# Official Journal C 182/2023

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 182 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 6624 May 2023 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 182

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 6624 May 2023

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| Contents | page |
| --- | --- |
| | II   Information |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 182/01 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.11070 – CHEMOURS / BWT FUMATECH MOBILITY / JV) (
  1
  ) | 1 |

Contents

page

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2023/C 182/01

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.11070 – CHEMOURS / BWT FUMATECH MOBILITY / JV) (
  1
  )

1

1

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| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 182/02 | Euro exchange rates – 23 May 2023 | 2 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2023/C 182/02

Euro exchange rates – 23 May 2023

2

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| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 182/03 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11127 - TA / ANACAP / MANAGERS 2 / MRH TROWE) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 3 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 182/04 | Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector, as referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 | 5 |
| 2023/C 182/05 | Publication of an application for approval of an amendment, which is not minor, to a product specification 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 | 12 |
| 2023/C 182/06 | Publication of an application pursuant to Article 17(6) of Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the definition, description, presentation, labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 1576/89 | 20 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2023/C 182/03

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11127 - TA / ANACAP / MANAGERS 2 / MRH TROWE) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

3

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2023/C 182/04

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

5

2023/C 182/05

Publication of an application for approval of an amendment, which is not minor, to a product specification 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

12

2023/C 182/06

Publication of an application pursuant to Article 17(6) of Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the definition, description, presentation, labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 1576/89

20

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| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance. |

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(1)   Text with EEA relevance.

1

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

EN

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II Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 24.5.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 182/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

24.5.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 182/1

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Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case M.11070 – CHEMOURS / BWT FUMATECH MOBILITY / JV)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 182/01)

On 8 May 2023, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

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

—

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

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32023M11070. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32023M11070. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law.

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

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IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 24.5.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 182/2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

24.5.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 182/2

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Euro exchange rates (1)

23 May 2023

(2023/C 182/02)

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,0779 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 149,20 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4475 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,86993 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 11,4494 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 0,9718 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 151,30 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 11,7920 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 23,681 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 376,45 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,5018 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,9720 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 21,3993 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,6282 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4571 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 8,4480 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,7246 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,4527 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 422,75 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 20,7920 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 7,6039 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 16 043,23 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,9260 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 60,052 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | |
| THB | Thai baht | 37,435 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 5,3649 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 19,3225 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 89,2675 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,0779

JPY

Japanese yen

149,20

DKK

Danish krone

7,4475

GBP

Pound sterling

0,86993

SEK

Swedish krona

11,4494

CHF

Swiss franc

0,9718

ISK

Iceland króna

151,30

NOK

Norwegian krone

11,7920

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

23,681

HUF

Hungarian forint

376,45

PLN

Polish zloty

4,5018

RON

Romanian leu

4,9720

TRY

Turkish lira

21,3993

AUD

Australian dollar

1,6282

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4571

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

8,4480

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,7246

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,4527

KRW

South Korean won

1 422,75

ZAR

South African rand

20,7920

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

7,6039

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

16 043,23

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,9260

PHP

Philippine peso

60,052

RUB

Russian rouble

THB

Thai baht

37,435

BRL

Brazilian real

5,3649

MXN

Mexican peso

19,3225

INR

Indian rupee

89,2675

---

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

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V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 24.5.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 182/3 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

24.5.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 182/3

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Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.11127 - TA / ANACAP / MANAGERS 2 / MRH TROWE)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 182/03)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | TA Associates Management LP (‘TA’, USA), |
| --- | --- |

—

TA Associates Management LP (‘TA’, USA),

| — | AnaCap Financial Partners Limited (‘AnaCap’, UK), |
| --- | --- |

—

AnaCap Financial Partners Limited (‘AnaCap’, UK),

| — | The respective financial holding companies of Lars Mesterheide, Michael Hirz, Ralph Rockel, Maximilian Claus Trowe and the founder of a business recently acquired by MRH Trowe Germany GmbH, Matthias Edelmann (‘Managers 2’, Germany), |
| --- | --- |

—

The respective financial holding companies of Lars Mesterheide, Michael Hirz, Ralph Rockel, Maximilian Claus Trowe and the founder of a business recently acquired by MRH Trowe Germany GmbH, Matthias Edelmann (‘Managers 2’, Germany),

| — | MRH Trowe Germany GmbH (‘MRH Trowe’, Germany). |
| --- | --- |

—

MRH Trowe Germany GmbH (‘MRH Trowe’, Germany).

TA, AnaCap and Managers 2 will acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) and 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of MRH Trowe.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares.

2.

| — | TA is a private equity firm focused on sectors within technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer and business services in North America, Europe and Asia, |
| --- | --- |

—

TA is a private equity firm focused on sectors within technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer and business services in North America, Europe and Asia,

| — | AnaCap is a mid-market private equity investor, focused on investments in software, technology and services within the European financial ecosystem, |
| --- | --- |

—

AnaCap is a mid-market private equity investor, focused on investments in software, technology and services within the European financial ecosystem,

| — | Managers 2 perform no economic activity other than holding shares for the purposes of financial investment, and do not control any other undertakings, |
| --- | --- |

—

Managers 2 perform no economic activity other than holding shares for the purposes of financial investment, and do not control any other undertakings,

| — | MRH Trowe’s activities are predominantly connected to insurance brokerage, risk consulting and risk assessment for private and business clients. It is also active to a small extent in the field of pension and employee benefits solutions, including brokerage and consulting services as well as pension plan administration. |
| --- | --- |

—

MRH Trowe’s activities are predominantly connected to insurance brokerage, risk consulting and risk assessment for private and business clients. It is also active to a small extent in the field of pension and employee benefits solutions, including brokerage and consulting services as well as pension plan administration.

3.

Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) 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.11127 - TA / ANACAP / MANAGERS 2 / MRH TROWE

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

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

Postal address:

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

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

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

1

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OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 24.5.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 182/5 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

24.5.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 182/5

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

(2023/C 182/04)

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

‘Coteaux de Narbonne’

PGI-FR-A1202-AM01

Date of communication: 24.2.2023

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Area in immediate proximity

Chapter I, Section 4.2 – Area in immediate proximity – of the specification for the protected geographical indication ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ has been corrected. The municipality of ‘Cuxac d’Aude’ has been removed from the list because it is included in the geographical area.

This correction has also been made to the section ‘Further conditions – Area in immediate proximity’ of the single document.

2.   Vine varieties

Chapter I, Section 5 – Vine varieties – of the specification for the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ protected geographical indication has been corrected.

The list of varieties selected for the production of the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ protected geographical indication has been supplemented with the following varieties:

| — | 13 varieties considered ‘resistant’ to vine diseases have been added: |
| --- | --- |

—

13 varieties considered ‘resistant’ to vine diseases have been added:

Artaban N, Cabernet Blanc B, Cabernet Cortis N, Floreal B, Monarch N, Muscaris B, Prior N, Saphira B, Soreli B, Souvignier Gris B, Sauvignac B, Vidoc N, Voltis B.

| — | 12 varieties adapted to climate change have been added: |
| --- | --- |

—

12 varieties adapted to climate change have been added:

Agiorgitiko N, Assyrtyko B, Calabrese N, Carricante B, Fiano B, Montepulciano N, Moschofilero Rs, Primitivo N, Roditis Rs, Touriga Nacional N, Verdejo B, Xinomavro N.

These varieties are resistant to drought and fungal diseases. With similar physiological and oenological properties to the varieties used in the PGI production, they reduce the need for plant protection products. They do not affect the characteristics of the PGI wines.

| — | Eight varieties not used in the production of the PGI have been removed from the list: |
| --- | --- |

—

Eight varieties not used in the production of the PGI have been removed from the list:

Altesse B, Chasselas B, Chasselas Rs, Danlas B, Gamay de Chaudenay N, Ganson N, Mondeuse N, Ribol N.

These amendments have also been made to the single document under ‘Wine grape varieties’.

3.   Inspection body

Chapter III of the specification for the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ protected geographical indication has been amended to simplify the section entitled ‘Inspection body’, specifying that compliance with the product specification must be checked on the basis of an approved control plan and by a third-party body delegated by the INAO and offering guarantees of competence, impartiality and independence.

This simplification does not affect the single document.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Coteaux de Narbonne

2.   Geographical indication type

PGI – Protected geographical indication

3.   Categories of grapevine products

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

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ protected geographical indication covers still red, rosé and white wines.

The minimum and maximum levels for total alcoholic strength by volume, total acidity, volatile acidity and total sulphur dioxide are those set by EU legislation.

The excellent ripening conditions and the adaptation of the grape varieties produce wines with a strong Mediterranean character.

The red wines generally have a fairly deep colour. They are powerful and robust with fruity aromas. The structure of the tannins varies depending on the wine-making technologies used.

The rosé and white wines are smooth and elegant, big and fruity, and usually produced to be drunk young.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | 11 |
| Minimum total acidity | |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

11

Minimum total acidity

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5.   Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

All wine-making practices followed must comply with the requirements laid down at EU level and in the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code.

5.2.   Maximum yields

100 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

The harvesting of the grapes and the production and development of wines bearing the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ PGI must take place in the territory of the following municipalities in the department of Aude:

Armissan, Coursan, Cuxac-d’Aude, Fleury-d’Aude, Narbonne (except for cadastral sections KW, KX, KY, KZ, LM, LN, G6 and G7), Marcorignan, Moussan, Ouveillan, Salles-d’Aude, Sallèles d’Aude, Vinassan.

7.   Wine grape variety(-ies)

Agiorgitiko N

Alicante Henri Bouschet N

Alphonse Lavallée N

Alvarinho – Albariño

Aramon N

Aranel B

Arinarnoa N

Arriloba B

Artaban N

Assyrtiko B

Aubun N – Murescola

Bourboulenc B – Doucillon Blanc

Cabernet Blanc B

Cabernet Cortis N

Cabernet Franc N

Cabernet Sauvignon N

Calabrese N

Caladoc N

Cardinal Rg

Carignan N

Carignan Blanc B

Carmenère N

Carricante

Chardonnay B

Chasan B

Chenanson N

Chenin B

Cinsaut N – Cinsault

Clairette B

Clairette Rose Rs

Colombard B

Cot N – Malbec

Egiodola N

Fer N – Fer Servadou, Braucol, Mansois, Pinenc

Fiano

Floreal B

Gamay N

Gewürztraminer Rs

Gramon N

Grenache N

Grenache Blanc B

Grenache Gris G

Gros Manseng B

Jurançon Noir N – Dame Noire

Listan B – Palomino

Lledoner Pelut N

Macabeu B – Macabeo

Marsanne B

Marselan N

Mauzac B

Mauzac Rose Rs

Merlot N

Monarch N

Monerac N

Montepulciano

Morrastel N – Minustellu, Graciano

Moschofilero Rs

Mourvèdre N – Monastrell

Muscaris B

Muscat d’Alexandrie B – Muscat, Moscato

Muscat de Hambourg N – Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à Petits Grains Blancs B – Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à Petits Grains Rouges Rg – Muscat, Moscato

Nielluccio N – Nielluciu

Négrette N

Parrellada B

Petit Manseng B

Petit Verdot N

Pinot Blanc B

Pinot Gris G

Pinot Noir N

Piquepoul Blanc B

Piquepoul Noir N

Portan N

Primitivo N – Zinfandel

Prior N

Ribol N

Riesling B

Roditis Rs

Roussanne B

Saphira B

Sauvignac

Sauvignon B – Sauvignon blanc

Sauvignon Gris G – Fié Gris

Semillon B

Soreli B

Souvignier Gris Rs

Sylvaner B

Syrah N – Shiraz

Tannat N

Tempranillo N

Terret Blanc B

Terret Gris G

Terret Noir N

Tourbat B

Touriga Nacional N

Ugni Blanc B

Verdejo B

Verdelho B

Vermentino B – Rolle

Vidoc N

Villard Blanc B

Viognier B

Voltis B

Xinomavro N

8.   Description of the link(s)

8.1.   Specificity of the geographical area and specificity of the product

The production area of the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ PGI is located around the town of Narbonne, in the department of Aude in the South of France, in Languedoc-Roussillon.

The vineyards are spread over the gentle hills of the Narbonne region. Rarely exceeding an altitude of 100 m, they are established on hillside soils, most often limestone, and on the old delta of the Aude River on deeper soils that favour the diversification of vine varieties.

The vineyards benefit from a strictly Mediterranean climate that is particularly favourable for vine cultivation, characterised by warm and dry summers and mild winters, with two rainy periods in autumn and in spring. The average annual rainfall is less than 500 mm.

The area is very windy, with often strong west wind alternations, which is highly favourable in terms of keeping grapes in a good state of health, and frequent gusts of sea air, bringing moisture and freshness during summer nights, which helps the grapes to ripen well.

Narbonne’s first development took place 2 000 years ago, when it became the capital of Roman Gaul, at a crossroads between the Via Domitia and the Via Aquitania, and a sea crossroads because it was a very important port that made it possible to develop vineyards whose wines were exported throughout Europe.

Despite fluctuating fortunes, the vineyards have always been rebuilt, becoming in the 19th and 20th centuries a monoculture that ensured the region’s economic development. During the phylloxera epidemic, it was on the plains of the Narbonne region that one of the first replenishments of Languedoc’s vineyards was possible.

The ‘Vin de pays’ recognition by Decree of 25 January 1982 allowed the winegrowers, thanks to a strict specification, to produce wines that meet the demands of consumers. More recently, the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ PGI has been extended to six municipalities between Narbonne and the Mediterranean Sea, thus creating a coherent production area and stimulating its economy.

Production is now around 10 000 hl from nine municipalities, most of which are blended red wines, but also rosé and white wines, demand for which is constantly developing.

The varieties, which are mainly Mediterranean grape varieties grown in this PGI area since ancient times, have been supplemented by external varieties with shorter cycles, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the case of the reds and Chardonnay and Sauvignon in the case of the white wines.

Wine-making techniques have been optimised, benefiting from the presence in the PGI area of the research centre of the National Institute for Agricultural Research of Pech Rouge.

8.2.   Causal link between the specificity of the geographical area and the specificity of the product

Due to its soil and climate conditions, which favour vine-growing, and its geographical location, at a crossroads between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, Narbonne has always been a city of wine and trade.

The winegrowers of ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ have been able to preserve the identity and wine-growing tradition of this small region with a particularly favourable climate for vine cultivation.

The continued existence of these vineyards is testament to the unchanging wine-making practices that have been passed down through successive generations of winemakers, thus demonstrating their commitment to their products.

The long-established reputation of ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ wines is built on trade between the Mediterranean coast and the Atlantic coast.

The ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ PGI benefits fully from those advantages, and while retaining their historical roots, its wines have also benefited fully from the introduction of new grape varieties and the technological developments that its winegrowers have put into practice.

The winegrowers have been able to adapt the vine varieties, which are mainly Mediterranean varieties on the slopes and Atlantic and northern varieties in the lowland vineyards.

The strong development of tourism also makes it possible to raise awareness of all of the area’s wine products, including the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ PGI, with a significant network of tasting cellars and numerous wine-making events.

Life around vineyards and wine is therefore always at the heart of economic activity and makes a major contribution to the development of this sensitive area, where vines play a particularly important role as firebreaks each summer.

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

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition:

The protected geographical indication ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ may be supplemented by the following:

| | the name of one or more grape varieties; |
| --- | --- |

the name of one or more grape varieties;

| | the word ‘primeur’ (‘early’) or ‘nouveau’ (‘new’). |
| --- | --- |

the word ‘primeur’ (‘early’) or ‘nouveau’ (‘new’).

The European Union PGI logo must appear on the label if the words ‘Indication géographique protégée’ (‘Protected geographical indication’) are replaced by the traditional term ‘Vin de pays’.

Area in immediate proximity

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

The area in immediate proximity, defined by derogation for the making and development of wines with the ‘Coteaux de Narbonne’ protected geographical indication, comprises the following municipalities bordering the geographical area:

| — | Department of Aude: Argeliers, Bages, Bizanet, Gruissan, Mirepeisset, Montredon des Corbières, Névian, Peyriac de Mer, Port la Nouvelle, Raissac d’Aude, Saint André de Roquelongue, Saint Marcel d’Aude, Saint Nazaire d’Aude, Sigean. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Aude: Argeliers, Bages, Bizanet, Gruissan, Mirepeisset, Montredon des Corbières, Névian, Peyriac de Mer, Port la Nouvelle, Raissac d’Aude, Saint André de Roquelongue, Saint Marcel d’Aude, Saint Nazaire d’Aude, Sigean.

| — | Department of Hérault: Capestang, Cruzy, Lespignan, Montels, Nissan les Ensérunes, Quarante, Vendres. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Hérault: Capestang, Cruzy, Lespignan, Montels, Nissan les Ensérunes, Quarante, Vendres.

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-3f08707f-bc60-4bab-b4f4-759e5ed9b81b

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

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| 24.5.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 182/12 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

24.5.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 182/12

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Publication of an application for approval of an amendment, which is not minor, to a product specification 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

(2023/C 182/05)

This publication confers the right to oppose the amendment 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.

APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE PRODUCT SPECIFICATION OF PROTECTED DESIGNATIONS OF ORIGIN/PROTECTED GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS WHICH IS NOT MINOR

Application for approval of an amendment in accordance with the first subparagraph of Article 53(2), of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012

’Mela Alto Adige / Südtiroler Apfel'

EU No: PGI-IT-0207-AM01-23.6.2021

PDO ( ) PGI (X)

1.   Applicant group and legitimate interest

Consorzio Mela Alto Adige

Address: Via Jakobi 1a, 39018 Terlano, Italy

Email: info@suedtirolerapfel.com

Certified email: sak@pec.rolmail.net

The ‘Consorzio Mela Alto Adige’ [protection association] is entitled to submit an amendment application pursuant to Article 13(1) of Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy Decree No 12511 of 14 October 2013.

2.   Member State or Third Country

Italy

3.   Heading in the product specification affected by the amendment(s)

| ☐ | Name of product |
| --- | --- |

☐

Name of product

| ☒ | Description of product |
| --- | --- |

☒

Description of product

| ☐ | Geographical area |
| --- | --- |

☐

Geographical area

| ☐ | Proof of origin |
| --- | --- |

☐

Proof of origin

| ☐ | Method of production |
| --- | --- |

☐

Method of production

| ☒ | Link |
| --- | --- |

☒

Link

| ☐ | Labelling |
| --- | --- |

☐

Labelling

| ☒ | Marketing |
| --- | --- |

☒

Marketing

4.   Type of amendment(s)

| ☒ | Amendment to product specification of a registered PDO or PGI not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012. |
| --- | --- |

☒

Amendment to product specification of a registered PDO or PGI not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

| ☐ | Amendment to product specification of registered PDO or PGI for which a Single Document (or equivalent) has not been published not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 |
| --- | --- |

☐

Amendment to product specification of registered PDO or PGI for which a Single Document (or equivalent) has not been published not to be qualified as minor in accordance with the third subparagraph of Article 53(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012

5.   Amendment(s)

A)   Specification: Article 2.2 - Characteristics of the product

The current paragraph:

‘(...) The term “Mela Alto Adige” or “Südtiroler Apfel” may be used only for apples which have the intrinsic and extrinsic quality characteristics expressed separately for each variety using the following parameters: external appearance, marketing class and size, chemical characteristics, physical characteristics.

The other minimum quality standards for the various varieties and classes are those laid down by the relevant EU legislation in force. The fruit’s sugar content and firmness expressed in kg/cm2, measured within 2 months of being harvested, must comply with the minimum values listed below for each variety.’ (...)

Proposed amendment to the paragraph:

‘(...)The term “Mela Alto Adige” / “Südtiroler Apfel” may be used only for apples which have the intrinsic and extrinsic quality characteristics expressed separately for each variety using the following parameters: external appearance, marketing class and size, chemical characteristics, physical characteristics.

The other minimum quality standards for the various varieties and classes are those laid down by the relevant EU legislation in force. The fruit’s sugar content and firmness expressed in kg/cm2, measured within 2 months of being harvested, must comply with the minimum values listed below for each variety.

Apples intended exclusively for processing are subject to all the requirements laid down in the specification, with the exception of the marketing class, epicarp colour, additional epicarp colour and size. These fruits may bear the “Mela Alto Adige” / “Südtiroler Apfel” PGI but cannot be marketed as such to the end consumer.’

(...)

Single document: point 3.2. Description of product to which the name in (1) applies

The current paragraph:

‘(...) The Protected Geographical Indication “Mela Alto Adige” or “Südtiroler Apfel” is reserved for fruit from apple orchards located in the area defined in Article 3 of the specification and consisting of the following varieties and their clones: Braeburn, Elstar, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Idared, Jonagold, Morgenduft, Red Delicious, Stayman Winesap, Pinova and Topaz.’

(...)

Proposed amendment to the paragraph (in addition to the change in point A):

‘(...) The Protected Geographical Indication “Mela Alto Adige” or “Südtiroler Apfel” is reserved for fruit from apple orchards located in the area defined in Article 3 of the specification and consisting of the following varieties and their clones: Braeburn, Elstar, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Idared, Jonagold, Morgenduft, Red Delicious, Stayman Winesap, Pinova and Topaz.’

(...)

Apples intended exclusively for processing are subject to all the requirements laid down in the specification, with the exception of the marketing class, epicarp colour, additional epicarp colour and size. These fruits may bear the ‘Mela Alto Adige’ / ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ PGI but cannot be marketed as such to the end consumer.’

It is proposed that a new paragraph be added to Article 2(2.2) of the specification and the corresponding point 3.2 of the single document to allow the ‘Mela Alto Adige’ / ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ PGI to be used also for apples intended for processing produced in compliance with the specification, already taking into account the amendment proposed here. In order to ensure and allow effective use of the protected designation for apples intended for processing, it is necessary to exclude for this category certain quality requirements laid down in the specification for individual varieties (marketing class, epicarp colour, additional epicarp colour and size), mainly of importance for table apples only. Without these exclusions, the additional paragraph would be completely ineffective, since it would be uneconomical for producers to use apples in the ‘Extra’ or ‘I’ (or ‘II’ for organic products) classes for processing.

B)   Specification: Article 5.9. Marketing

Specification: Article 5.9. Marketing

The current paragraph:

‘(...) The marketing of “Mela Alto Adige” or “Südtiroler Apfel” for the summer varieties (Elstar and Gala) may take place only during the period from the beginning of August to the end of July. The remaining varieties may be marketed until the end of September of the year following the harvest.’ (...)

Proposed amendment to the paragraph:

‘(...) The marketing of “Mela Alto Adige” / “Südtiroler Apfel” for the summer varieties (Elstar and Gala) may take place only during the period from the beginning of August to the end of July. The remaining varieties may be marketed within 12 months of the date of harvesting.’ (...)

Single document: Unchanged

It is proposed to redefine the marketing period for varieties other than summer varieties (Elstar and Gala) in the light of continuous technological developments in the area of food storage.

The deletion of a fixed time reference (September of the year following the harvest) makes it possible to guarantee the same marketing period (12 months) for each year, given that the harvesting period may vary from year to year, partly due to ongoing climate change.

C)   Specification: Article 6 - Evidence of the link with the environment

Specification: Article 6 - Evidence of the link with the environment

The current paragraph:

‘(...) The altitude of the orchards, i.e. between 200 m and 1 000 m above sea level, and the light, well-aerated soils guarantee an intense aroma, firm flesh and a long shelf-life.’ (...)

Proposed amendment to the paragraph:

‘(...) The altitude of the orchards, i.e. between 200 m and 1 100 m above sea level, and the light, well-aerated soils guarantee an intense aroma, firm flesh and a long shelf-life.’ (...)

Single document: Point 5 - Link with the geographical area

The current paragraph:

‘(...) The altitude of the orchards, i.e. between 200 m and 1 000 m above sea level, and the light, well-aerated soils guarantee an intense aroma, firm flesh and a long shelf-life.’ (...)

Proposed amendment to the paragraph:

‘(...) The altitude of the orchards, i.e. between 200 m and 1 100 m above sea level, and the light, well-aerated soils guarantee an intense aroma, firm flesh and a long shelf-life.’ (...)

An increase in the maximum altitude of the orchards from 1 000 to 1 100 m above sea level is proposed in Article 6 of the specification and the corresponding point 5 of the single document. The amendment takes account of the ongoing climate change, which allows for a gradual rise in the altitude of the production area without any loss of product quality and of the quality characteristics which distinguish ‘Mela Alto Adige’ / ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ PGI from similar products. The purpose of the amendment is to ensure uniform and non-discriminatory treatment between producers whose orchards are located in the highest parts of the production area.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

’Mela Alto Adige / Südtiroler Apfel'

’Mela Alto Adige / Südtiroler Apfel'

EU No: PGI-IT-0207-AM01-23.6.2021

EU No: PGI-IT-0207-AM01-23.6.2021

PGI (X) PDO ( )

PGI (X) PDO ( )

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

Name(s) [of PDO or PGI]

‘Mela Alto Adige / Südtiroler Apfel’

2.   Member State or Third Country

Member State or Third Country

Italy

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   Type of product

Type of product

Class 1.6. Fruit, vegetables and cereals fresh or processed

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

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

The Protected Geographical Indication ‘Mela Alto Adige’ or ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ is reserved for fruit from apple orchards located in the area defined in Article 3 below and currently consisting of the following varieties, mutants and/or clones: Braeburn, Elstar, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Idared, Jonagold, Morgenduft, Red Delicious, Stayman Winesap, Pinova and Topaz.

The term ‘Mela Alto Adige’ / ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ may be used only for apples which have the intrinsic and extrinsic quality characteristics expressed separately for each variety using the following parameters: external appearance, marketing class and size, chemical characteristics, physical characteristics. The other minimum quality standards for the various varieties and classes are those laid down by the relevant EU legislation in force.

The fruit’s sugar content and firmness expressed in kg/cm2, measured within 2 months of being harvested, must comply with the minimum values listed below for each variety.

2

Braeburn:

| — | epicarp colour: green to light green; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: green to light green;

| — | additional epicarp colour: stripes ranging from orange-red to dark red > 33 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: stripes ranging from orange-red to dark red > 33 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 11 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 11 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5,5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5,5 kg/cm2.

2

Elstar:

| — | epicarp colour: yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: bright red > 20 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: bright red > 20 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10,5 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10,5 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Fuji:

| — | epicarp colour: light green to yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: light green to yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: light to deep red > 50 % of the light red surface, of which 30 % is deep red; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: light to deep red > 50 % of the light red surface, of which 30 % is deep red;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 12,5 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 12,5 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Gala:

| — | epicarp colour: green-yellow to golden yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: green-yellow to golden yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: red on at least 20 % of the surface (standard Gala); > 50 % for red clones; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: red on at least 20 % of the surface (standard Gala); > 50 % for red clones;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 60 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 60 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10,5 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10,5 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Golden Delicious:

| — | epicarp colour: light green to yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: light green to yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: pink in some environments; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: pink in some environments;

| — | russeting: net-like russeting on up to 20 % of the surface, covering not more than 20 % of fruit; russeting is permitted for organic products in accordance with the russeting criteria laid down for Class ‘II’ ; |
| --- | --- |

—

russeting: net-like russeting on up to 20 % of the surface, covering not more than 20 % of fruit; russeting is permitted for organic products in accordance with the russeting criteria laid down for Class ‘II’ ;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 11 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 11 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Granny Smith:

| — | epicarp colour: dark green; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: dark green;

| — | additional epicarp colour: slight pink blush possible; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: slight pink blush possible;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5,5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5,5 kg/cm2.

2

Idared:

| — | epicarp colour: yellow-green; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: yellow-green;

| — | additional epicarp colour: uniform bright red > 33 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: uniform bright red > 33 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Jonagold:

| — | epicarp colour: yellow-green; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: yellow-green;

| — | additional epicarp colour: bright red for Jonagold; striped red > 20 % of the surface; for Jonagored: red > 50 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: bright red for Jonagold; striped red > 20 % of the surface; for Jonagored: red > 50 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 11 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 11 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Morgenduft:

| — | epicarp colour: light green to yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: light green to yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: uniform bright red on at least 33 % of the surface; for Dallago: deep brilliant red on at least 50 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: uniform bright red on at least 33 % of the surface; for Dallago: deep brilliant red on at least 50 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Red Delicious:

| — | epicarp colour: green-yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: green-yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: deep brilliant red streaks on at least 75 % of the surface; for red clones > 90 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: deep brilliant red streaks on at least 75 % of the surface; for red clones > 90 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Stayman Winesap:

| — | epicarp colour: yellowish green; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: yellowish green;

| — | additional epicarp colour: uniform red with light streaking > 33 %; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: uniform red with light streaking > 33 %;

| — | for Red Stayman (Staymanred): > 50 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

for Red Stayman (Staymanred): > 50 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Pinova:

| — | epicarp colour: light green to yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: light green to yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: striped red > 10 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: striped red > 10 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 65 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 65 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 11 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 11 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Topaz:

| — | epicarp colour: light green to yellow; |
| --- | --- |

—

epicarp colour: light green to yellow;

| — | additional epicarp colour: striped red > 33 % of the surface; |
| --- | --- |

—

additional epicarp colour: striped red > 33 % of the surface;

| — | marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products; |
| --- | --- |

—

marketing class: ‘Extra’ and ‘I’; also ‘II’ for organic products;

| — | size: minimum diameter 60 mm; |
| --- | --- |

—

size: minimum diameter 60 mm;

| — | sugar content: over 10,5 °Brx; |
| --- | --- |

—

sugar content: over 10,5 °Brx;

| — | firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2. |
| --- | --- |

—

firmness: minimum 5 kg/cm2.

2

Apples intended exclusively for processing are subject to all the requirements laid down in the specification, with the exception of the marketing class, epicarp colour, additional epicarp colour and size. These fruits may bear the ‘Mela Alto Adige’ PGI but cannot be marketed as such to the end consumer.

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)

—

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

‘Mela Alto Adige / Südtiroler Apfel’ apples must be grown and harvested within the production area indicated in point 4.

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

To avoid damage to the product such as skin lesions, bruising leading to browning of the flesh and other damage, preparation and packing must take place within the defined geographical area. This restriction is due to the great deal of experience gained in the post-harvest management of the product by growers who have been operating for more than 40 years in the defined area of Alto Adige.

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 words ‘Mela Alto Adige’ Indicazione geografica protetta (Italian) or ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ geschützte geografische Angabe (German) must appear on the label to be affixed to the boxes, sales packaging or individual fruit. The minimum height of the words ‘Mela Alto Adige’ or ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ on the labels to be affixed to the boxes or the sales packaging must be 2 mm. The minimum height of the words ‘Mela Alto Adige’ or ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ on the stickers to be affixed to the fruit must be 0.8 mm.

Together with the Protected Geographical Indication, indications and/or graphic symbols referring to individual and/or collective names or company names or company trademarks may be used, provided that they have no laudatory purport or are such as to mislead the consumer.

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

Concise definition of the geographical area

The production area of ‘Mela Alto Adige’ or ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ apples forms part of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano - Alto Adige (Südtirol), covering the entirety of 72 municipalities

5.   Link with the geographical area

Link with the geographical area

The link between ‘Mela Alto Adige’ / ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ apples and the geographical area is based on their specific qualities, characteristics and reputation. ‘Mela Alto Adige’ or ‘Südtiroler Apfel’ apples are noted for their particularly pronounced colour and taste, their firm flesh and their very long shelf-life; these quality characteristics are due to the intertwined combination of soil and weather factors and the skills of the growers.

The climate of Alto Adige is highly favourable for apple cultivation, with more than 300 days of sunshine during the year. In late summer and autumn there are typical marked temperature changes between day and night. During the day the temperature can reach 30 °C while during the night it can fall to 8-10 °C. Most of the production comes from holdings located more than 500 m above sea level. The extraordinarily fertile soils are light, well drained and oxygen rich. This allows optimum root development. The soils have an average or high humus content.

The practices of growers in Alto Adige allow them to produce high quality apples, thanks to the optimum balance between growth and fruit production. ‘Mela Alto Adige’/‘Südtiroler Apfel’ apples are produced using techniques and methods which have a low impact on the environment. The production systems for ‘Mela Alto Adige’/‘Südtiroler Apfel’ apples aim to make the best use of the production areas’ natural soil and climate advantages. The combination of a high number of sunlight hours, cool nights and low rainfall guarantees fruit with a particularly pronounced taste and colour. The altitude of the orchards, i.e. between 200 m and 1 100 m above sea level, and the light, well-aerated soils guarantee an intense aroma, firm flesh and a long shelf-life. Moreover, nutrients are provided through balanced fertilisation carried out on the basis of a soil analysis, boosting fruit quality and curbing the development of physiological diseases. Thanks to the favourable soil and climate conditions, apple growing in Alto Adige has over time passed from purely local varieties to include those from other countries, well adapted to the microclimate, as attested by numerous sources. As early as the Middle Ages various apple and pear varieties were widely grown on the mountain farms (masi) of Alto Adige for the use of the family living on the farm. From the mid-19th century, fruit-growing became a flourishing production and commercial activity, with foreign buyers in Vienna, Innsbruck, Munich, Warsaw and St Petersburg. This period also saw the modernisation of fruit-growing in Alto Adige. In 1831 the schoolmaster Johann Iakob Pöll published the first manual on fruit-growing and in 1872, at the newly established San Michele all'Adige Agricultural Institute, fruit-growing was introduced as a subject in its own right in the teaching curriculum.

A nursery list of the Bolzano Agricultural Association of 1856 already mentions no fewer than 193 varieties of cultivable apple. The most important historical work on fruit and vegetable growing in Alto Adige by Karl Mader (1894 and 1904) recognises almost 40 varieties as being very widespread in the entire Alto Adige area. The combination of these environmental factors and the centuries of human activity, involving the close interweaving of apple growing and the protection of the land and the environment that is a feature of the local production system, contribute to the reputation of ‘Mela Alto Adige’/‘Südtiroler Apfel’ on both the domestic and international markets. The apple production chain at present involves 8 000 growers, mainly associated in cooperatives, 2 500 workers in the market preparation centres and 12 000 fruit pickers.

Reference to publication of the specification

Reference to publication of the specification

The full text of the product specification is available on the following website:

http://www.politicheagricole.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/IT/IDPagina/3335

or alternatively:

by going directly to the home page of the Ministry of Agricultural, Food, Forestry and Tourism Policy (www.politicheagricole.it) and clicking on ‘Qualità’ (at the top right of the screen), then on ‘Prodotti DOP IGP STG’ (on the left-hand side of the screen) and finally on ‘Disciplinari di Produzione all’esame dell’UE’.

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

1

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| 24.5.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 182/20 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

24.5.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 182/20

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Publication of an application pursuant to Article 17(6) of Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the definition, description, presentation, labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 1576/89

(2023/C 182/06)

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 27 of Regulation (EU) 2019/787 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).

MAIN SPECIFICATIONS OF THE TECHNICAL FILE

‘SÁRRÉTI KÖKÉNYPÁLINKA’

EU No: PGI-HU-02490 – 6.3.2019

1.   Name

‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’

2.   Category of spirit drink

Fruit spirit (category No 9 of Regulation (EC) No 110/2008)

3.   Description of the spirit drink

Physical, chemical and/or organoleptic characteristics

Chemico-physical characteristics

‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ has a minimum alcoholic strength of 38,5 % V/V and a volatile substance content of at least 250 g/hl of 100 % vol. alcohol.

Organoleptic characteristics

Colour: clear, colourless.

Aroma: fine, with a slight waxiness alongside an aroma of sloe flower.

Taste: full-bodied, with notes of almond and marzipan, and reminiscent of fresh red berries; it has a long finish and is slightly sweet yet evocative of the somewhat tart taste of sloe.

Specific characteristics (compared to spirit drinks of the same category)

‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ is a pálinka with a rich volatile substance content and an aroma reminiscent of sloe flower. ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ is full-bodied, with notes of almond and marzipan, and is slightly sweet, which gives this spirit drink a lighter, smoother character but at the same time evokes the somewhat tart taste of sloe.

4.   Geographical area concerned

‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ must be made from sloe originating within the administrative boundaries of the municipalities of the following districts of an area of Hajdú-Bihar County and Békés County known as ‘Sárrét’, in commercial pálinka distilleries located in that area: the districts of Berettyóújfalu, Békéscsaba, Békés, Gyula, Püspökladány, Sarkad and Szeghalom.

5.   Method for obtaining the spirit drink

The basic ingredient of ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ is the fruit of the sloe (Prunus spinosa) grown in the wild in the defined geographical area.

‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ must be mashed, fermented, distilled and rested only in commercial pálinka distilleries located within the administrative boundaries of the municipalities defined in point 4.

The main stages in the production of the pálinka are as follows:

| a) | Selection and acceptance of the fruit |
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a)

Selection and acceptance of the fruit

| b) | Mashing |
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b)

Mashing

| c) | Fermentation |
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c)

Fermentation

| d) | Distillation |
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d)

Distillation

| e) | Resting, storage |
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e)

Resting, storage

| f) | Treatment and production of the pálinka |
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f)

Treatment and production of the pálinka

a)   Selection and acceptance of the fruit

The most important thing for the fruit grown in the wild is that it be uniform and have the same degree of ripeness. The sloe must be free of any mould, rot, deteriorating flaws or extraneous matter, with no damage or bruising. When suitably ripe, the sloe is an ash-blue colour, and the fruit has a dry matter content of at least 24 g/100 g and a minimum 12 o Brix. When accepting the fruit, quality checks should be carried out on the basis of an average sample.

b)   Mashing

As a first step of mashing, the sloe, which has small berries, needs to be sorted to remove any extraneous matter (twigs, leaves). After washing, the fruit stones must be removed (using a stone-removing machine, if available). Some 10–15 % of the intact stones must be returned to the mash after being left to dry for 1–2 days.

Since the water content of the fruit is low (around 65–70 %), water must be added to assist the fermentation process. However, the water added must have low levels of Ca++ and Na+ ions, otherwise it would harm the final taste of the pálinka due to the acidity of the fruit.

The mash is then added to fermentation tanks (steel or plastic).

c)   Fermentation

The fruit’s high pectin content causes the juices to release slowly and the sloe to remain viscous, which makes fermentation difficult. Adding enzyme complexes helps break down the pectin.

The fermentation process must be monitored daily by visual inspection. Every 4–5 days it must be checked for sugar content and alcoholic strength.

The optimum duration of the fermentation process is between 10 and 14 days, depending on the sloe’s nutritional values and level of ripeness. The sugar content must be less than 2 g/litre at the end of fermentation.

d)   Distillation

‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ can be prepared using a traditional, pot-still distillation system (a double fractional distillation process) or a single-stage column distillation system with a reflux condenser (dephlegmator attachment). Separating the head can mostly be done through organoleptic assessment; the tail, however, is separated by continuously monitoring alcoholic strength. In the case of ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’, separation requires great care. Since the spirit has strong fragrances and flavours, it takes an acute sense of smell to separate harmful flavour and fragrance components.

e)   Resting, storage

Following refining/distilling, ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ must be left to rest in order to allow the complex flavours and fragrances to blend. It should be kept in a place protected from light for 3–6 months, preferably in a carboy or in a stainless-steel container.

f)   Treatment and production of the pálinka

In keeping with the legal requirements, the alcoholic strength of the rested pálinka must be adjusted to the level suitable for consumption, by adding good-quality drinking water. The quality of the water is crucial, because it can also influence the aromas of finished sloe pálinka. Softened water is best, but distilled, demineralised or permuted water may also be used. The alcoholic strength after dilution may differ by ±0,3 % V/V from the value stated on the label.

6.   Link with the geographical environment or origin

a)   Details of the geographical area or origin relevant to the link

The geographical area is located in the south-eastern part of the Great Plain, Hungary’s largest lowland area. The geographical area is criss-crossed by rivers (the Körös, Sebes-Körös and Berettyó Rivers) and canal systems. It is covered by meadow soil, the top layer of which is prone to dry out. The meadow forest soil is rich in calcium, magnesium, sulphates and carbonates.

The geographical area has a high number of sunshine hours, exceeding 2 500 hours, and the average summer and autumn temperatures (22 oC and 12 oC, respectively) are higher than the national averages (21,4 oC and 11,4 oC). During the ripening of the sloe (in the summer and autumn), precipitation is below the national average (of around 200 mm), with average precipitation of 150 mm falling on this low-precipitation area.

Sloe shrubs developed on the borders of woodlands in the forest-steppe belt and lived on as an independent vegetation type after the forests were felled. The fruit of the sloe shrub, which is initially completely green, gradually turns blue and purple over the summer, usually reaching its full degree of maturity in the second half of September.

The high number of sunshine hours contributes to the high sugar content of the sloes that grow in the wild in the defined geographical area. During the sloe’s ripening period, the top layer of the meadow soil dries out as a result of the low precipitation, abundant sunshine and high temperatures. Consequently, the plant removes water from the ripening fruit to ensure its vegetation, and the sugar content of the fruit is more concentrated. This gives the sloe grown here an above-average sugar content of 12 o Brix.

Thanks to the rich mineral content of the soil and the number of sunshine hours, the sloes grown in the geographical area are richer in minerals and aromas: they are high in flavonoids and have a minimum organic acid content of 2,5 % and minimum tannin content of 1,7 %.

b)   Specific characteristics of the spirit drink attributable to the geographical area

The specific organoleptic characteristics of ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ and its above-average volatile substance content are determined primarily by the richer minerals and aromas of the sloe used as the basic ingredient.

The sloe stones returned intact to the mash of ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ made exclusively from the wild fruit give the pálinka an aroma of sloe flower and a taste of almond, while the high sugar content of the fruit gives it a slightly sweet taste reminiscent of marzipan. The richness of the sloe in minerals and aromas accounts for the higher volatile substance content of the pálinka it produces, while the waxy skin covering the sloe gives the pálinka a slightly waxy aroma.

The distillation of ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ calls for considerable expertise, and thanks to human knowledge and local know-how ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ bears the distinctive flavours of the sloe originating in the geographical area. Since this sloe spirit is rich in fragrances and flavours, it takes considerable experience and skill to successfully separate the head distillate and ensure that no harmful fragrances (aldehydes, esters and higher alcohols) enter the finished product.

The specific quality of ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ is demonstrated by the awards it has won at the following spirit contests:

| — | 2009: 17th National Pálinka and International Fruit Spirit Contest – Champion Award |
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2009: 17th National Pálinka and International Fruit Spirit Contest – Champion Award

| — | 2012–2013: Destillata – Silver Medal |
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2012–2013: Destillata – Silver Medal

| — | 2014: National Pálinka and Grape Marc Pálinka Contest – Gold Medal |
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2014: National Pálinka and Grape Marc Pálinka Contest – Gold Medal

| — | 2015: National Pálinka and Grape Marc Pálinka Contest – Gold Medal |
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2015: National Pálinka and Grape Marc Pálinka Contest – Gold Medal

| — | 2015: National Pálinka Excellence Programme – 4-Star Excellence |
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2015: National Pálinka Excellence Programme – 4-Star Excellence

| — | 2016: National Pálinka Tasting Festival – Champion Award |
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2016: National Pálinka Tasting Festival – Champion Award

| — | 2016: Hungary’s best sloe pálinka |
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2016: Hungary’s best sloe pálinka

| — | 2017: National Pálinka Excellence Programme – TOP Pálinka Excellence |
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2017: National Pálinka Excellence Programme – TOP Pálinka Excellence

| — | 2018: Szeghalom Pálinka Festival – special pálinka award |
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2018: Szeghalom Pálinka Festival – special pálinka award

7.   European Union or national/regional provisions

| — | Act XI of 1997 on the protection of trademarks and geographical indications |
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Act XI of 1997 on the protection of trademarks and geographical indications

| — | Act LXXIII of 2008 on pálinka, grape marc pálinka and the Pálinka National Council |
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Act LXXIII of 2008 on pálinka, grape marc pálinka and the Pálinka National Council

| — | Government Decree No 158/2009 of 30 July 2009 laying down the detailed rules for protecting the geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs and for verifying the products |
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Government Decree No 158/2009 of 30 July 2009 laying down the detailed rules for protecting the geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs and for verifying the products

8.   Applicant

| — | Member State, Third Country or legal/natural person: István Elek |
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Member State, Third Country or legal/natural person: István Elek

| — | Full address (street number and name, town/city and postal code, country): |
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Full address (street number and name, town/city and postal code, country):

| — | Széchenyi u. 82, 4145 Csökmő, Hungary |
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Széchenyi u. 82, 4145 Csökmő, Hungary

| — | Legal status: Sole trader |
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Legal status: Sole trader

9.   Supplement to the geographical indication and specific labelling rules

In addition to the elements specified in the legislation, the designation also contains the following:

| — | ‘földrajzi jelzés’ [geographical indication] (separate from the name) |
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‘földrajzi jelzés’ [geographical indication] (separate from the name)

| — | The name ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ must appear on the (front and/or back and/or side) label placed on all bottles presenting the product. |
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The name ‘Sárréti kökénypálinka’ must appear on the (front and/or back and/or side) label placed on all bottles presenting the product.

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(1)  OJ L 130, 17.5.2019, p. 1.

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