Section 30, T31S/R15E; then with State Highway 1 in the Guadalupe Reservation, crossing onto the Morro (30) Proceed southeast in a straight Land Grant; then Bay South map and then back onto the line to a marked 1,261-foot peak in (48) Proceed northwesterly in a San Luis Obispo map, and then Section 32, T31S/R15E; then straight line to the eastern boundary of (31) Proceed southeast in a straight continuing generally easterly along the the Pismo Dunes State Vehicular line to a marked 1,436-foot peak in military reservation boundary to the Recreation Area at Lettuce Lake in the Section 4, T32S/R15E; then intersection of the boundary with a Bolsa de Chamisal Land Grant; then marked 1,321-foot peak along the (32) Proceed southwest in a straight line to a marked 1,308-foot peak in the (49) Proceed northerly along the northern boundary of the Potrero de San eastern boundary of the Pismo Dunes Luis Obispo Land Grant; then Huasna Land Grant; then (33) Proceed westerly in a straight line State Vehicular Recreation Area to the (16) Proceed southeast in a straight to a marked 1,070-foot peak in Section point where the boundary makes a line, crossing onto the Lopez Mountain 1, T32S/R14E; then sharp westerly turn just west of Black map, to the southeastern corner of (34) Proceed southeast in a straight Lake in the Bolsa de Chamisal Land Section 18, T30S/R13E; then line to a marked 1,251-foot peak in the Grant; then (17) Proceed southeasterly in a Huasna Land Grant; then (50) Northerly along the Indefinite straight line to the southeast corner of (35) Proceed southwest in a straight Boundary of the Pismo Dunes National Section 29; then line to a marked 1,458-foot peak in the Preserve to corner just west of Black (18) Proceed southeasterly in a Santa Manuela Land Grant; then Lake in the Bolsa de Chamisal Land straight line to a marked 2,094-foot peak (36) Proceed southeast in a straight Grant; then in Section 2, T31S/R13E; then line to a marked 1,377-foot peak in the (51) Proceed east in a straight line to (19) Proceed southeasterly in a Huasna Land Grant; then an unnamed four wheel drive road east straight line, crossing onto the Arroyo (37) Proceed southwest in a straight of Black Lake in the Bolsa de Chamisal Grande NE map, to the intersection of line, crossing onto the Nipomo map, to Land Grant; then the 1,800-foot elevation contour and the a marked 1,593-foot peak in the Santa (52) Proceed north along the western western boundary of the Los Padres Manuela Land Grant; then fork of the four wheel drive road as it National Forest, along the eastern (38) Proceed southwest in a straight meanders to the east of White Lake, Big boundary of Section 12, T31S/R13E; line to the jeep trail immediately north Twin Lake, and Pipeline Lake, to the then of a marked 1,549-foot peak in Section 35, T32S/R14E; then point where the road intersects an (20) Proceed south along the unnamed creek at the southeastern end boundary of the Los Padres National (39) Proceed northwesterly along the jeep trail to its intersection with an of Cienega Valley in the Bolsa de Forest to the southeastern corner of Chamisal Land Grant; then Section 13, T31S/R13E; then unnamed, unimproved road in the Santa (53) Proceed northwesterly along the (21) Proceed southeast in a straight Manuela Land Grant; then creek to its intersection with an line to a marked 1,884-foot peak in (40) Proceed south along the unnamed dirt road known locally as Section 19, T31S/R14E; then unimproved road to its intersection with Delta Lane south of the Oceano Airport; (22) Proceed southeast in a straight Upper Los Berros Road No. 2 in Section then line to northwesternmost corner of the 33, T32S/R14E; then (41) Proceed southeast along Upper boundary of the Lopez Lake Recreation (54) Proceed northerly along Delta Los Berros Road No. 2, crossing onto the Area in Section 19, T31S/R14E; then Lane to its intersection with an Huasna Peak map, to the intersection of (23) Proceed south, then generally unnamed light-duty road known locally the road and State Highway 166; then east along the boundary of the Lopez as Ocean Street; then (42) Proceed south, then westerly (55) Proceed east in a straight line to Lake Recreation Area, crossing onto the along State Highway 166, crossing over Tar Spring Ridge map, to the State Highway 1; then the Twitchell Dam, Santa Maria, and (56) Proceed northerly on State intersection of the boundary with an Nipomo maps, then back onto the Santa unnamed light-duty road known locally Highway 1, crossing onto the Pismo Maria map, to the intersection of State Beach map, to the highway’s as Lopez Drive west of the Lopez Dam Highway 166 with U.S. Highway 101 in spillway in Section 32, T31S/R14E; then intersection with a light-duty road the Nipomo Land Grant; then known locally as Harloe Avenue; then (24) Proceed east along Lopez Drive to (43) Proceed south along U.S. its intersection with an unnamed light- Highway 101 to its intersection with the (57) Proceed west along Harloe duty road known as Hi Mountain Road north bank of the Santa Maria River; Avenue to its intersection with the in Section 34, T31S/R14E; then then boundary of Pismo State Beach; then (25) Proceed east along Hi Mountain (44) Proceed west along the north (58) Proceed northwesterly along the Drive to its intersection with an bank of the Santa Maria River to its boundary of Pismo State Beach to its unnamed light-duty road known locally intersection with the 200-foot elevation intersection with the Pacific Ocean as Upper Lopez Canyon Road in the contour; then coastline; then Arroyo Grande Land Grant; then (45) Proceed generally west along the (59) Proceed northerly along the (26) Proceed north along Upper Lopez 200-foot elevation contour, crossing Pacific Ocean coastline, crossing over Canyon Road to its intersection with an over the Nipomo map and onto the the Pismo Beach, Port San Luis, Morro unnamed, unimproved road that runs Oceano map, to a point north of where Bay South, Morro Bay North, Cayucos, south to Ranchita Ranch; then the north-south trending 100-foot Cambria, Pico Creek, San Simeon, and (27) Proceed northeast in a straight elevation contour makes a sharp Piedras Blancas maps and onto the line to a marked 1,183-foot peak in westerly turn in the Guadalupe Land Burro Mountain map, and returning to Section 19, T31S/R15E; then Grant; then the beginning point.

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Signed: May 28, 2020. Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Requirements Mary G. Ryan, Trade Bureau, 1310 G Street NW, Box Section 4.25(e)(2) of the TTB Acting Administrator. 12, Washington, DC 20005; phone 202– regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(2)) outlines Approved: June 17, 2020. 453–1039, ext. 151. the procedure for proposing an AVA Timothy E. Skud, SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: and provides that any interested party Deputy Assistant Secretary (Tax, Trade, and Background on Viticultural Areas may petition TTB to establish a grape- Tariff Policy). growing region as an AVA. Section 9.12 TTB Authority Editorial Note: This document was of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 9.12) received for publication by the Office of the Section 105(e) of the Federal Alcohol prescribes the standards for petitions for Federal Register on August 7, 2020. Administration Act (FAA Act), 27 the establishment or modification of U.S.C. 205(e), authorizes the Secretary AVAs. Petitions to establish an AVA [FR Doc. 2020–17624 Filed 9–30–20; 8:45 am] of the Treasury to prescribe regulations must include the following: BILLING CODE 4810–31–P for the labeling of wine, distilled spirits, • Evidence that the area within the and malt beverages. The FAA Act proposed AVA boundary is nationally provides that these regulations should, or locally known by the AVA name DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY among other things, prohibit consumer specified in the petition; • Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade deception and the use of misleading An explanation of the basis for Bureau statements on labels and ensure that defining the boundary of the proposed labels provide the consumer with AVA; • 27 CFR Part 9 adequate information as to the identity A narrative description of the and quality of the product. The Alcohol features of the proposed AVA affecting [Docket No. TTB–2020–0008; Notice No. and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau viticulture, such as climate, geology, 193] (TTB) administers the FAA Act soils, physical features, and elevation, RIN: 1513–AC58 pursuant to section 1111(d) of the that make the proposed AVA distinctive Homeland Security Act of 2002, and distinguish it from adjacent areas Proposed Establishment of the Mount codified at 6 U.S.C. 531(d). The outside the proposed AVA; Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon Secretary has delegated the functions • The appropriate United States Viticultural Area and duties in the administration and Geological Survey (USGS) map(s) enforcement of these provisions to the showing the location of the proposed AGENCY: Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and AVA, with the boundary of the Trade Bureau, Treasury. TTB Administrator through Treasury Order 120–01, dated December 10, 2013 proposed AVA clearly drawn thereon; ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. (superseding Treasury Order 120–01, • If the proposed AVA is to be SUMMARY: The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax dated January 24, 2003). established within, or overlapping, an and Trade Bureau (TTB) proposes to Part 4 of the TTB regulations (27 CFR existing AVA, an explanation that both establish the approximately 5,850-acre part 4) authorizes TTB to establish identifies the attributes of the proposed ‘‘Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon’’ definitive viticultural areas and regulate AVA that are consistent with the viticultural area in Polk County, Oregon. the use of their names as appellations of existing AVA and explains how the The proposed viticultural area lies origin on wine labels and in wine proposed AVA is sufficiently distinct entirely within the Willamette Valley advertisements. Part 9 of the TTB from the existing AVA and therefore viticultural area. TTB designates regulations (27 CFR part 9) sets forth appropriate for separate recognition; standards for the preparation and and viticultural areas to allow vintners to • better describe the origin of their wines submission of petitions for the A detailed narrative description of and to allow consumers to better establishment or modification of the proposed AVA boundary based on identify wines they may purchase. TTB American viticultural areas (AVAs) and USGS map markings. invites comments on this proposed lists the approved AVAs. Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon addition to its regulations. Definition Petition DATES: Comments must be received by Section 4.25(e)(1)(i) of the TTB TTB received a petition from the November 30, 2020. regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(1)(i)) defines representatives of the vineyards and ADDRESSES: You may electronically a viticultural area for American wine as wineries within the proposed Mount submit comments to TTB on this a delimited grape-growing region having Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon viticultural proposal, and view copies of this distinguishing features, as described in area, proposing the establishment of the document, its supporting materials, and part 9 of the regulations, and a name ‘‘Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon’’ any comments TTB receives on it within and a delineated boundary, as AVA. Docket No. TTB–2020–0008 as posted established in part 9 of the regulations. The proposed Mount Pisgah, Polk on Regulations.gov (https:// These designations allow vintners and County, Oregon AVA is located within www.regulations.gov), the Federal e- consumers to attribute a given quality, Polk County, Oregon. The proposed rulemaking portal. Please see the reputation, or other characteristic of a AVA lies entirely within the established ‘‘Public Participation’’ section of this wine made from grapes grown in an area Willamette Valley AVA (27 CFR 9.90) document below for full details on how to the wine’s geographic origin. The and does not overlap any other existing to comment on this proposal via establishment of AVAs allows vintners or proposed AVA. The proposed Mount Regulations.gov or U.S. mail, and for to describe more accurately the origin of Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon AVA full details on how to obtain copies of their wines to consumers and helps contains approximately 5,850 acres, this document, its supporting materials, consumers to identify wines they may with 10 commercially-producing and any comments related to this purchase. Establishment of an AVA is vineyards covering a total of 531 acres proposal. neither an approval nor an endorsement distributed throughout the proposed FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kate by TTB of the wine produced in that AVA. The petition states that an M. Bresnahan, Regulations and Rulings area. additional 164 acres in total will soon

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