# Official Journal C 66/2023

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 66 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 6623 February 2023 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 66

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 6623 February 2023

---

| Contents | page |
| --- | --- |
| | I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions |
| | RECOMMENDATIONS |
| | European Central Bank |
| 2023/C 66/01 | Recommendation of the European Central Bank of 15 February 2023 to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of the Central Bank of Ireland (ECB/2023/1) | 1 |

Contents

page

I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RECOMMENDATIONS

European Central Bank

2023/C 66/01

Recommendation of the European Central Bank of 15 February 2023 to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of the Central Bank of Ireland (ECB/2023/1)

1

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| | II   Information |
| --- | --- |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 66/02 | Communication from the Commission – Guidelines pursuant to Article 33a(3) of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive on the scope of Member States' reports concerning measures for the promotion and development of media literacy skills | 3 |
| 2023/C 66/03 | Initiation of proceedings (Case M.10149 – KOREAN AIR LINES / ASIANA AIRLINES) (
  1
  ) | 10 |

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2023/C 66/02

Communication from the Commission – Guidelines pursuant to Article 33a(3) of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive on the scope of Member States' reports concerning measures for the promotion and development of media literacy skills

3

2023/C 66/03

Initiation of proceedings (Case M.10149 – KOREAN AIR LINES / ASIANA AIRLINES) (
  1
  )

1

10

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| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 66/04 | Euro exchange rates – 22 February 2023 | 11 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2023/C 66/04

Euro exchange rates – 22 February 2023

11

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| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 66/05 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11048 – MACQUARIE / BCI / EKU ENERGY) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 12 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 66/06 | Publication of a communication of 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 | 14 |
| 2023/C 66/07 | 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 | 21 |
| 2023/C 66/08 | 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 | 28 |
| 2023/C 66/09 | Publication of an approved standard amendment to a product specification of a protected designation of origin or protected geographical indications in the sector of the agricultural products and foodstuffs, as referred to in Article 6b(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 664/2014 | 32 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2023/C 66/05

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11048 – MACQUARIE / BCI / EKU ENERGY) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

12

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2023/C 66/06

Publication of a communication of 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

14

2023/C 66/07

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

21

2023/C 66/08

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

28

2023/C 66/09

Publication of an approved standard amendment to a product specification of a protected designation of origin or protected geographical indications in the sector of the agricultural products and foodstuffs, as referred to in Article 6b(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 664/2014

32

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| | |
| --- | --- |
| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance. |

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(1)   Text with EEA relevance.

1

| EN | |
| --- | --- |

EN

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I Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RECOMMENDATIONS

European Central Bank

| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/1

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RECOMMENDATION OF THE EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK

of 15 February 2023

to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of the Central Bank of Ireland

(ECB/2023/1)

(2023/C 66/01)

THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to the Statute of the European System of Central Banks and of the European Central Bank, and in particular Article 27.1 thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | The accounts of the European Central Bank (ECB) and the national central banks of the Member States whose currency is the euro are audited by independent external auditors recommended by the ECB’s Governing Council and approved by the Council of the European Union. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

The accounts of the European Central Bank (ECB) and the national central banks of the Member States whose currency is the euro are audited by independent external auditors recommended by the ECB’s Governing Council and approved by the Council of the European Union.

| (2) | In 2016, the Central Bank of Ireland selected Mazars as its external auditors for the financial years 2016 to 2020 (1). In 2021, the mandate of Mazars as external auditors for the Central Bank of Ireland was extended for the financial years 2021 and 2022 (2). |
| --- | --- |

(2)

In 2016, the Central Bank of Ireland selected Mazars as its external auditors for the financial years 2016 to 2020 (1). In 2021, the mandate of Mazars as external auditors for the Central Bank of Ireland was extended for the financial years 2021 and 2022 (2).

| (3) | The mandate of the Central Bank of Ireland’s current external auditors, Mazars, will end after the audit for the financial year 2022. It is therefore necessary to appoint external auditors from the financial year 2023. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The mandate of the Central Bank of Ireland’s current external auditors, Mazars, will end after the audit for the financial year 2022. It is therefore necessary to appoint external auditors from the financial year 2023.

| (4) | The Central Bank of Ireland has selected Grant Thornton Ireland as its external auditors for the financial years 2023 to 2027, with the option to extend the mandate to the financial years 2028 and 2029, |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The Central Bank of Ireland has selected Grant Thornton Ireland as its external auditors for the financial years 2023 to 2027, with the option to extend the mandate to the financial years 2028 and 2029,

HAS ADOPTED THIS RECOMMENDATION:

It is recommended that Grant Thornton Ireland should be appointed as the external auditors of the Central Bank of Ireland for the financial years 2023 to 2027, with the option to extend the mandate to the financial years 2028 and 2029.

Done at Frankfurt am Main, 15 February 2023.

The President of the ECB

Christine LAGARDE

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(1)  Recommendation ECB/2016/29 of the European Central Bank of 28 October 2016 to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of the Central Bank of Ireland (OJ C 413, 10.11.2016, p. 1).

1

(2)  Recommendation ECB/2021/44 of the European Central Bank of 29 September 2021 to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of the Central Bank of Ireland (OJ C 403, 6.10.2021, p. 1).

2

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II Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/3 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/3

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COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION

Guidelines pursuant to Article 33a(3) of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive on the scope of Member States' reports concerning measures for the promotion and development of media literacy skills

(2023/C 66/02)

I.   INTRODUCTION

Media-literate people are able to make informed choices, understand the nature of content and services and take advantage of the full range of opportunities offered by different communication technologies. They are better able to protect themselves and their families from harmful or illegal content. Media literacy can also serve as a valuable tool of combatting the spread of disinformation by enabling users to critically assess the source of information and thus detect false or misleading content, as set out in the Commission Guidance on Strengthening the Code of Practice on Disinformation (1). Media literacy therefore empowers people to participate in a more open and informed democratic debate.

The critical nature of media literacy and the need to strengthen it have been recognised in the European Democracy Action Plan (EDAP) (2) and in the Media and Audiovisual Action Plan (MAAP) (3). Enhancing digital skills and competences for the digital transformation including digital and media literacy is one of the strategic priorities of the Digital Education Action Plan (4).

Recital 59 of Directive (EU) 2018/1808 recognises that ‘media literacy’ refers to skills, knowledge and understanding that allow people to use media effectively and safely. To enable them to access information and to use, critically assess and create media content responsibly and safely, people need to possess advanced media literacy skills.

Media literacy should not be limited to learning about tools and technologies, but should aim to equip people with the critical thinking skills required to exercise judgment, analyse complex realities and recognise the difference between opinion and fact. It is therefore necessary that Member States, in addition to both media service providers and video-sharing platforms providers, and in cooperation with all relevant stakeholders, promote the development of media literacy in all sections of society, for people of all ages, and for all media. Progress in this regard should be followed closely.

The AVMSD (5) (Article 33a(1)) sets out new obligations for Member States to promote and take measures to develop media literacy skills.

Under Article 33a(2) of the AVMSD, Member States must report to the Commission on their implementation of that obligation ‘by 19 December 2022 and every three years thereafter’.

Under Article 33a(3), ‘the Commission shall, after consulting the Contact Committee, issue guidelines regarding the scope of such reports’.

Article 28b of the AVMSD also establishes, in the context of protecting users against illegal and harmful content, obligations for video-sharing platforms regarding media literacy. According to Article 28b(3)(j), Member States must ensure that all video-sharing platform providers under their jurisdiction provide for effective media literacy measures and tools and raise users' awareness of those measures and tools.

Under Article 28b(5), Member States must establish the necessary mechanisms to assess the appropriateness of any such measures taken by video-sharing platform providers and must entrust the assessment of those measures to their national regulatory authorities or bodies.

In line with Recital 5 of Directive (EU) 2018/1808, a social media service should be covered by these obligations if the provision of programmes and user-generated videos constitutes an essential functionality of that service. Providing programmes and user-generated videos could be considered to constitute an essential functionality of a social media service if the audiovisual content is not merely ancillary to, or does not constitute a minor part of, its activities (6).

Article 30b(3)(b) of the AVMSD states that the European Regulators Group for Audiovisual Media Services (ERGA) shall ‘exchange experience and best practices on the application of the regulatory framework for audiovisual media services, including on accessibility and media literacy’.

Another forum for sharing best practice on media literacy activities and exploring synergies is the Commission’s Media Literacy Expert Group (MLEG) (7). The Commission’s Expert group on tackling disinformation and promoting digital literacy through education and training (8) has also been an important place for exchanges on effective European initiatives from the field of education and training.

In line with Article 33a(3) of the AVMSD, the present document aims to provide guidelines regarding the scope of Member States’ reports on the measures for promoting and developing media literacy skills. Complementing the general objectives set out in the AVMSD, the guidelines also aim to help Member States share best practice on media literacy. In the process of issuing the guidelines, the Commission has consulted the Contact Committee, as required by Article 33a(3) of the AVMSD.

The guidelines are not binding. To the extent that the guidelines may interpret the AVMSD, the Commission’s position has no bearing on any interpretation by the Court of Justice of the European Union.

II.   REPORTING PERIOD AND MEDIA MARKET PLAYERS CONCERNED

1.   Reporting period

Article 2 of Directive (EU) 2018/1808 requires Member States to transpose it by 19 September 2020. In view of this, Member States’ reports should initially cover September 2020 - October 2022 (9). Subsequent reports should cover the respective periods of three years, ending in October of the respective last year of the period.

2.   Media market players concerned

In accordance with Articles 33a(1) and 28b(3) of the AVMSD, Member States’ reports should include at least media literacy measures pertaining to audiovisual media services and video-sharing platforms, as defined by the AVMSD.

III.   STRUCTURE OF THE REPORTS

1.   General overview

The reports should contain five sections (a. – e.; see below). The first two sections (a. – b.) should provide at least the information indicated in them. The third, fourth and fifth sections (c., d. and e.) are based on the best-effort approach when it comes to describing relevant measures indicated in them. Member States also have the possibility to include any additional information they deem pertinent to the report.

Every section of the reports should provide a list and, if possible, a brief description of the measures, arrangements, activities and developments. The brief description could include the main elements, such as the objectives, target bodies and/or demographics, methods of implementation and, if available, outcomes. As far as possible, the reports should also include references to sources of information, such as the relevant websites, even if only available in national languages.

2.   Sections of the reports

a.   Legal and/or policy measures

Member States should report on legislative measures and other measures of legal nature they have in place and, where relevant, those that are planned to promote and develop media literacy skills. In particular, they should report on the legal rules applicable to audiovisual media services and video-sharing platform providers, as defined by the AVMSD, including where such rules are part of broader media literacy frameworks, for example, covering all media services and/or all information society services.

As far as possible, Member States should also report on broader policy measures, such as national and/or regional strategies and action plans for promoting and developing media literacy skills.

To the extent that the applicable legal rules impose obligations on audiovisual media service providers and video-sharing platform providers to implement media literacy measures, Member States should, as far as possible, report on such measures for the providers under their jurisdiction. As regards video-sharing platforms, Member States should also report on their assessments of the appropriateness of media literacy measures implemented by video-sharing platform providers under their jurisdiction, taking into account the media literacy toolbox (10).

b.   Organisational measures

Member States should report about the organisational measures and arrangements in place to enable the implementation of the media literacy obligations under the AVMSD. In particular, Member States should indicate which authorities or bodies, at national, regional and/or local levels, as applicable, are responsible for promoting and developing media literacy skills as well as overseeing compliance with possible obligations imposed on audiovisual media service providers and video-sharing platform providers. They should also indicate which specific tasks have been entrusted to these authorities or bodies. In this context, any tasks of independent media regulatory authorities in the field of media literacy should be specified.

As far as possible, the reports should also provide information on the stakeholder cooperation structure(s) and the different stakeholders cooperating with Member States’ authorities and bodies for the purposes of their media literacy activities.

c.   Public funding and other media literacy financing arrangements

Member States should make best efforts to describe the extent and timeframe(s) of the public financial resources allocated to promoting and developing media literacy skills. This should at least cover the budget at the national level. The reports could further describe briefly the funding instruments used to finance media literacy activities, including those aimed at attracting private financing.

d.   Engagement and awareness-raising activities, including media literacy curricula

Member States should make best efforts to report on any engagement or awareness-raising activities they have in place for promoting and developing media literacy skills in all age groups in formal education and in lifelong learning perspective. As far as possible and if applicable, Member States could also refer to the relevant engagement and awareness-raising activities carried out by market players, scientific bodies or non-governmental organisations. These may include media literacy weeks as well as campaigns and training activities targeted at particular demographics, including young people.

In that regard Member States could explore the possibility of establishing structured means of communication with the national hubs of the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) (11), funded by the European Commission. The goals of the national EDMO hubs include (i) cooperating with national media authorities on monitoring online platforms’ policies and the digital media ecosystem and (ii) organising media literacy activities (12).

Where possible, Member States could also report on the inclusion of measures to promote and develop media literacy skills in formal educational curricula at different levels (primary, secondary, higher or other level of education and training, as appropriate) (13) either as a separate and/or cross-subject. This could also cover dedicated media literacy modules for teachers and trainers, in particular in initial teacher training and/or continuous professional development, as recommended in the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on the protection of minors and human dignity and on the right of reply in relation to the competitiveness of the European audiovisual and online information services industry (14).

The reports could refer to the relevant media literacy resources available to the public, such as dedicated web portals, even if only available in national languages.

e.   Evaluation measures and methods

Member States which use or would like to introduce measures to assess the impact of regional or national media initiatives promoting media literacy, including performance measurement indicators to assess the impact of their media literacy measures and methods, are encouraged to list and describe such measures and their outcomes in their reports (15).

IV.   PROCEDURAL REMARKS

As envisaged by Article 30b(3)(b) of the AVMSD, the ERGA must ‘exchange experience and best practices on the application of the regulatory framework for audiovisual media services, including on accessibility and media literacy’. Given this requirement, the Commission encourages national regulatory authorities to continue to exchange information and best practice on media literacy in the context of the ERGA, including with regard to the application of these guidelines.

To promote awareness and exchange of best practice, the reports of the Member States will be published on the Commission website.

The reports will also be useful in view of the targets on digital skills that are part of the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 (16), and they can feed into Member States’ Digital Decade strategic roadmaps.

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(1)  COM(2021) 262 final.

(2)  Communication from the Commission, European democracy action plan, COM/2020/790 final.

(3)  Communication from the Commission, Europe’s Media in the Digital Decade: An Action Plan to Support Recovery and Transformation, COM/2020/784 final.

(4)  Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027: Resetting education and training for the digital age COM(2020) 624 final.

(5)  For the purposes of these guidelines, references to the ‘AVMSD’ should be understood as references to Directive 2010/13/EU on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 95, 15.4.2010, p. 1), as amended by Directive (EU) 2018/1808 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 November 2018 (OJ L 303, 28.11.2018, p. 69). The Directive is available here: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32018L1808&from=SK

(6)  See also Communication from the Commission ‘Guidelines on the practical application of the essential functionality criterion of the definition of a “video-sharing platform service” under the Audiovisual Media Services Directive’ (OJ C 223, 7.7.2020, p. 3).

(7)  The MLEG meets twice a year and offers an interactive space for discussions among Member States’ representatives, with the participation of invited experts from the European and global media literacy communities. See https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groups-register/screen/expert-groups/consult?do=groupDetail.groupDetail&groupID=2541

(8)  Contributing to the Digital Education Action Plan, the Expert Group published a Final report of its work with an overview of good practices and recommendations and Guidelines for teachers and educators on tackling disinformation and promoting digital literacy through education and training. See here: https://education.ec.europa.eu/focus-topics/digital-education/action-plan/action-7

(9)  Member States wishing to do so can also include references to measures or activities outside this reporting period.

(10)  https://erga-online.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/ERGA-AG3-2021-Report-on-Media-Literacy.pdf.

(11)  https://edmo.eu/2021/05/26/national-edmo-hubs-announced/.

(12)  Currently, 14 selected national hubs have become part of the EDMO network, covering all 27 EU Member States as well as Norway in the EEA.

(13)  For the purposes of developing media literacy curricula, Member States may take into consideration the Digital Competence Framework for Citizens, available at https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/digcomp/digital-competence-framework as well as the Guidelines for Teachers and Educators on Tackling disinformation and promoting digital literacy through education and training, available at https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/a224c235-4843-11ed-92ed-01aa75ed71a1/language-en.

(14)  The Recommendation on the protection of minors and human dignity and on the right of reply in relation to the competitiveness of the European audiovisual and online information services industry is available here: EUR-Lex - 32006H0952 - EN - EUR-Lex (europa.eu).

(15)  To assess media literacy levels, Member States may use existing evaluation frameworks. Such frameworks include the ‘Study on Assessment Criteria for Media Literacy Levels: A comprehensive view of the concept of media literacy and an understanding of how media literacy levels in Europe should be assessed’ (https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/115550fe-a89f-4086-82e5-c7573e26c38a), ‘Testing and Refining Criteria to Assess Media Literacy Levels in Europe’ (https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/4cbb53b5-689c-4996-b36b-e920df63cd40) and the ‘Global media and information literacy assessment framework: country readiness and competencies’ developed by UNESCO (https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000224655).

(16)  Decision (EU) 2022/2481 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 establishing the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 (OJ L 323, 19.12.2022, p. 4).

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APPENDIX

Template for Member States’ media literacy reports

The following questions are suggested to structure Member States’ media literacy reports. For more details of what could be included, please refer to section 2 of these guidelines.

| a. | Legal and/or policy measures |
| --- | --- |

a.

Legal and/or policy measures

| — | Which legislative measures and other measures of a legal nature applicable to audiovisual media services and video-sharing platform providers does your country have in place or, where relevant, plans to promote and develop media literacy skills? |
| --- | --- |

—

Which legislative measures and other measures of a legal nature applicable to audiovisual media services and video-sharing platform providers does your country have in place or, where relevant, plans to promote and develop media literacy skills?

| — | Are obligations imposed in your country on audiovisual media services and video-sharing platform providers to implement media literacy measures? |
| --- | --- |

—

Are obligations imposed in your country on audiovisual media services and video-sharing platform providers to implement media literacy measures?

| — | Which broader policy measures does your country have in place to promote and develop media literacy skills? |
| --- | --- |

—

Which broader policy measures does your country have in place to promote and develop media literacy skills?

| — | What is your assessment of the appropriateness of media literacy measures implemented by video-sharing platform providers under the jurisdiction of your country, taking into account the media literacy toolbox? |
| --- | --- |

—

What is your assessment of the appropriateness of media literacy measures implemented by video-sharing platform providers under the jurisdiction of your country, taking into account the media literacy toolbox?

| b. | Organisational measures |
| --- | --- |

b.

Organisational measures

| — | Which authorities or bodies in your country are responsible for promoting and developing media literacy skills as well as overseeing compliance with possible obligations imposed on audiovisual media service providers and video-sharing platform providers?
  Which specific tasks have been entrusted to them? |
| --- | --- |

—

Which authorities or bodies in your country are responsible for promoting and developing media literacy skills as well as overseeing compliance with possible obligations imposed on audiovisual media service providers and video-sharing platform providers?

Which specific tasks have been entrusted to them?

| — | Could you provide information on the stakeholder cooperation structure(s) and the different stakeholders cooperating with your country’s authorities and bodies for the purposes of their media literacy activities? |
| --- | --- |

—

Could you provide information on the stakeholder cooperation structure(s) and the different stakeholders cooperating with your country’s authorities and bodies for the purposes of their media literacy activities?

| c. | Public funding and other media literacy financing arrangements |
| --- | --- |

c.

Public funding and other media literacy financing arrangements

| — | Could you describe the extent and timeframe(s) of the public financial resources allocated in your country for promoting and developing media literacy skills and the funding instruments used to finance media literacy activities, including any that are aimed at attracting private financing? |
| --- | --- |

—

Could you describe the extent and timeframe(s) of the public financial resources allocated in your country for promoting and developing media literacy skills and the funding instruments used to finance media literacy activities, including any that are aimed at attracting private financing?

| d. | Engagement and awareness-raising activities, including media literacy curricula |
| --- | --- |

d.

Engagement and awareness-raising activities, including media literacy curricula

| — | Which engagement or awareness-raising activities does your country have in place and which have been carried out by market players, scientific bodies or non-governmental organisations to promote and develop media literacy skills? |
| --- | --- |

—

Which engagement or awareness-raising activities does your country have in place and which have been carried out by market players, scientific bodies or non-governmental organisations to promote and develop media literacy skills?

| — | Has your country established structured means of communication with the national hubs of the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) or explored this possibility? |
| --- | --- |

—

Has your country established structured means of communication with the national hubs of the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) or explored this possibility?

| — | Which measures have been taken in your country to include the promotion and development of media literacy skills in formal educational curricula at different levels, teachers and trainers initial and continuous professional education, and to make relevant media literacy resources available to the public? |
| --- | --- |

—

Which measures have been taken in your country to include the promotion and development of media literacy skills in formal educational curricula at different levels, teachers and trainers initial and continuous professional education, and to make relevant media literacy resources available to the public?

| e. | Evaluation measures and methods |
| --- | --- |

e.

Evaluation measures and methods

| — | Does your country use or would it like to introduce measures to assess the impact of regional or national media initiatives, including performance measurement indicators to assess the impact of media literacy measures and methods? If so, please list and describe these measures and their outcomes. |
| --- | --- |

—

Does your country use or would it like to introduce measures to assess the impact of regional or national media initiatives, including performance measurement indicators to assess the impact of media literacy measures and methods? If so, please list and describe these measures and their outcomes.

| Additional information |
| --- |
| — | Is there any additional information relevant to this report? |

Additional information

—

Is there any additional information relevant to this report?

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| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/10

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Initiation of proceedings

(Case M.10149 – KOREAN AIR LINES / ASIANA AIRLINES)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 66/03)

On 17 February 2023, the Commission decided to initiate proceedings in the above-mentioned case after finding that the notified concentration raises serious doubts as to its compatibility with the internal market. The initiation of proceedings opens a second phase investigation with regard to the notified concentration, and is without prejudice to the final decision on the case. The decision is based on Article 6(1)(c) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1).

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their observations on the proposed concentration to the Commission.

In order to be fully taken into account in the procedure, observations should reach the Commission not later than 15 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by email to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference M.10149 – KOREAN AIR LINES / ASIANA AIRLINES, to the following address:

| European Commission |
| --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

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(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘Merger Regulation’).

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IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/11 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/11

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Euro exchange rates (1)

22 February 2023

(2023/C 66/04)

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,0644 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 143,24 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4459 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,87945 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 11,0163 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 0,9870 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 154,30 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 10,9665 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 23,669 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 382,33 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,7443 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,9238 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 20,0908 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,5576 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4408 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 8,3512 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,7066 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,4252 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 386,99 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 19,4048 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 7,3367 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 16 178,12 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,7275 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 58,648 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | |
| THB | Thai baht | 36,775 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 5,5008 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 19,5976 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 88,2380 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,0644

JPY

Japanese yen

143,24

DKK

Danish krone

7,4459

GBP

Pound sterling

0,87945

SEK

Swedish krona

11,0163

CHF

Swiss franc

0,9870

ISK

Iceland króna

154,30

NOK

Norwegian krone

10,9665

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

23,669

HUF

Hungarian forint

382,33

PLN

Polish zloty

4,7443

RON

Romanian leu

4,9238

TRY

Turkish lira

20,0908

AUD

Australian dollar

1,5576

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4408

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

8,3512

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,7066

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,4252

KRW

South Korean won

1 386,99

ZAR

South African rand

19,4048

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

7,3367

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

16 178,12

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,7275

PHP

Philippine peso

58,648

RUB

Russian rouble

THB

Thai baht

36,775

BRL

Brazilian real

5,5008

MXN

Mexican peso

19,5976

INR

Indian rupee

88,2380

---

(1)  Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

---

V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/12 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/12

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.11048 – MACQUARIE / BCI / EKU ENERGY)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 66/05)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | Macquarie Group Limited (‘MGL’, Australia), |
| --- | --- |

—

Macquarie Group Limited (‘MGL’, Australia),

| — | British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (‘BCI’, Canada). |
| --- | --- |

—

British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (‘BCI’, Canada).

MGL and BCI will acquire within the meaning of Articles 3(1)(b) and 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of the whole of Eku Energy Group Limited (‘Eku Energy’, formerly registered as GIG Energy Storage UK (2), UK), currently solely controlled by MGL.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares.

2.

| — | MGL is a global provider of banking, financial, investment, and fund management services, |
| --- | --- |

—

MGL is a global provider of banking, financial, investment, and fund management services,

| — | BCI is an institutional investor, investing on behalf of public sector clients in British Columbia, including public sector pension plans, insurance, and special purpose funds. |
| --- | --- |

—

BCI is an institutional investor, investing on behalf of public sector clients in British Columbia, including public sector pension plans, insurance, and special purpose funds.

3.

Eku Energy is active in development, construction, and operation of battery storage assets.

4.

Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (3) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

5.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. The following reference should always be specified:

M.11048 – MACQUARIE / BCI / EKU ENERGY

Observations can be sent to the Commission by email or by post. Please use the contact details below:

Email: COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu

| Postal address: |
| --- |
| European Commission |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

Postal address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘Merger Regulation’).

1

(2)  Eku Energy was formerly registered as ‘GIG Energy Storage UK’. On 29 November 2022, the name was changed to Eku Energy.

2

(3)  OJ C 366, 14.12.2013, p. 5.

3

---

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/14

---

Publication of a communication of 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

(2023/C 66/06)

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

‘Médoc’

PDO-FR-A0730-AM05

Date of communication: 23.11.2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Official geographical code

The list of communes making up the geographical area and the area in immediate proximity has been updated to take account of the 2022 official geographical code.

This is a purely editorial change and does not alter the geographical area.

Points 6 and 9 of the single document have been amended in line with this change.

2.   Varieties for adaptation purposes

The varieties Arinarnoa N, Castets N, Marselan N and Touriga Nacional N have been added to the specification. These are late varieties, which can be an advantage in the context of global warming. Moreover, they are not very susceptible to rot, powdery mildew or downy mildew. All four varieties are suitable for producing intensely coloured, complex, full-bodied and structured wines, in line with the characteristics typical of ‘Médoc’ red wines.

These varieties are limited to 5 % of the varieties grown and 10 % of the blend.

The single document has not been amended.

3.   Distance between vines

The minimum distance between vines in the same row has been reduced from 0,80 m to 0,70 m.

This enables planting density to be increased, producing greater competition between the vines and better-quality grapes.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

4.   Pruning

The pruning rules have been adapted for vines that are spaced between 0,70 m and 0,80 m apart.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

5.   Agri-environmental provisions

A number of environmental provisions have been added:

| — | Dead vines must be removed from the parcels. No dead vines may be kept on the parcels. |
| --- | --- |

—

Dead vines must be removed from the parcels. No dead vines may be kept on the parcels.

| — | Before planting any new vines, winegrowers must carry out a physico-chemical soil analysis of the parcel in order to obtain all the information necessary to understand the winegrowing location and its potential. |
| --- | --- |

—

Before planting any new vines, winegrowers must carry out a physico-chemical soil analysis of the parcel in order to obtain all the information necessary to understand the winegrowing location and its potential.

| — | In order to preserve the characteristics of the physical and biological environment, which is a fundamental part of the terroir:






  — | chemical weed control is prohibited on the headlands; |
| --- | --- | --- |

—

In order to preserve the characteristics of the physical and biological environment, which is a fundamental part of the terroir:

—

chemical weed control is prohibited on the headlands;

| — | full chemical weed control is prohibited on the parcels; |
| --- | --- |

—

full chemical weed control is prohibited on the parcels;

| — | winegrowers must calculate and record their treatment frequency index. |
| --- | --- |

—

winegrowers must calculate and record their treatment frequency index.

These amendments are intended to take better account of the environment and of societal demands for less use of plant protection products.

The single document has not been amended.

6.   Maturing the wines

The minimum maturing date has been changed from 31 May following the harvest to 30 March following the harvest.

Reducing the potential maturing period makes it possible to produce fruitier wines and to have different ranges, with some wines that are easy to drink and some more sophisticated wines that are suitable for ageing.

This also affects the date of release for sale to the consumer.

It also involves a change to the link.

Point 8 of the single document has been amended.

7.   Transitional measures

Transitional measures no longer in force have been deleted.

The single document has not been amended.

8.   Main points to be checked

The individual additional volume has been added to the main points to be checked.

The single document has not been amended.

9.   Reference to the inspection body

The reference to the inspection body has been reworded to align it with the wording used in other product specifications. This is a purely editorial amendment.

The single document has not been amended.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Médoc

2.   Type of geographical indication

PDO – Protected designation of origin

3.   Categories of grapevine product

| 1. | Wine |
| --- | --- |

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

These are still red wines with excellent ageing potential. They are tannic wines, with an intense colour, made mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon N (traditional variety) blended with Merlot N and smaller quantities of Cabernet Franc N and Petit Verdot N or, less often, Cot N and Carmenère N. Cabernet Sauvignon N gives the wine spicy notes, while Merlot N makes for round, soft wines with aromas of red fruit. The addition of Cabernet Franc N or Petit Verdot N enhances the wines’ structure and complexity, while the latter variety also adds freshness.

After enrichment, their total alcoholic strength by volume does not exceed 13 %.

Their minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume is 11 %.

Every batch of wine sold (in bulk) or packaged has:

| — | a fermentable sugar content (glucose + fructose) not greater than 3 g/l |
| --- | --- |

—

a fermentable sugar content (glucose + fructose) not greater than 3 g/l

| — | a malic acid content not greater than 0,2 g/l. |
| --- | --- |

—

a malic acid content not greater than 0,2 g/l.

Wines sold in bulk or packaged before 1 October in the year following the year of harvest have a volatile acidity content of not more than 12,25 meq/l. Beyond that date, the wines have a volatile acidity content of not more than 16,33 meq/l.

Every batch of wine sold in bulk has a sulphur dioxide content of not more than 140 mg/l.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | 13 |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | 16,33 |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

13

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum total acidity

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

16,33

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5.   Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

| 1. | Enrichment
  Specific oenological practice
  Subtractive enrichment techniques are permitted up to a concentration rate of 15 %. After enrichment, the wines’ total alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed 13 %. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Enrichment

Specific oenological practice

Subtractive enrichment techniques are permitted up to a concentration rate of 15 %. After enrichment, the wines’ total alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed 13 %.

| 2. | Training of the vines
  Cultivation method
  Density: the minimum planting density of the vines is 5 000 plants per hectare. The distance between the rows is not more than 2 m and the distance between plants in the same row is at least 0,70 m.
  Pruning rules: pruning is mandatory. It is carried out at the unfolded leaves stage (Lorenz stage 9) at the latest.
  Vines planted more than 0,80 m apart in a row are pruned using the following methods:






  — | two-cane pruning, double Guyot or Médoc, with a maximum of five count buds per cane; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

Training of the vines

Cultivation method

Density: the minimum planting density of the vines is 5 000 plants per hectare. The distance between the rows is not more than 2 m and the distance between plants in the same row is at least 0,70 m.

Pruning rules: pruning is mandatory. It is carried out at the unfolded leaves stage (Lorenz stage 9) at the latest.

Vines planted more than 0,80 m apart in a row are pruned using the following methods:

—

two-cane pruning, double Guyot or Médoc, with a maximum of five count buds per cane;

| — | simple Guyot or mixed Guyot, with a maximum of seven count buds per vine; |
| --- | --- |

—

simple Guyot or mixed Guyot, with a maximum of seven count buds per vine;

| — | short pruning, fan pruning to four arms or two cordons, with a maximum of 12 count buds per vine, or to one cordon, with a maximum of seven count buds per vine. |
| --- | --- |

—

short pruning, fan pruning to four arms or two cordons, with a maximum of 12 count buds per vine, or to one cordon, with a maximum of seven count buds per vine.

For vines planted between 0,70 m and 0,80 m apart in a row, only pruning to one cordon, fan pruning to a maximum of four arms and simple Guyot pruning are permitted. In addition, there must be no more than seven count buds per vine.

5.2.   Maximum yields

65 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

The grapes are harvested and the wines made, developed and matured on the territory of the following communes in the department of Gironde, on the basis of the official geographical code in force on 1 January 2022: Arcins, Arsac, Avensan, Bégadan, Blaignan-Prignac, Blanquefort, Castelnau-de-Médoc, Cissac-Médoc, Civrac-en-Médoc, Couquèques, Cussac-Fort-Médoc, Gaillan-en-Médoc, Grayan-et-l’Hôpital, Jau-Dignac-et-Loirac, Labarde, Lamarque, Lesparre-Médoc, Listrac-Médoc, Ludon-Médoc, Macau, Margaux-Cantenac, Moulis-en-Médoc, Naujac-sur-Mer, Ordonnac, Parempuyre, Pauillac, Le Pian-Médoc, Queyrac, Saint-Aubin-de-Médoc, Saint-Christoly-Médoc, Saint-Estèphe, Saint-Germain-d’Esteuil, Saint-Julien-Beychevelle, Saint-Laurent-Médoc, Saint-Médard-en-Jalles, Saint-Sauveur, Saint-Seurin-de-Cadourne, Saint-Vivien-de-Médoc, Saint-Yzans-de-Médoc, Sainte-Hélène, Salaunes, Soulac-sur-Mer, Soussans, Le Taillan-Médoc, Talais, Valeyrac, Vendays-Montalivet, Vensac, Le Verdon-sur-Mer and Vertheuil.

7.   Wine-grape variety(-ies)

| | Cabernet Franc N |
| --- | --- |

Cabernet Franc N

| | Cabernet Sauvignon N |
| --- | --- |

Cabernet Sauvignon N

| | Carmenère N |
| --- | --- |

Carmenère N

| | Côt N - Malbec |
| --- | --- |

Côt N - Malbec

| | Merlot N |
| --- | --- |

Merlot N

| | Petit Verdot N |
| --- | --- |

Petit Verdot N

8.   Description of the link(s)

The geographical area demarcated for the ‘Médoc’ registered designation of origin is located in the department of Gironde on the left banks of the Garonne river and the Gironde estuary, north of Bordeaux. This winegrowing area of the Médoc peninsula stretches for almost 80 kilometres from north to south and just over 10 kilometres from east to west, and covers 50 communes.

The riverside flank of the Médoc region is characterised by moderate seasonal fluctuations and very modest rainfall for an Atlantic climate. Although the geographical area has a cooler climate than the south of the peninsula owing to its northerly location, it also receives less precipitation. These climatic conditions, which are good for winegrowing, are due to the presence of the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Gironde estuary to the east, which help to regulate temperatures. The oceanic climate, in some years combined with periods of autumnal low pressure and rain or, conversely, warm and very sunny autumns, creates a notable ‘vintage’ effect.

The resulting vineyard landscapes are relatively level (altitude between 3 and 50 metres), bordered by forest to the west and the Gironde estuary to the east. Gravelly hillocks planted with vines stretch from north to south, bounded by jalles (streams) and marshier non-winegrowing areas.

Generations of winegrowers have expertly exploited the unique characteristics of Médoc’s world-famous winegrowing country. Over time, the winegrowers’ detailed knowledge of the soil, and their expert use of drainage techniques to further improve its quality, have allowed them to develop the best possible growing methods for producing red wines with good longevity. Advances in plant health and the mechanisation of vineyards have not altered the winegrowers’ determination to maintain viticultural practices that enable them to produce their distinctive red wines.

Today the main varieties used in the Médoc region are Cabernet Sauvignon N, the preferred variety for gravelly soils, Merlot N, prized for its fruitiness, Cabernet Franc N, for predominantly limestone soils, and Petit Verdot N, for warm, well-drained soils. The diversity of grape varieties and soil types covered by the ‘Médoc’ designation of origin requires a selective approach to vineyard management.

This selective approach enables very ripe and healthy grapes to be obtained, with a controlled yield. Maceration is therefore possible to obtain the concentrated wines desired. This means that maturing is essential to develop a softer taste.

‘Médoc’ wines are tannic, with an intense colour, and made mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon N combined with Merlot N and smaller quantities of Cabernet Franc N and Petit Verdot N or, more rarely, Cot N and Carmenère N. Cabernet Sauvignon N is the traditional variety and it gives the wines spicy notes. Blending with Merlot N makes for round, soft wines with aromas of red fruit. When Merlot N predominates, the desired aromas develop more quickly. The addition of Cabernet Franc N or Petit Verdot N enhances the wines’ structure and complexity, while the latter variety also adds freshness.

The wines have excellent ageing potential.

Renowned for centuries, this winegrowing region, crossed by the Bordeaux wine route, is dotted with wine châteaux – vast estates with a varied architectural heritage – and very small family vineyards where winemaking, sales and promotion are aided by the various wine cooperatives.

‘Médoc’ wines have been renowned for centuries and their reputation is founded on the notion of the ‘château’. After the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine and the future king of England Henry Plantagenet in 1152, the development of trade with England played a major part in building the reputation of these wines abroad.

In 1647, when the ‘Jurade de Bordeaux’ issued the first ever ranking of Guyenne wines, the reputation of wines from the Médoc parishes was already established. Under Louis XV, this classification was refined by region, divided first by parish and then by cru. These various classifications led in 1855 to the Classification of Bordeaux wines, which placed ‘Médoc’ wines among the wines of Gironde. Later, in 1932, the Crus Bourgeois du Médoc classification was published.

9.   Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

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 development and maturing of the wines, comprises the territory of the following communes in the department of Gironde, in line with the official geographical code in force on 1 January 2022: Abzac, Aillas, Ambarès-et-Lagrave, Ambès, Anglade, Arbanats, Les Artigues-de-Lussac, Artigues-près-Bordeaux, Arveyres, Asques, Aubiac, Auriolles, Auros, Ayguemorte-les-Graves, Bagas, Baigneaux, Barie, Baron, Barsac, Bassanne, Bassens, Baurech, Bayas, Bayon-sur-Gironde, Bazas, Beautiran, Bègles, Béguey, Bellebat, Bellefond, Belvès-de-Castillon, Bernos-Beaulac, Berson, Berthez, Beychac-et-Caillau, Bieujac, Les Billaux, Birac, Blaignac, Blasimon, Blaye, Blésignac, Bommes, Bonnetan, Bonzac, Bordeaux, Bossugan, Bouliac, Bourdelles, Bourg, Le Bouscat, Branne, Brannens, Braud-et-Saint-Louis, La Brède, Brouqueyran, Bruges, Budos, Cabanac-et-Villagrains, Cabara, Cadarsac, Cadaujac, Cadillac, Cadillac-en-Fronsadais, Camarsac, Cambes, Camblanes-et-Meynac, Camiac-et-Saint-Denis, Camiran, Camps-sur-l’Isle, Campugnan, Canéjan, Capian, Caplong, Carbon-Blanc, Cardan, Carignan-de-Bordeaux, Cars, Cartelègue, Casseuil, Castelmoron-d’Albret, Castelviel, Castets et Castillon, Castillon-la-Bataille, Castres-Gironde, Caudrot, Caumont, Cauvignac, Cavignac, Cazats, Cazaugitat, Cénac, Cenon, Cérons, Cessac, Cestas, Cézac, Chamadelle, Civrac-de-Blaye, Civrac-sur-Dordogne, Cleyrac, Coimères, Coirac, Comps, Coubeyrac, Courpiac, Cours-de-Monségur, Cours-les-Bains, Coutras, Coutures, Créon, Croignon, Cubnezais, Cubzac-les-Ponts, Cudos, Cursan, Daignac, Dardenac, Daubèze, Dieulivol, Donnezac, Donzac, Doulezon, Les Eglisottes-et-Chalaures, Escoussans, Espiet, Les Esseintes, Etauliers, Eynesse, Eyrans, Eysines, Faleyras, Fargues, Fargues-Saint-Hilaire, Le Fieu, Flaujagues, Floirac, Floudès, Fontet, Fossés-et-Baleyssac, Fours, Francs, Fronsac, Frontenac, Gabarnac, Gajac, Galgon, Gans, Gardegan-et-Tourtirac, Gauriac, Gauriaguet, Générac, Génissac, Gensac, Gironde-sur-Dropt, Gornac, Gours, Gradignan, Grézillac, Grignols, Guillac, Guillos, Guîtres, Le Haillan, Haux, Hure, Illats, Isle-Saint-Georges, Izon, Jugazan, Juillac, Labescau, Ladaux, Lados, Lagorce, Lalande-de-Pomerol, Lamothe-Landerron, La Lande-de-Fronsac, Landerrouat, Landerrouet-sur-Ségur, Landiras, Langoiran, Langon, Lansac, Lapouyade, Laroque, Laruscade, Latresne, Lavazan, Léogeats, Léognan, Lestiac-sur-Garonne, Les Lèves-et-Thoumeyragues, Libourne, Lignan-de-Bazas, Lignan-de-Bordeaux, Ligueux, Listrac-de-Durèze, Lormont, Loubens, Loupes, Loupiac, Loupiac-de-la-Réole, Lugaignac, Lugasson, Lugon-et-l’Ile-du-Carnay, Lussac, Madirac, Maransin, Marcenais, Margueron, Marimbault, Marions, Marsas, Martignas-sur-Jalle, Martillac, Martres, Masseilles, Massugas, Mauriac, Mazères, Mazion, Mérignac, Mérignas, Mesterrieux, Mombrier, Mongauzy, Monprimblanc,

Area in immediate proximity (cont. 1)

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

Monségur, Montagne, Montagoudin, Montignac, Montussan, Morizès, Mouillac, Mouliets-et-Villemartin, Moulon, Mourens, Naujan-et-Postiac, Néac, Nérigean, Neuffons, Le Nizan, Noaillac, Noaillan, Omet, Paillet, Les Peintures, Pellegrue, Périssac, Pessac, Pessac-sur-Dordogne, Petit-Palais-et-Cornemps, Peujard, Le Pian-sur-Garonne, Pineuilh, Plassac, Pleine-Selve, Podensac, Pomerol, Pompéjac, Pompignac, Pondaurat, Porchères, Porte-de-Benauge, Portets, Le Pout, Préchac, Preignac, Prignac-et-Marcamps, Pugnac, Puisseguin, Pujols, Pujols-sur-Ciron, Le Puy, Puybarban, Puynormand, Quinsac, Rauzan, Reignac, La Réole, Rimons, Riocaud, Rions, La Rivière, Roaillan, Romagne, Roquebrune, La Roquille, Ruch, Sablons, Sadirac, Saillans, Saint-Aignan, Saint-André-de-Cubzac, Saint-André-du-Bois, Saint-André-et-Appelles, Saint-Androny, Saint-Antoine-du-Queyret, Saint-Antoine-sur-l’Isle, Saint-Aubin-de-Blaye, Saint-Aubin-de-Branne, Saint-Avit-de-Soulège, Saint-Avit-Saint-Nazaire, Saint-Brice, Saint-Caprais-de-Bordeaux, Saint-Christoly-de-Blaye, Saint-Christophe-de-Double, Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes, Saint-Cibard, Saint-Ciers-d’Abzac, Saint-Ciers-de-Canesse, Saint-Ciers-sur-Gironde, Saint-Côme, Saint-Denis-de-Pile, Saint-Emilion, Saint-Etienne-de-Lisse, Saint-Exupéry, Saint-Félix-de-Foncaude, Saint-Ferme, Saint-Genès-de-Blaye, Saint-Genès-de-Castillon, Saint-Genès-de-Fronsac, Saint-Genès-de-Lombaud, Saint-Genis-du-Bois, Saint-Germain-de-Grave, Saint-Germain-de-la-Rivière, Saint-Germain-du-Puch, Saint-Gervais, Saint-Girons-d’Aiguevives, Saint-Hilaire-de-la-Noaille, Saint-Hilaire-du-Bois, Saint-Hippolyte, Saint-Jean-de-Blaignac, Saint-Jean-d’Illac, Saint-Laurent-d’Arce, Saint-Laurent-des-Combes, Saint-Laurent-du-Bois, Saint-Laurent-du-Plan,

Area in immediate proximity (cont. 2)

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

Saint-Léon, Saint-Loubert, Saint-Loubès, Saint-Louis-de-Montferrand, Saint-Macaire, Saint-Magne-de-Castillon, Saint-Maixant, Saint-Mariens, Saint-Martial, Saint-Martin-de-Laye, Saint-Martin-de-Lerm, Saint-Martin-de-Sescas, Saint-Martin-du-Bois, Saint-Martin-du-Puy, Saint-Martin-Lacaussade, Saint-Médard-de-Guizières, Saint-Médard-d’Eyrans, Saint-Michel-de-Fronsac, Saint-Michel-de-Lapujade, Saint-Michel-de-Rieufret, Saint-Morillon, Saint-Palais, Saint-Pardon-de-Conques, Saint-Paul, Saint-Pey-d’Armens, Saint-Pey-de-Castets, Saint-Philippe-d’Aiguille, Saint-Philippe-du-Seignal, Saint-Pierre-d’Aurillac, Saint-Pierre-de-Bat, Saint-Pierre-de-Mons, Saint-Quentin-de-Baron, Saint-Quentin-de-Caplong, Saint-Romain-la-Virvée, Saint-Sauveur-de-Puynormand, Saint-Savin, Saint-Selve, Saint-Seurin-de-Bourg, Saint-Seurin-de-Cursac, Saint-Seurin-sur-l’Isle, Saint-Sève, Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, Saint-Sulpice-de-Guilleragues, Saint-Sulpice-de-Pommiers, Saint-Sulpice-et-Cameyrac, Saint-Trojan, Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, Saint-Vincent-de-Pertignas, Saint-Vivien-de-Blaye, Saint-Vivien-de-Monségur, Saint-Yzan-de-Soudiac, Sainte-Colombe, Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, Sainte-Eulalie, Sainte-Florence, Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, Sainte-Foy-la-Longue, Sainte-Gemme, Sainte-Radegonde, Sainte-Terre, Sallebœuf, Les Salles-de-Castillon, Samonac, Saucats, Saugon, Sauternes, La Sauve, Sauveterre-de-Guyenne, Sauviac, Savignac, Savignac-de-l’Isle, Semens, Sendets, Sigalens, Sillas, Soulignac, Soussac, Tabanac, Taillecavat, Talence, Targon, Tarnès, Tauriac, Tayac, Teuillac, Tizac-de-Curton, Tizac-de-Lapouyade, Toulenne, Le Tourne, Tresses, Uzeste, Val-de-Livenne, Val de Virvée, Vayres, Vérac, Verdelais, Vignonet, Villandraut, Villegouge, Villenave-de-Rions, Villenave-d’Ornon, Villeneuve, Virelade, Virsac and Yvrac.

Broader geographical unit

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition:

The broader geographical unit ‘Vin de Bordeaux – Médoc’ or ‘Grand Vin de Bordeaux – Médoc’ may be specified on the label. In this case, the size of the letters used must not be larger, either in height or in width, than two-thirds of the size of the letters spelling the name of the registered designation of origin.

Area in immediate proximity (cont. 4)

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

Sainte-Gemme, Sainte-Radegonde, Sainte-Terre, Sallebœuf, Les Salles-de-Castillon, Samonac, Saucats, Saugon, Sauternes, La Sauve, Sauveterre-de-Guyenne, Sauviac, Savignac, Savignac-de-l’Isle, Semens, Sendets, Sigalens, Sillas, Soulignac, Soussac, Tabanac, Taillecavat, Talence, Targon, Tarnès, Tauriac, Tayac, Teuillac, Tizac-de-Curton, Tizac-de-Lapouyade, Toulenne, Le Tourne, Tresses, Uzeste, Val de Virvée, Vayres, Vérac, Verdelais, Vignonet, Villandraut, Villegouge, Villenave-de-Rions, Villenave-d’Ornon, Villeneuve, Virelade, Virsac and Yvrac.

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-c44a6487-9266-41d7-a328-1602d767c741

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(1)  OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

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| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/21 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/21

---

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

(2023/C 66/07)

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

‘Valençay’

PDO-FR-A0320-AM02

Date of communication: 23.11.2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Official Geographic Code

The list of municipalities has been updated on the basis of the 2021 Official Geographic Code in relation to the geographical area and area in immediate proximity.

This merely changes the wording and has no impact on the geographical area.

Points 6 and 9 of the single document have been amended.

2.   Pruning

The pruning rules have been simplified.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

3.   Crop load per vine

There is no longer a maximum load per vine. Maintaining an average maximum crop load per parcel ensures that the harvest is of good quality.

The single document has not been amended.

4.   Agri-ecological provisions

The various environmental provisions have been added:

| — | Chemical weed control is prohibited on headlands. |
| --- | --- |

—

Chemical weed control is prohibited on headlands.

| — | Full chemical weed control on parcels is prohibited. |
| --- | --- |

—

Full chemical weed control on parcels is prohibited.

| — | Between the rows, naturally occurring and/or planted vegetation is managed by physical or mechanical means. |
| --- | --- |

—

Between the rows, naturally occurring and/or planted vegetation is managed by physical or mechanical means.

These amendments are intended to take better account of the environment and of general demands for less use of plant protection products.

The single document has not been amended.

5.   Analytical standards

Sugar levels and minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume have been increased to improve the quality of the harvest.

The maximum volatile acidity and iron content have been deleted as European standards apply.

In connection with the increase in grape sugars, the maximum alcoholic strength by volume after enrichment has been increased from 12,5 % to 13 %.

Points 4 and 5 of the single document have been amended.

6.   Oenological charcoal

Use of oenological charcoal was not permitted previously, but limited, regulated use is now allowed: ‘In the production of rosé wines, use of oenological charcoal, alone or mixed in preparations, is permitted for the musts of new wines still in fermentation within a limit of 20 % of the volume of rosé wines made by a given winegrower for a specific harvest, at a maximum amount of 60 grams per hectolitre.’ The aim is to ensure that any such use is targeted towards batches of lower organoleptic or analytical quality (particularly batches in which aromas have been altered as a result of oxidation), but does not alter the product’s typical characteristics.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended accordingly.

7.   Winery capacity

The winery capacity has been increased to 1.6 times the number obtained when the surface area is multiplied by the holding’s average yield per hectare over the last five years.

The purpose of increasing the winery capacity is to improve the management of stocks and the conditions for making the red wines.

The single document has not been amended.

8.   Transport between authorised warehouses

Point 5(b), section IX, chapter 1, concerning the date from which the wines can be transported between authorised warehouses, has been deleted.

The single document has not been amended.

9.   Link

The reference to 2008 has been deleted.

Point 8 of the single document has been amended.

10.   Transitional measures

The expired transitional measures have been deleted.

The single document has not been amended.

11.   Declaration requirements

The declaration requirements have been adjusted so that the inspection body is also informed.

The single document has not been amended.

12.   Keeping a register

A register for monitoring ripening and packaging has been made mandatory.

The single document has not been amended.

13.   Main points to be checked

The main points to be checked have been revised to bring them into line with the inspection methods and amendments to product specifications.

The single document has not been amended.

14.   Reference to the inspection body

The reference to the inspection body has been reworded to align it with the wording of other product specifications. This is a purely editorial amendment.

The single document has not been amended.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Valençay

2.   Geographical indication type

PDO - Protected Designation of Origin

3.   Categories of grapevine product

| 1. | Wine |
| --- | --- |

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

1.   White and rosé wines

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The wines have a minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of 10 %. The total alcoholic strength by volume of the wines after enrichment does not exceed 13 %. After packaging, the wines have:

| — | a maximum fermentable sugar content (glucose + fructose) of 4 grams per litre for the white and rosé wines; |
| --- | --- |

—

a maximum fermentable sugar content (glucose + fructose) of 4 grams per litre for the white and rosé wines;

| — | a minimum total acidity expressed in grams of tartaric acid per litre of 3,5 for the white and rosé wines. |
| --- | --- |

—

a minimum total acidity expressed in grams of tartaric acid per litre of 3,5 for the white and rosé wines.

The total sulphur dioxide content and total acidity of the white and rosé wines are as laid down by EU legislation.

The aromas of the white wines are generally dominated by intense floral notes (broom, white flowers, etc.), possibly combined with a touch of minerality such as flint, in keeping with the high flint content in the soils. However, these lively wines offer a certain roundness in the mouth.

The rosé wines are generally light, nervy without being aggressive and have strong aromas of ripe fruit.

| 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) | |

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)

2.   Red wines

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The wines have a minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of 10 %. The total alcoholic strength by volume of the wines after enrichment does not exceed 13 %. After packaging, the wines have a maximum fermentable sugar content (glucose + fructose) of 2 grams per litre for the red wines. The red wines are subject to malolactic fermentation and their malic acid content does not exceed 0,3 grams per litre. The total sulphur dioxide content and total acidity of the red wines are as laid down by EU legislation.

The red wines have a colour often tending towards ruby, with aromas of small red fruit, sour cherries and spicy and fresh notes. They are pleasant when young, and some reveal their full potential when aged for three to five years.

| 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) | |

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

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

1.   Specific oenological practice

In the production of rosé wines, use of oenological charcoal, alone or mixed in preparations, is permitted for the musts of new wines still in fermentation within a limit of 20 % of the volume of rosé wines made by a given winegrower for a specific harvest, at a maximum amount of 60 grams per hectolitre. The total alcoholic strength by volume of the wines after enrichment does not exceed 13 %. In addition to the above provisions, all wine-making practices followed must also comply with the requirements laid down at EU level and in the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code.

2.   Density

Cultivation method

The minimum planting density of the vines is 6 000 plants per hectare, with a maximum distance of 1,70 metres between rows. The spacing between plants in the same row must be at least 0,90 metres.

3.   Pruning

Cultivation method

The vines are pruned using the following techniques:

| — | single Guyot |
| --- | --- |

—

single Guyot

| — | ‘Y’ type |
| --- | --- |

—

‘Y’ type

| — | spur pruning (éventail pruning or single and double Royat cordon pruning). |
| --- | --- |

—

spur pruning (éventail pruning or single and double Royat cordon pruning).

Depending on the grape variety, the average number of buds per plant must be at most:

| — | 9 buds in total for Côt and Gamay; |
| --- | --- |

—

9 buds in total for Côt and Gamay;

| — | 12 buds for the other varieties. |
| --- | --- |

—

12 buds for the other varieties.

5.2.   Maximum yields

1.   Red and rosé wines

65 hectolitres per hectare

2.   White wines

68 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

The grapes are harvested and the wines made, processed and matured in the geographical area approved by the National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO) at the meeting of the competent national committee on 16 December 2010. The perimeter of this area, on the date of approval of this specification by the relevant national committee, comprises the territory of the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Indre: Chabris, Fontguenand, Luçay-le-Mâle, Lye, Menetou-sur-Nahon, Poulaines, Valençay, Val-Fouzon (only the territories of the delegated municipalities of Parpeçay and Varennes-sur-Fouzon), La Vernelle, Veuil, Villentrois-Faverolles. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Indre: Chabris, Fontguenand, Luçay-le-Mâle, Lye, Menetou-sur-Nahon, Poulaines, Valençay, Val-Fouzon (only the territories of the delegated municipalities of Parpeçay and Varennes-sur-Fouzon), La Vernelle, Veuil, Villentrois-Faverolles.

7.   Wine grape variety(ies)

Cabernet Franc N

Chardonnay B

Gamay N

Orbois B

Pineau d’Aunis N

Pinot Noir N

8.   Description of the link(s)

8.1.   Description of the natural factors relevant to the link

The geographical area of the ‘Valençay’ controlled designation of origin, around ten kilometres south-west of the town of Romorantin-Lanthenay, forms a broad plateau intersected by valleys through which small rivers flow north. Some of these meet in the Fouzon valley, parallel to the Cher valley, before joining the Cher at the northern boundary of the geographical area. The geographical area stretches across the territory of 13 municipalities in the north of the department of Indre and the territory of Selles-sur-Cher, a municipality of Loir-et-Cher. The landscape, marked by many small forested areas, woodland remnants and the Valençay forest uplands, is sheltered. The vineyard parcels tend to be located on the edges of the plateau left exposed by erosion and on the small hills.

The parcels specifically demarcated for grape harvesting have soils which have mainly formed as follows:

| — | to the south of the geographical area, on the soft chalky Turonian soils (rendzina, brown limestone soils) and upper Cretaceous flint clays (leached or eroded brown soils); |
| --- | --- |

—

to the south of the geographical area, on the soft chalky Turonian soils (rendzina, brown limestone soils) and upper Cretaceous flint clays (leached or eroded brown soils);

| — | to the south-east of the geographical area, on the clayey-sandy substances of the detritic Eocene, sometimes with a high gravel content; |
| --- | --- |

—

to the south-east of the geographical area, on the clayey-sandy substances of the detritic Eocene, sometimes with a high gravel content;

| — | to the north of the geographical area, near the Cher and Fouzon valleys, mainly on the lacustrine limestone of the Berry and Beauce regions from the Eocene and Aquitanian (rendzina and brown limestone soils), and occasionally on the clayey-sandy formations of Sologne (Burdigalian). |
| --- | --- |

—

to the north of the geographical area, near the Cher and Fouzon valleys, mainly on the lacustrine limestone of the Berry and Beauce regions from the Eocene and Aquitanian (rendzina and brown limestone soils), and occasionally on the clayey-sandy formations of Sologne (Burdigalian).

In this regional climate, the semi-maritime climate is characterised by slightly higher average and minimum temperatures and slightly cooler maximum temperatures over the growing period of the vines.

Description of the human factors relevant to the link

The region of ‘Valençay’ was part of the historic province of Berry. The first known indications of vines - donations made to the abbey - date back to the 10th century. A notarial deed from the 15th century mentions ‘many vines along the Nahon’, and the many other indications in documents from later centuries attest, if not to the development of viticulture, at least to its continuation.

Talleyrand, the owner of Valençay Castle, also owned a dozen hectares of vines on his land. In 1830, his niece, the Duchess of Dino, stated that good wines consumed across the whole department were harvested in the canton of Valençay.

In 1876, in his study of the vineyards of France (‘Etude des vignobles de France’), Jules Guyot noted that the vineyards along the rivers of Valençay canton produced the best wine in the department. While these rivers were not navigable, some of the wine produced was already exported in the 19th century, in particular via the Cher, although most of the wines were sold more locally.

Red wines account for 50 % of the volume produced, white wines 40 % and rosé wines 10 %. The aromas of the white wines are generally dominated by intense floral notes (broom, white flowers, etc.), possibly combined with a touch of minerality such as flint, in keeping with the high flint content in the soils. However, these lively wines offer a certain roundness in the mouth.

8.2.   The red wines have a colour often tending towards ruby, with aromas of small red fruit, sour cherries and spicy and fresh notes. They are pleasant when young, and some reveal their full potential when aged for three to five years.

The rosé wines are generally light, nervy without being aggressive and have strong aromas of ripe fruit. Reflecting established practice, the parcel area demarcated for harvesting the grapes only includes rendzina, brown soils or shallow soils, and sandy clay soils. These healthy soils typically have good thermal properties and limited water reserves and they encourage early development of the vegetation and the ripening of the grapes. It is advantageous to plant vineyards on the edges of plateaux.

In these conditions, plants and their production potential need to be extremely well managed by means of vine-training and rigorous pruning.

Adapted to the soil and to a climate that is subject to both maritime and continental influences, with the Cher valley playing a role in temperature regulation, expertise in choosing grape varieties and tending the vines comes from the experience acquired over several generations of winegrowers who are continually working to improve their products. This know-how is also reflected in the wine-maker’s choice of the right varieties for blending.

These choices result in the production of lively, round white wines with notes of flowers typical of clay-limestone soils or a minerality from soils with a high flint content. The shallow soils are quickly warmed and produce red wines with notes of small red fruit and spices. As these circumstances promote a good level of ripening, the rosé wines produced have notes of ripe fruit and freshness at the same time.

The local community's creation of a wine with character was recognised initially by the designation of origin ‘vins délimités de qualité supérieure’ (quality wines from certain delimited areas) in 1970 and then by the controlled designation of origin in 2004.

With echoes of the poems of Ronsard or Peguy and the evocation of key periods in the history of France, ‘Valençay’ still produces its wines which once adorned a royal or princely table and are the pride of the Cher valley.

9.   Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

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, processing and maturing of the wines, comprises the territory approved by the National Institute of Origin and Quality at the meeting of the competent national committee on 10 February 2011. On the date of approval of this specification by the relevant national committee, this territory comprises the territory of the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Indre: Saint-Christophe-en-Bazelle, Vicq-sur-Nahon, Val-Fouzon (only the territory of the delegated municipality of Sainte-Cécile); |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Indre: Saint-Christophe-en-Bazelle, Vicq-sur-Nahon, Val-Fouzon (only the territory of the delegated municipality of Sainte-Cécile);

| — | Department of Indre-et-Loire: Nouans-les-Fontaines; |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Indre-et-Loire: Nouans-les-Fontaines;

| — | Department of Loir-et-Cher: Billy, Châteauvieux, Châtillon-sur-Cher, Couffy, Meusnes. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Loir-et-Cher: Billy, Châteauvieux, Châtillon-sur-Cher, Couffy, Meusnes.

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

| (a) | All optional information is printed on the labels in letters that may not be larger, in height, width or thickness, than double the size of the letters forming the name of the controlled designation of origin. |
| --- | --- |

(a)

All optional information is printed on the labels in letters that may not be larger, in height, width or thickness, than double the size of the letters forming the name of the controlled designation of origin.

| (b) | Wines with the controlled designation of origin may specify on their labels the name of a smaller geographical unit, provided that:






  — | it is a registered location; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(b)

Wines with the controlled designation of origin may specify on their labels the name of a smaller geographical unit, provided that:

—

it is a registered location;

| — | it appears on the harvest declaration. |
| --- | --- |

—

it appears on the harvest declaration.

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-5fb136ab-6126-4e61-a569-7094f9a12b65

---

(1)  OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

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| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/28 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/28

---

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

(2023/C 66/08)

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

‘Südsteiermark’

PDO-AT-A0228-AM01

Date of communication: 29.11.2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Maximum yield per hectare

The maximum yield per hectare prior to the 2020 harvest was 9 000 kg/ha; as of the 2020 harvest it has been set at10 000 kg/ha.

2.   Wine-grape varieties

Prior to the 2018 harvest all grape varieties authorised for quality wines in Austria were permitted for use in ‘Südsteiermark ’ PDO wines. Since the 2018 harvest the list of possible grape varieties has been restricted.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Südsteiermark

2.   Geographical indication type

PDO – protected designation of origin

3.   Categories of grapevine product

| 1. | Wine |
| --- | --- |

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

‘Südsteiermark’ PDO

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION

The ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO area produces only white wines.

Colour: The white wines have a pale straw-yellow to greenish-yellow colour. High-quality white wines (e.g. ‘Reserve’ wines) can also take on a pale to medium golden-yellow colour after prolonged ageing.

Aroma: Wines of the ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO are dominated by notes of apple, pear and quince. All the wines have a crisp, aroma-enhancing acid structure. Young wines can also include grassy notes of freshly mown meadows, green peppers or nettles.

Taste: A key element in the gustatory profile of Südsteiermark’ PDO wines is their acidity, which underlies and enhances the fruit sensations. Malolactic fermentation is rarely used in the ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO area.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | 15,0 |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | 9,0 |
| Minimum total acidity | 4,0 grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | 18 |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | 200 |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

15,0

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

9,0

Minimum total acidity

4,0 grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

18

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

200

5.   Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

—

5.2.   Maximum yields

| 1. | ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO |
| --- | --- |

1.

‘Südsteiermark’ PDO

10 000 kilograms of grapes per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

The designation of origin covers the municipalities of the district of Leibnitz other than Strass in der Steiermark, St. Veit in der Südsteiermark, Allerheiligen bei Wildon, St. Georgen an der Stiefing, Gabersdorf, Schwarzautal and Heiligenkreuz am Wasen.

7.   Wine grape variety(ies)

| | Chardonnay – Morillon |
| --- | --- |

Chardonnay – Morillon

| | Grauer Burgunder - Pinot Gris |
| --- | --- |

Grauer Burgunder - Pinot Gris

| | Grauer Burgunder - Ruländer |
| --- | --- |

Grauer Burgunder - Ruländer

| | Muskateller - Gelber Muskateller |
| --- | --- |

Muskateller - Gelber Muskateller

| | Sauvignon Blanc |
| --- | --- |

Sauvignon Blanc

| | Traminer - Gelber Traminer |
| --- | --- |

Traminer - Gelber Traminer

| | Traminer - Gewürztraminer |
| --- | --- |

Traminer - Gewürztraminer

| | Traminer - Roter Traminer |
| --- | --- |

Traminer - Roter Traminer

| | Weißer Burgunder - Klevner |
| --- | --- |

Weißer Burgunder - Klevner

| | Weißer Burgunder - Pinot Blanc |
| --- | --- |

Weißer Burgunder - Pinot Blanc

| | Weißer Burgunder - Weißburgunder |
| --- | --- |

Weißer Burgunder - Weißburgunder

| | Weißer Riesling - Rheinriesling |
| --- | --- |

Weißer Riesling - Rheinriesling

| | Weißer Riesling - Riesling |
| --- | --- |

Weißer Riesling - Riesling

| | Welschriesling |
| --- | --- |

Welschriesling

8.   Description of the link(s)

‘Südsteiermark’ PDO

Climate: The climate of the ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO area has Mediterranean and Pannonian influences. The humid Mediterranean climate ensures a long growing season. The Pannonian influences manifest themselves primarily in low night-time temperatures and high humidity in the first half of the day.

Soil: There is no predominant soil type in the ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO area. The main soil types are shale, sand, marl and limestone.

Link: In addition to the climate and soil conditions, the steep slopes typical of the ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO area (with gradients of more than 100 %) also contribute to the specific type of wine. The cool nights of the Pannonian climate make for very fruity and acidic wines. The humid conditions brought by the Mediterranean climate give the wines a high, varietally true maturity. The Sauvignon Blanc variety in particular benefits from this mix of climatic conditions, resulting in varietally true wines with intense flavours of green peppers and freshly mown meadow. Another particularity of the ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO area is an altitude of around 600 metres, which further reinforces the influences of the Pannonian climate (cool nights). Varieties with an already pronounced aroma profile (such as Gelber Muskateller or Burgunder varieties) express their aroma even more intensely at this altitude.

9.   Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Production

Legal framework:

In national legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

For all PDO wines, the Austrian Wine Act provides that the production of a PDO wine must take place in the wine-growing region (PGI region of origin) in which the PDO area is located or in an adjacent wine-growing region. Austria therefore makes general use of the derogation provided for in Article 5 of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.

Production may take place outside Styria only if it has been declared to and approved by the Styria Regional Wine Committee, as in the case of supraregional wine producers with their head office outside the Südsteiermark region. The ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO must figure on the relevant invoices, delivery notes and waybills.

Legal framework:

In national legislation

Type of further condition:

Packaging within the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

The Austrian Wine Act does not lay down general rules on the bottling of PDO wines.

In order to ensure the quality and typical characteristics of ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO wines, the following conditions are laid down on the bottling of ‘Südsteiermark’ PDO wines:

Bottling outside the Styria wine-growing area is permissible only after notification to and approval by the Styria Regional Wine Committee. The origin ‘Südsteiermark’ must figure on the relevant invoices, delivery notes and waybills.

Link to the product specification

https://info.bml.gv.at/themen/landwirtschaft/landwirtschaft-in-oesterreich/pflanzliche-produktion/wein/Weinherkunft.html

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(1)  OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

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| 23.2.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 66/32 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

23.2.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 66/32

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Publication of an approved standard amendment to a product specification of a protected designation of origin or protected geographical indications in the sector of the agricultural products and foodstuffs, as referred to in Article 6b(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 664/2014

(2023/C 66/09)

This communication is published in accordance with Article 6b(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 664/2014 (1).

Communicating the approval of a standard amendment

(Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012)

1.   Name of product

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes

2.   Third country to which the geographical area belongs

United Kingdom

3.   National authority or applicant group communicating the standard amendment

Defra

4.   Description of the approved amendment(s)

1.   Original

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are grown from the basic seed varieties catalogued in the national registers of varieties of the Member States of the EU.

Amended

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are grown from the basic seed varieties catalogued in the national registers of varieties

2.   Original

The first crop in May is sold with the soil still on in order to protect the soft skin of the potatoes. As the season progresses the potato skin hardens sufficiently to allow washing. Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are harvested from the beginning of May until the end of July.

Amended

The first crop is sold with the soil still on in order to protect the soft skin of the potatoes. As the season progresses the potato skin hardens sufficiently to allow washing.

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are usually harvested from the beginning of May until the end of July subject to weather conditions.

3.   Original

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are grown from seed purchased in the preceding autumn. (...)

Amended

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are grown from seed purchased from aphid free certified sources. (...)

4.   Original

Immediately post harvest, before the potatoes leave the farm, each batch of potatoes, is allocated a unique number which is traceable makes reference to the date and field of harvest and the name and address of the Pembrokeshire farm from which it came. This information is available to processors.

Amended

At harvest, before the potatoes leave the farm, each batch of potatoes, is allocated a unique code which is traceable; it makes reference to the date and field of harvest and the name of the Pembrokeshire farm from which it came. This information is available to processors.

5.   Original

If further processing occurs, e.g. if potatoes from a 1 ton box are washed and put into the smaller packs of the weights mentioned above, each pack will be allocated a separate number which makes reference to the 1 ton box from which it came.

Amended

If further processing occurs, e.g. if potatoes from a 1 tonne box are washed and put into the smaller packs of the weights mentioned above, each batch will be allocated a separate number which is traceable to the field and grower.

6.   Original

The traceability system covers primary packaging (in direct contact with food), other relevant packaging materials such as printed outer packaging and processing aids

Amended

The traceability system covers primary packaging (in direct contact with food), and processing aids

7.   Original

When soil temperatures are approaching 10 degrees C this is usually in the last two weeks of February, (but can be as early as January on coastal frost free land), the soil is power harrowed to further break it down, to make it as fine and free draining as possible. The soil is then ready for planting.

Amended

When soil temperatures are above 0 degrees C and moisture levels allow the soil to be friable enough for cultivation. This is usually in the last two weeks of February, (but can be as early as January on coastal frost free land), the soil is tilled followed by destoning to further break it down, making it as fine and free draining as possible. The soil is then ready for planting.

8.   Original

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are grown from seed registered with the Seed Classification Scheme or equivalent. Seed potatoes are often delivered to farm in the preceeding autumn. (...) The chitting house is well ventilated to minimise the risk of disease, condensation and help prevent the temperature in the chitting house rising above 10 degrees C. (...)

Amended

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are grown from seed registered with the Seed Classification Scheme or equivalent. (...)

The chitting house is well ventilated to minimise the risk of disease, condensation and help prevent the temperature in the chitting house rising above 15 degrees C. (...)

9.   Original

The plants emerge in mid -March. From the start of May until the end of July the crop will be sprayed (...)

Amended

Following plant emergence, the crop will be sprayed (...)

10.   Original

Following test digs, harvesting occurs from the beginning of May until the end of July.

Amended

Following test digs, harvesting usually occurs from the beginning of May until the end of July, subject to weather conditions.

11.   Original

Hand picking is necessary when growing Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes on steep sloping land, and during the first two weeks of the harvest when the skin of the potatoes are very soft.

Amended

Hand picking may be necessary when growing Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes on steep sloping land, and during the first two weeks of the harvest when the skin of the potatoes are very soft.

12.   Original

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early potatoes are brought to market as quickly as possible in order to provide the freshest product possible –usually within 48 hours of being harvested

Amended

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early potatoes are brought to market as quickly as possible in order to provide the freshest product possible.

13.   Original

As referenced in section 4.5. Hand picking is necessary when growing Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes on steep sloping land and during the first two weeks of the harvest when the potatoes are very soft.

Amended

As referenced in section 4.5. Hand picking may be necessary when growing Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes on steep sloping land and during the first two weeks of the harvest when the potatoes are very soft.

These amendments are standard amendments as they do not affect the final characteristics of the end product.

Single Documents changes

Headings in Single Document affected by the amendment(s)

| 3.2. | Description |
| --- | --- |

3.2.

| 5.2. | Specificity of the product |
| --- | --- |

5.2.

| 5.3. | Causal Link |
| --- | --- |

5.3.

| 3.2. | Description of product
  Original
  (...) and are harvested from the beginning of May until the end of July.
  Amended
  (...) and are harvested usually from the beginning of May until the end of July subject to weather conditions. |
| --- | --- |

3.2.

Original

(...) and are harvested from the beginning of May until the end of July.

Amended

(...) and are harvested usually from the beginning of May until the end of July subject to weather conditions.

| 5.2. | Specificity of the product
  Original
  During the soil preparation process, smaller stones are retained in the ground to assist the warming of the soil, when soil temperatures approach 10oc, the soil is power harrowed to further break it down to make it as fine and free draining as possible.
  Amended
  During the soil preparation process, smaller stones are retained in the ground to assist the warming of the soil. When soil temperatures are above 0 oC and moisture levels allow the soil to be friable enough for cultivation, the soil is tilled to further break it down to make it as fine and free draining as possible.
  Original
  The potatoes are hand-picked and sold with the soil on to minimise damage. As the season progresses the skin of the potato hardens sufficiently to allow careful machine harvesting but the young soft nature of the potato necessitates that machine harvesting must always be carried out with great care.
  Amended
  Hand picking may be necessary when growing Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes on steep sloping land, and during the first two weeks of the harvest when the skin of the potatoes are very soft. |
| --- | --- |

5.2.

Original

During the soil preparation process, smaller stones are retained in the ground to assist the warming of the soil, when soil temperatures approach 10oc, the soil is power harrowed to further break it down to make it as fine and free draining as possible.

Amended

During the soil preparation process, smaller stones are retained in the ground to assist the warming of the soil. When soil temperatures are above 0 oC and moisture levels allow the soil to be friable enough for cultivation, the soil is tilled to further break it down to make it as fine and free draining as possible.

Original

The potatoes are hand-picked and sold with the soil on to minimise damage. As the season progresses the skin of the potato hardens sufficiently to allow careful machine harvesting but the young soft nature of the potato necessitates that machine harvesting must always be carried out with great care.

Amended

Hand picking may be necessary when growing Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes on steep sloping land, and during the first two weeks of the harvest when the skin of the potatoes are very soft.

| 5.3. | Causal Link
  Original
  In addition, when Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are first harvested they are handpicked (not mechanically harvested) and sold with soil on to protect the soft skin of the potato.
  Amended
  In addition, when Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are first harvested, hand picking may be necessary and sold with soil on to protect the soft skin of the potato.
  These amendments are standard amendments as they do not affect the final characteristics of the end product. |
| --- | --- |

5.3.

Original

In addition, when Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are first harvested they are handpicked (not mechanically harvested) and sold with soil on to protect the soft skin of the potato.

Amended

In addition, when Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are first harvested, hand picking may be necessary and sold with soil on to protect the soft skin of the potato.

These amendments are standard amendments as they do not affect the final characteristics of the end product.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Pembrokeshire Earlies’/ ‘Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes’

EU No: PGI-GB-1087-AM01 – 30.11.2022

PGI(X) PDO()

1.   Name

‘Pembrokeshire Earlies’/ ‘Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes’

2.   Member State or Third Country

.United Kingdom

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   Type of product

Class 1.6 : Fruits, Vegetables and Cereals fresh or processed.

3.2.   Description of product to which the name in (1) applies

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes is the name given to immature potatoes of the Solanum tuberosum species of the Solanaceae family. They must be planted, grown and harvested in the defined area, the county of Pembrokeshire in West Wales.

The potato is small in size (15-70 mm in diameter) is round or oval in shape with a soft skin and distinctive strong fresh, earthy, nutty flavour and aroma. It has a creamy texture and white to a light yellow colour which is consistent throughout the potato. The seed tubers are planted from mid February each year (but can be as early as late January on coastal frost free land) and are harvested usually from the beginning of May until the end of July subject to weather conditions.

This is much earlier than in other parts of Wales, as the warmer climate and fertile, free working and free draining soils in the designated area means that there is a lower risk of frost than elsewhere in inland Wales.

The unique qualities of Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes derive from the mild climate and unique soils of Pembrokeshire which enables the potato to be planted grown and harvested early in the year. Their short growing season and freshness produces their fresh distinctive ‘earthy’ early potato flavour.

The potatoes are sold either loose by weight or packaged in a range of weights according to customer requirements.

3.3.   Raw materials (for processed products only)

—

3.4.   Feed (for products of animal origin only)

—

3.5.   Specific steps in production that must take place in the identified geographical area

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early potatoes must be planted, grown and harvested in the designated area.

3.6.   Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc.

—

3.7.   Specific rules concerning labelling

Labelling must include either the term ‘Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes’ or ‘Pembrokeshire Earlies’

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

The County of Pembrokeshire in West Wales

5.   Link with the geographical area

5.1.   Specificity of the geographical area

The County of Pembrokeshire is situated in the Western most point of Wales and is surrounded by the sea on three sides. Pembrokeshire benefits from the warmth generated by the sea which is warmed by the North Atlantic Drift of the Gulf Stream. The Gulf Stream is a warm current that keeps the western coast of Great Britain warmer than the Eastern side. It is the warming effect of the sea and equitability of the climate which helps the Pembrokeshire soils warm earlier and make the county suitable for early potato production. The warming effect of the climate also minimises the risk of frost which is hugely beneficial in preventing damage to the emerging crop.

The soil and climate of the designated area underpin the reputation of Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes. It is these soil and climatic conditions that enables Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes to be grown and harvested early in the year. The short and early growing season produces a small potato with a fresh distinctive earthy taste and nutty aroma

The geology of Pembrokeshire is that it is made up of immensely old rocks of Pre Cambrian, Lower Palaeozoic and Upper Palaeozoic age and these rocks generate distinct soils. Most Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are grown in Red Sandstone soils on coastal south facing slopes which are inherently fertile, free working, free draining and they warm up quickly in the Spring. The temperate climate of Pembrokeshire and fertile soils allow a mean growing season of 9 months which is longer and earlier than other counties of Wales. The land is stony and although larger stones may be removed to minimise tuber damage, the remaining smaller stones help the soil to warm up by retaining field heat over night.

5.2.   Specificity of the product

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are characterised and valued by their distinct appearance and flavour. Their reputation and demand is underpinned by the fact that they are the earliest potatoes available in Wales and they have a distinctive, appearance, flavour and consistency.

During the soil preparation process, smaller stones are retained in the ground to assist the warming of the soil. When soil temperatures are above 0 oC and moisture levels allow the soil to be friable enough for cultivation, the soil is tilled to further break it down to make it as fine and free draining as possible. The soil is pushed up into shallow drills and the potatoes are planted by hand or by machine. To achieve quick growth, the seed is planted under approximately 75 mm of soil with the same amount of soil underneath. These shallow drills enable quicker heating of the soil and allow swift emergence. The small size of Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes at harvest, require shallow drills.

When harvested, Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are small in size, due to their young age when harvested. They have a distinctive fresh strong earthy nutty flavour and aroma. During the first two weeks of harvesting, the skin of the potatoes is soft and delicate and requires delicate handling. Hand picking may be necessary when growing Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes on steep sloping land, and during the first two weeks of the harvest when the skin of the potatoes are very soft.

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are well established and widely recognised by the food industry both in the UK and worldwide. As a quality product it is used by many top chefs and gastronomes and it regularly appears as a named product on their menus. Many renowned restaurateurs and agri-food businesses have demonstrated their preference for this early potato.

5.3.   Causal link between the geographical area and the quality or characteristics of the product (for PDO) or a specific quality, the reputation or other characteristic of the product (for PGI)

The reputation and demand for Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes is that they are the earliest potatoes available in Wales and they have a distinct strong fresh, earthy, nutty flavour and aroma. The climate of the designated area and the fertile free working, free draining, stony soils means that the soils warm up quicker enabling Pembrokeshire to have the earliest and longest growing season in Wales. This enables Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes to be planted, grown and harvested earlier than anywhere else in inland Wales. The ability to harvest Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes at such a young age means that their organoleptic properties are qualitatively different from those of mature tubers.

Growers of Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes have an innate knowledge of local characteristics and particular skills associated with growing these early potatoes. These are specific to the area and crop, have been developed over the years and handed down from one generation to the next. Soil preparation is important with often small stones being left in the soil to aid warming and it requires growers’ skill and experience to know when the chitted potatoes are at the optimum stage of development for planting. When to plant to maximise yields involves having a ‘feel’ and understanding of a combination of factors such as soil condition, soil temperature and the weather. In addition, when Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes are first harvested, hand picking may be necessary and sold with soil on to protect the soft skin of the potato.

The history of the designated area is synonymous with early potato growing and highlights the economic and cultural importance of Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes to the county of Pembrokeshire. Redcliffe Salaman notes in his book ‘The History and Social influence of the potato’, that as far back as 1776 potato cultivation in Pembrokeshire was widespread. In the Second World War a significant acreage of potatoes was grown in Pembrokeshire and the importance of growing Pembrokeshire early potatoes in the county has continued throughout the 1950’s and remains to the present day. A Pembrokeshire Potato Marketing Group was established in the 1980’s and in 1995 a processing plant was constructed which now grades and processes Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes for the multiple market.

Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes have a reputation of quality and are well established and highly recognised by the food industry locally in Pembrokeshire, in Wales, UK and overseas. As a quality product they are used by many top chefs and gastronomes and regularly appear as a named product on their menus as a regional speciality and although they can be served in a number of ways, the most popular being simply boiled when fresh with butter. Renowned restaurateurs and agri-food businesses have demonstrated their preference for these early potatoes

Owen Hall, Chef at the Wolfscastle Hotel, Pembrokeshire Wales

‘...in my opinion Pembrokeshire Earlies have a unique flavour due to the rich soil in Pembrokeshire.’

In 2009 Pembrokeshire Earlies/Pembrokeshire Early Potatoes were awarded several True Taste of Wales awards.

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(1)  OJ L 179, 19.6.2014, p. 17.

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