# Official Journal C 374/2022

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 374 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 6530 September 2022 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 374

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 6530 September 2022

---

| Contents | page |
| --- | --- |
| | II   Information |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 374/01 | Commission Notice amending the Commission notice on guidance on cooperative procurement in the fields of defence and security (Defence and Security Procurement Directive 2009/81/EC) (
  1
  ) | 1 |
| 2022/C 374/02 | Communication from the commission – Guidelines on the application of Union competition law to collective agreements regarding the working conditions of solo self-employed persons | 2 |
| 2022/C 374/03 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10629 – CSL / VIFOR PHARMA) (
  1
  ) | 14 |

Contents

page

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2022/C 374/01

Commission Notice amending the Commission notice on guidance on cooperative procurement in the fields of defence and security (Defence and Security Procurement Directive 2009/81/EC) (
  1
  )

1

1

2022/C 374/02

Communication from the commission – Guidelines on the application of Union competition law to collective agreements regarding the working conditions of solo self-employed persons

2

2022/C 374/03

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10629 – CSL / VIFOR PHARMA) (
  1
  )

1

14

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| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 374/04 | Euro exchange rates — 29 September 2022 | 15 |
| 2022/C 374/05 | Summary of European Commission Decisions on authorisations for the placing on the market for the use and/or for use of substances listed in Annex XIV to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
  (Published pursuant to Article 64(9) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006
  )

   (
  1
  ) | 16 |
| | NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES |
| 2022/C 374/06 | Information communicated by Member States regarding closure of fisheries | 17 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2022/C 374/04

Euro exchange rates — 29 September 2022

15

2022/C 374/05

Summary of European Commission Decisions on authorisations for the placing on the market for the use and/or for use of substances listed in Annex XIV to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
  (Published pursuant to Article 64(9) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006
  )

   (
  1
  )

(Published pursuant to Article 64(9) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006

)

1

16

NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

2022/C 374/06

Information communicated by Member States regarding closure of fisheries

17

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| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 374/07 | Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 | 18 |
| 2022/C 374/08 | Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 | 30 |
| 2022/C 374/09 | Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 | 41 |
| 2022/C 374/10 | Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 | 52 |

V   Announcements

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2022/C 374/07

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

18

2022/C 374/08

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

30

2022/C 374/09

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

41

2022/C 374/10

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

52

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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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II Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/1

---

Commission Notice amending the Commission notice on guidance on cooperative procurement in the fields of defence and security (Defence and Security Procurement Directive 2009/81/EC)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 374/01)

On 8 May 2019, the Commission adopted the Commission notice on guidance on cooperative procurement in the fields of defence and security (1) (hereinafter ‘the Notice’). The Notice looks at the ways in which cooperative procurement can take place in accordance with Defence Procurement Directive 2009/81/EC (2) (hereinafter: ‘the Directive’).

In particular, the Notice provides for detailed guidance for the application of the exception under Article 13(c) of the Directive. In this context, the Notice specifies the details for the notification of a joint cooperative programme by the Member State(s) to the Commission.

The Notice currently foresees that the notification be sent to the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW). Following the reorganisation of responsibilities within the Commission services, and the transfer of the responsibility for the Directive to the Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS), the contact details need to be updated.

Therefore, the fourth, fifth and sixth paragraphs of point 3.7 of the Notice are replaced by the following:

‘Notifications can be sent either by post or by email to the Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS). The email address for the notifications is: EC-DEFENCE-PROCUREMENT@ec.europa.eu

The postal address is:

| European Commission |
| --- |
| Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS) |
| Defence and Security Procurement |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË’ |

European Commission

Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS)

Defence and Security Procurement

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË’

---

(1)  Commission notice on guidance on cooperative procurement in the fields of defence and security (Defence and Security Procurement Directive 2009/81/EC) (OJ C 157, 8.5.2019, p. 1).

1

(2)  Directive 2009/81/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 July 2009 on the coordination of procedures for the award of certain works contracts, supply contracts and service contracts by contracting authorities or entities in the fields of defence and security, and amending Directives 2004/17/EC and 2004/18/EC (OJ L 216, 20.8.2009, p. 76).

2

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| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/2

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COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION

Guidelines on the application of Union competition law to collective agreements regarding the working conditions of solo self-employed persons

(2022/C 374/02)

1.   Introduction

| (1) | These Guidelines set out the principles for assessing under Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (‘TFEU’) agreements between undertakings, decisions by associations of undertakings and concerted practices (collectively referred to as ‘agreements’) concluded as a result of collective negotiations between solo self-employed persons and one or several undertakings (‘the counterparty/-ies’), concerning the working conditions of solo self-employed persons. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

| (2) | For the purposes of these Guidelines, the following definitions apply:






  (a) | ‘solo self-employed person’ means a person who does not have an employment contract or who is not in an employment relationship, and who relies primarily on his or her own personal labour for the provision of the services concerned; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(2)

(a)

‘solo self-employed person’ means a person who does not have an employment contract or who is not in an employment relationship, and who relies primarily on his or her own personal labour for the provision of the services concerned;

| (b) | ‘counterparty’ means an undertaking to which solo self-employed persons provide their services, namely their professional customer, including associations of such undertakings; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

‘counterparty’ means an undertaking to which solo self-employed persons provide their services, namely their professional customer, including associations of such undertakings;

| (c) | ‘collective agreement’ means an agreement that is negotiated and concluded between solo self-employed persons or their representatives and their counterparty/-ies to the extent that it, by its nature and purpose, concerns the working conditions of such solo self-employed persons (1); |
| --- | --- |

(c)

‘collective agreement’ means an agreement that is negotiated and concluded between solo self-employed persons or their representatives and their counterparty/-ies to the extent that it, by its nature and purpose, concerns the working conditions of such solo self-employed persons (1);

| (d) | ‘digital labour platform’ means any natural or legal person providing a commercial service which meets all of the following requirements: (i) it is provided, at least in part, at a distance through electronic means, such as a website or a mobile application; (ii) it is provided at the request of a recipient of the service; and (iii) it involves, as a necessary and essential component, the organisation of work performed by individuals, irrespective of whether that work is performed online or in a certain location (2). |
| --- | --- |

(d)

‘digital labour platform’ means any natural or legal person providing a commercial service which meets all of the following requirements: (i) it is provided, at least in part, at a distance through electronic means, such as a website or a mobile application; (ii) it is provided at the request of a recipient of the service; and (iii) it involves, as a necessary and essential component, the organisation of work performed by individuals, irrespective of whether that work is performed online or in a certain location (2).

| (3) | Article 101 TFEU prohibits agreements between undertakings that restrict competition within the internal market, notably where they directly or indirectly fix purchase or selling prices or any other trading conditions. Union competition rules are based on Article 3(3) of the Treaty on European Union (‘TEU’), which provides that the Union is to establish an internal market, including a system ensuring that competition is not distorted (3). |
| --- | --- |

(3)

| (4) | Article 3(3) TEU also provides that the Union shall promote ‘a highly competitive social market economy, aiming at full employment and social progress’. Likewise, Article 9 TFEU provides that ‘[i]n defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union shall take into account requirements linked to the promotion of a high level of employment, the guarantee of adequate social protection, the fight against social exclusion, and a high level of education, training and protection of human health’. To that end, the Union recognises the important role of social dialogue and collective bargaining and commits itself, under Article 152 TFEU, to ‘facilitate dialogue between the social partners, respecting their autonomy’. Article 28 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union further recognises the right of collective bargaining and action (4). |
| --- | --- |

(4)

| (5) | The Court of Justice of the European Union (the ‘Court’) took the social policy objectives of the Union into account when it ruled in Albany, in the context of collective bargaining between management and labour, that certain restrictions of competition are inherent in collective agreements between organisations representing employers and workers and necessary for the improvement of working conditions (5). Therefore, agreements entered into in the framework of collective bargaining between employers and workers and intended, by their nature and purpose, to improve working conditions (including pay), fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU and therefore do not infringe Union competition law (‘the Albany exception’) (6). |
| --- | --- |

(5)

| (6) | The situation for self-employed persons is different. The prohibition of Article 101 TFEU applies to ‘undertakings’, which is a wide concept that covers any entity engaged in an economic activity, regardless of its legal status, and the way in which it is financed (7). Therefore, self-employed persons, even if they are individuals working on their own, are, in principle, undertakings within the meaning of Article 101 TFEU, since they offer their services for remuneration on a given market and perform their activities as independent economic operators (8). |
| --- | --- |

(6)

| (7) | The Court has clarified in that regard that the Albany exception also covers ‘false self-employed persons’, as they are considered to be in a situation comparable to that of workers (9). In that context, the Court has considered an individual to be a false self-employed person if that person: (a) acts under the direction of his or her employer as regards, in particular, the freedom to choose the time, place and content of work; (b) does not share the employer’s commercial risks, and (c) for the duration of the relationship, forms an integral part of the employer’s undertaking and thus, an economic unit with that undertaking. Those criteria apply for the purpose of applying Union competition law, irrespective of whether that person is classified as self-employed under national law for tax, administrative or organisational purposes, and require a case-by-case assessment in light of the facts of the individual case (10). Nevertheless, until a false self-employed person has been found by a court or by an administrative authority to be a worker, that person does not have the legal certainty that the Albany exception will apply. Where a person has been found to be a worker, there is no risk that that person will infringe Article 101 TFEU by entering into collective negotiations and agreements intended to improve working conditions. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

| (8) | At the same time, some self-employed persons face difficulties in influencing their working conditions. This is particularly the case for solo self-employed persons, who work on their own and primarily rely on their own personal labour to make a living. Even if they are not fully integrated into the business of their principal in the same way as workers, certain solo self-employed persons may not be entirely independent of their principal or they may lack sufficient bargaining power. Recent labour market developments have contributed to this situation, notably, the trend towards subcontracting and outsourcing business and personal services, as well as the digitalisation of production processes and the rise of the online platform economy (11). Collective negotiations may provide an important means to improve the working conditions of these solo self-employed persons. |
| --- | --- |

(8)

| (9) | Against this background, these Guidelines clarify: (a) that collective agreements by solo self-employed persons who are in a situation comparable to that of workers fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU; and (b) that the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements of solo self-employed persons who experience an imbalance in bargaining power vis-à-vis their counterparty/-ies. |
| --- | --- |

(9)

| (10) | These Guidelines explain how the Commission will apply Union competition law, without prejudice to the application of other rules or principles of Union law. These Guidelines do not create any social rights or obligations and they do not affect the prerogatives of Member States in social policy or the autonomy of the social partners. In particular, they do not affect the competences of Member States and/or social partners as regards the organisation of collective bargaining in the framework of national law and/or the practices of Member States. They are also without prejudice to the definitions of the terms ‘worker’ or ‘self-employed person’ under national law (12) or the possibility for solo self-employed persons to seek re-classification of their employment status (or the national authorities/courts to assess such cases) under Union or national law. These Guidelines merely clarify the conditions under which certain solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies can enter into collective negotiations and agreements without running the risk of infringing Article 101 TFEU. |
| --- | --- |

(10)

| (11) | These Guidelines are also without prejudice to any subsequent interpretation of Article 101 TFEU by the Court, in relation to agreements entered into within the framework of collective bargaining. They do not affect the application of Union competition law as set out in Article 42 TFEU and the relevant Union legislation in relation to the agricultural and fisheries sectors (13). Furthermore, these Guidelines apply without prejudice to the application of Article 101(3) TFEU, which exempts from Article 101(1) TFEU agreements that: (a) contribute to improving the production or distribution of goods or to promoting technical or economic progress; (b) pass on a fair share of their benefits to consumers; (c) contain only indispensable restrictions of competition, and (d) do not afford the parties the possibility of eliminating competition in respect of a substantial part of the products or services in question (14). |
| --- | --- |

(11)

| (12) | For the avoidance of doubt, collective agreements negotiated and concluded by self-employed persons that do not fall within the scope of these Guidelines do not necessarily infringe Article 101 TFEU, but require a case-by-case assessment, as with any other type of agreement between undertakings. |
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(12)

2.   General scope of application

2.1.   Types of agreements covered by these Guidelines

| (13) | These Guidelines apply to ‘collective agreements’ as defined in point (2)(c). |
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(13)

| (14) | Without prejudice to Member States’ discretion in determining the channels for the collective representation of self-employed persons, these Guidelines apply to all forms of collective negotiations conducted in accordance with national law and practice, ranging from bargaining through social partners or other associations to direct negotiations by a group of solo self-employed persons or their representatives with their counterparty/-ies or associations of those counterparties. They also cover cases where solo self-employed persons, either individually or as a group, wish to be covered by an existing collective agreement (‘opt-in’) concluded between their counterparty and a group of workers/solo self-employed persons. |
| --- | --- |

(14)

| (15) | The working conditions of solo self-employed persons include matters such as remuneration, rewards and bonuses, working time and working patterns, holiday, leave, physical spaces where work takes place, health and safety, insurance and social security, and conditions under which solo self-employed persons are entitled to cease providing their services or under which the counterparty is entitled to cease using their services. |
| --- | --- |

(15)

| (16) | The negotiation and conclusion of collective agreements pre-supposes a certain degree of coordination between the multiple parties on each negotiating side prior to the negotiation and conclusion of the collective agreement. Such coordination may take the form of an agreement, or information exchange, between the parties on each negotiating side in order to decide on a common approach to the subject matter (working conditions) and/or the form of the negotiation (e.g. multilateral or through the appointment of representatives). To the extent that such coordination is necessary and proportionate for the negotiation or conclusion of the collective agreement, it will be treated for the purposes of these Guidelines in the same way as the collective agreement to which it is linked (or would have been linked in the case of unsuccessful negotiations) (15). |
| --- | --- |

(16)

| (17) | These Guidelines do not cover decisions by associations or agreements or concerted practices between undertakings outside the context of negotiations (or preparations for negotiations) between solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies to improve solo self-employed persons’ working conditions. In particular, they do not cover agreements which go beyond the regulation of working conditions or determine the conditions (in particular, the prices) under which services are offered by solo self-employed persons or the counterparty/-ies to consumers (16), or which limit the freedom of undertakings to hire the labour providers that they need.







  Example 1



  Situation: Solo self-employed riders provide their services to the three delivery platforms active in city B. A collective agreement is in place between the delivery platforms and the riders, laying down the fees that the platforms must pay to riders for their services, as well as the minimum health and safety obligations of the platforms towards the riders. The collective agreement provides for the riders to limit their services to a specific area of the city. For that purpose, the agreement divides the city into three separate areas, one for the riders of each platform. Separately, the solo self-employed riders in city B agree among themselves not to perform more than twenty deliveries per four hours within a working day.

  Analysis: The example refers to two agreements between undertakings within the meaning of Article 101 TFEU: (a) the collective agreement between the platforms and the solo self-employed riders; and (b) the agreement between the solo self-employed riders on the maximum number of deliveries. The collective agreement is covered by these Guidelines, as it is the result of collective negotiations and regulates the working conditions (fees, health and safety conditions) under which the solo self-employed riders provide their services to the platforms. However, the part of the collective agreement which divides the territory of the city between the three platforms does not relate to working conditions but constitutes a market-sharing agreement, which as such is likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object (17).
  By contrast, the separate agreement between the solo self-employed riders on the number of deliveries per working day is not the result of collective negotiations between the solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies and is, therefore, not covered by these Guidelines but should be assessed separately.


  Example 2



  Situation: The professional sports clubs in Member State X agree among themselves not to hire athletes from each other’s club for the duration of the athletes’ contracts with one of the sports clubs. The clubs also coordinate on the remuneration levels of the athletes over 35 years old.

  Analysis: The arrangements between the sports clubs constitute agreements between undertakings within the meaning of Article 101 TFEU. The arrangements are not covered by these Guidelines, as they are not negotiated between solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies and are therefore not collective agreements. The first arrangement is likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object, as it restricts competition between the sports clubs to hire the best athletes in the market. The second (wage-fixing) arrangement, is also likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object, since it is in essence an agreement between competitors (the clubs) to align their input costs.
  Overall, this example illustrates practices of undertakings in the labour market which fall outside the scope of these Guidelines and are likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU. |
| --- | --- |

(17)

Example 1

Situation: Solo self-employed riders provide their services to the three delivery platforms active in city B. A collective agreement is in place between the delivery platforms and the riders, laying down the fees that the platforms must pay to riders for their services, as well as the minimum health and safety obligations of the platforms towards the riders. The collective agreement provides for the riders to limit their services to a specific area of the city. For that purpose, the agreement divides the city into three separate areas, one for the riders of each platform. Separately, the solo self-employed riders in city B agree among themselves not to perform more than twenty deliveries per four hours within a working day.

Analysis: The example refers to two agreements between undertakings within the meaning of Article 101 TFEU: (a) the collective agreement between the platforms and the solo self-employed riders; and (b) the agreement between the solo self-employed riders on the maximum number of deliveries. The collective agreement is covered by these Guidelines, as it is the result of collective negotiations and regulates the working conditions (fees, health and safety conditions) under which the solo self-employed riders provide their services to the platforms. However, the part of the collective agreement which divides the territory of the city between the three platforms does not relate to working conditions but constitutes a market-sharing agreement, which as such is likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object (17).

By contrast, the separate agreement between the solo self-employed riders on the number of deliveries per working day is not the result of collective negotiations between the solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies and is, therefore, not covered by these Guidelines but should be assessed separately.

Example 2

Situation: The professional sports clubs in Member State X agree among themselves not to hire athletes from each other’s club for the duration of the athletes’ contracts with one of the sports clubs. The clubs also coordinate on the remuneration levels of the athletes over 35 years old.

Analysis: The arrangements between the sports clubs constitute agreements between undertakings within the meaning of Article 101 TFEU. The arrangements are not covered by these Guidelines, as they are not negotiated between solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies and are therefore not collective agreements. The first arrangement is likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object, as it restricts competition between the sports clubs to hire the best athletes in the market. The second (wage-fixing) arrangement, is also likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object, since it is in essence an agreement between competitors (the clubs) to align their input costs.

Overall, this example illustrates practices of undertakings in the labour market which fall outside the scope of these Guidelines and are likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU.

2.2.   The persons covered by these Guidelines

| (18) | These Guidelines cover collective agreements relating to the working conditions of ‘solo self-employed persons’ as defined in point (2)(a). Solo self-employed persons may use certain goods or assets in order to provide their services. For example, a cleaner uses cleaning accessories and a musician plays a musical instrument. In these instances, the goods are used as an ancillary means to provide the final service, and solo self-employed persons would thus be considered to rely on their personal labour. By contrast, these Guidelines do not apply to situations where the economic activity of the solo self-employed person consists merely in the sharing or exploitation of goods or assets, or the resale of goods/services. For example, where a solo self-employed person rents out accommodation or resells automotive parts, these activities relate to asset exploitation and the resale of goods, rather than the provision of personal labour. |
| --- | --- |

(18)

| (19) | Section 3 of these Guidelines sets out the categories of collective agreements involving solo self-employed persons which the Commission considers to fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU, and Section 4 of these Guidelines sets out the categories of collective agreements with regard to which the Commission will not intervene. Notwithstanding the fact that a solo self-employed person, or a collective agreement, falls within the categories identified in Section 3 or 4 of these Guidelines, the general principles defining the scope of these Guidelines, as set out in this Section, remain applicable. The criteria set out in Sections 3 and 4 must be fulfilled at the time when solo self-employed persons collectively negotiate and conclude an agreement with their counterparty/-ies. |
| --- | --- |

(19)

3.   Collective agreements by solo self-employed persons comparable to workers falling outside scope of Article 101 TFEU

| (20) | In instances where solo self-employed persons are in a situation comparable to that of workers, their collective agreements will be considered to fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU, regardless of whether the persons would also fulfil the criteria for being false self-employed persons (see point (7) of these Guidelines) (18). |
| --- | --- |

(20)

| (21) | The Court has ruled that a collective agreement which covers self-employed service providers can be regarded as the result of dialogue between management and labour if the service providers are in a situation comparable to that of workers (19). It has confirmed that ‘in today’s economy it is not always easy to establish the status of some self-employed contractors as undertakings’ (20). The Court has also ruled that a service provider can lose the status of an independent trader, and hence of an undertaking, if the service provider does not determine independently his or her own conduct on the market, but is entirely dependent on the principal, because the service provider does not bear any of the financial or commercial risks arising out of the principal’s activity and operates as an auxiliary organ within the principal’s undertaking (21). |
| --- | --- |

(21)

| (22) | On the basis of these criteria, and taking into account developments in Union labour markets and in national labour markets (in terms of legislation and case-law), for the purposes of these Guidelines, the Commission considers that the categories of solo self-employed persons referred to in Sections 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 of these Guidelines are in a situation comparable to that of workers and that collective agreements negotiated and concluded by them therefore fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU (22). |
| --- | --- |

(22)

3.1.   Economically dependent solo self-employed persons

| (23) | Solo self-employed persons who provide their services exclusively or predominantly to one counterparty are likely to be in a situation of economic dependence vis-à-vis that counterparty. In general, such solo self-employed persons do not determine their conduct independently on the market and are largely dependent on their counterparty, forming an integral part of its business and thus an economic unit with that counterparty. In addition, such solo self-employed persons are more likely to receive instructions on how their work should be carried out.The issue of economically dependent solo self-employed persons has been recognised by a number of national laws that grant such solo self-employed persons the right to bargain collectively, provided they fulfil the criteria set out by the respective national measures (23). |
| --- | --- |

(23)

| (24) | The Commission considers that a solo self-employed person is in a situation of economic dependence where that person earns, on average, at least 50 % of total work-related income from a single counterparty, over a period of either one or two years (24). |
| --- | --- |

(24)

| (25) | Therefore, collective agreements relating to working conditions concluded between solo self-employed persons who are in a situation of economic dependence and their counterparty on which they are economically dependent fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU.







  Example 3



  Situation: Company X is a firm of architects which contracts a large number of (self-employed) architects for the completion of its projects. The architects earn 90 % of their income from Company X, as proved by their tax declarations. The architects collectively negotiate and conclude an agreement with Company X which provides for a maximum of 45 hours working time per week, annual leave of 26 calendar days and specified remuneration rates based on each architect’s level of experience.

  Analysis: Solo self-employed architects, like other independent contractors, are generally considered as undertakings for the purposes of Article 101 TFEU and that provision therefore applies to agreements between them. However, the agreement concluded between solo self-employed architects and Company X would fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU, as it is a collective agreement relating to working conditions between Company X and individuals who can be considered to be in a situation comparable to that of workers (in terms of their economic dependence). In this example, the architects are economically dependent on their counterparty (Company X), since they earn 90 % of their income from that company. They can therefore be regarded as forming an integral part of Company X. |
| --- | --- |

(25)

Example 3

Situation: Company X is a firm of architects which contracts a large number of (self-employed) architects for the completion of its projects. The architects earn 90 % of their income from Company X, as proved by their tax declarations. The architects collectively negotiate and conclude an agreement with Company X which provides for a maximum of 45 hours working time per week, annual leave of 26 calendar days and specified remuneration rates based on each architect’s level of experience.

Analysis: Solo self-employed architects, like other independent contractors, are generally considered as undertakings for the purposes of Article 101 TFEU and that provision therefore applies to agreements between them. However, the agreement concluded between solo self-employed architects and Company X would fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU, as it is a collective agreement relating to working conditions between Company X and individuals who can be considered to be in a situation comparable to that of workers (in terms of their economic dependence). In this example, the architects are economically dependent on their counterparty (Company X), since they earn 90 % of their income from that company. They can therefore be regarded as forming an integral part of Company X.

3.2.   Solo self-employed persons working ‘side-by-side’ with workers

| (26) | Solo self-employed persons who perform the same or similar tasks ‘side-by-side’ with workers for the same counterparty, are in a situation comparable to that of workers. These solo self-employed persons provide their services under the direction of their counterparty and do not bear the commercial risks of the counterparty’s activity or enjoy sufficient independence as regards the performance of the economic activity concerned. It is for the competent national authorities/courts to decide whether the contractual relationship of self-employed persons who work side-by-side with workers should be reclassified as an employment relationship. However, solo self-employed persons should still be able to enter into collective agreements for the purpose of improving their working conditions in cases where they have not been reclassified as workers. This has been recognised by the practice in several Member States where collective agreements (or certain provisions of such agreements) cover workers and self-employed persons active in the same sector (25). |
| --- | --- |

(26)

| (27) | Therefore, collective agreements relating to working conditions between a counterparty and solo self-employed persons who perform the same or similar tasks ‘side-by-side’ with workers for the same counterparty fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU. The same applies to collective agreements which, in accordance with national law and/or practices of Member States, cover both workers and solo self-employed persons.







  Example 4



  Situation: Company X organises orchestra concerts and other classical music events. Many musicians work for Company X either as workers or as self-employed persons, on the basis of annual contracts. These musicians, independently of their status, are instructed by the cultural director of Company X as to the works they must perform, the timing and place of rehearsals, and the events in which they must participate. Company X is a member of the Association of Music-Event Organizers, and (workers and self-employed) musicians working for Company X are members of the Musicians’ Association. A collective agreement has been concluded between the two organisations, representing the interests of their respective members. The collective agreement establishes a maximum of 45 working hours per week for all the musicians and grants them a special leave of 1 day after the performance of 3 concerts within the same week.

  Analysis: Solo self-employed musicians, like other independent contractors, are generally considered as undertakings for the purposes of Article 101 TFEU and that provision therefore applies to agreements between them. However, the solo self-employed musicians mentioned in this example are in a situation comparable to that of Company X’s workers in terms of subordination and similarity of tasks. They perform the same tasks as the employed musicians (i.e. performing music for events), they are subject to the same instructions from Company X regarding the content, place and timing of the performances, and they are engaged for a similar duration as the employed musicians. Therefore, the collective agreement regulating the working conditions of these self-employed musicians working ‘side-by-side’ with the employed ones falls outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU. |
| --- | --- |

(27)

Example 4

Situation: Company X organises orchestra concerts and other classical music events. Many musicians work for Company X either as workers or as self-employed persons, on the basis of annual contracts. These musicians, independently of their status, are instructed by the cultural director of Company X as to the works they must perform, the timing and place of rehearsals, and the events in which they must participate. Company X is a member of the Association of Music-Event Organizers, and (workers and self-employed) musicians working for Company X are members of the Musicians’ Association. A collective agreement has been concluded between the two organisations, representing the interests of their respective members. The collective agreement establishes a maximum of 45 working hours per week for all the musicians and grants them a special leave of 1 day after the performance of 3 concerts within the same week.

Analysis: Solo self-employed musicians, like other independent contractors, are generally considered as undertakings for the purposes of Article 101 TFEU and that provision therefore applies to agreements between them. However, the solo self-employed musicians mentioned in this example are in a situation comparable to that of Company X’s workers in terms of subordination and similarity of tasks. They perform the same tasks as the employed musicians (i.e. performing music for events), they are subject to the same instructions from Company X regarding the content, place and timing of the performances, and they are engaged for a similar duration as the employed musicians. Therefore, the collective agreement regulating the working conditions of these self-employed musicians working ‘side-by-side’ with the employed ones falls outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU.

3.3.   Solo self-employed persons working through digital labour platforms

| (28) | The emergence of the online platform economy and the provision of labour through digital labour platforms has created a new reality for certain solo self-employed persons, who find themselves in a situation comparable to that of workers vis-à-vis the digital labour platforms through or to which they provide their labour. Solo self-employed persons may be dependent on digital platforms, especially for the purpose of reaching customers, and may often face ‘take it or leave it’ work offers, with little or no scope to negotiate their working conditions, including their remuneration. Digital labour platforms are usually able to unilaterally impose the terms and conditions of the relationship, without previously informing or consulting solo self-employed persons. |
| --- | --- |

(28)

| (29) | Recent case-law and legislative developments at national level provide further indications of the comparability of such self-employed persons with workers. In the context of cases concerning the classification of employment status, national authorities/courts are increasingly recognising the dependence of service providers on certain types of platforms, or even the existence of an employment relationship (26). In the same vein, some Member States have adopted legislation (27) establishing a presumption of an employment relationship, or the right to collective bargaining, for service providers to or through digital platforms. |
| --- | --- |

(29)

| (30) | The term ‘digital labour platform’ is defined in point (2)(d). Digital labour platforms differ from other online platforms in that they organise work performed by individuals at the request, one-off or repeated, of the recipient of a service provided by the platform. Organising work performed by individuals should imply, at a minimum, a significant role in matching the demand for the service with the supply of labour by an individual who has a contractual relationship with the digital labour platform and who is available to perform a specific task, and can include other activities such as processing payments. Online platforms which do not organise the work of individuals but merely provide the means by which service providers can reach the end-user, for instance by advertising offers or requests for services or aggregating and displaying available service providers in a specific area, without any further involvement, should not be considered a digital labour platform. For example, a platform that merely aggregates and displays the details of plumbers available in a specific area, thereby allowing customers to contact the plumbers in order to use their services on demand, is not considered a digital labour platform, as it does not organise the work of the plumbers. The definition of digital labour platforms should be limited to providers of a service for which the organisation of work performed by the individual, such as transport of persons or goods or cleaning, constitutes a necessary and essential, and not merely a minor and purely ancillary, component. |
| --- | --- |

(30)

| (31) | In light of these considerations, collective agreements between solo self-employed persons and digital labour platforms relating to working conditions fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU.







  Example 5



  Situation: A group of drivers working for ride-hailing platforms enters into negotiations with the regional association of ride-hailing platforms with the aim of concluding a collective agreement to improve the drivers’ working conditions. Before entering into negotiations with the drivers, the ride-hailing platforms (members of the association) coordinate their negotiating strategy. While discussing their strategy for negotiating with the drivers, the ride-hailing platforms also discuss the possibility of agreeing on a minimum price per ride. Ultimately, the negotiations between the platforms’ association and the drivers fail and no collective agreement is concluded. Subsequently, the association of ride-hailing platforms adopts a decision which sets a minimum price of EUR 10 per ride for consumers.

  Analysis: Through their association, the ride-hailing platforms attempt to negotiate a collective agreement with the drivers, aimed at improving the drivers’ working conditions. The negotiations between the solo self-employed drivers and the platforms’ association would fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU, irrespective of whether an agreement is concluded or not. The same applies to the coordination between the platforms preceding the negotiations with the drivers, provided such coordination is necessary and proportionate for the negotiation of a collective agreement covered by these Guidelines.
  However, the discussions between the platforms relating to the minimum price per ride to be charged to consumers do not relate to working conditions. Since the ride-hailing platforms compete with each other, such coordination on pricing between competitors is likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object.
  In any case, the decision adopted by the association of ride-hailing platforms setting a minimum price per ride would fall outside the scope of these Guidelines because it is not the result of collective negotiations between solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies. It is instead the result of an agreement between the members of the association, i.e. the platforms (which are the counterparties).
  Conversely, if the solo self-employed drivers and the platforms’ association had collectively agreed on a minimum or fixed fee (remuneration)of EUR 10 per ride for the drivers (irrespective of how that cost is passed on to consumers), such agreement would have been considered as relating to working conditions and thus falling outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU. |
| --- | --- |

(31)

Example 5

Situation: A group of drivers working for ride-hailing platforms enters into negotiations with the regional association of ride-hailing platforms with the aim of concluding a collective agreement to improve the drivers’ working conditions. Before entering into negotiations with the drivers, the ride-hailing platforms (members of the association) coordinate their negotiating strategy. While discussing their strategy for negotiating with the drivers, the ride-hailing platforms also discuss the possibility of agreeing on a minimum price per ride. Ultimately, the negotiations between the platforms’ association and the drivers fail and no collective agreement is concluded. Subsequently, the association of ride-hailing platforms adopts a decision which sets a minimum price of EUR 10 per ride for consumers.

Analysis: Through their association, the ride-hailing platforms attempt to negotiate a collective agreement with the drivers, aimed at improving the drivers’ working conditions. The negotiations between the solo self-employed drivers and the platforms’ association would fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU, irrespective of whether an agreement is concluded or not. The same applies to the coordination between the platforms preceding the negotiations with the drivers, provided such coordination is necessary and proportionate for the negotiation of a collective agreement covered by these Guidelines.

However, the discussions between the platforms relating to the minimum price per ride to be charged to consumers do not relate to working conditions. Since the ride-hailing platforms compete with each other, such coordination on pricing between competitors is likely to infringe Article 101 TFEU by object.

In any case, the decision adopted by the association of ride-hailing platforms setting a minimum price per ride would fall outside the scope of these Guidelines because it is not the result of collective negotiations between solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies. It is instead the result of an agreement between the members of the association, i.e. the platforms (which are the counterparties).

Conversely, if the solo self-employed drivers and the platforms’ association had collectively agreed on a minimum or fixed fee (remuneration)of EUR 10 per ride for the drivers (irrespective of how that cost is passed on to consumers), such agreement would have been considered as relating to working conditions and thus falling outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU.

4.   Enforcement priorities of the commission

| (32) | In some cases, solo self-employed persons who are not in a situation comparable to that of workers may nevertheless have difficulties in influencing their working conditions because they are in a weak negotiating position vis-à-vis their counterparty/-ies. Therefore, even if it cannot be assumed that their collective agreements fall outside the scope of Article 101 TFEU, these solo self-employed persons may in fact face difficulties that are similar to those faced by solo self-employed persons in the categories referred to in Sections 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 of these Guidelines. For this reason, the Commission will not intervene against the following categories of collective agreements: |
| --- | --- |

(32)

4.1.   Collective agreements concluded by solo self-employed persons with counterparty/-ies that have a certain level of economic strength

| (33) | Solo self-employed persons who deal with counterparty/-ies that have a certain level of economic strength, and hence buyer power, may have insufficient bargaining power to influence their working conditions. In that case, collective agreements can be a legitimate means to correct the imbalance in bargaining power between the two sides. |
| --- | --- |

(33)

| (34) | Accordingly, the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements relating to working conditions between solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies in cases where there is such an imbalance in bargaining power (28). Such imbalance is to be presumed in either of the following cases:






  (a) | where solo self-employed persons negotiate or conclude collective agreements with one or more counterparties which represent the whole of a sector or industry; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(34)

(a)

where solo self-employed persons negotiate or conclude collective agreements with one or more counterparties which represent the whole of a sector or industry;

| (b) | where solo self-employed persons negotiate or conclude collective agreements with a counterparty whose aggregate annual turnover and/or annual balance sheet total exceeds EUR 2 million or whose staff headcount is equal to or more than 10 persons, or with several counterparties which jointly exceed one of those thresholds (29). |
| --- | --- |

(b)

where solo self-employed persons negotiate or conclude collective agreements with a counterparty whose aggregate annual turnover and/or annual balance sheet total exceeds EUR 2 million or whose staff headcount is equal to or more than 10 persons, or with several counterparties which jointly exceed one of those thresholds (29).

| (35) | An imbalance in bargaining power can also exist in other cases, depending on the individual underlying circumstances.







  Example 6



  Situation: Companies X, Y and Z provide automotive maintenance and repair services. The total turnover of Company X is EUR 700 000, that of Company Y is EUR 1 million and that of Company Z is EUR 500 000. Solo self-employed technicians working for these companies as independent service providers are dissatisfied with their low remuneration and poor safety conditions, and decide to negotiate jointly with Companies X, Y and Z in order to improve their working conditions. The three companies refuse to negotiate, claiming that any collective agreement with the solo self-employed technicians would infringe Article 101 TFEU.

  Analysis: Both the solo self-employed technicians and the three automotive services companies are undertakings for the purposes of Article 101 TFEU. The presumption of an imbalance in bargaining power would not apply if Company X, Y or Z were to negotiate independently, as none of them meets the EUR 2 million turnover threshold specified in point (34) of these Guidelines. However, the presumption does apply if the three companies negotiate collectively, since the aggregate turnover of the three companies exceeds the EUR 2 million turnover threshold. In that case, the Commission will not intervene against collective negotiations and agreements relating to working conditions between the solo self-employed technicians and the three automotive services companies. |
| --- | --- |

(35)

Example 6

Situation: Companies X, Y and Z provide automotive maintenance and repair services. The total turnover of Company X is EUR 700 000, that of Company Y is EUR 1 million and that of Company Z is EUR 500 000. Solo self-employed technicians working for these companies as independent service providers are dissatisfied with their low remuneration and poor safety conditions, and decide to negotiate jointly with Companies X, Y and Z in order to improve their working conditions. The three companies refuse to negotiate, claiming that any collective agreement with the solo self-employed technicians would infringe Article 101 TFEU.

Analysis: Both the solo self-employed technicians and the three automotive services companies are undertakings for the purposes of Article 101 TFEU. The presumption of an imbalance in bargaining power would not apply if Company X, Y or Z were to negotiate independently, as none of them meets the EUR 2 million turnover threshold specified in point (34) of these Guidelines. However, the presumption does apply if the three companies negotiate collectively, since the aggregate turnover of the three companies exceeds the EUR 2 million turnover threshold. In that case, the Commission will not intervene against collective negotiations and agreements relating to working conditions between the solo self-employed technicians and the three automotive services companies.

4.2.   Collective agreements concluded by self-employed persons pursuant to national or Union legislation

| (36) | In some instances, the national legislator, in pursuit of social objectives, has acted to address an imbalance in bargaining power faced by certain categories of solo self-employed persons, either (a) by granting such persons the right to collective bargaining or (b) by excluding from the scope of national competition law collective agreements concluded by self-employed persons in certain professions. Where such national legislation pursues social objectives, the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements relating to working conditions that involve categories of solo self-employed persons to which the national legislation applies.







  Example 7



  Situation: The national competition law of Member State A excludes from its scope the agreements concluded by certain self-employed persons in the cultural sector.

  Analysis: Member State A has established a sectoral exemption from national competition law pursuant to social objectives. This means that collective agreements concluded between the individuals covered by the exemption and the undertakings to which they provide their services are not considered to be anticompetitive under national competition law. Therefore, the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements entered into by solo self-employed persons that are covered by the national measure.


  Example 8



  Situation: The labour law of Member State B establishes a right for self-employed audiovisual translators to bargain collectively with the companies to which they provide their services.

  Analysis: The national legislator of Member State B has specifically granted the right of collective bargaining to certain self-employed persons, namely self-employed audiovisual translators. This national legislation, which pursues a social objective, aims to correct the imbalance in bargaining power between these self-employed persons and the companies to which they provide their services. Therefore, the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements entered into by solo self-employed audiovisual translators that are covered by the national legislation. |
| --- | --- |

(36)

Example 7

Situation: The national competition law of Member State A excludes from its scope the agreements concluded by certain self-employed persons in the cultural sector.

Analysis: Member State A has established a sectoral exemption from national competition law pursuant to social objectives. This means that collective agreements concluded between the individuals covered by the exemption and the undertakings to which they provide their services are not considered to be anticompetitive under national competition law. Therefore, the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements entered into by solo self-employed persons that are covered by the national measure.

Example 8

Situation: The labour law of Member State B establishes a right for self-employed audiovisual translators to bargain collectively with the companies to which they provide their services.

Analysis: The national legislator of Member State B has specifically granted the right of collective bargaining to certain self-employed persons, namely self-employed audiovisual translators. This national legislation, which pursues a social objective, aims to correct the imbalance in bargaining power between these self-employed persons and the companies to which they provide their services. Therefore, the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements entered into by solo self-employed audiovisual translators that are covered by the national legislation.

| (37) | In the same vein, Union legislation may recognise the right of certain solo self-employed to rely on collective agreements in order to correct an imbalance in bargaining power with their counterparty/-ies. |
| --- | --- |

(37)

| (38) | This is the case of Directive (EU) 2019/790 of the European Parliament and of the Council (30) (known as the ‘Copyright Directive’), which has set out the principle that authors and performers (31) are to be entitled to receive appropriate and proportionate remuneration when they license or transfer their exclusive rights for the exploitation of their works and any other subject matter protected by copyright and related rights (32). Authors and performers tend to be in a weaker contractual position than their counterparty/-ies (33), and Directive (EU) 2019/790 provides for the possibility to strengthen their contractual position in order to ensure fair remuneration in contracts for the exploitation of their work (34). Directive (EU) 2019/790 grants flexibility to Member States to implement this principle using different mechanisms (including collective bargaining), as long as they comply with Union law (35). |
| --- | --- |

(38)

| (39) | In line with the provisions of Directive (EU) 2019/790 that are referred to under point (38) of these Guidelines, and without prejudice to the other provisions of that Directive, the Commission will not intervene against collective agreements entered into by solo self-employed authors or performers with their counterparty/-ies pursuant to national measures that have been adopted pursuant to that Directive. |
| --- | --- |

(39)

| (40) | Point (39) of these Guidelines does not apply to collective negotiations concluded in the context of the activities of collective management organisations or independent management entities (36), since these activities remain subject to Directive 2014/26/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (37), which applies without prejudice to the application of Union competition rules (38).







  Example 9



  Situation: Company Y is a publisher of newspapers and magazines. Several journalists who work as freelancers contribute articles to the company’s publications. The company remunerates the journalists based on the articles published in each newspaper or magazine. The journalists are not satisfied with the level of remuneration they receive from Company Y, so they negotiate and agree collectively with it a 20 % increase in the royalties (remuneration) to be paid by it.

  Analysis: In accordance with these Guidelines, the Commission will not intervene against the collective agreement concluded by the solo self-employed (freelance) journalists and Company Y, as the agreement is concluded pursuant to Directive (EU) 2019/790. |
| --- | --- |

(40)

Example 9

Situation: Company Y is a publisher of newspapers and magazines. Several journalists who work as freelancers contribute articles to the company’s publications. The company remunerates the journalists based on the articles published in each newspaper or magazine. The journalists are not satisfied with the level of remuneration they receive from Company Y, so they negotiate and agree collectively with it a 20 % increase in the royalties (remuneration) to be paid by it.

Analysis: In accordance with these Guidelines, the Commission will not intervene against the collective agreement concluded by the solo self-employed (freelance) journalists and Company Y, as the agreement is concluded pursuant to Directive (EU) 2019/790.

---

(1)  This definition is without prejudice to the definition of ‘collective agreement’ used in Member States in the context of social dialogue.

(2)  The term ‘digital labour platform’ is defined in accordance with the Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on improving working conditions in platform work, COM(2021) 762 final (Proposal for a Platform Work Directive). The Commission will consider the need to update the definition in these Guidelines, if the definition of the same term in the adopted version of Platform Work Directive differs materially from it.

(3)  Title VII, Chapter 1, Section 1 of the TFEU, and Protocol No 27 to the TEU and TFEU.

(4)  Improved working conditions and proper social protection also constitute core principles of the European Pillar of Social Rights, under which ‘social partners shall be consulted on the design and implementation of economic, employment and social policies according to national practices’ and ‘shall be encouraged to negotiate and conclude collective agreements in matters relevant to them’. See European Pillar of Social Rights, point 8, https://ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/economy-works-people/jobs-growth-and-investment/european-pillar-social-rights/european-pillar-social-rights-20-principles_en.

(5)  Judgment of 21 September 1999, Albany International BV v Stichting Bedrijfspensioenfonds Textielindustrie, C-67/96, EU:C:1999:430, paragraph 59. See also judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraph 22; judgment of 11 December 2007, International Transport Workers’ Federation and Finnish Seamen’s Union v Viking Line ABP and OÜ Viking Line Eesti, C-438/05, EU:C:2007:772, paragraph 49; judgment of 9 July 2009, 3F v Commission of the European Communities, C-319/07, EU:C:2009:435, paragraph 50.

(6)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraph 23; judgment of 21 September 1999, Albany International BV v Stichting Bedrijfspensioenfonds Textielindustrie, C-67/96, EU:C:1999:430, paragraph 60; judgment of 21 September 1999, Brentjens' Handelsonderneming BV v Stichting Bedrijfspensioenfonds voor de Handel in Bouwmaterialen, C-115/97, EU:C:1999:434, paragraph 57; judgment of 21 September 1999, Maatschappij Drijvende Bokken BV v Stichting Pensioenfonds voor de Vervoer- en Havenbedrijven, C-219/97, EU:C:1999:437, paragraph 47; judgment of 12 September 2000, Pavel Pavlov and Others v Stichting Pensioenfonds Medische Specialisten, C-180/98, EU:C:2000:428, paragraph 67; judgment of 21 September 2000, Hendrik van der Woude v Stichting Beatrixoord, C-222/98, EU:C:2000:475, paragraph 22; judgment of 3 March 2011, AG2R Prévoyance v Beaudout Père et Fils SARL, C-437/09, EU:C:2011:112, paragraph 29.

(7)  Judgment of 23 April 1991, Klaus Höfner and Fritz Elser v Macrotron GmbH, C-41/90, EU:C:1991:161, paragraph 21; judgment of 16 November 1995, Fédération Française des Sociétés d'Assurance, Société Paternelle-Vie, Union des Assurances de Paris-Vie and Caisse d'Assurance et de Prévoyance Mutuelle des Agriculteurs v Ministère de l'Agriculture et de la Pêche, C-244/94, EU:C:1995:392, paragraph 14; judgment of 11 December 1997, Job Centre coop. arl., C-55/96, EU:C:1997:603, paragraph 21.

(8)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraph 27; judgment of 28 February 2013, Ordem dos Técnicos Oficiais de Contas v Autoridade da Concorrência, C-1/12, EU:C:2013:127, paragraphs 36 and 37; judgment of 14 December 2006, Confederación Española de Empresarios de Estaciones de Servicio v Compañía Española de Petróleos SA, C-217/05, EU:C:2006:784, paragraph 45.

(9)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraphs 30, 31 and 42.

(10)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraphs 36 and 37.

(11)  Moreover, the COVID-19 crisis has made many solo self-employed persons even more vulnerable, as their loss of earnings has been exacerbated by weak or non-existent national social security schemes and dedicated support measures. See European Parliament, Report of 13 October 2021 on the situation of artists and the cultural recovery in the EU (2020/2261(INI)), Committee on Culture and Education, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/A-9-2021-0283_EN.html#title1.

(12)  According to the settled case-law of the Court, the essential feature of the employment relationship is that ‘for a certain period of time one person performs services for and under the direction of another person in return for which he receives remuneration’. It should be noted that the classification of a person as a ‘worker’ or as ‘self-employed’ is to be determined primarily on a case-by-case basis under national law, taking into consideration the case-law of the Court. See judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraph 34; judgment of 21 February 2013, L. N. v Styrelsen for Videregående Uddannelser og Uddannelsesstøtte, C-46/12, EU:C:2013:97, paragraph 40; judgment of 10 September 2014, Iraklis Haralambidis v Calogero Casilli, C-270/13, EU:C:2014:2185, paragraph 28; judgment of 16 July 2020, Governo della Repubblica italiana (Status of Italian Magistrates), C-658/18, EU:C:2020:572.

(13)  Articles 206 to 210 of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No 922/72, (EEC) No 234/79, (EC) No 1037/2001 and (EC) No 1234/2007 (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 671); Articles 40 and 41 of Regulation (EU) No 1379/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1184/2006 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 104/2000 (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 1).

(14)  Point (34) of the Communication from the Commission — Notice — Guidelines on the application of Article 81(3) of the Treaty (OJ C 101, 27.4.2004, p. 97).

(15)  For example, the Guidelines cover coordination between the counterparties to decide on a remuneration range that they can discuss with solo self-employed persons in their collective negotiations. Such coordination is covered by the Guidelines, to the extent that it is necessary and proportionate for the negotiation or conclusion of a collective agreement (point (16)) and does not amount to an anticompetitive agreement (point (17)). An anticompetitive agreement may arise, for example, where the counterparties use the information exchanged through such coordination as a focal point in order to unilaterally set the same remuneration for their respective solo self-employed persons. That practice is not covered by these Guidelines, as it goes beyond what is necessary and proportionate to engage in collective negotiations with solo self-employed persons.

(16)  Article 2(1) of Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2011 on consumer rights, amending Council Directive 93/13/EEC and Directive 1999/44/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Directive 85/577/EEC and Directive 97/7/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 304, 22.11.2011, p. 64).

(17)  A restriction of competition might also be found if the collective agreement regulated other matters going beyond working conditions, such as the business hours during which the three platforms would provide their services.

(18)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411; judgment of 21 September 1999, Albany International BV v Stichting Bedrijfspensioenfonds Textielindustrie, C-67/96, EU:C:1999:430.

(19)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraphs 31 and 42.

(20)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraph 32.

(21)  Judgment of 4 December 2014, FNV Kunsten Informatie en Media v Staat der Nederlanden, C-413/13, EU:C:2014:2411, paragraph 33; judgment of 14 December 2006, Confederación Española de Empresarios de Estaciones de Servicio v Compañía Española de Petróleos SA, C-217/05, EU:C:2006:784, paragraphs 43 and 44.

(22)  The categories of solo self-employed persons referred to in Sections 3 and 4 may overlap. Some solo self-employed persons may therefore fall within more than one of those categories.

(23)  For instance, Germany under Section 12a of the Collective Agreements Act in the version published on 25 August 1969 (Federal Law Gazette I, p. 1323), last amended by Article 8 of the Act of 20 May 2020 (Federal Law Gazette I, p. 1055); or Spain under Article 11 of Law 20/2007, of 11 July 2007, on the status of self-employed work, Official State Gazette No 166 of 12 July 2007, pages 29964 to 29978 have both relied on a criterion of economic dependence.

(24)  This also applies where the solo self-employed person provides services to a counterparty for less than a year.

(25)  See for example Article 14 of the Collective Labour Agreement for Drama and Dance in the Netherlands concluded between the Kunstenbond (Artists Union) and the Nederlandse Associatie voor Podiumkunsten (Dutch Association for Podium Arts) for the period 1 January 2022 – 31 December 2023, available at https://napk.nl/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Cao-TD-2022-2023-V1_ENG_v.2.pdf and see Article 2 of the Collective Agreement for professional journalists, concluded by the Gospodarska zbornica Slovenije (Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia), the Svet RTV Slovenija (Council of RTV Slovenia) and the Združenje radijskih postaj Slovenije ter (Slovenian Radio Station Association) and the Sindikat novinarjev Slovenije (the Trade Union of Slovenian Journalists), available at http://www.pisrs.si/Pis.web/pregledPredpisa?id=KOLP49.

(26)  For a detailed overview of the case-law in nine EU Member States, Switzerland and the United Kingdom see Hießl, C., ‘Case Law on the Classification of Platform Workers: Cross-European Comparative Analysis and Tentative Conclusions’, Comparative Labour Law & Policy Journal, 2 May 2021, https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3839603.

(27)  See for instance Spain: Royal Decree-Law 9/2021, of 11 May 2021, amending the recast text of the Workers’ Statute, approved by Royal Legislative Decree 2/2015, of 23 October 2015, to guarantee the labour rights of persons engaged in distribution in the field of digital platforms, Official State Gazette No 113 of 12 May 2021, pages 56733 to 56738; or Greece: Law 4808/2021 for the Protection of Labour – Establishment of an Independent Authority ‘Labour Inspection’ – Ratification of Convention no 190 of the International Labour Organization to eliminate violence and harassment in the world of work – Ratification of Convention no 187 of the International Labour Organization for the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health at Work – Implementation of the Directive (EU) 2019/1158 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 on work-life balance, and other provisions of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and other urgent arrangements, Official Gazette Α' 101/19-6-2021.

(28)  These Guidelines should not be interpreted as establishing a (positive) enforcement priority of the Commission as regards collective negotiations and agreements between solo self-employed persons and their counterparty/-ies in cases where such an imbalance in bargaining power does not exist.

(29)  Calculated in accordance with Title 1 of the Annex to the Commission Recommendation of 6 May 2003 concerning the definition of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (OJ L 124, 20.5.2003, p. 36).

(30)  Directive (EU) 2019/790 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on copyright and related rights in the Digital Single Market and amending Directives 96/9/EC and 2001/29/EC (OJ L 130, 17.5.2019, p. 92).

(31)  All authors and performers are covered by Article 18 of Directive (EU) 2019/790, with the exception of authors of computer programmes within the meaning of Article 2 of Directive 2009/24/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the legal protection of computer programmes (OJ L 111, 5.5.2009, p. 16). Article 23(2) of Directive (EU) 2019/790.

(32)  Recital (72) and Article 18(1) of Directive (EU) 2019/790. See also recital (73) of that Directive, according to which the remuneration of authors and performers should be ‘appropriate and proportionate to the actual or potential economic value of the licensed or transferred rights, taking into account the author's or performer's contribution to the overall work or other subject matter and all other circumstances of the case, such as market practices or the actual exploitation of the work’.

(33)  Recital (72) of Directive (EU) 2019/790.

(34)  Collective bargaining may also be used in the instances set out in Articles 19(5), 20(1) and 22(5) of Directive (EU) 2019/790.

(35)  Recital (73) and Article 18(2) of Directive (EU) 2019/790. In particular, recital (73) provides that ‘Member States should be free to implement the principle of appropriate and proportionate remuneration through different existing or newly introduced mechanisms, which could include collective bargaining and other mechanisms, provided that such mechanisms are in conformity with applicable Union law’.

(36)  ‘Collective management organisation’ means any organisation which is authorised by law or by way of assignment, licence or any other contractual arrangement to manage copyright or rights related to copyright on behalf of more than one right-holder, for the collective benefit of those right-holders, as its sole or main purpose, and which fulfils one or both of the following criteria: (a) it is owned or controlled by its members; (b) it is organised on a not-for-profit basis.

‘Independent management entity’ means any organisation which is authorised by law or by way of assignment, licence or any other contractual arrangement to manage copyright or rights related to copyright on behalf of more than one rightholder, for the collective benefit of those rightholders, as its sole or main purpose, and which is: (a) neither owned nor controlled, directly or indirectly, wholly or in part, by rightholders; and (b) organised on a for-profit basis; Article 3, points (a) and (b), of Directive 2014/26/EU (see infra footnote (37)).

(37)  Directive 2014/26/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 February 2014 on collective management of copyright and related rights and multi-territorial licensing of rights in musical works for online use in the internal market (OJ L 84, 20.3.2014, p. 72).

(38)  Recital (56) of Directive 2014/26/EU.

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| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/14

---

Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case M.10629 – CSL / VIFOR PHARMA)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 374/03)

On 31 May 2022, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | in the merger section of the ‘Competition policy’ website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

in the merger section of the ‘Competition policy’ website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32022M10629. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32022M10629. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law.

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

---

IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/15 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/15

---

Euro exchange rates (1)

29 September 2022

(2022/C 374/04)

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 0,9706 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 140,46 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4365 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,89485 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 10,9580 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 0,9538 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 140,10 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 10,4518 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 24,687 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 421,93 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,8570 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,9481 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 18,0000 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,4982 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,3294 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 7,6192 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,7040 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,3961 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 388,34 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 17,4466 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 6,9223 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,5280 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 14 735,97 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,4992 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 56,860 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | |
| THB | Thai baht | 36,946 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 5,2521 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 19,5779 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 79,3140 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

0,9706

JPY

Japanese yen

140,46

DKK

Danish krone

7,4365

GBP

Pound sterling

0,89485

SEK

Swedish krona

10,9580

CHF

Swiss franc

0,9538

ISK

Iceland króna

140,10

NOK

Norwegian krone

10,4518

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

24,687

HUF

Hungarian forint

421,93

PLN

Polish zloty

4,8570

RON

Romanian leu

4,9481

TRY

Turkish lira

18,0000

AUD

Australian dollar

1,4982

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,3294

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

7,6192

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,7040

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,3961

KRW

South Korean won

1 388,34

ZAR

South African rand

17,4466

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

6,9223

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,5280

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

14 735,97

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,4992

PHP

Philippine peso

56,860

RUB

Russian rouble

THB

Thai baht

36,946

BRL

Brazilian real

5,2521

MXN

Mexican peso

19,5779

INR

Indian rupee

79,3140

---

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

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| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/16 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/16

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Summary of European Commission Decisions on authorisations for the placing on the market for the use and/or for use of substances listed in Annex XIV to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)

(Published pursuant to Article 64(9) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (1)
  )

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 374/05)

Decision granting an authorisation

| Reference of the decision (2) | Date of decision | Substance name | Holder of the authorisation | Authorisation number | Authorised use | Date of expiry of review period | Reasons for the decision |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| C(2022) 6701 | 23 September 2022 | Chromium trioxide
  EC No. 215-607-8, CAS No. 1333-82-0 | Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH, Eisenhüttenstraße 99, 38239 Salzgitter, Germany | REACH/22/32/0 | Functional chrome plating using chromium trioxide in closed reactor systems for the establishment of a ‘conventional’ hard chrome coating on working rolls applied in the steel industry for the pre-manufacturing of cold-rolled, high-quality textured sheet metal | 31 December 2032 | In accordance with Article 60(4) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, the socio-economic benefits outweigh the risk to human health and the environment from the use of the substance and there are no suitable alternative substances or technologies. |
| REACH/22/32/1 | Pretex® functional chrome plating using chromium trioxide in closed reactor systems for the establishment of adjustable hemispherical surface structures on working rolls applied in the steel industry for the manufacture of cold-rolled, high quality textured sheet metal |

Reference of the decision (2)

Date of decision

Substance name

Holder of the authorisation

Authorisation number

Authorised use

Date of expiry of review period

Reasons for the decision

C(2022) 6701

23 September 2022

Chromium trioxide

EC No. 215-607-8, CAS No. 1333-82-0

Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH, Eisenhüttenstraße 99, 38239 Salzgitter, Germany

REACH/22/32/0

Functional chrome plating using chromium trioxide in closed reactor systems for the establishment of a ‘conventional’ hard chrome coating on working rolls applied in the steel industry for the pre-manufacturing of cold-rolled, high-quality textured sheet metal

31 December 2032

In accordance with Article 60(4) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, the socio-economic benefits outweigh the risk to human health and the environment from the use of the substance and there are no suitable alternative substances or technologies.

REACH/22/32/1

Pretex® functional chrome plating using chromium trioxide in closed reactor systems for the establishment of adjustable hemispherical surface structures on working rolls applied in the steel industry for the manufacture of cold-rolled, high quality textured sheet metal

---

(1)  OJ L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 1.

(2)  The decision is available on the European Commission website at: Authorisation (europa.eu)

---

NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/17 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/17

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Information communicated by Member States regarding closure of fisheries

(2022/C 374/06)

In accordance with Article 35(3) of Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 of 20 November 2009 establishing a Union control system for ensuring compliance with the rules of the common fisheries policy (1), a decision has been taken to close the fishery as set down in the following table:

| Date and time of closure | 16.8.2022 |
| --- | --- |
| Duration | 16.8.2022 - 31.12.2022 |
| Member State | Ireland |
| Stock or Group of stocks | ALB/AN05N |
| Species | Albacore (Thunnus alalunga) |
| Zone | Atlantic Ocean, north of 5°N |
| Type(s) of fishing vessels | — |
| Reference number | 05/TQ109 |

Date and time of closure

16.8.2022

Duration

16.8.2022 - 31.12.2022

Member State

Ireland

Stock or Group of stocks

ALB/AN05N

Species

Albacore (Thunnus alalunga)

Zone

Atlantic Ocean, north of 5°N

Type(s) of fishing vessels

—

Reference number

05/TQ109

---

(1)  OJ L 343, 22.12.2009, p. 1.

---

V Announcements

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/18 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/18

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Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 374/07)

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

‘Alsace grand cru Muenchberg’

PDO-FR-A0417-AM02

Date of communication: 20 July 2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Additional indication

In Chapter I, Section II(1), of the specification, the following common forms of the names of grape varieties have been added: ‘Sylvaner’ and ‘Pinot Noir’, with the corresponding official names, respectively: Sylvaner B and Pinot Noir N.

The common form ‘Sylvaner’ has been added to correct an oversight in the original version of the specification. The original version stated in Chapter I, Section X(1)(b), that the authorised varieties ‘can be made into wine and placed on the market under their respective common names’. However, the corresponding common form of the name was not included in the list of permitted common names. Prior to the approval of the original version of the specification, a national decision meant that Sylvaner B had been added to the varieties authorised for the production of wines with the designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Zotzenberg’. This took into account local custom and the reputation of these wines.

The common name ‘Pinot Noir’ has been added to the specification. This is because of an application submitted at national level for recognition of the still red wines of certain ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin. This application for the recognition of a red wine is based on long-standing practice, reputation and the characteristics of the wines produced with grapes of the variety Pinot Noir N grown on demarcated parcels of these ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations. Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised for these red wines.

Chapter I, Section II(1), of the specification concerns the varieties of Muscat à petits grains, commonly referred to as ‘Muscat’. The words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of these varieties, in order to correct an oversight in the previous version of the specification.

These amendments do not require any amendments to the single document.

2.   Types of product

In Chapter I, Section III, of the specification, the text has been amended to show that the protected designations of origin covered by the current specification no longer refer exclusively to still white wines.

The ‘Alsace grand cru’ protected designations of origin which cover red and white still wines are mentioned by name: ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

3.   Geographical area

In Chapter I, Section IV(1), of the specification, a paragraph has been added giving the dates on which the geographical area was approved by the relevant INAO (National Institute for Origin and Quality) committee. The new paragraph also refers to the 2021 Official Geographic Code as the source for the demarcation of the area boundary as it appears in the specification. Reference to the source gives legal certainty to the demarcation of the area.

As a result of the reference to the 2021 Official Geographic Code, the list of names of municipalities has been updated. The municipalities of Kientzheim and Sigolsheim have been abolished. Their territory is now part of the municipality of Kaysersberg Vignoble.

These editorial changes do not affect the boundary of the geographical area.

The following sentences have also been added to Section IV(1):

‘Maps of the geographical area can be accessed on the INAO website.

A map defining the boundaries of the geographical area has been lodged with the municipal authorities in the case of the partially included municipality.’

These amendments require the amendment of point 6 of the single document.

4.   Demarcated parcel area

Demarcated parcel area

In Chapter I, Section IV(2), of the specification:

| — | in order to correct an oversight, the words ‘6 and 7 September 2006’ have been added to the first paragraph. This is a date on which the parcel area was approved by the relevant national committee; |
| --- | --- |

—

in order to correct an oversight, the words ‘6 and 7 September 2006’ have been added to the first paragraph. This is a date on which the parcel area was approved by the relevant national committee;

| — | in the second paragraph, the wording has been amended to take into account the changes made to the names of municipalities in Section IV(1); |
| --- | --- |

—

in the second paragraph, the wording has been amended to take into account the changes made to the names of municipalities in Section IV(1);

| — | the ‘Municipalities’ column in the table has been updated to correspond to the names of municipalities mentioned in Section IV(1). |
| --- | --- |

—

the ‘Municipalities’ column in the table has been updated to correspond to the names of municipalities mentioned in Section IV(1).

These amendments do not affect the single document.

5.   Area in immediate proximity

Area in immediate proximity

In Chapter I, Section IV(3), of the specification, a paragraph has been amended to give the 2021 Official Geographic Code as the source for the demarcation of the area boundary as it appears in the specification. Reference to the source gives legal certainty to the demarcation of the area.

As a result of the reference to the 2021 Official Geographic Code, the list of names of municipalities has been updated. The name of the municipality of Kaysersberg has been deleted and that of Kaysersberg Vignoble added, together with the information that the only part of this municipality included is that belonging to the delegated municipality of Kaysersberg.

These editorial changes do not affect the boundary of the area in immediate proximity.

These amendments require the amendment of point 9 of the single document.

6.   Vine varieties

Vine varieties

In Chapter I, Section V(1)(a), of the specification, two phrases have been added: ‘— for white wines:’ and ‘— for red wines: from grape variety Pinot Noir N’. This is because an application for recognition of the still red wines was submitted at national level for certain ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin. Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised for these red wines. It is also the only variety authorised for the production of red wine in the ‘Alsace’ designation of origin.

In Sections V(1)(a), (b) and (e) and V(2)(b), the words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of the different varieties of Muscat à petits grains. This corrects an oversight in the previous version of the specification.

The single document has not been changed on account of these amendments.

7.   Planting density

Planting density

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(a), of the specification, the following phrases have been added: ‘For white wine production’ and ‘For red wine production’. This is to distinguish between the minimum planting densities according to the colour of the wines. These densities are stated for the designations authorised to produce red wines.

The single document has not been changed on account of these additions.

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(a), of the specification, the date of ‘25 October 2011’ has been specified for the effective application of the rule regarding the possibility of the density changing due to grubbing-up. It replaces the wording ‘on the date on which this specification was approved’.

This amendment requires the amendment of point 5 of the single document.

8.   Pruning rule

Pruning rule

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(b), of the specification, the previous rule for white wines regarding the number of buds per square metre of soil differed according to the grape varieties. This rule has been abolished and replaced by a single rule of 18 buds per plant.

This development makes it possible to harmonise the wording in the specifications of the Alsace designations of origin, and to simplify the methods of checking.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

The words ‘For white wines’ have been added at the start of the sentence. This is due to the application for recognition for still red wines submitted at national level for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

A pruning rule has been added for red wines, setting the maximum number of buds per plant at 14. This is less than the number authorised for white wine production. This rule makes it possible to comply with the rules on yields and to produce good-quality grapes.

The above amendments do not affect the single document.

9.   Rules on trellising and foliage height

Rules on trellising and foliage height

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(c), of the specification, the maximum height of the wires supporting the arched canes has been deleted, and the method of measuring the height of trellised foliage has been changed.

These amendments make it possible to verify that the foliage height is compliant as the plants grow. Previously this was possible only through a requirement relating to the support.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

10.   Average maximum crop load per parcel

Average maximum crop load per parcel

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(d), of the specification, the average maximum crop load per parcel for white wines has been reduced from 10 000 to 8 500 kilograms per hectare, reflecting the reduced yields for these wines.

An average maximum crop load per parcel has been established for red wines. It is less than that for white wine, reflecting the yields for red wines.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

11.   Ripeness of grapes and minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Ripeness of grapes and minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

In Chapter I, Section VII(2)(a), of the specification, the table has been amended. It now takes into account the application for recognition of still red wines submitted at national level for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

For these ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations for red wines, minimum levels have been established for the sugar content of the different grape varieties when harvested, and for their minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

For white wines, the minimum levels for the sugar content of the grapes have been increased by 2 or 3 grams per litre of must in order to respect the same 1 % variation with the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume for each grape variety, as in the previous version of the specification. The protection and management body has chosen to calculate the transformation of grams of sugar into alcohol on the basis of 17 grams of sugar producing 1 % alcohol by volume for white wines. The original version of the specification had used the figure of 16,83 grams. The amount of 17 grams had been recommended by the competent national committee of the INAO when the original version of the specifications was established.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

12.   Yields

Yields

In Chapter I, Section VIII(1) and (2), of the specification, the yields and upper yield limits have been reduced for white wines and white wines labelled ‘Vendanges Tardives’ [Late Harvest], in accordance with the hierarchy of designations in the Alsace region. This amendment will allow better quality control.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended for the maximum yields (upper yield limits).

The words ‘Vins blancs’ have been added for wines without a description. This is due to an application submitted at national level for recognition of still red wines for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

The yield and upper yield limit for red wines have been established in accordance with the hierarchy of designations of the Alsace regions, meaning that the amounts are lower for these ‘grand cru’ designations.

The latter amendments do not affect the single document.

13.   Malolactic fermentation, fermentable sugar content for red wines

Malolactic fermentation, fermentable sugar content for red wines

Chapter I, Section IX(1)(c), of the specification lays down that malolactic fermentation is carried out for red wines.

For the purpose of checking compliance with this rule, the maximum malic acid content has been established as 0,4 grams per litre at the time of packaging.

Section IX(1)(d) lays down a maximum content for fermentable sugars (glucose and fructose) of 2 grams per litre after fermentation.

The single document has not been amended.

14.   Increasing the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume prohibited for red wines

Increasing the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume prohibited for red wines

Chapter I, Section IX(1)(e), of the specification lays down that red wines must not be enriched in any way. This restriction applies to the production process. It is consistent with demarcation of parcels for grape-growing, minimum planting density, pruning rules and restricted yields.

The single document has not been amended.

15.   Capacity of the winery

Capacity of the winery

In Chapter I, Section IX(1)(g), of the specification, the coefficient for calculating the capacity of the winery has been reduced.

The capacity of the winery does not need to be as large in proportion to the volume of the preceding harvest.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

16.   Date of maturing and placing on the market for consumers in the case of red wines

Date of maturing and placing on the market for consumers in the case of red wines

In Chapter I, Section IX(2), of the specification, a minimum maturation period has been established for red wines: until 1 October of the year following the harvest. Wines made with grapes of the variety Pinot Noir N from these vineyards need a minimum period in order to fully express their characteristics.

In Chapter I, Section IX(5)(a), it is stated that, following the maturation period, red wines cannot be placed on the market for consumers until 1 October of the year following the harvest.

These amendments do not require any amendments to the single document.

17.   Checks on packaged batches

Checks on packaged batches

In Chapter I, Section IX(3)(b), of the specification, the rule has been abolished that required sample bottles to be kept for checks on packaged batches.

This rule is a measure of verifiability. It is now part of the checking plan.

The single document is not affected by this amendment.

18.   Storing packaged wines

Storing packaged wines

In Chapter I, Section IX(4), of the specification, further details have been provided of the characteristics of the place where packaged wines are stored.

This helps operators to comply with this rule, and makes checking easier.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

19.   Human factors contributing to the link with the geographical area

Human factors contributing to the link with the geographical area

In Chapter I, Section X(1)(b), of the specification, the text has been amended to take account of the fact that still red wines have been approved for the designations of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

| — | The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 500 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 500 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months.

| — | The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months.

In Section X(1)(b), information to the effect that these two designations of origin were recognised for white wines has been deleted. The words ‘for white wines’ have been added where necessary for understanding the text.

The single document has not been changed on account of these amendments.

The words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of the different varieties of Muscat à petits grains. This corrects an oversight in the previous version of the specification. These additions do not affect the single document.

20.   Description of the wine(s)

Description of the wine(s)

In Chapter I, Section X(2), of the specification, details have been added of the visual appearance of the white wines in order to characterise them more fully.

In the case of the first two types of wine described: ‘The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to golden yellow.’

Details of the last two types of wine: ‘The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.’

Point 4 of the single document has been amended.

A description of the main organoleptic characteristics of the red wines has been added for the designations of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

These descriptions do not affect the single document.

21.   Link with the geographical area

Link with the geographical area

In Chapter I, Section X(3), of the specification, for the designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’, there are details about the link between the geographical origin and the characteristics of the wines which could also apply to the red wines of this designation. These details have been supplemented by information specific to the red wines.

The single document has not been amended.

22.   Transitional measures

Transitional measures

In Chapter I, Section XI(2), of the specification, in accordance with the amendments to Chapter I, Section VI, the maximum height of the wires supporting the arched canes has been deleted and the maximum number of buds per plant has been reduced.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

23.   Requirement to state the sugar content on labelling and other formats giving information for white wines

Requirement to state the sugar content on labelling and other formats giving information for white wines

Under the previous specification, mention of the sugar content was optional. Chapter I, Section XII(2)(d), of the specification has been replaced by a new text making it obligatory to mention the sugar content as laid down in Regulation (EU) 2019/33.

This information makes it easier for consumers to understand the type of wine.

The new rule does not apply to wines bearing the traditional terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ [includes botrytised grapes].

Point 9 of the single document has been supplemented.

The original point (d) of Section XII(2) is now point (e).

This amendment does not affect the single document.

24.   Advance declaration of the assignment of parcels

Advance declaration of the assignment of parcels

In Chapter II, Section I(1), of the specification, a clarification has been added to the rules regarding the advance declaration of the assignment of parcels. Such declarations are submitted by operators to the protection and management body for the ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin when they cease production under the designation.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Name(s)

Alsace grand cru Muenchberg

2.   Geographical indication type

Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected designation of origin

3.   Categories of grapevine products

Categories of grapevine products

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

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

Description of the wine(s)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The wines are still and white.

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 12,5 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 11 % for other varieties. After enrichment, the total alcoholic strength by volume of the wines does not exceed 15 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G, and 14 % for wines made from other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Excellent examples of white wines suitable for ageing, they are characterised by powerful freshness underpinned by dominant tartaric acid combined with beautifully ripened grapes. The name of the designation may be supplemented by the common names of the grape varieties, on condition that the wines are made exclusively from grape varieties that can be referred to using the names in question. These are wines of great substance and complexity, with powerful aromas and numerous subtleties. Very long in the mouth, they become more complex over time.

There are two types: — dry wines with minerality; — aromatic wines that are fruity, unctuous and rich. The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to golden yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

2.   Designation followed by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’

Designation followed by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 16 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 14,5 % for the other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Wines with the description ‘Vendanges Tardives’ often have very exotic aromas, of candied fruits with a fresh finish. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas. The colour of these wines is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

3.   Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 18,2 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 16,4 % for other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Wines entitled to be labelled ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ are more concentrated, powerful wines, often with aromas of candied fruits. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas. The colour of these wines is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5.   Wine-making practices

Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

Specific oenological practices

1.   Training systems: planting density

Training systems: planting density

Cultivation method

The minimum vine planting density is 4 500 plants per hectare.

The distance between the rows of vines must not exceed 2 metres.

Vines have an in-the-row spacing of no less than 0,75 metres and no more than 1,50 metres.

As of 25 October 2011, grubbing-up of rows within a parcel must not result in spacing wider than 3 metres between the rows.

2.   Training systems: pruning rule

Training systems: pruning rule

Cultivation method

The vines are pruned to single or double Guyot with a maximum of 18 buds per plant.

3.   Harvest

Harvest

Cultivation method

The wines are made from grapes harvested manually.

4.   Increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Specific oenological practice

Any increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed:

| | 0,5 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G, |
| --- | --- |

0,5 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G,

| | 1,5 % for wines made from other varieties. |
| --- | --- |

1,5 % for wines made from other varieties.

Wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ must not be enriched.

5.   Production

Production

Wine-making restriction

Use of wood chips is prohibited.

6.   Maturing the wines

Maturing the wines

Specific oenological practice

The wines must be matured until at least 1 June of the year following the harvest.

Wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ must be matured until at least 1 June of the second year following the harvest.

5.2.   Maximum yields

Maximum yields

1.   Yield – Designation with or without the additional term ‘Vendanges Tardives’

Yield – Designation with or without the additional term ‘Vendanges Tardives’

60 hectolitres per hectare

2.   Yield – Designation followed by the term ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Yield – Designation followed by the term ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

48 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

Demarcated geographical area

The grapes are harvested and the wines are produced, developed and matured in the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Ammerschwihr, Beblenheim, Bennwihr, Bergheim, Bergholtz, Eguisheim, Gueberschwihr, Guebwiller, Hattstatt, Hunawihr, Ingersheim, Katzenthal, Mittelwihr, Niedermorschwihr, Orschwihr, Pfaffenheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Rodern, Rouffach, Saint-Hippolyte, Soultzmatt, Thann, Turckheim, Vieux-Thann, Voegtlinshoffen, Westhalten, Wettolsheim, Wintzenheim, Wuenheim and Zellenberg. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Ammerschwihr, Beblenheim, Bennwihr, Bergheim, Bergholtz, Eguisheim, Gueberschwihr, Guebwiller, Hattstatt, Hunawihr, Ingersheim, Katzenthal, Mittelwihr, Niedermorschwihr, Orschwihr, Pfaffenheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Rodern, Rouffach, Saint-Hippolyte, Soultzmatt, Thann, Turckheim, Vieux-Thann, Voegtlinshoffen, Westhalten, Wettolsheim, Wintzenheim, Wuenheim and Zellenberg.

Municipalities partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipalities of Kientzheim and Sigolsheim.

| — | Department of Bas-Rhin: Andlau, Barr, Bergbieten, Blienschwiller, Dahlenheim, Dambach-la-Ville, Eichhoffen, Kintzheim, Marlenheim, Mittelbergheim, Molsheim, Nothalten, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett and Wolxheim. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Bas-Rhin: Andlau, Barr, Bergbieten, Blienschwiller, Dahlenheim, Dambach-la-Ville, Eichhoffen, Kintzheim, Marlenheim, Mittelbergheim, Molsheim, Nothalten, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett and Wolxheim.

A map defining the boundaries of the geographical area has been lodged with the municipal authorities of the partially included municipalities.

Maps of the geographical area can be accessed on the INAO website.

7.   Wine grape variety(-ies)

Wine grape variety(-ies)

| | Gewürztraminer Rs |
| --- | --- |

Gewürztraminer Rs

| | Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato

| | Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato

| | Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato

| | Pinot Gris G |
| --- | --- |

Pinot Gris G

| | Riesling B |
| --- | --- |

Riesling B

8.   Description of the link(s)

Description of the link(s)

Thanks to the favourable climate conditions characteristic of the vineyards of Alsace, the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Muenchberg ’ benefits from one of the best locations. Nestling in the picturesque countryside of Alsace, the vineyards enable the production of highly expressive wines, with distinctive character and unique personality.

The protection of the Ungersberg peak and the finesse of the soil is reflected in the powerfully aromatic wines. Sandstone gives them finesse and volcanic ash, strength and resistance.

Muenchberg wines are characterised by a typical strong minerality, intensifying as the wines age.

The excellent climate conditions at the end of the season are favourable to concentration on the vine and to the development of the noble rot. As a result, it is possible to produce wines from grapes harvested when overripe.

The maturation period laid down in the specification allows the wines to improve.

There are strict rules relating to production, such as maintaining a broad canopy and harvesting by hand. By adopting these rules, the winegrowers of Alsace preserve the established character of the wines, which are known for their complexity and their suitability for long keeping.

They are the top of the range for this region. These wines are more prestigious than wines with the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace’.

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

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 the immediate vicinity, defined by derogation for winemaking, processing and maturing, comprises the territory of the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Bergholtz-Zell, Berrwiller, Buhl, Cernay, Colmar, Gundolsheim, Hartmanswiller, Herrlisheim, Houssen, Husseren-les-Châteaux, Jungholtz, Leimbach, Obermorschwihr, Osenbach, Ostheim, Rorschwihr, Soultz, Steinbach, Uffholtz, Walbach, Wattwiller, Wihr-au-Val and Zimmerbach. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Bergholtz-Zell, Berrwiller, Buhl, Cernay, Colmar, Gundolsheim, Hartmanswiller, Herrlisheim, Houssen, Husseren-les-Châteaux, Jungholtz, Leimbach, Obermorschwihr, Osenbach, Ostheim, Rorschwihr, Soultz, Steinbach, Uffholtz, Walbach, Wattwiller, Wihr-au-Val and Zimmerbach.

Municipalities partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipality of Kaysersberg.

| — | Department of Bas-Rhin: Albé, Avolsheim, Balbronn, Bernardswiller, Bernardvillé, Bischoffsheim, Boersch, Bourgheim, Châtenois, Cleebourg, Dachstein, Dangolsheim, Dieffenthal, Dorlisheim, Epfig, Ergersheim, Ernolsheim-Bruche, Fessenheim-le-Bas, Flexbourg, Furdenheim, Gertwiller, Gimbrett-Berstett, Goxwiller, Heiligenstein, Itterswiller, Kienheim, Kirchheim, Kuttolsheim, Mittelhausen, Mutzig, Nordheim, Oberhoffen-les-Wissenbourg, Obernai, Odratzheim, Orschwiller, Osthoffen, Ottrott, Petersbach, Reichsfeld, Riedseltz, Rosenwiller, Rosheim, Rott, Saint-Nabor, Saint-Pierre, Scherwiller, Seebach, Soultz-les-Bains, Steinseltz, Stotzheim, Strasbourg, Traenheim, Villé, Wangen, Westhoffen, Wissembourg and Zellwiller. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Bas-Rhin: Albé, Avolsheim, Balbronn, Bernardswiller, Bernardvillé, Bischoffsheim, Boersch, Bourgheim, Châtenois, Cleebourg, Dachstein, Dangolsheim, Dieffenthal, Dorlisheim, Epfig, Ergersheim, Ernolsheim-Bruche, Fessenheim-le-Bas, Flexbourg, Furdenheim, Gertwiller, Gimbrett-Berstett, Goxwiller, Heiligenstein, Itterswiller, Kienheim, Kirchheim, Kuttolsheim, Mittelhausen, Mutzig, Nordheim, Oberhoffen-les-Wissenbourg, Obernai, Odratzheim, Orschwiller, Osthoffen, Ottrott, Petersbach, Reichsfeld, Riedseltz, Rosenwiller, Rosheim, Rott, Saint-Nabor, Saint-Pierre, Scherwiller, Seebach, Soultz-les-Bains, Steinseltz, Stotzheim, Strasbourg, Traenheim, Villé, Wangen, Westhoffen, Wissembourg and Zellwiller.

Packaging in the area

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Packaging in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition

The wines are packaged in ‘Vin du Rhin’ bottles, in accordance with Decree No 55-673 of 20 May 1955, the Order of 13 May 1959 and the Decree of 19 March 1963. No other type of bottle is permitted.

Since the Law of 5 July 1972, the wines must be bottled in the departments of Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin in tall, thin ‘Vin du Rhin’ bottles, as laid down in the Decree of 1955.

Stating the vintage

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The vintage must appear, together with the name of the designation, in any harvest and stock declarations, supporting documents or publicity and on any leaflets, labels, invoices or containers.

Common name

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The name of the protected designation of origin may be supplemented by one of the common names of the grape varieties, on condition that the wines are made exclusively from grape varieties that can be referred to using the names in question.

Use of two or more common names on the same label is prohibited.

The common names are as follows:

| | Gewürztraminer |
| --- | --- |

Gewürztraminer

| | Muscat |
| --- | --- |

Muscat

| | Muscat Ottonel |
| --- | --- |

Muscat Ottonel

| | Pinot Gris |
| --- | --- |

Pinot Gris

| | Riesling. |
| --- | --- |

Riesling.

Traditional terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

For wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’, the following must also be stated:

| — | vintage |
| --- | --- |

—

vintage

| — | one of the common forms of the grape variety name. |
| --- | --- |

—

one of the common forms of the grape variety name.

Indication of the sugar content

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The sugar content, as defined by European law, must be clearly stated in the case of white wines for which one of the 51 protected designations of origin ‘Alsace Grand Cru – lieu-dit’ is claimed under the terms of this specification. This applies when such wines are presented under the aforementioned designation and made available to the public, dispatched, offered for sale or sold, which cannot happen unless the sugar content is stated in any publicity and on any leaflets, labels, invoices or containers. It does not apply to wines labelled ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’.

Link to the product specification

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-4cec3ff9-abd4-4253-a1db-245ddd809faa

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

1

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| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/30 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/30

---

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 374/08)

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

‘Alsace grand cru Brand’

PDO-FR-A0340-AM02

Date of communication: 20 July 2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Additional indication

In Chapter I, Section II(1), of the specification, the following common forms of the names of grape varieties have been added: ‘Sylvaner’ and ‘Pinot Noir’, with the corresponding official names, respectively: Sylvaner B and Pinot Noir N.

The common form ‘Sylvaner’ has been added to correct an oversight in the original version of the specification. The original version stated in Chapter I, Section X(1)(b), that the authorised varieties ‘can be made into wine and placed on the market under their respective common names’. However, the corresponding common form of the name was not included in the list of permitted common names. Prior to the approval of the original version of the specification, a national decision meant that Sylvaner B had been added to the varieties authorised for the production of wines with the designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Zotzenberg’. This took into account local custom and the reputation of these wines.

The common name ‘Pinot Noir’ has been added to the specification. This is because of an application submitted at national level for recognition of the still red wines of certain ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin. This application for the recognition of a red wine is based on long-standing practice, reputation and the characteristics of the wines produced with grapes of the variety Pinot Noir N grown on demarcated parcels of these ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations. Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised for these red wines.

Chapter I, Section II(1), of the specification concerns the varieties of Muscat à petits grains, commonly referred to as ‘Muscat’. The words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of these varieties, in order to correct an oversight in the previous version of the specification.

These amendments do not require any amendments to the single document.

2.   Types of product

In Chapter I, Section III, of the specification, the text has been amended to show that the protected designations of origin covered by the current specification no longer refer exclusively to still white wines.

The ‘Alsace grand cru’ protected designations of origin which cover red and white still wines are mentioned by name: ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

3.   Geographical area

In Chapter I, Section IV(1), of the specification, a paragraph has been added giving the dates on which the geographical area was approved by the relevant INAO (National Institute for Origin and Quality) committee. The new paragraph also refers to the 2021 Official Geographic Code as the source for the demarcation of the area boundary as it appears in the specification. Reference to the source gives legal certainty to the demarcation of the area.

As a result of the reference to the 2021 Official Geographic Code, the list of names of municipalities has been updated. The municipalities of Kientzheim and Sigolsheim have been abolished. Their territory is now part of the municipality of Kaysersberg Vignoble.

These editorial changes do not affect the boundary of the geographical area.

The following sentences have also been added to Section IV(1):

‘Maps of the geographical area can be accessed on the INAO website.

A map defining the boundaries of the geographical area has been lodged with the municipal authorities in the case of the partially included municipality.’

These amendments require the amendment of point 6 of the single document.

4.   Demarcated parcel area

Demarcated parcel area

In Chapter I, Section IV(2), of the specification:

| — | in order to correct an oversight, the words ‘6 and 7 September 2006’ have been added to the first paragraph. This is a date on which the parcel area was approved by the relevant national committee; |
| --- | --- |

—

in order to correct an oversight, the words ‘6 and 7 September 2006’ have been added to the first paragraph. This is a date on which the parcel area was approved by the relevant national committee;

| — | in the second paragraph, the wording has been amended to take into account the changes made to the names of municipalities in Section IV(1); |
| --- | --- |

—

in the second paragraph, the wording has been amended to take into account the changes made to the names of municipalities in Section IV(1);

| — | the ‘Municipalities’ column in the table has been updated to correspond to the names of municipalities mentioned in Section IV(1). |
| --- | --- |

—

the ‘Municipalities’ column in the table has been updated to correspond to the names of municipalities mentioned in Section IV(1).

These amendments do not affect the single document.

5.   Area in immediate proximity

Area in immediate proximity

In Chapter I, Section IV(3), of the specification, a paragraph has been amended to give the 2021 Official Geographic Code as the source for the demarcation of the area boundary as it appears in the specification. Reference to the source gives legal certainty to the demarcation of the area.

As a result of the reference to the 2021 Official Geographic Code, the list of names of municipalities has been updated. The name of the municipality of Kaysersberg has been deleted and that of Kaysersberg Vignoble added, together with the information that the only part of this municipality included is that belonging to the delegated municipality of Kaysersberg.

These editorial changes do not affect the boundary of the area in immediate proximity.

These amendments require the amendment of point 9 of the single document.

6.   Vine varieties

Vine varieties

In Chapter I, Section V(1)(a), of the specification, two phrases have been added: ‘— for white wines:’ and ‘— for red wines: from grape variety Pinot Noir N’. This is because an application for recognition of the still red wines was submitted at national level for certain ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin. Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised for these red wines. It is also the only variety authorised for the production of red wine in the ‘Alsace’ designation of origin.

In Sections V(1)(a), (b) and (e) and V(2)(b), the words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of the different varieties of Muscat à petits grains. This corrects an oversight in the previous version of the specification.

The single document has not been changed on account of these amendments.

7.   Planting density

Planting density

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(a), of the specification, the following phrases have been added: ‘For white wine production’ and ‘For red wine production’. This is to distinguish between the minimum planting densities according to the colour of the wines. These densities are stated for the designations authorised to produce red wines.

The single document has not been changed on account of these additions.

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(a), of the specification, the date of ‘25 October 2011’ has been specified for the effective application of the rule regarding the possibility of the density changing due to grubbing-up. It replaces the wording ‘on the date on which this specification was approved’.

This amendment requires the amendment of point 5 of the single document.

8.   Pruning rule

Pruning rule

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(b), of the specification, the previous rule for white wines regarding the number of buds per square metre of soil differed according to the grape varieties. This rule has been abolished and replaced by a single rule of 18 buds per plant.

This development makes it possible to harmonise the wording in the specifications of the Alsace designations of origin, and to simplify the methods of checking.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

The words ‘For white wines’ have been added at the start of the sentence. This is due to the application for recognition for still red wines submitted at national level for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

A pruning rule has been added for red wines, setting the maximum number of buds per plant at 14. This is less than the number authorised for white wine production. This rule makes it possible to comply with the rules on yields and to produce good-quality grapes.

The above amendments do not affect the single document.

9.   Rules on trellising and foliage height

Rules on trellising and foliage height

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(c), of the specification, the maximum height of the wires supporting the arched canes has been deleted, and the method of measuring the height of trellised foliage has been changed.

These amendments make it possible to verify that the foliage height is compliant as the plants grow. Previously this was possible only through a requirement relating to the support.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

10.   Average maximum crop load per parcel

Average maximum crop load per parcel

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(d), of the specification, the average maximum crop load per parcel for white wines has been reduced from 10 000 to 8 500 kilograms per hectare, reflecting the reduced yields for these wines.

An average maximum crop load per parcel has been established for red wines. It is less than that for white wine, reflecting the yields for red wines.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

11.   Ripeness of grapes and minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Ripeness of grapes and minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

In Chapter I, Section VII(2)(a), of the specification, the table has been amended. It now takes into account the application for recognition of still red wines submitted at national level for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

For these ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations for red wines, minimum levels have been established for the sugar content of the different grape varieties when harvested, and for their minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

For white wines, the minimum levels for the sugar content of the grapes have been increased by 2 or 3 grams per litre of must in order to respect the same 1 % variation with the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume for each grape variety, as in the previous version of the specification. The protection and management body has chosen to calculate the transformation of grams of sugar into alcohol on the basis of 17 grams of sugar producing 1 % alcohol by volume for white wines. The original version of the specification had used the figure of 16,83 grams. The amount of 17 grams had been recommended by the competent national committee of the INAO when the original version of the specifications was established.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

12.   Yields

Yields

In Chapter I, Section VIII(1) and (2), of the specification, the yields and upper yield limits have been reduced for white wines and white wines labelled ‘Vendanges Tardives’ [Late Harvest], in accordance with the hierarchy of designations in the Alsace region. This amendment will allow better quality control.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended for the maximum yields (upper yield limits).

The words ‘Vins blancs’ have been added for wines without a description. This is due to an application submitted at national level for recognition of still red wines for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

The yield and upper yield limit for red wines have been established in accordance with the hierarchy of designations of the Alsace regions, meaning that the amounts are lower for these ‘grand cru’ designations.

The latter amendments do not affect the single document.

13.   Malolactic fermentation, fermentable sugar content for red wines

Malolactic fermentation, fermentable sugar content for red wines

Chapter I, Section IX(1)(c), of the specification lays down that malolactic fermentation is carried out for red wines.

For the purpose of checking compliance with this rule, the maximum malic acid content has been established as 0,4 grams per litre at the time of packaging.

Section IX(1)(d) lays down a maximum content for fermentable sugars (glucose and fructose) of 2 grams per litre after fermentation.

The single document has not been amended.

14.   Increasing the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume prohibited for red wines

Increasing the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume prohibited for red wines

Chapter I, Section IX(1)(e), of the specification lays down that red wines must not be enriched in any way. This restriction applies to the production process. It is consistent with demarcation of parcels for grape-growing, minimum planting density, pruning rules and restricted yields.

The single document has not been amended.

15.   Capacity of the winery

Capacity of the winery

In Chapter I, Section IX(1)(g), of the specification, the coefficient for calculating the capacity of the winery has been reduced.

The capacity of the winery does not need to be as large in proportion to the volume of the preceding harvest.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

16.   Date of maturing and placing on the market for consumers in the case of red wines

Date of maturing and placing on the market for consumers in the case of red wines

In Chapter I, Section IX(2), of the specification, a minimum maturation period has been established for red wines: until 1 October of the year following the harvest. Wines made with grapes of the variety Pinot Noir N from these vineyards need a minimum period in order to fully express their characteristics.

In Chapter I, Section IX(5)(a), it is stated that, following the maturation period, red wines cannot be placed on the market for consumers until 1 October of the year following the harvest.

These amendments do not require any amendments to the single document.

17.   Checks on packaged batches

Checks on packaged batches

In Chapter I, Section IX(3)(b), of the specification, the rule has been abolished that required sample bottles to be kept for checks on packaged batches.

This rule is a measure of verifiability. It is now part of the checking plan.

The single document is not affected by this amendment.

18.   Storing packaged wines

Storing packaged wines

In Chapter I, Section IX(4), of the specification, further details have been provided of the characteristics of the place where packaged wines are stored.

This helps operators to comply with this rule, and makes checking easier.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

19.   Human factors contributing to the link with the geographical area

Human factors contributing to the link with the geographical area

In Chapter I, Section X(1)(b), of the specification, the text has been amended to take account of the fact that still red wines have been approved for the designations of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

| — | The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 500 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 500 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months.

| — | The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months.

In Section X(1)(b), information to the effect that these two designations of origin were recognised for white wines has been deleted. The words ‘for white wines’ have been added where necessary for understanding the text.

The single document has not been changed on account of these amendments.

The words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of the different varieties of Muscat à petits grains. This corrects an oversight in the previous version of the specification. These additions do not affect the single document.

20.   Description of the wine(s)

Description of the wine(s)

In Chapter I, Section X(2), of the specification, details have been added of the visual appearance of the white wines in order to characterise them more fully.

In the case of the first two types of wine described: ‘The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to golden yellow.’

Details of the last two types of wine: ‘The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.’

Point 4 of the single document has been amended.

A description of the main organoleptic characteristics of the red wines has been added for the designations of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

These descriptions do not affect the single document.

21.   Link with the geographical area

Link with the geographical area

In Chapter I, Section X(3), of the specification, for the designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’, there are details about the link between the geographical origin and the characteristics of the wines which could also apply to the red wines of this designation. These details have been supplemented by information specific to the red wines.

The single document has not been amended.

22.   Transitional measures

Transitional measures

In Chapter I, Section XI(2), of the specification, in accordance with the amendments to Chapter I, Section VI, the maximum height of the wires supporting the arched canes has been deleted and the maximum number of buds per plant has been reduced.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

23.   Requirement to state the sugar content on labelling and other formats giving information for white wines

Requirement to state the sugar content on labelling and other formats giving information for white wines

Under the previous specification, mention of the sugar content was optional. Chapter I, Section XII(2)(d), of the specification has been replaced by a new text making it obligatory to mention the sugar content as laid down in Regulation (EU) 2019/33.

This information makes it easier for consumers to understand the type of wine.

The new rule does not apply to wines bearing the traditional terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ [includes botrytised grapes].

Point 9 of the single document has been supplemented.

The original point (d) of Section XII(2) is now point (e).

This amendment does not affect the single document.

24.   Advance declaration of the assignment of parcels

Advance declaration of the assignment of parcels

In Chapter II, Section I(1), of the specification, a clarification has been added to the rules regarding the advance declaration of the assignment of parcels. Such declarations are submitted by operators to the protection and management body for the ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin when they cease production under the designation.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Name(s)

Alsace grand cru Brand

2.   Geographical indication type

Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected designation of origin

3.   Categories of grapevine products

Categories of grapevine products

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

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

Description of the wine(s)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The wines are still and white.

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 12,5 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 11 % for other varieties. After enrichment, the total alcoholic strength by volume of the wines does not exceed 15 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G, and 14 % for wines made from other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Excellent examples of white wines suitable for ageing, they are characterised by powerful freshness underpinned by dominant tartaric acid combined with beautifully ripened grapes. The name of the designation may be supplemented by the common names of the grape varieties, on condition that the wines are made exclusively from grape varieties that can be referred to using the names in question. These are wines of great substance and complexity, with powerful aromas and numerous subtleties. Very long in the mouth, they become more complex over time.

There are two types: — dry wines with minerality; — aromatic wines that are fruity, unctuous and rich. The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to golden yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

2.   Designation followed by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’

Designation followed by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 16 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 14,5 % for the other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Wines with the description ‘Vendanges Tardives’ often have very exotic aromas, of candied fruits with a fresh finish. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas. The colour of these wines is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

3.   Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 18,2 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 16,4 % for other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Wines entitled to be labelled ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ are more concentrated, powerful wines, often with aromas of candied fruits. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas. The colour of these wines is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5.   Wine-making practices

Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

Specific oenological practices

1.   Training systems: planting density

Training systems: planting density

Cultivation method

The minimum vine planting density is 4 500 plants per hectare.

The distance between the rows of vines must not exceed 2 metres.

Vines have an in-the-row spacing of no less than 0,75 metres and no more than 1,50 metres.

As of 25 October 2011, grubbing-up of rows within a parcel must not result in spacing wider than 3 metres between the rows.

2.   Training systems: pruning rule

Training systems: pruning rule

Cultivation method

The vines are pruned to single or double Guyot with a maximum of 18 buds per plant.

3.   Harvest

Harvest

Cultivation method

The wines are made from grapes harvested manually.

4.   Increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Specific oenological practice

Any increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed:

| | 0,5 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G, |
| --- | --- |

0,5 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G,

| | 1,5 % for wines made from other varieties. |
| --- | --- |

1,5 % for wines made from other varieties.

Wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ must not be enriched.

5.   Production

Production

Wine-making restriction

Use of wood chips is prohibited.

6.   Maturing the wines

Maturing the wines

Specific oenological practice

The wines must be matured until at least 1 June of the year following the harvest.

Wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ must be matured until at least 1 June of the second year following the harvest.

5.2.   Maximum yields

Maximum yields

1.   Yield – Designation with or without the additional term ‘Vendanges Tardives’

Yield – Designation with or without the additional term ‘Vendanges Tardives’

60 hectolitres per hectare

2.   Yield – Designation followed by the term ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Yield – Designation followed by the term ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

48 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

Demarcated geographical area

The grapes are harvested and the wines are produced, developed and matured in the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Ammerschwihr, Beblenheim, Bennwihr, Bergheim, Bergholtz, Eguisheim, Gueberschwihr, Guebwiller, Hattstatt, Hunawihr, Ingersheim, Katzenthal, Mittelwihr, Niedermorschwihr, Orschwihr, Pfaffenheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Rodern, Rouffach, Saint-Hippolyte, Soultzmatt, Thann, Turckheim, Vieux-Thann, Voegtlinshoffen, Westhalten, Wettolsheim, Wintzenheim, Wuenheim and Zellenberg. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Ammerschwihr, Beblenheim, Bennwihr, Bergheim, Bergholtz, Eguisheim, Gueberschwihr, Guebwiller, Hattstatt, Hunawihr, Ingersheim, Katzenthal, Mittelwihr, Niedermorschwihr, Orschwihr, Pfaffenheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Rodern, Rouffach, Saint-Hippolyte, Soultzmatt, Thann, Turckheim, Vieux-Thann, Voegtlinshoffen, Westhalten, Wettolsheim, Wintzenheim, Wuenheim and Zellenberg.

Municipalities partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipalities of Kientzheim and Sigolsheim.

| — | Department of Bas-Rhin: Andlau, Barr, Bergbieten, Blienschwiller, Dahlenheim, Dambach-la-Ville, Eichhoffen, Kintzheim, Marlenheim, Mittelbergheim, Molsheim, Nothalten, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett and Wolxheim. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Bas-Rhin: Andlau, Barr, Bergbieten, Blienschwiller, Dahlenheim, Dambach-la-Ville, Eichhoffen, Kintzheim, Marlenheim, Mittelbergheim, Molsheim, Nothalten, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett and Wolxheim.

A map defining the boundaries of the geographical area has been lodged with the municipal authorities of the partially included municipalities.

Maps of the geographical area can be accessed on the INAO website.

7.   Wine grape variety(-ies)

Wine grape variety(-ies)

| | Gewürztraminer Rs |
| --- | --- |

Gewürztraminer Rs

| | Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato

| | Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato

| | Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato

| | Pinot Gris G |
| --- | --- |

Pinot Gris G

| | Riesling B |
| --- | --- |

Riesling B

8.   Description of the link(s)

Description of the link(s)

Thanks to the favourable climate conditions characteristic of the vineyards of Alsace, the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Brand’ benefits from one of the best locations. Nestling in the picturesque countryside of Alsace, the vineyards enable the production of highly expressive wines, with distinctive character and unique personality.

The finesse of the granitic soils and the effect of the Foehn wind result in wines that are aromatic, very powerful and intense. The silica confers a lovely forward expression of acidity (‘steinglitz’). Occasional peppery notes, mouth-watering, element of bitterness.

The excellent climate conditions at the end of the season are favourable to concentration on the vine and to the development of the noble rot. As a result, it is possible to produce wines from grapes harvested when overripe.

The maturation period laid down in the specification allows the wines to improve.

There are strict rules relating to production, such as maintaining a broad canopy and harvesting by hand. By adopting these rules, the winegrowers of Alsace preserve the established character of the wines, which are known for their complexity and their suitability for long keeping.

They are the top of the range for this region. These wines are more prestigious than wines with the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace’.

The work by Médard Barth entitled Der Rebbau des Elsass und die Absatzgebieten seiner Weine, written in 1958, spoke highly of this lieu-dit, which today is famous.

Der Rebbau des Elsass und die Absatzgebieten seiner Weine

lieu-dit

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

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 the immediate vicinity, defined by derogation for winemaking, processing and maturing, comprises the territory of the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Bergholtz-Zell, Berrwiller, Buhl, Cernay, Colmar, Gundolsheim, Hartmanswiller, Herrlisheim, Houssen, Husseren-les-Châteaux, Jungholtz, Leimbach, Obermorschwihr, Osenbach, Ostheim, Rorschwihr, Soultz, Steinbach, Uffholtz, Walbach, Wattwiller, Wihr-au-Val and Zimmerbach. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Bergholtz-Zell, Berrwiller, Buhl, Cernay, Colmar, Gundolsheim, Hartmanswiller, Herrlisheim, Houssen, Husseren-les-Châteaux, Jungholtz, Leimbach, Obermorschwihr, Osenbach, Ostheim, Rorschwihr, Soultz, Steinbach, Uffholtz, Walbach, Wattwiller, Wihr-au-Val and Zimmerbach.

Municipalities partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipality of Kaysersberg.

| — | Department of Bas-Rhin: Albé, Avolsheim, Balbronn, Bernardswiller, Bernardvillé, Bischoffsheim, Boersch, Bourgheim, Châtenois, Cleebourg, Dachstein, Dangolsheim, Dieffenthal, Dorlisheim, Epfig, Ergersheim, Ernolsheim-Bruche, Fessenheim-le-Bas, Flexbourg, Furdenheim, Gertwiller, Gimbrett-Berstett, Goxwiller, Heiligenstein, Itterswiller, Kienheim, Kirchheim, Kuttolsheim, Mittelhausen, Mutzig, Nordheim, Oberhoffen-les-Wissenbourg, Obernai, Odratzheim, Orschwiller, Osthoffen, Ottrott, Petersbach, Reichsfeld, Riedseltz, Rosenwiller, Rosheim, Rott, Saint-Nabor, Saint-Pierre, Scherwiller, Seebach, Soultz-les-Bains, Steinseltz, Stotzheim, Strasbourg, Traenheim, Villé, Wangen, Westhoffen, Wissembourg and Zellwiller. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Bas-Rhin: Albé, Avolsheim, Balbronn, Bernardswiller, Bernardvillé, Bischoffsheim, Boersch, Bourgheim, Châtenois, Cleebourg, Dachstein, Dangolsheim, Dieffenthal, Dorlisheim, Epfig, Ergersheim, Ernolsheim-Bruche, Fessenheim-le-Bas, Flexbourg, Furdenheim, Gertwiller, Gimbrett-Berstett, Goxwiller, Heiligenstein, Itterswiller, Kienheim, Kirchheim, Kuttolsheim, Mittelhausen, Mutzig, Nordheim, Oberhoffen-les-Wissenbourg, Obernai, Odratzheim, Orschwiller, Osthoffen, Ottrott, Petersbach, Reichsfeld, Riedseltz, Rosenwiller, Rosheim, Rott, Saint-Nabor, Saint-Pierre, Scherwiller, Seebach, Soultz-les-Bains, Steinseltz, Stotzheim, Strasbourg, Traenheim, Villé, Wangen, Westhoffen, Wissembourg and Zellwiller.

Packaging in the area

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Packaging in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition

The wines are packaged in ‘Vin du Rhin’ bottles, in accordance with Decree No 55-673 of 20 May 1955, the Order of 13 May 1959 and the Decree of 19 March 1963. No other type of bottle is permitted.

Since the Law of 5 July 1972, the wines must be bottled in the departments of Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin in tall, thin ‘Vin du Rhin’ bottles, as laid down in the Decree of 1955.

Stating the vintage

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The vintage must appear, together with the name of the designation, in any harvest and stock declarations, supporting documents or publicity and on any leaflets, labels, invoices or containers.

Common name

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The name of the protected designation of origin may be supplemented by one of the common names of the grape varieties, on condition that the wines are made exclusively from grape varieties that can be referred to using the names in question.

Use of two or more common names on the same label is prohibited.

The common names are as follows:

| | Gewürztraminer |
| --- | --- |

Gewürztraminer

| | Muscat |
| --- | --- |

Muscat

| | Muscat Ottonel |
| --- | --- |

Muscat Ottonel

| | Pinot Gris |
| --- | --- |

Pinot Gris

| | Riesling. |
| --- | --- |

Riesling.

Traditional terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

For wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’, the following must also be stated:

| — | vintage |
| --- | --- |

—

vintage

| — | one of the common forms of the grape variety name. |
| --- | --- |

—

one of the common forms of the grape variety name.

Indication of the sugar content

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The sugar content, as defined by European law, must be clearly stated in the case of white wines for which one of the 51 protected designations of origin ‘Alsace Grand Cru – lieu-dit’ is claimed under the terms of this specification. This applies when such wines are presented under the aforementioned designation and made available to the public, dispatched, offered for sale or sold, which cannot happen unless the sugar content is stated in any publicity and on any leaflets, labels, invoices or containers. It does not apply to wines labelled ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’.

Link to the product specification

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-4cec3ff9-abd4-4253-a1db-245ddd809faa

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

1

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| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/41 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/41

---

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 374/09)

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

‘Alsace grand cru Zinnkoepflé’

PDO-FR-A0635-AM02

Date of communication: 20 July 2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Additional indication

In Chapter I, Section II(1), of the specification, the following common forms of the names of grape varieties have been added: ‘Sylvaner’ and ‘Pinot Noir’, with the corresponding official names, respectively: Sylvaner B and Pinot Noir N.

The common form ‘Sylvaner’ has been added to correct an oversight in the original version of the specification. The original version stated in Chapter I, Section X(1)(b), that the authorised varieties ‘can be made into wine and placed on the market under their respective common names’. However, the corresponding common form of the name was not included in the list of permitted common names. Prior to the approval of the original version of the specification, a national decision meant that Sylvaner B had been added to the varieties authorised for the production of wines with the designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Zotzenberg’. This took into account local custom and the reputation of these wines.

The common name ‘Pinot Noir’ has been added to the specification. This is because of an application submitted at national level for recognition of the still red wines of certain ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin. This application for the recognition of a red wine is based on long-standing practice, reputation and the characteristics of the wines produced with grapes of the variety Pinot Noir N grown on demarcated parcels of these ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations. Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised for these red wines.

Chapter I, Section II(1), of the specification concerns the varieties of Muscat à petits grains, commonly referred to as ‘Muscat’. The words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of these varieties, in order to correct an oversight in the previous version of the specification.

These amendments do not require any amendments to the single document.

2.   Types of product

In Chapter I, Section III, of the specification, the text has been amended to show that the protected designations of origin covered by the current specification no longer refer exclusively to still white wines.

The ‘Alsace grand cru’ protected designations of origin which cover red and white still wines are mentioned by name: ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

3.   Geographical area

In Chapter I, Section IV(1), of the specification, a paragraph has been added giving the dates on which the geographical area was approved by the relevant INAO (National Institute for Origin and Quality) committee. The new paragraph also refers to the 2021 Official Geographic Code as the source for the demarcation of the area boundary as it appears in the specification. Reference to the source gives legal certainty to the demarcation of the area.

As a result of the reference to the 2021 Official Geographic Code, the list of names of municipalities has been updated. The municipalities of Kientzheim and Sigolsheim have been abolished. Their territory is now part of the municipality of Kaysersberg Vignoble.

These editorial changes do not affect the boundary of the geographical area.

The following sentences have also been added to Section IV(1):

‘Maps of the geographical area can be accessed on the INAO website.

A map defining the boundaries of the geographical area has been lodged with the municipal authorities in the case of the partially included municipality.’

These amendments require the amendment of point 6 of the single document.

4.   Demarcated parcel area

Demarcated parcel area

In Chapter I, Section IV(2), of the specification:

| — | in order to correct an oversight, the words ‘6 and 7 September 2006’ have been added to the first paragraph. This is a date on which the parcel area was approved by the relevant national committee; |
| --- | --- |

—

in order to correct an oversight, the words ‘6 and 7 September 2006’ have been added to the first paragraph. This is a date on which the parcel area was approved by the relevant national committee;

| — | in the second paragraph, the wording has been amended to take into account the changes made to the names of municipalities in Section IV(1); |
| --- | --- |

—

in the second paragraph, the wording has been amended to take into account the changes made to the names of municipalities in Section IV(1);

| — | the ‘Municipalities’ column in the table has been updated to correspond to the names of municipalities mentioned in Section IV(1). |
| --- | --- |

—

the ‘Municipalities’ column in the table has been updated to correspond to the names of municipalities mentioned in Section IV(1).

These amendments do not affect the single document.

5.   Area in immediate proximity

Area in immediate proximity

In Chapter I, Section IV(3), of the specification, a paragraph has been amended to give the 2021 Official Geographic Code as the source for the demarcation of the area boundary as it appears in the specification. Reference to the source gives legal certainty to the demarcation of the area.

As a result of the reference to the 2021 Official Geographic Code, the list of names of municipalities has been updated. The name of the municipality of Kaysersberg has been deleted and that of Kaysersberg Vignoble added, together with the information that the only part of this municipality included is that belonging to the delegated municipality of Kaysersberg.

These editorial changes do not affect the boundary of the area in immediate proximity.

These amendments require the amendment of point 9 of the single document.

6.   Vine varieties

Vine varieties

In Chapter I, Section V(1)(a), of the specification, two phrases have been added: ‘— for white wines:’ and ‘— for red wines: from grape variety Pinot Noir N’. This is because an application for recognition of the still red wines was submitted at national level for certain ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin. Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised for these red wines. It is also the only variety authorised for the production of red wine in the ‘Alsace’ designation of origin.

In Sections V(1)(a), (b) and (e) and V(2)(b), the words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of the different varieties of Muscat à petits grains. This corrects an oversight in the previous version of the specification.

The single document has not been changed on account of these amendments.

7.   Planting density

Planting density

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(a), of the specification, the following phrases have been added: ‘For white wine production’ and ‘For red wine production’. This is to distinguish between the minimum planting densities according to the colour of the wines. These densities are stated for the designations authorised to produce red wines.

The single document has not been changed on account of these additions.

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(a), of the specification, the date of ‘25 October 2011’ has been specified for the effective application of the rule regarding the possibility of the density changing due to grubbing-up. It replaces the wording ‘on the date on which this specification was approved’.

This amendment requires the amendment of point 5 of the single document.

8.   Pruning rule

Pruning rule

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(b), of the specification, the previous rule for white wines regarding the number of buds per square metre of soil differed according to the grape varieties. This rule has been abolished and replaced by a single rule of 18 buds per plant.

This development makes it possible to harmonise the wording in the specifications of the Alsace designations of origin, and to simplify the methods of checking.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

The words ‘For white wines’ have been added at the start of the sentence. This is due to the application for recognition for still red wines submitted at national level for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

A pruning rule has been added for red wines, setting the maximum number of buds per plant at 14. This is less than the number authorised for white wine production. This rule makes it possible to comply with the rules on yields and to produce good-quality grapes.

The above amendments do not affect the single document.

9.   Rules on trellising and foliage height

Rules on trellising and foliage height

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(c), of the specification, the maximum height of the wires supporting the arched canes has been deleted, and the method of measuring the height of trellised foliage has been changed.

These amendments make it possible to verify that the foliage height is compliant as the plants grow. Previously this was possible only through a requirement relating to the support.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

10.   Average maximum crop load per parcel

Average maximum crop load per parcel

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(d), of the specification, the average maximum crop load per parcel for white wines has been reduced from 10 000 to 8 500 kilograms per hectare, reflecting the reduced yields for these wines.

An average maximum crop load per parcel has been established for red wines. It is less than that for white wine, reflecting the yields for red wines.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

11.   Ripeness of grapes and minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Ripeness of grapes and minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

In Chapter I, Section VII(2)(a), of the specification, the table has been amended. It now takes into account the application for recognition of still red wines submitted at national level for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

For these ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations for red wines, minimum levels have been established for the sugar content of the different grape varieties when harvested, and for their minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

For white wines, the minimum levels for the sugar content of the grapes have been increased by 2 or 3 grams per litre of must in order to respect the same 1 % variation with the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume for each grape variety, as in the previous version of the specification. The protection and management body has chosen to calculate the transformation of grams of sugar into alcohol on the basis of 17 grams of sugar producing 1 % alcohol by volume for white wines. The original version of the specification had used the figure of 16,83 grams. The amount of 17 grams had been recommended by the competent national committee of the INAO when the original version of the specifications was established.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

12.   Yields

Yields

In Chapter I, Section VIII(1) and (2), of the specification, the yields and upper yield limits have been reduced for white wines and white wines labelled ‘Vendanges Tardives’ [Late Harvest], in accordance with the hierarchy of designations in the Alsace region. This amendment will allow better quality control.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended for the maximum yields (upper yield limits).

The words ‘Vins blancs’ have been added for wines without a description. This is due to an application submitted at national level for recognition of still red wines for some ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin.

The yield and upper yield limit for red wines have been established in accordance with the hierarchy of designations of the Alsace regions, meaning that the amounts are lower for these ‘grand cru’ designations.

The latter amendments do not affect the single document.

13.   Malolactic fermentation, fermentable sugar content for red wines

Malolactic fermentation, fermentable sugar content for red wines

Chapter I, Section IX(1)(c), of the specification lays down that malolactic fermentation is carried out for red wines.

For the purpose of checking compliance with this rule, the maximum malic acid content has been established as 0,4 grams per litre at the time of packaging.

Section IX(1)(d) lays down a maximum content for fermentable sugars (glucose and fructose) of 2 grams per litre after fermentation.

The single document has not been amended.

14.   Increasing the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume prohibited for red wines

Increasing the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume prohibited for red wines

Chapter I, Section IX(1)(e), of the specification lays down that red wines must not be enriched in any way. This restriction applies to the production process. It is consistent with demarcation of parcels for grape-growing, minimum planting density, pruning rules and restricted yields.

The single document has not been amended.

15.   Capacity of the winery

Capacity of the winery

In Chapter I, Section IX(1)(g), of the specification, the coefficient for calculating the capacity of the winery has been reduced.

The capacity of the winery does not need to be as large in proportion to the volume of the preceding harvest.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

16.   Date of maturing and placing on the market for consumers in the case of red wines

Date of maturing and placing on the market for consumers in the case of red wines

In Chapter I, Section IX(2), of the specification, a minimum maturation period has been established for red wines: until 1 October of the year following the harvest. Wines made with grapes of the variety Pinot Noir N from these vineyards need a minimum period in order to fully express their characteristics.

In Chapter I, Section IX(5)(a), it is stated that, following the maturation period, red wines cannot be placed on the market for consumers until 1 October of the year following the harvest.

These amendments do not require any amendments to the single document.

17.   Checks on packaged batches

Checks on packaged batches

In Chapter I, Section IX(3)(b), of the specification, the rule has been abolished that required sample bottles to be kept for checks on packaged batches.

This rule is a measure of verifiability. It is now part of the checking plan.

The single document is not affected by this amendment.

18.   Storing packaged wines

Storing packaged wines

In Chapter I, Section IX(4), of the specification, further details have been provided of the characteristics of the place where packaged wines are stored.

This helps operators to comply with this rule, and makes checking easier.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

19.   Human factors contributing to the link with the geographical area

Human factors contributing to the link with the geographical area

In Chapter I, Section X(1)(b), of the specification, the text has been amended to take account of the fact that still red wines have been approved for the designations of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

| — | The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 500 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 500 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months.

| — | The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The following information has been added for the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’: red wines approved in 2022; Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised; the minimum planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare for the production of red wine; enrichment is not permitted in any form; there must be a minimum maturing period of 10 months.

In Section X(1)(b), information to the effect that these two designations of origin were recognised for white wines has been deleted. The words ‘for white wines’ have been added where necessary for understanding the text.

The single document has not been changed on account of these amendments.

The words ‘blancs’ and ‘roses’ have been added to the names of the different varieties of Muscat à petits grains. This corrects an oversight in the previous version of the specification. These additions do not affect the single document.

20.   Description of the wine(s):

Description of the wine(s):

In Chapter I, Section X(2), of the specification, details have been added of the visual appearance of the white wines in order to characterise them more fully.

In the case of the first two types of wine described: ‘The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to golden yellow.’

Details of the last two types of wine: ‘The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.’

Point 4 of the single document has been amended.

A description of the main organoleptic characteristics of the red wines has been added for the designations of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’ and ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’.

These descriptions do not affect the single document.

21.   Link with the geographical area

Link with the geographical area

In Chapter I, Section X(3), of the specification, for the designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Hengst’, there are details about the link between the geographical origin and the characteristics of the wines which could also apply to the red wines of this designation. These details have been supplemented by information specific to the red wines.

The single document has not been amended.

22.   Transitional measures

Transitional measures

In Chapter I, Section XI(2), of the specification, in accordance with the amendments to Chapter I, Section VI, the maximum height of the wires supporting the arched canes has been deleted and the maximum number of buds per plant has been reduced.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

23.   Requirement to state the sugar content on labelling and other formats giving information for white wines

Requirement to state the sugar content on labelling and other formats giving information for white wines

Under the previous specification, mention of the sugar content was optional. Chapter I, Section XII(2)(d), of the specification has been replaced by a new text making it obligatory to mention the sugar content as laid down in Regulation (EU) 2019/33.

This information makes it easier for consumers to understand the type of wine.

The new rule does not apply to wines bearing the traditional terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ [includes botrytised grapes].

Point 9 of the single document has been supplemented.

The original point (d) of Section XII(2) is now point (e).

This amendment does not affect the single document.

24.   Advance declaration of the assignment of parcels

Advance declaration of the assignment of parcels

In Chapter II, Section I(1), of the specification, a clarification has been added to the rules regarding the advance declaration of the assignment of parcels. Such declarations are submitted by operators to the protection and management body for the ‘Alsace grand cru’ designations of origin when they cease production under the designation.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Name(s)

Alsace grand cru Zinnkoepflé

2.   Geographical indication type

Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected designation of origin

3.   Categories of grapevine products

Categories of grapevine products

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

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

Description of the wine(s)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The wines are still and white.

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 12,5 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 11 % for other varieties. After enrichment, the total alcoholic strength by volume of the wines does not exceed 15 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G, and 14 % for wines made from other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Excellent examples of white wines suitable for ageing, they are characterised by powerful freshness underpinned by dominant tartaric acid combined with beautifully ripened grapes. The name of the designation may be supplemented by the common names of the grape varieties, on condition that the wines are made exclusively from grape varieties that can be referred to using the names in question. These are wines of great substance and complexity, with powerful aromas and numerous subtleties. Very long in the mouth, they become more complex over time.

There are two types: — dry wines with minerality; — aromatic wines that are fruity, unctuous and rich. The colour of these two types of wine is deep and intense and ranges to golden yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

2.   Designation followed by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’

Designation followed by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 16 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 14,5 % for the other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Wines with the description ‘Vendanges Tardives’ often have very exotic aromas, of candied fruits with a fresh finish. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas. The colour of these wines is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

3.   Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 18,2 % for Gewürztraminer Rs and Pinot Gris G, and 16,4 % for other varieties.

The other analytical characteristics are as laid down by EU legislation.

Wines entitled to be labelled ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ are more concentrated, powerful wines, often with aromas of candied fruits. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas. The colour of these wines is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | in milliequivalents per litre |
| 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

in milliequivalents per litre

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5.   Wine-making practices

Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

Specific oenological practices

1.   Training systems: planting density

Training systems: planting density

Specific oenological practice

The minimum vine planting density is 4 500 plants per hectare.

The distance between the rows of vines must not exceed 2 metres.

Vines have an in-the-row spacing of no less than 0,75 metres and no more than 1,50 metres.

As of 25 October 2011, grubbing-up of rows within a parcel must not result in spacing wider than 3 metres between the rows.

2.   Training systems: pruning rule

Training systems: pruning rule

Cultivation method

The vines are pruned to single or double Guyot with a maximum of 18 buds per plant.

3.   Harvest

Harvest

Cultivation method

The wines are made from grapes harvested manually.

4.   Increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume

Specific oenological practice

Any increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed:

| | 0,5 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G, |
| --- | --- |

0,5 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G,

| | 1,5 % for wines made from other varieties. |
| --- | --- |

1,5 % for wines made from other varieties.

Wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ must not be enriched.

5.   Production

Production

Wine-making restriction

Use of wood chips is prohibited.

6.   Maturing the wines

Maturing the wines

Specific oenological practice

The wines must be matured until at least 1 June of the year following the harvest.

Wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ must be matured until at least 1 June of the second year following the harvest.

5.2.   Maximum yields

Maximum yields

1.   Designation with or without the additional term ‘Vendanges Tardives’

Designation with or without the additional term ‘Vendanges Tardives’

60 hectolitres per hectare

2.   Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

48 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

Demarcated geographical area

The grapes are harvested and the wines are produced, developed and matured in the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Ammerschwihr, Beblenheim, Bennwihr, Bergheim, Bergholtz, Eguisheim, Gueberschwihr, Guebwiller, Hattstatt, Hunawihr, Ingersheim, Katzenthal, Mittelwihr, Niedermorschwihr, Orschwihr, Pfaffenheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Rodern, Rouffach, Saint-Hippolyte, Soultzmatt, Thann, Turckheim, Vieux-Thann, Voegtlinshoffen, Westhalten, Wettolsheim, Wintzenheim, Wuenheim and Zellenberg. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Ammerschwihr, Beblenheim, Bennwihr, Bergheim, Bergholtz, Eguisheim, Gueberschwihr, Guebwiller, Hattstatt, Hunawihr, Ingersheim, Katzenthal, Mittelwihr, Niedermorschwihr, Orschwihr, Pfaffenheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Rodern, Rouffach, Saint-Hippolyte, Soultzmatt, Thann, Turckheim, Vieux-Thann, Voegtlinshoffen, Westhalten, Wettolsheim, Wintzenheim, Wuenheim and Zellenberg.

Municipalities partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipalities of Kientzheim and Sigolsheim.

| — | Department of Bas-Rhin: Andlau, Barr, Bergbieten, Blienschwiller, Dahlenheim, Dambach-la-Ville, Eichhoffen, Kintzheim, Marlenheim, Mittelbergheim, Molsheim, Nothalten, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett and Wolxheim. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Bas-Rhin: Andlau, Barr, Bergbieten, Blienschwiller, Dahlenheim, Dambach-la-Ville, Eichhoffen, Kintzheim, Marlenheim, Mittelbergheim, Molsheim, Nothalten, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett and Wolxheim.

A map defining the boundaries of the geographical area has been lodged with the municipal authorities of the partially included municipalities.

Maps of the geographical area can be accessed on the INAO website.

7.   Wine grape variety(-ies)

Wine grape variety(-ies)

| | Gewürztraminer Rs |
| --- | --- |

Gewürztraminer Rs

| | Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato

| | Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato

| | Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato |
| --- | --- |

Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato

| | Pinot Gris G |
| --- | --- |

Pinot Gris G

| | Riesling B |
| --- | --- |

Riesling B

8.   Description of the link(s)

Description of the link(s)

Thanks to the favourable climate conditions characteristic of the vineyards of Alsace, the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace grand cru Zinnkoepflé’ benefits from one of the best locations. Nestling in the picturesque countryside of Alsace, the vineyards enable the production of highly expressive wines, with distinctive character and unique personality.

The shelly limestone subsoil, steep slopes and low rainfall give rise to mouth-watering wines with spicy, slightly smoky and saline notes. Powerful and generous, they are underpinned by a pleasant acid structure and can easily be aged for more than ten years.

The excellent climate conditions at the end of the season are favourable to concentration on the vine and to the development of the noble rot. As a result, it is possible to produce wines from grapes harvested when overripe.

The maturation period laid down in the specification allows the wines to improve.

There are strict rules relating to production, such as maintaining a broad canopy and harvesting by hand. By adopting these rules, the winegrowers of Alsace preserve the established character of the wines, which are known for their complexity and their suitability for long keeping.

They are the top of the range for this region. These wines are more prestigious than wines with the protected designation of origin ‘Alsace’.

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

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 the immediate vicinity, defined by derogation for winemaking, processing and maturing, comprises the territory of the following municipalities, based on the 2021 Official Geographic Code:

| — | Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Bergholtz-Zell, Berrwiller, Buhl, Cernay, Colmar, Gundolsheim, Hartmanswiller, Herrlisheim, Houssen, Husseren-les-Châteaux, Jungholtz, Leimbach, Obermorschwihr, Osenbach, Ostheim, Rorschwihr, Soultz, Steinbach, Uffholtz, Walbach, Wattwiller, Wihr-au-Val and Zimmerbach. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Haut-Rhin: Entire municipalities: Bergholtz-Zell, Berrwiller, Buhl, Cernay, Colmar, Gundolsheim, Hartmanswiller, Herrlisheim, Houssen, Husseren-les-Châteaux, Jungholtz, Leimbach, Obermorschwihr, Osenbach, Ostheim, Rorschwihr, Soultz, Steinbach, Uffholtz, Walbach, Wattwiller, Wihr-au-Val and Zimmerbach.

Municipalities partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipality of Kaysersberg.

| — | Department of Bas-Rhin: Albé, Avolsheim, Balbronn, Bernardswiller, Bernardvillé, Bischoffsheim, Boersch, Bourgheim, Châtenois, Cleebourg, Dachstein, Dangolsheim, Dieffenthal, Dorlisheim, Epfig, Ergersheim, Ernolsheim-Bruche, Fessenheim-le-Bas, Flexbourg, Furdenheim, Gertwiller, Gimbrett-Berstett, Goxwiller, Heiligenstein, Itterswiller, Kienheim, Kirchheim, Kuttolsheim, Mittelhausen, Mutzig, Nordheim, Oberhoffen-les-Wissenbourg, Obernai, Odratzheim, Orschwiller, Osthoffen, Ottrott, Petersbach, Reichsfeld, Riedseltz, Rosenwiller, Rosheim, Rott, Saint-Nabor, Saint-Pierre, Scherwiller, Seebach, Soultz-les-Bains, Steinseltz, Stotzheim, Strasbourg, Traenheim, Villé, Wangen, Westhoffen, Wissembourg and Zellwiller. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Bas-Rhin: Albé, Avolsheim, Balbronn, Bernardswiller, Bernardvillé, Bischoffsheim, Boersch, Bourgheim, Châtenois, Cleebourg, Dachstein, Dangolsheim, Dieffenthal, Dorlisheim, Epfig, Ergersheim, Ernolsheim-Bruche, Fessenheim-le-Bas, Flexbourg, Furdenheim, Gertwiller, Gimbrett-Berstett, Goxwiller, Heiligenstein, Itterswiller, Kienheim, Kirchheim, Kuttolsheim, Mittelhausen, Mutzig, Nordheim, Oberhoffen-les-Wissenbourg, Obernai, Odratzheim, Orschwiller, Osthoffen, Ottrott, Petersbach, Reichsfeld, Riedseltz, Rosenwiller, Rosheim, Rott, Saint-Nabor, Saint-Pierre, Scherwiller, Seebach, Soultz-les-Bains, Steinseltz, Stotzheim, Strasbourg, Traenheim, Villé, Wangen, Westhoffen, Wissembourg and Zellwiller.

Packaging in the area

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Packaging in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition

The wines are packaged in ‘Vin du Rhin’ bottles, in accordance with Decree No 55-673 of 20 May 1955, the Order of 13 May 1959 and the Decree of 19 March 1963. No other type of bottle is permitted.

Since the Law of 5 July 1972, the wines must be bottled in the departments of Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin in tall, thin ‘Vin du Rhin’ bottles, as laid down in the Decree of 1955.

Stating the vintage

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The vintage must appear, together with the name of the designation, in any harvest and stock declarations, supporting documents or publicity and on any leaflets, labels, invoices or containers.

Common name

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The name of the protected designation of origin may be supplemented by one of the common names of the grape varieties, on condition that the wines are made exclusively from grape varieties that can be referred to using the names in question.

Use of two or more common names on the same label is prohibited.

The common names are as follows:

| | Gewürztraminer |
| --- | --- |

Gewürztraminer

| | Muscat |
| --- | --- |

Muscat

| | Muscat Ottonel |
| --- | --- |

Muscat Ottonel

| | Pinot Gris |
| --- | --- |

Pinot Gris

| | Riesling. |
| --- | --- |

Riesling.

Traditional terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

For wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’, the following must also be stated:

| — | vintage |
| --- | --- |

—

vintage

| — | one of the common forms of the grape variety name. |
| --- | --- |

—

one of the common forms of the grape variety name.

Indication of the sugar content

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

The sugar content, as defined by European law, must be clearly stated in the case of white wines for which one of the 51 protected designations of origin ‘Alsace Grand Cru – lieu-dit’ is claimed under the terms of this specification. This applies when such wines are presented under the aforementioned designation and made available to the public, dispatched, offered for sale or sold, which cannot happen unless the sugar content is stated in any publicity and on any leaflets, labels, invoices or containers. It does not apply to wines labelled ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’.

Link to the product specification

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-4cec3ff9-abd4-4253-a1db-245ddd809faa

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

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| 30.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 374/52 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 374/52

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Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 374/10)

This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).

COMMUNICATION OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT TO THE SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Bandol’

PDO-FR-A0485-AM01

Date of communication: 7 July 2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Geographical area

The specification for the designation ‘Bandol’ has been amended in Chapter I, Section IV(2) [sic], ‘Areas and places in which the various operations are conducted’, point (1) ‘Geographical area’ in order to include the reference to the 2020 Official Geographical Code, which recognises and lists the municipalities by department at national level. This editorial amendment allows the geographical area to be identified with reference to the 2020 version of the Official Geographical Code, which is updated by the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE), and gives the definition of the geographical area legal certainty.

| ‘(1) | — Geographical area
  All stages of production, from the grape harvest, wine-making, conditioning and maturing, take place in the geographical area, in the territory of the following municipalities of the department of Var, based on the 2020 Official Geographical Code: Bandol, Le Beausset, La Cadière-d’Azur, Le Castellet, Evenos, Ollioules, Sanary-sur-Mer and Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer.’ |
| --- | --- |

‘(1)

— Geographical area

All stages of production, from the grape harvest, wine-making, conditioning and maturing, take place in the geographical area, in the territory of the following municipalities of the department of Var, based on the 2020 Official Geographical Code: Bandol, Le Beausset, La Cadière-d’Azur, Le Castellet, Evenos, Ollioules, Sanary-sur-Mer and Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer.’

In the single document, this amendment appears under ‘Demarcated geographical area’.

2.   Demarcated parcel area

The specification for the designation ‘Bandol’ has been amended in Chapter I, Section IV(2), ‘Areas and places in which the various operations are conducted’, point (2) ‘Demarcated parcel area’, in order to add dates of approval by the national authority for parcels suitable for producing grapes of the designation.

This addition does not affect the single document.

3.   Vine training – Irrigation

Chapter I of the specification for the designation ‘Bandol’ has been extended at Section VI, ‘Vine training’, with the addition of a third point authorising irrigation.

Use of irrigation has been added to the single document under ‘Wine-making practices’.

4.   Date for circulation of wines between authorised warehouses

The specification has been amended at Chapter I, Section IX, ‘Processing, conditioning, maturation, packaging, storage’, at (5)(b) to delete dates establishing the period during which the wines cannot circulate between merchants and traders before being made available for consumption. The purpose is to allow the wines to circulate between all operators and to remove any risk of unfair competition.

This deletion does not affect the single document.

5.   Transitional measures

The specification for the ‘Bandol’ designation has been amended at Chapter I, Section XI, ‘Transitional measures’, in order to delete (1) and (3) on the transitional measures that are no longer applicable. Point (1) established the proportions of the different grape varieties: Mourvèdre up until the 2014 harvest, and Clairette and Sauvignon until the 2011 harvest.

This provision does not affect the single document.

Point (3) established 1 January 2013 as the date of entry into force of the prohibition on the use of pump-crushers. Removal of this date does not affect the single document since this prohibition appears in the single document under ‘Specific oenological practices’.

6.   Main points to be checked

The table in Chapter III of the specification has been updated to include the points of the specification to be checked.

This update does not affect the single document.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Bandol

2.   Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected Designation of Origin

3.   Categories of grapevine products

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

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

1.   Analytical description of the products

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

Wines of the designation ‘Bandol’ are still wines that are red, rosé or white.

The white and rosé wines have a minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of 11,5 %.

The red wines have a minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of 12 %.

At the time of packaging, the red wines have a maximum malic acid content of 0,4 grams per litre.

After fermentation, the wines have a maximum content of fermentable sugars (glucose and fructose) as follows:

| — | white and rosé wines – 3 grams per litre |
| --- | --- |

—

white and rosé wines – 3 grams per litre

| — | red wines with a maximum natural alcoholic strength by volume of 14 % – 3 grams per litre |
| --- | --- |

—

red wines with a maximum natural alcoholic strength by volume of 14 % – 3 grams per litre

| — | red wines with natural alcoholic strength by volume exceeding 14 % – 4 grams per litre. |
| --- | --- |

—

red wines with natural alcoholic strength by volume exceeding 14 % – 4 grams per litre.

The wines comply with the analytical criteria established in European legislation.

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

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.   Organoleptic description of the products

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The red wines require maturation. They are low-yield products from vines over 7 years old. The wines begin developing during the 18 months spent in wooden barrels, usually the large oval-shaped foudres. Mourvèdre N must represent at least 50 % of the blend of grape varieties used. It gives the wines their characteristics: they are powerful, full-bodied, tannic and can keep for a long time.

The rosé wines are increasingly prominent. They are made by direct pressing, short maceration or the saignée method, and are rose-pink in colour. Mourvèdre N must represent at least 20 % of the grapes used, the figure is often between 30 % and 40 %. This variety gives the wines a specific structure. More tannic than other rosé wines of Provence, they need a little more time to develop but can be kept for longer.

The white wines are principally made from Clairette B: at least 50 % of grapes used. The wines are light straw-yellow in colour with floral aromas. Production is more restricted than is the case for red and rosé wines. Nevertheless, they add to the image and balance of the controlled designation of origin.

| 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.

Cultivation method

| — | The minimum vine planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare. The spacing between the vine rows must not exceed 2,50 metres. |
| --- | --- |

—

The minimum vine planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare. The spacing between the vine rows must not exceed 2,50 metres.

| — | The area available for each plant must not exceed 2,5 square metres. This surface area is obtained by multiplying the spacing between the rows by the spacing between the plants. |
| --- | --- |

—

The area available for each plant must not exceed 2,5 square metres. This surface area is obtained by multiplying the spacing between the rows by the spacing between the plants.

| — | However, vines planted on terraces are permitted a maximum spacing of 2,5 metres between the top of each terraced bank (or wall), and the first row of plants on the terrace above, and the same between the foot of the bank and first row on the terrace below. |
| --- | --- |

—

However, vines planted on terraces are permitted a maximum spacing of 2,5 metres between the top of each terraced bank (or wall), and the first row of plants on the terrace above, and the same between the foot of the bank and first row on the terrace below.

| — | The vines are spur pruned (using the gobelet or cordon de Royat method), with a maximum of 8 buds per plant. Each spur has a maximum of two buds. |
| --- | --- |

—

The vines are spur pruned (using the gobelet or cordon de Royat method), with a maximum of 8 buds per plant. Each spur has a maximum of two buds.

| — | Vines more than 30 years old can be pruned with a maximum of 12 buds per plant. |
| --- | --- |

—

Vines more than 30 years old can be pruned with a maximum of 12 buds per plant.

| — | Pruning takes place before 1 May. |
| --- | --- |

—

Pruning takes place before 1 May.

| — | The wines are made from grapes harvested manually. The grape bunches are transported to the winery intact. |
| --- | --- |

—

The wines are made from grapes harvested manually. The grape bunches are transported to the winery intact.

| — | Irrigation: In accordance with Article D. 645-5 of the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code, irrigation during the vine growing season is permitted only if persistent drought disrupts the proper physiological development of the vines and ripening of the grapes. |
| --- | --- |

—

Irrigation: In accordance with Article D. 645-5 of the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code, irrigation during the vine growing season is permitted only if persistent drought disrupts the proper physiological development of the vines and ripening of the grapes.

2.

Specific oenological practice

| — | Any heat treatment of the grape harvest at a temperature above 40 °C is prohibited. |
| --- | --- |

—

Any heat treatment of the grape harvest at a temperature above 40 °C is prohibited.

| — | The use of wood chips is prohibited. |
| --- | --- |

—

The use of wood chips is prohibited.

| — | For making rosé wines, use of oenological charcoal is permitted for the musts and new press wines still in fermentation within a limit of 10 % of the volume of rosé wines made by a given wine-grower for a specific harvest, at a maximum amount of 60 grams per hectolitre. |
| --- | --- |

—

For making rosé wines, use of oenological charcoal is permitted for the musts and new press wines still in fermentation within a limit of 10 % of the volume of rosé wines made by a given wine-grower for a specific harvest, at a maximum amount of 60 grams per hectolitre.

| — | Enrichment is entirely prohibited. |
| --- | --- |

—

Enrichment is entirely prohibited.

| — | Use of continuous fermentation tanks, continuous presses, centrifugal destemmers, screw-type separators of less than 750 millimetres in diameter, and piston-driven pump-crushers is prohibited.
  The wine-making practices followed must comply with EU rules and the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code, as well as with the above provisions. |
| --- | --- |

—

Use of continuous fermentation tanks, continuous presses, centrifugal destemmers, screw-type separators of less than 750 millimetres in diameter, and piston-driven pump-crushers is prohibited.

The wine-making practices followed must comply with EU rules and the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code, as well as with the above provisions.

5.2.   Maximum yields

| 1. | 40 hectolitres per hectare |
| --- | --- |

1.

40 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

All stages of production, from the grape harvest, wine-making, conditioning and maturing, take place in the geographical area, in the territory of the following municipalities of the department of Var, based on the 2020 Official Geographical Code: Bandol, Le Beausset, La Cadière-d’Azur, Le Castellet, Evenos, Ollioules, Sanary-sur-Mer and Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer.

7.   Wine grape variety(-ies)

Bourboulenc B – Doucillon blanc

Carignan N

Cinsaut N – Cinsault

Clairette B

Grenache N

Marsanne B

Mourvèdre N – Monastrell

Sauvignon B – Sauvignon blanc

Semillon B

Syrah N – Shiraz

Ugni Blanc B

Vermentino B – Rolle

8.   Description of the link(s)

8.1.   Description of the natural factors relevant to the link

The geographical area is demarcated around eight municipalities in the department of Var. It lies at the heart of a huge natural amphitheatre hollowed out by erosion and tectonic activity that affected the sediment, carbonate and reef formations, bringing them to the surface. In this way, a hilly landscape was formed, closed to the north and open to the Mediterranean Sea through the Gulf of Bandol.

This topography creates a particular Mediterranean climate protected from the Mistral, the cold north wind that is prevalent in Provence. Formed from arrangements of hills and foothills, the area receives an annual average of 3 000 hours of sunshine and 650 millimetres of rainfall. The already favourable climate is complemented by the moderating effect of being open to the Mediterranean, which tempers the hot summer sun and maintains a gentle humidity at night. This creates excellent ripening conditions for the grapes, especially Mourvèdre N. As a result, it is possible to produce red wines suitable for long keeping and maturation in wooden barrels, as well as characteristic rosé wines. At the same time, the conditions are also excellent for the grape variety Clairette B, making it possible to produce fine, structured white wines.

The most characteristic soils are rather shallow, whitish, poor in organic matter, sometimes rich in siliceous elements, always very stony and well drained, thus allowing excellent water circulation.

The landscape has been especially shaped by the cultivation of vines and olive trees, the result of perseverance on the part of generations of farmers. Down the centuries, they have known how best to plant on slopes and hills while maintaining a protective vegetative cover on the heights. In order to contain the soil and clear the land of stones, they have built innumerable dry-stone walls, known as ‘restanques’, thereby creating this characteristic landscape.

8.2.   Description of the human factors relevant to the link

In the fourth century BCE, the Phocaeans disembarked on the sheltered shores of what was to become their colony of ‘Terroeis’. In their amphorae, they brought with them the civilisation of vine and wine. Under the Roman Empire, ‘Terroeis’ would become ‘Torrentum’, between the municipalities of Saint-Cyr and Bandol. A number of wine-growing estates today hold remains of ancient Roman villas, with a wealth of archaeological evidence of organised viticultural activity: clay ovens for amphorae, wine-presses etc.

Numerous written sources attest to the continued existence of vine-growing, and the fame of the wines produced. These range from the orders of 1363 governing the circulation of grapes and wine, to the exemptions to restrictions on planting which were issued in 1731 in view of the nature of the terrain and the quality of the wines produced. There is further evidence in the form of architecture and place names, such as Le Vigneret or La Mourvèdriére.

As an example, in his 1827 treatise Œnologie de la Basse Provence, Tolozan made the connection between landscape and vine-growing: ‘The wine region of Bandol begins at the foot of the Cuges mountains and stretches south, ending in the Gulf of Bandol, some 12 kilometres in length. This valley is formed by a double row of hills that branch off to the west and enclose the great plain of Saint-Cyr, which slopes gently down to the shore of the Gulf of Lecques. [...] The slopes and the hills themselves are planted with vines.’ As proof of the cohesion of the sector, the author adds ‘The type of grape that dominates throughout, and is the essence of the wines of Bandol, is Mourvèdre, a very dark red grape.’

History has shown that these wines were known as wines for keeping, improving over time, especially during long sea crossings. Indeed, given the advantage of the sheltered bay of Bandol, wines produced within the geographical area were largely transported by boats, which remained anchored off the coast. The wine barrels loaded on board were branded with the letter ‘B’.

In a work of 1787 on the geography of Provence and ‘the Comté Venaissin, principality of Orange and Comté of Nice’ (Volume I, page 280), it says:

‘The soil of Bandol is very dry and stony. The principle product of the area is the red wine of the highest quality, highly prized for the Antilles. The port of Bandol is surely the safest and most convenient of the province.’

As the port of embarkation and a trading outlet for the wines of Bandol, the city itself was home to coopers. A resolution of the Municipal Council dated 1818 confirms that over 6 000 hectolitres of wine passed through the port of Bandol on its way to Italy, northern Europe and America. By the end of the Second Empire, no fewer than 80 000 barrels were produced annually in Bandol for storing and transporting some 160 000 hectolitres.

Therefore, in addition to the producers themselves, history shows that a human community built their lives around the production of wines.

The local vineyards did not escape the phylloxera crisis. However, their history, their fame and this strong community made a rapid recovery possible. In this way, they continued the ancient customs of planting on terraces, with appropriate training methods and planting density. The usual varieties continued to be used, with Mourvèdre N dominating, following by Grenache N and Cinsaut N in particular for red and rosé wines, and Clairette B, Bourboulenc B and Ugni Blanc B for white wines.

This community has thus preserved its history, strengthened its know-how and enhanced the reputation and quality of the wines of Bandol, recognised as a controlled designation of origin since 11 November 1941.

In 2009, the vineyards of Bandol covered 1 580 hectares, giving an average annual production of 50 000 hectolitres, distributed across 3 cellar cooperatives and 54 estates. The red wines require maturation. They are low-yield products, 40 hectolitres per hectare maximum, from vines over 7 years old. The wines begin developing during the 18 months spent in wooden barrels, usually the large oval-shaped foudres. Mourvèdre N must represent at least 50 % of the blend of grape varieties used. It gives the wines their characteristics: they are powerful, full-bodied, tannic and can keep for a long time.

foudres

8.3.   Causal interactions

Causal interactions

The climate is Mediterranean with maritime influences. The topography forms a natural amphitheatre open to the sea, which offers protection from the influences of wind and temperature coming from the north. The soil is clay and limestone, and very stony. All of these factors combine in the geographical area to produce a terrain and climate that confers excellent conditions on the vineyards of ‘Bandol’. Here, the grape variety Mourvèdre N finds its ecological niche par excellence, allowing it to achieve the perfect ripeness that ensures the originality and balance of the wines.

par excellence

In 1787, this particular link between the natural environment and the characteristics and quality of the wines produced had already been noted.

‘The especially mild and sheltered climate of Bandol and its immediately surrounding area; a sub-soil of clay and limestone with a good dose of calcium carbonate; the intense reflection of the sun’s rays on the slopes, which are sheltered from harsh winter frosts by their immediate proximity to the sea; the tiny droplets of sea-water enriched with salt and iodine in the air of this especially blessed region: these contribute to making the wines of this area into renowned products that the bards of Provence used to say were sunshine in a bottle.’

(La Géographie de la Provence et du Comtat Venaissin, Achard M., 1787, quoted by J.M. Marchandiau in ‘Gens et Vins du Bandol’ — 1991.)

La Géographie de la Provence et du Comtat Venaissin

Gens et Vins du Bandol

Reflecting established practice, the demarcated parcel area includes ‘the typical poor soils which have long established the reputation of the wines of Bandol’, while excluding ‘fertile and alluvial soils of the valleys, the overly-fertile alluvium at the foot of the hills, the pine plantations and the wooded areas’.

This demarcation allows for the vines to be managed most effectively. Vine vigour and potential production are controlled by the practice of maintaining low yields from spur pruning, and by managing planting densities adapted to the traditional terraces (restanques).

restanques

The tradition of harvesting grapes by hand, still upheld by ‘Bandol’ winegrowers today, helps preserve the originality and characteristics of these vineyards with their restanques.

restanques

As a result of production expertise, optimal ripeness conditions and the historical need for suitability for transport, the red wines of ‘Bandol’ have a structure that allows them to mature in wooden barrels for a long time, thus demonstrating their very considerable capacity for ageing.

The excellent conditions of this huge natural amphitheatre dedicated to wine-growing allowed the know-how to develop among the community of producers and consumers. It was therefore natural to see this know-how applied for the production and appreciation of rosé and white wines. While historically these were less important than the red wines, they are enjoying a growing reputation.

The production practices for the red wines, using Mourvèdre N grapes from vines at least 8 years old, mean that this variety can be used to produce rosé wines. The addition of Mourvèdre N gives the rosé wines a significant part of their identity.

This rigour and the technical procedure required for producing red wines are obviously also applied to the white grape varieties. This is what gives the white ‘Bandol’ wines a structure and balance that also enables them to age in a way that is characteristic in Provence.

In 2010, the reputation of Bandol was undeniable for all the products: the rosé and white wines having by then achieved the status of the red wines. As a significant part of its sales are outside of France, and for export, this controlled designation of origin allows its products to be widely appreciated.

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

Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition:

Wines eligible for the controlled designation of origin may specify a smaller geographical unit on their labels, provided that it is a place name listed in the land register and that it appears on the harvest declaration.

The place name as listed in the land register appears immediately after the name of the holding or the trade mark.

Link to the product specification

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-b6ff2938-f986-4dc0-bc3f-de1aefad4c1a

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

1

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