# Official Journal C 370/2022

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 370 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 6528 September 2022 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 370

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 6528 September 2022

---

| Contents | page |
| --- | --- |
| | IV   Notices |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 370/01 | Euro exchange rates — 27 September 2022 | 1 |

Contents

page

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2022/C 370/01

Euro exchange rates — 27 September 2022

1

---

| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 370/02 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10883 – BLACKSTONE / RIVEAN / ESDEC SOLAR GROUP) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 2 |
| 2022/C 370/03 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10902 – FEV CONSULTING / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / JV) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 4 |
| 2022/C 370/04 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10852 – 3D SYSTEMS / DUSSUR / JV) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 6 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 370/05 | 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 | 8 |
| 2022/C 370/06 | 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 | 21 |
| 2022/C 370/07 | 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 | 33 |
| 2022/C 370/08 | Publication of an application for registration of a name pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs | 45 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2022/C 370/02

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10883 – BLACKSTONE / RIVEAN / ESDEC SOLAR GROUP) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

2

2022/C 370/03

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10902 – FEV CONSULTING / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / JV) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

4

2022/C 370/04

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10852 – 3D SYSTEMS / DUSSUR / JV) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

6

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2022/C 370/05

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

8

2022/C 370/06

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

21

2022/C 370/07

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

33

2022/C 370/08

Publication of an application for registration of a name pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

45

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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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IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/1

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Euro exchange rates (1)

27 September 2022

(2022/C 370/01)

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 0,9644 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 139,28 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4366 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,89275 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 10,8533 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 0,9503 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 139,30 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 10,3473 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 24,661 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 406,65 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,7640 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,9444 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 17,8240 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,4859 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,3196 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 7,5704 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,6921 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,3838 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 370,06 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 17,2361 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 6,9156 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,5280 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 14 604,52 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,4466 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 56,933 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | |
| THB | Thai baht | 36,565 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 5,1235 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 19,5832 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 78,5740 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

0,9644

JPY

Japanese yen

139,28

DKK

Danish krone

7,4366

GBP

Pound sterling

0,89275

SEK

Swedish krona

10,8533

CHF

Swiss franc

0,9503

ISK

Iceland króna

139,30

NOK

Norwegian krone

10,3473

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

24,661

HUF

Hungarian forint

406,65

PLN

Polish zloty

4,7640

RON

Romanian leu

4,9444

TRY

Turkish lira

17,8240

AUD

Australian dollar

1,4859

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,3196

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

7,5704

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,6921

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,3838

KRW

South Korean won

1 370,06

ZAR

South African rand

17,2361

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

6,9156

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,5280

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

14 604,52

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,4466

PHP

Philippine peso

56,933

RUB

Russian rouble

THB

Thai baht

36,565

BRL

Brazilian real

5,1235

MXN

Mexican peso

19,5832

INR

Indian rupee

78,5740

---

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

---

V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/2

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.10883 – BLACKSTONE / RIVEAN / ESDEC SOLAR GROUP)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 370/02)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | Blackstone Inc. (‘Blackstone’) (United States of America), |
| --- | --- |

—

Blackstone Inc. (‘Blackstone’) (United States of America),

| — | Rivean Capital B.V. (‘Rivean’) (The Netherlands), |
| --- | --- |

—

Rivean Capital B.V. (‘Rivean’) (The Netherlands),

| — | Esdec Solar Group B.V. (‘Esdec’) (The Netherlands), currently solely controlled by Rivean. |
| --- | --- |

—

Esdec Solar Group B.V. (‘Esdec’) (The Netherlands), currently solely controlled by Rivean.

Blackstone and Rivean will acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) and 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of Esdec.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares.

2.

| — | Blackstone is a global alternative asset manager headquartered in the United States. |
| --- | --- |

—

Blackstone is a global alternative asset manager headquartered in the United States.

| — | Rivean is a European private equity investor, investing principally in medium-sized companies active in various sectors in Europe, in particular in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland. |
| --- | --- |

—

Rivean is a European private equity investor, investing principally in medium-sized companies active in various sectors in Europe, in particular in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland.

| — | Esdec is a supplier and distributor of professional solar panel mounting systems primarily for residential and commercial roofs, sold to wholesalers, EPC distributors, or directly to installers. Esdec is currently solely controlled by Rivean. |
| --- | --- |

—

Esdec is a supplier and distributor of professional solar panel mounting systems primarily for residential and commercial roofs, sold to wholesalers, EPC distributors, or directly to installers. Esdec is currently solely controlled by Rivean.

3.

Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

4.

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

M.10883 – BLACKSTONE / RIVEAN / ESDEC SOLAR GROUP

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

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

Fax +32 22964301

Postal address:

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

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

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

1

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

2

---

| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/4

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.10902 – FEV CONSULTING / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / JV)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 370/03)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | FEV Consulting GmbH (‘FEV’, Germany), controlled by FEV Group GmbH (‘FEV Group’, Germany), |
| --- | --- |

—

FEV Consulting GmbH (‘FEV’, Germany), controlled by FEV Group GmbH (‘FEV Group’, Germany),

| — | Mitsubishi Corporation (‘MC’, Japan), |
| --- | --- |

—

Mitsubishi Corporation (‘MC’, Japan),

| — | A newly created company (‘Target JV’, Japan). |
| --- | --- |

—

A newly created company (‘Target JV’, Japan).

FEV and MC will acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) and 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of Target JV.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares in a newly created company constituting a joint venture.

2.

| — | FEV: management consultancy services, |
| --- | --- |

—

FEV: management consultancy services,

| — | MC: trading company which develops and operates business across a variety of industries. |
| --- | --- |

—

MC: trading company which develops and operates business across a variety of industries.

3.

Target JV will be active in providing consulting and other services to material manufacturers in Japan.

4.

Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

5.

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

M.10902 – FEV CONSULTING / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / JV

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

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

Fax +32 22964301

Postal address:

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

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

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

1

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

2

---

| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/6

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.10852 – 3D SYSTEMS / DUSSUR / JV)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 370/04)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | 3D Systems, Inc. (‘3DS’, USA), ultimately owned by 3D Systems Corporation (USA) and 3D Canada Company (Canada), |
| --- | --- |

—

3D Systems, Inc. (‘3DS’, USA), ultimately owned by 3D Systems Corporation (USA) and 3D Canada Company (Canada),

| — | Saudi Arabian Industrail Investments Company (‘Dussur’, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), jointly controlled by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). |
| --- | --- |

—

Saudi Arabian Industrail Investments Company (‘Dussur’, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), jointly controlled by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia).

3DS and Dussur will acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) and Article 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of a newly created joint venture.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares in a newly created company constituting a joint venture.

2.

| — | for 3DS: the parent entity of a group of companies in the additive manufacturing/3D printing industry, |
| --- | --- |

—

for 3DS: the parent entity of a group of companies in the additive manufacturing/3D printing industry,

| — | for Dussur: a strategic investment company, engaged in strategic economic sectors for the development of multi-transformational industries in all industrial sectors including possession, development, construction, use, maintenance, sale, purchase, rent and lease of fixed and movable tangible and intangible assets. |
| --- | --- |

—

for Dussur: a strategic investment company, engaged in strategic economic sectors for the development of multi-transformational industries in all industrial sectors including possession, development, construction, use, maintenance, sale, purchase, rent and lease of fixed and movable tangible and intangible assets.

3.

The joint venture will be active in providing 3D printing services mainly within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

4.

Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

5.

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

M.10852 – 3D SYSTEMS / DUSSUR / JV

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

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

Fax +32 22964301

Postal address:

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

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

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

1

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

2

---

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/8 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/8

---

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 370/05)

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 Kirchberg de Barr’

PDO-FR-A0343-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.

This amendment does not lead to any changes to the single document.

The common name ‘Pinot Noir’ has been added because of an application submitted at national level for the recognition of still red wines under this designation of origin. This application for the recognition of a red wine under the ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’ designation 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 this ‘Alsace grand cru’ designation which was initially only recognised for white wines.

Pinot Noir N is the only variety authorised for these red wines.

This amendment requires the amendment of point 9 of the single document.

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.

This amendment does not lead to any changes 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’.

The single document has been amended in several places, in particular in point 4, due to the recognition of still red wines under the ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’ designation.

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

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

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

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.

The ‘Pinot Noir N’ wine grape variety has been added to the single document.

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 this amendment.

7.   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 following sentence has been added: For vines intended for the production of red wines eligible for the ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’ protected designation of origin, the minimum planting density is 5 000 plants per hectare.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

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

In Chapter I, Section VI(1)(b), of the specification, the previous rule for the production of 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.

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.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

9.   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

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

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 ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’, the minimum sugar content for the grapes at harvest has been set at 207 grams per litre of must for Pinot Noir N. The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume is 12 %.

The latter requires point 4 of the single document to be amended.

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.

This amendment does not affect the single document.

12.   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.

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.

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

13.   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.

Point 4 of the single document has been amended.

14.   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 and is possible as the grapes are harvested when perfectly ripe. This is achieved thanks to careful demarcation of the wine-growing area which comprises parcels sheltered from cool northerly winds, with very stony soils which drain well and warm up quickly, a relatively high planting density, use of the high trellising technique to train the vines and ensure an optimal canopy, and a strict pruning rule which enables yields to be controlled.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

15.   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

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.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

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.

This amendment does not lead to any changes to the single document.

17.   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

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

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 single document has not been changed on account of this amendment. |
| --- | --- |

—

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 single document has not been changed on account of this amendment.

| — | 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.
  Points 4, 5 and 7 of the single document have been amended.
  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.
  In Section X(1)(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. These additions do not affect the single document. |
| --- | --- |

—

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.

Points 4, 5 and 7 of the single document have been amended.

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.

In Section X(1)(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. These additions do not affect the single document.

20.   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.’

In Chapter I, Section X(2), 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’.

For ‘Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr’, the following text has been added:

‘These deep, dark red wines have a complex nose of black fruit and spice, a high acidity, volume but also great finesse. They have a long, saline finish and excellent ageing potential.’

Point 4 of the single document has been amended.

21.   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.

22.   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.

23.   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.

24.   Traditional terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ and common names

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

In point 9 ‘Additional conditions’ in the single document:

The heading ‘Traditional terms’ has been amended to specify the common names of the varieties eligible for the terms ‘Vendanges Tardives’ and ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’. This is due to the addition of the common name ‘Pinot Noir’ under the heading ‘Common name’.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Name(s)

Alsace grand cru Kirchberg de Barr

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)

1.   White wine

White wine

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume 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. They grow in complexity and develop balance based on their great mineral quality, finesse and length. There are two types: dry wines with minerality and 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’, white wine

Designation followed by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’, white wine

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. Their colour is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas.

| 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’, white wine

Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’, white wine

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. Their colour is deep and intense and ranges to amber yellow. They are remarkably concentrated with long-lasting aromas.

| 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)

4.   Red wine

Red wine

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The wines have a minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of 12 % for Pinot Noir N.

Malolactic fermentation is completed. At the packaging stage, the wines have a malic acid content not exceeding 0,4 grams per litre.

After fermentation, the wines have a fermentable sugar content not exceeding 2 grams per litre.

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

These deep, dark red wines have a complex nose of black fruit and spice, a high acidity, volume but also great finesse. They have a long, saline finish.

| 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

Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

Specific oenological practices

1.   Planting density

Planting density

Cultivation method

For the production of the white wines, the minimum vine planting density is 4 500 plants per hectare.

For the production of the red wines, the minimum vine planting density is 5 000 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.   Pruning rule

Pruning rule

Cultivation method

For white wines, the vines are pruned to single or double Guyot with a maximum of 18 buds per plant.

For red wines, the vines are pruned to single or double Guyot with a maximum of 14 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

For the white wines, the increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume may not exceed 0,5 % for wines made from the varieties Gewürztraminer B and Pinot Gris G, and 1,5 % for wines made from other varieties.

The white wines eligible for the term ‘Vendanges Tardives’ or ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’ and the red wines 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 white wines must be matured until at least 1 June of the year following the harvest.

The red wines must be matured until at least 1 October 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 followed or not by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’, white wine

Designation followed or not by the words ‘Vendanges Tardives’, white wine

60 hectolitres per hectare

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

Designation followed by the words ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’, white wine

48 hectolitres per hectare

3.   Red wine

Red wine

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

—

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.

Municipality 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.
  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. |
| --- | --- |

—

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

Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato

Pinot Gris G

Pinot Noir N

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 Kirchberg de Barr’ 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.

Protected from the north and established on soil that warms up quickly, the grand cru gives the wines their mineral and saline qualities and complex acidity.

Over time, the wines – to be opened relatively early and ageing slowly – develop an elegant nose, strength on the palate, length, freshness and a mineral quality.

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. Municipality partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipality of Kaysersberg. |
| --- | --- |

—

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. Municipality 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,

Muscat,

Muscat Ottonel,

Pinot Gris,

Pinot Noir,

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 following common forms of the grape variety name: |
| --- | --- |

—

one of the following common forms of the grape variety name:

Gewürztraminer,

Muscat,

Muscat Ottonel,

Pinot Gris,

Riesling.

Indication of the sugar content for the white wines

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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| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/21 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/21

---

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 370/06)

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

COMMUNICATING THE APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT

‘Alsace grand cru Froehn’

PDO-FR-A0384-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 Froehn

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)

1.

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: often golden yellow in colour with green tints, they have a winning fruitiness, while at the same time causing a strong salivation marked by a long, complex acidity; |
| --- | --- |

—

dry wines with minerality: often golden yellow in colour with green tints, they have a winning fruitiness, while at the same time causing a strong salivation marked by a long, complex acidity;

| — | aromatic wines that are fruity, unctuous and rich: often highly mature and golden yellow in colour, they tend to be rich in sugar, while maintaining an airy, digestible spirit.






  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) | |

—

aromatic wines that are fruity, unctuous and rich: often highly mature and golden yellow in colour, they tend to be rich in sugar, while maintaining an airy, digestible spirit.

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 system: planting density

Training system: 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.   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 Froehn’ 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 predominance of limestone and the depth of the soils produce aromatic, fruity, rich and complex wines with the same expression of acidity, accompanied by a significant degree of minerality that increases with ageing, regardless of the sweetness encountered.

The marls from the Lias on ferruginous calcareous sandstone – a distinctive feature of the Froehn grand cru – give the young wines breadth and generosity and the aged wines minerality.

The attack is tight and centred, before opening out and encapsulating the acidity with its substance.

The powerful character of the marls gives the rich wines a powerful, encapsulating structure, accompanied by a slight bitterness that gives length to the wine. The very mature wines take a long time to blossom. Though subtle, their palate is often marked by a pleasant salinity.

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

---

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

1

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| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/33 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/33

---

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 370/07)

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 Florimont’

PDO-FR-A0298-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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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):

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

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

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

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

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)

Alsace grand cru Florimont

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.

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’

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’

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

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

1.   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

Cultivation method

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

3.   Harvest

Cultivation method

The wines are made from grapes harvested manually.

4.   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,

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

Wine-making restriction

Use of wood chips is prohibited.

6.   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

1.   Upper yield limit – Designation with or without the additional term ‘Vendanges Tardives’

60 hectolitres per hectare

2.   Upper yield limit – Designation followed by the term ‘Sélection de Grains Nobles’

48 hectolitres per hectare

6.   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.
  Municipalities partially included: Kaysersberg Vignoble, only the territory of the delegated municipalities of Kientzheim and Sigolsheim. |
| --- | --- |

—

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.
  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. |
| --- | --- |

—

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)

Gewürztraminer Rs

Muscat Ottonel B – Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à petits grains blancs B – Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à petits grains roses Rs – Muscat, Moscato

Pinot Gris G

Riesling B

8.   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 Florimont’ 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.

Its climatic characteristics and the strength of its calcareous marls make Florimont an early, warm grand cru that produces powerful wines with great finesse. Their acidity provides structure.

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)

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

EU 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

Muscat

Muscat Ottonel

Pinot Gris

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 |
| --- | --- |

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vintage

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

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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

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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| 28.9.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 370/45 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

28.9.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 370/45

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Publication of an application for registration of a name pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

(2022/C 370/08)

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 51 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1) within three months from the date of this publication.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’

EU No: PDO-IS-2636 – 28/09/2020

PDO (X) PGI ( )

1.   Name(s) [of PDO or PGI]

‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’

2.   Member State or Third Country

Member State or Third Country

Iceland

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   Type of product

Type of product

Class 1.1 Fresh meat (and offal)

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

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

‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’ is the name given to the meat from pure bred Icelandic lambs, which have been born, raised and slaughtered in the island of Iceland in North Atlantic Ocean. Dressed carcass weighs 15-17 kg at 4-6 months when all lambs are slaughtered. The meat is dark red, tender with gamey flavor. The lamb may be marketed as a whole carcass or primal cuts (forequarter, rack, fillet, leg, chops, shanks etc.), fresh or frozen.

The principal distinctive characteristics of ‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’ are:

| — | Flavour: gamey. |
| --- | --- |

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Flavour: gamey.

| — | Percentage of stress impaired meat: 1-2 % with over 5,8 % ph 24. |
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Percentage of stress impaired meat: 1-2 % with over 5,8 % ph 24.

| — | Little toughness and tender back muscles. |
| --- | --- |

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Little toughness and tender back muscles.

| — | The proportion of omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipids: 16 %. |
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The proportion of omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipids: 16 %.

| — | The amount of muscle that does not contain phospholipids: 1 % of the weight of the muscle. |
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The amount of muscle that does not contain phospholipids: 1 % of the weight of the muscle.

| — | High amount of iron and B-vitamins, see table below.













  Cut | Edible % | Kcal | Protein g/100 g | Fat
  g/100 g | Vitamin B-1 mg/100 g | Vitamin B-2 mg/100 g | Iron
  mg/100 g | Zinc
  mg/100 g |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Forequarter | 76 | 283 | 15,1 | 25,1 | 0,2 | 0,3 | 1 | 3 |
| Rack | 78 | 335 | 15,8 | 30,6 | 0,1 | 0,2 | 1 | 2 |
| Fillet | 100 | 142 | 21,5 | 6,2 | 0,2 | 0,3 | 2 | 2 |
| Leg | 64 | 174 | 19,2 | 10,9 | 0,2 | 0,3 | 2 | 3 |
| Chops | 69 | 315 | 16,6 | 28 | 0,1 | 0,3 | 2 | 2 |
| Shanks | 76 | 171 | 17,9 | 11,1 | 0,2 | 0,3 | 2 | 3 |

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High amount of iron and B-vitamins, see table below.

Cut

Edible %

Kcal

Protein g/100 g

Fat

g/100 g

Vitamin B-1 mg/100 g

Vitamin B-2 mg/100 g

Iron

mg/100 g

Zinc

mg/100 g

Forequarter

76

283

15,1

25,1

0,2

0,3

1

3

Rack

78

335

15,8

30,6

0,1

0,2

1

2

Fillet

100

142

21,5

6,2

0,2

0,3

2

2

Leg

64

174

19,2

10,9

0,2

0,3

2

3

Chops

69

315

16,6

28

0,1

0,3

2

2

Shanks

76

171

17,9

11,1

0,2

0,3

2

3

3.3.   Feed (for products of animal origin only) and raw materials (for processed products only)

Feed (for products of animal origin only) and raw materials (for processed products only)

The lamb grazes on cultivated grassland or rangeland from spring until fall. Newborn lambs most commonly feed on cultivated grassland until wild pastures are considered fit for grazing. The majority of sheep are put onto wild rangeland two to four weeks after the lambing season. Wild pastures that are used for summer grazing in Iceland are either located on land belonging to farms or on rangeland. Therefore, all feed is entirely sourced from the geographical area.

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

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

All steps must take place in the identified geographical area.

3.5.   Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc. of the product the registered name refers to

Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc. of the product the registered name refers to

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3.6.   Specific rules concerning labelling of the product the registered name refers to

Specific rules concerning labelling of the product the registered name refers to

The Icelandic Lamb Marketing Board provides common promotional material, using the following collective mark: ‘Icelandic Lamb Roaming Free Since 874’.

Image 1

Both logo and promotional materials are optional.

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

Concise definition of the geographical area

The geographical area is the island of Iceland in the North Atlantic Ocean.

5.   Link with the geographical area

Link with the geographical area

Sheep farming has a long and rich cultural tradition in Iceland. Many believe that without sheep Iceland would have been uninhabitable to settlers many centuries ago. Sheep sustained the nation: their meat fed generation upon generation and their wool and hides sheltered them from the cold. One of the best examples of traditional Icelandic cooking is lamb meat soup, which was formerly served on Sundays or as a special treat but is now considered everyday fare. Iceland’s culinary heritage is interwoven with sheep farming and sheep and lamb products.

The factors that have effect in relation to the growth and health of sheep is the nutritional value of food, ability to eat and utilization of food. The long tradition of sheep farming passing down generations on the island has led to high standards of flock management and grazing methods.

Icelandic farmers keep winter-fed adult sheep indoors in the winter due to weather conditions. They are fed on hay that farmers collect during the summer. The lambing season begins between late April and early May and lasts until early June. The lamb grazes on cultivated grassland or rangeland from spring until fall. Newborn lambs mos commonly feed on cultivated grassland, until wild pastures are considered fit for grazing. The majority of sheep are put onto wild rangeland two to four weeks after the lambing season. Wild pastures that are used for summer grazing in Iceland are either located on land belonging to farms or on rangeland. Therefore, all feed is entirely sourced from the geographical area.

Rangeland has been used for pasturing livestock since the settlement of Iceland. Most such land is located in the mid-highlands, primarily because lambs that feed there generally have a faster growth rate. Although wild pastures used for summer grazing generally vary greatly in Iceland, highland vegetation is usually richest in protein, and this is one of the factors that contribute to the accelerated growth rate. The growth rate of lambs in lowland areas is therefore generally slower than that of lambs that roam in highland areas, picking the newly sprouted vegetation, particularly in early summer and midsummer, but their growth rates even out by the end of August.

In early September, the growth rate of lambs in wild pastures begins to slacken. If they have not reached a size suitable for slaughtering by that time, their potential for growth can be enhanced by placing them in cultivated areas, i.e. cultivated meadows or green fodder areas, for about two to six weeks. In such cases the lambs always have access to other, supplementary grazing areas. This arrangement aims to achieve desired carcass weight in the fall, and to promote better quantile classification in slaughterhouses.

Farmers gather sheep from the wild rangelands and pastures in the autumn in a process that can take up to a week, depending on geographical locations and is a tradition as old as settlement in Iceland. Ever since the age of settlement, farmers in each district have joined forces to round up sheep from rangeland and privately-owned land into a communal pen. Once they have been gathered, the sheep are sorted and each flock brought home by its owner or their representative.

Lambs mostly graze in more fertile areas, grassland and moors and rest in more rugged areas. The vegetation consists of low plants and there are relatively few tree species. The lambs’ selection of plants changes with the seasons, according to the ripeness of the plants, the Icelandic sheep mostly seeks out plants such as sea pea, stone bramble, garden angelica, dwarf fireweed and roseroot. Examples of grass varieties, sedges (cyperaceae) and ferns (pteridophytes) that are much sought after by sheep are alpine hair-grass, browntop, creeping bent grass, alpine bluegrass, red fescue and heath wood-rush. Among the flowering plants popular with grazing sheep are alpine bartsia, arctic meadow-rue, wood cranesbill, moss campion, sea thrift, northern bedstraw, northern dock, yellow marsh saxifrage and others. Icelandic trees and bushes that sheep like to feed on in the summer are, for example, mountain-ash, broad-leaved willow, wooly willow and tea-leaved willow. Nutritious wild pastures and hay reduce the need for fodder, and the diversity of vegetation available for grazing is extensive. Iceland’s cold climate reduces the need to use pesticides in food production in the same amounts as in many other countries. These factors are of great importance in the production of ‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’.

The findings of the European project on lamb, FAIR CT96-1768 (OVAX) Identifying and changing the qualities and composition of meat from different European sheep types which meets regional consumer expectations, included a comparison of the Icelandic production method for lamb with production methods in five other European countries. ‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’ was considered to be the most tender by the representatives of all participating countries. This was also confirmed by measurements of the physical characteristics of the meat that was examined. Age at slaughter and the quantity and heat solubility of collagen accounted for part of this difference. In addition, it was considered that a difference in muscle fiber between stocks was a factor. The findings also indicated that the principal distinctive characteristics of ‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’ were:

FAIR CT96-1768 (OVAX) Identifying and changing the qualities and composition of meat from different European sheep types which meets regional consumer expectations

| — | Gamey flavor. |
| --- | --- |

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Gamey flavor.

| — | Low percentage of stress impaired meat (1-2 % with over 5,8 % ph 24). |
| --- | --- |

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Low percentage of stress impaired meat (1-2 % with over 5,8 % ph 24).

| — | Little toughness and tender back muscles. |
| --- | --- |

—

Little toughness and tender back muscles.

| — | Higher percentage of omega-3 fatty acids. The proportion of omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipids in the muscles of Icelandic lambs has been measured at 16 % and the amount of muscle that does not contain phospholipids is 1 % of the weight of the muscle. |
| --- | --- |

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Higher percentage of omega-3 fatty acids. The proportion of omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipids in the muscles of Icelandic lambs has been measured at 16 % and the amount of muscle that does not contain phospholipids is 1 % of the weight of the muscle.

| — | High amount of iron and B-vitamins. |
| --- | --- |

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High amount of iron and B-vitamins.

The characteristics of ‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’ first and foremost consists of a high degree of tenderness and gamey taste. The palatability of ‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’ is traced to the fact that lambs roam freely in demarcated wild rangelands and grow in the wild, natural surroundings of Iceland, where they feed on grass and other plants.

In a comparison study between lamb from six European countries, England, Iceland, Spain, France, Italy and Greece it was found that ‘Íslenskt lambakjöt’ is richer than the other types of lamb, in terms of the amount and percentage of omega-3 fatty acids.

This can be traced to the fatty acid composition of the fodder and grazing vegetation that has an effect on the percentage of omega-3 fatty acids in both the fat layers and the muscles of the lambs. The Iceland’s climate is one of the factors behind the high percentage of fatty acids. Iceland straddles the Arctic and subarctic regions. In lowland areas in the south and southeast, and in certain inland areas in the northern and eastern parts of the country, it has a subarctic climate, where the temperature averages around and above 10 °C in July, and above –3 °C in January. The country’s highlands, and most other lowland areas, experience an arctic climate, with average July temperatures below 10 °C and average January temperatures below –3 °C. Annual precipitation in lowland areas is between 400-2 000 mm. Iceland has the largest glaciers located outside of the polar regions, and in some places outlet glaciers extend into lowland areas. Low pollution levels, clean air and an abundance of living space impact Iceland’s conditions for sheep farming, as do low pollution of rangeland, good treatment and living conditions. The grass they feed on is rich in the omega-3 livolenic acid and vitamin E. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that Icelandic lambs do not experience stress before or during slaughter, which ensures very low acidity levels in the meat.

Reference to publication of the specification

Reference to publication of the specification

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(1)  OJ L 343, 14.12.2012, p. 1.

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