# Official Journal C 272/2023

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 272 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 661 August 2023 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 272

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 661 August 2023

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| Contents | page |
| --- | --- |
| | II   Information |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 272/01 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.11108 – MERIDIAM / AWSA I / AWSA II / A2 ROUTE / AESA) (
  1
  ) | 1 |

Contents

page

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2023/C 272/01

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.11108 – MERIDIAM / AWSA I / AWSA II / A2 ROUTE / AESA) (
  1
  )

1

1

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| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 272/02 | Euro exchange rates – 31 July 2023 | 2 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2023/C 272/02

Euro exchange rates – 31 July 2023

2

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| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 272/03 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11205 – INPEX CORPORATION / ENEL GREEN POWER / ENEL GREEN POWER AUSTRALIA) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 3 |
| 2023/C 272/04 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11215 – PAI PARTNERS / HG / AZETS) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 5 |
| 2023/C 272/05 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11168 – WARBURG PINCUS / ADVENT INTERNATIONAL / BAXTER PHARMACEUTICAL SOLUTIONS AND BAXTER ONCOLOGY) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 7 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2023/C 272/06 | Publication of an application for a Union amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector pursuant to Article 97(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council | 9 |
| 2023/C 272/07 | 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 | 15 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2023/C 272/03

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11205 – INPEX CORPORATION / ENEL GREEN POWER / ENEL GREEN POWER AUSTRALIA) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

3

2023/C 272/04

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11215 – PAI PARTNERS / HG / AZETS) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

5

2023/C 272/05

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.11168 – WARBURG PINCUS / ADVENT INTERNATIONAL / BAXTER PHARMACEUTICAL SOLUTIONS AND BAXTER ONCOLOGY) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

7

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2023/C 272/06

Publication of an application for a Union amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector pursuant to Article 97(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council

9

2023/C 272/07

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

15

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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

| 1.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 272/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

1.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 272/1

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Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case M.11108 – MERIDIAM / AWSA I / AWSA II / A2 ROUTE / AESA)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 272/01)

On 19 July 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 (https://competition-cases.ec.europa.eu/search). 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 (https://competition-cases.ec.europa.eu/search). 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 32023M11108. 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 32023M11108. 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

| 1.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 272/2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

1.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 272/2

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Euro exchange rates (1)

31 July 2023

(2023/C 272/02)

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,1023 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 156,73 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4529 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,85765 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 11,5895 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 0,9619 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 144,30 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 11,1805 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 23,900 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 386,93 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,4070 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,9349 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 29,7126 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,6436 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4566 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 8,5966 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,7773 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,4660 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 405,49 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 19,5511 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 7,8808 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 16 622,65 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,9703 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 60,522 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | |
| THB | Thai baht | 37,732 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 5,2031 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 18,4088 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 90,6690 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,1023

JPY

Japanese yen

156,73

DKK

Danish krone

7,4529

GBP

Pound sterling

0,85765

SEK

Swedish krona

11,5895

CHF

Swiss franc

0,9619

ISK

Iceland króna

144,30

NOK

Norwegian krone

11,1805

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

23,900

HUF

Hungarian forint

386,93

PLN

Polish zloty

4,4070

RON

Romanian leu

4,9349

TRY

Turkish lira

29,7126

AUD

Australian dollar

1,6436

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4566

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

8,5966

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,7773

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,4660

KRW

South Korean won

1 405,49

ZAR

South African rand

19,5511

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

7,8808

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

16 622,65

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,9703

PHP

Philippine peso

60,522

RUB

Russian rouble

THB

Thai baht

37,732

BRL

Brazilian real

5,2031

MXN

Mexican peso

18,4088

INR

Indian rupee

90,6690

---

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

---

V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 1.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 272/3 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

1.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 272/3

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.11205 – INPEX CORPORATION / ENEL GREEN POWER / ENEL GREEN POWER AUSTRALIA)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 272/03)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | Enel Green Power S.p.A. (‘EGP’, Italy), belonging to the Enel Group (Italy), |
| --- | --- |

—

Enel Green Power S.p.A. (‘EGP’, Italy), belonging to the Enel Group (Italy),

| — | INPEX Corporation (‘INPEX’, Japan), |
| --- | --- |

—

INPEX Corporation (‘INPEX’, Japan),

| — | Enel Green Power Australia Pty Ltd (‘EGPA’, Australia), belonging to the ENEL Group, |
| --- | --- |

—

Enel Green Power Australia Pty Ltd (‘EGPA’, Australia), belonging to the ENEL Group,

| — | Enel Green Power Australia Trust (‘Master Trust’, Australia), belonging to the ENEL Group. |
| --- | --- |

—

Enel Green Power Australia Trust (‘Master Trust’, Australia), belonging to the ENEL Group.

EGP and INPEX will acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) and 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of EGPA and Master Trust.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares.

2.

| — | EGP is the renewable arm of the Enel Group, headquartered in Rome. EGP operates worldwide (directly or through its subsidiaries) in the production and selling of energy from renewable sources, |
| --- | --- |

—

EGP is the renewable arm of the Enel Group, headquartered in Rome. EGP operates worldwide (directly or through its subsidiaries) in the production and selling of energy from renewable sources,

| — | INPEX is an exploration and production company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. It engages in research, exploration, development, production and sales of oil, natural gas, other mineral resources and other related businesses, and investment and lending to companies engaged in these activities, |
| --- | --- |

—

INPEX is an exploration and production company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. It engages in research, exploration, development, production and sales of oil, natural gas, other mineral resources and other related businesses, and investment and lending to companies engaged in these activities,

| — | EGPA and Master Trust engage in investing in renewable energy projects, providing an end-to-end renewables platform that develops and operates projects, and energy retail and trading. EGPA and Master Trust operate only in Australia. |
| --- | --- |

—

EGPA and Master Trust engage in investing in renewable energy projects, providing an end-to-end renewables platform that develops and operates projects, and energy retail and trading. EGPA and Master Trust operate only in Australia.

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.11205 – INPEX CORPORATION / ENEL GREEN POWER / ENEL GREEN POWER AUSTRALIA

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

---

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

1

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

2

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| 1.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 272/5 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

1.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 272/5

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Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.11215 – PAI PARTNERS / HG / AZETS)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 272/04)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | PAI Partners S.à.r.l. (France), wholly-owned subsidiary of PAI Partners SAS (France), together ‘PAI Partners’, |
| --- | --- |

—

PAI Partners S.à.r.l. (France), wholly-owned subsidiary of PAI Partners SAS (France), together ‘PAI Partners’,

| — | HgCapital LLP (‘Hg’, United Kingdom), |
| --- | --- |

—

HgCapital LLP (‘Hg’, United Kingdom),

| — | Azets Topco Limited (‘Azets’, Jersey), currently controlled by Hg. |
| --- | --- |

—

Azets Topco Limited (‘Azets’, Jersey), currently controlled by Hg.

PAI Partners and Hg will acquire within the meaning of Articles 3(1)(b) and 3(4) of the Merger Regulation joint control of Azets.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares.

2.

| — | PAI Partners is a private equity firm. The funds managed by PAI Partners have a policy of acquiring majority shareholdings in companies active worldwide in the business services, food & consumer, general industrials, and healthcare sectors, |
| --- | --- |

—

PAI Partners is a private equity firm. The funds managed by PAI Partners have a policy of acquiring majority shareholdings in companies active worldwide in the business services, food & consumer, general industrials, and healthcare sectors,

| — | Hg is an investor in software and services businesses with a focus on Europe and the United States, |
| --- | --- |

—

Hg is an investor in software and services businesses with a focus on Europe and the United States,

| — | Azets is a provider of accounting, tax, audit, advisory, human resources support and payroll support services mainly for SMEs and is active throughout the EEA. |
| --- | --- |

—

Azets is a provider of accounting, tax, audit, advisory, human resources support and payroll support services mainly for SMEs and is active throughout the EEA.

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.11215 – PAI PARTNERS / HG / AZETS

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

---

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

1

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

2

---

| 1.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 272/7 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

1.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 272/7

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.11168 – WARBURG PINCUS / ADVENT INTERNATIONAL / BAXTER PHARMACEUTICAL SOLUTIONS AND BAXTER ONCOLOGY)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2023/C 272/05)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | Warburg Pincus LLC and affiliated funds (‘Warburg Pincus’, USA), |
| --- | --- |

—

Warburg Pincus LLC and affiliated funds (‘Warburg Pincus’, USA),

| — | Advent International Corporation and affiliated funds (‘Advent’, USA), |
| --- | --- |

—

Advent International Corporation and affiliated funds (‘Advent’, USA),

| — | Baxter Pharmaceutical Solutions LLC (USA) and Baxter Oncology GmbH (Germany) (‘BPS’). |
| --- | --- |

—

Baxter Pharmaceutical Solutions LLC (USA) and Baxter Oncology GmbH (Germany) (‘BPS’).

Warburg Pincus and Advent will acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation joint control of the whole of BPS.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares.

2.

| — | Warburg Pincus is a global private equity firm. Its portfolio companies are active in a variety of sectors, including energy, financial services, healthcare and consumer, industrial and business services, and technology, media and telecommunications, |
| --- | --- |

—

Warburg Pincus is a global private equity firm. Its portfolio companies are active in a variety of sectors, including energy, financial services, healthcare and consumer, industrial and business services, and technology, media and telecommunications,

| — | Advent is a private equity investor focusing on the acquisition of equity stakes and the management of investment funds in various sectors, including healthcare, industrial, technology, retail, consumer and leisure, and business and financial services, |
| --- | --- |

—

Advent is a private equity investor focusing on the acquisition of equity stakes and the management of investment funds in various sectors, including healthcare, industrial, technology, retail, consumer and leisure, and business and financial services,

| — | BPS is Baxter International Inc.’s global pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing business. It provides Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization services for Finished Dose Pharmaceuticals. |
| --- | --- |

—

BPS is Baxter International Inc.’s global pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing business. It provides Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization services for Finished Dose Pharmaceuticals.

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.11168 – WARBURG PINCUS / ADVENT INTERNATIONAL / BAXTER PHARMACEUTICAL SOLUTIONS AND BAXTER ONCOLOGY

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

---

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

1

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

2

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OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 1.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 272/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

1.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 272/9

---

Publication of an application for a Union amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector pursuant to Article 97(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council

(2023/C 272/06)

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 98 of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1) within two months from the date of this publication.

APPLICATION FOR A UNION AMENDMENT TO THE PRODUCT SPECIFICATION

‘Мелник’

PDO-BG-A1472-AM01

Date of application: 24.3.2021

1.   Applicant and legitimate interest

‘Pirin’ Regional Vine and Wine Chamber (RLVK)

‘Pirin’ RLVK is registered in accordance with the Wine and Spirit Drinks Act and includes members who are producers with a legitimate interest in amending the specification for ‘Мелник’ PDO.

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

| ☐ | Name of product |
| --- | --- |

☐

Name of product

| ☐ | Category of the grapevine product |
| --- | --- |

☐

Category of the grapevine product

| ☒ | Link |
| --- | --- |

☒

Link

| ☐ | Marketing restrictions |
| --- | --- |

☐

Marketing restrictions

3.   Description and reasons for amendment

3.1.   Enlargement of the geographical area

The demarcated area for the production of ‘Мелник’ PDO wine currently includes only the village of Drangovo in the municipality of Petrich, region of Blagoevgrad. The area has only a small number of vineyards, which have limited production and a small market share. The current demarcation is preventing the area from positioning itself on the market as necessary and tapping the added value for wines labelled as ‘Мелник’ PDO. The area needs to be reviewed so that it is correctly defined, taking account of the fact that the soil and climatic characteristics are identical over a wider area, where varieties are available that produce wines with specific organoleptic characteristics. Under these conditions, the area can recover its market reputation and gain a market share commensurate with the quality of the wines. In order to prepare this application, a broad study into the area has been carried out, including from a historical perspective. The soil characteristics have been studied, a climate map has been drawn up, and a document showing the parcels planted with the varieties listed and distributed in the area has been enclosed. Broadening the area has an impact on the link without invalidating it, as the area’s specific soil and climatic features, as well as the impact of the human factor on the production of ‘Мелник’ PDO wine, are not affected. The following localities in the region of Blagoevgrad are added:

| — | in the municipality of Sandanski, the villages of Lehovo, Novo Hodzhovo, Piperitsa, Petrovo, Yanovo, Vranya, Katuntsi, Kalimantsi, Harsovo, Zlatolist, Zornitsa, Vinogradi, Hotovo, Lozenitsa, Levunovo, Novo Delchevo, Damyanitsa, Spatovo, Sklave, Leshnitsa, Polenitsa, Ploski, Debrene, Dzhigurovo, Laskarevo, Ladarevo, Lyubovka, Gorna Sushitsa, Rozhen, Kovachevo, Chereshnitsa, Gorno Spanchevo and Belevehchevo, and the town of Sandanski; |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Sandanski, the villages of Lehovo, Novo Hodzhovo, Piperitsa, Petrovo, Yanovo, Vranya, Katuntsi, Kalimantsi, Harsovo, Zlatolist, Zornitsa, Vinogradi, Hotovo, Lozenitsa, Levunovo, Novo Delchevo, Damyanitsa, Spatovo, Sklave, Leshnitsa, Polenitsa, Ploski, Debrene, Dzhigurovo, Laskarevo, Ladarevo, Lyubovka, Gorna Sushitsa, Rozhen, Kovachevo, Chereshnitsa, Gorno Spanchevo and Belevehchevo, and the town of Sandanski;

| — | in the municipality of Petrich, the villages of Kulata, Chuchuligovo, Dolno Spanchevo, Marino Pole, Topolnitsa, Drangovo, Kapatovo, Mitino, Marikostinovo, Kromidovo, Novo Konomladi, General Todorov, Rupite, Starchevo, Karnalovo, Mihnevo and Belasitsa, and the town of Petrich; |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Petrich, the villages of Kulata, Chuchuligovo, Dolno Spanchevo, Marino Pole, Topolnitsa, Drangovo, Kapatovo, Mitino, Marikostinovo, Kromidovo, Novo Konomladi, General Todorov, Rupite, Starchevo, Karnalovo, Mihnevo and Belasitsa, and the town of Petrich;

| — | in the municipality of Strumyani, the villages of Ilindentsi, Drakata, Mikrevo and Kamenitsa; |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Strumyani, the villages of Ilindentsi, Drakata, Mikrevo and Kamenitsa;

| — | in the municipality of Kresna, the town of Kresna and the village of Dolna Gradeshnitsa. |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Kresna, the town of Kresna and the village of Dolna Gradeshnitsa.

This amendment affects point 3 ‘Area for the production of “Мелник” PDO wine’ of the product specification and point 6 ‘Demarcated geographical area’ of the single document.

3.2.   Inclusion of new wine grape varieties

Over the last 20 years, the territorial distribution of vineyards in the proposed wider area of Melnik has undergone significant changes. The varietal structure has also changed. A deep and sustained interest has been observed in cultivating and vinifying local wine grape varieties, as well as grape varieties that are new to Bulgaria. It has been established that the varieties are perfectly suited to the conditions in the area, and that there is an increasing market interest in the wines produced from them. This change will make it possible to broaden the range of wines offered in response to consumer demand. The following varieties are proposed for inclusion:

| — | for white wines: Misket Sandanski, Keratsuda, Tamyanka, Muscat Ottonel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Pinot Gris; |
| --- | --- |

—

for white wines: Misket Sandanski, Keratsuda, Tamyanka, Muscat Ottonel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Pinot Gris;

| — | for red and rosé wines: Shiroka Melnishka Loza, Ranna Melnishka Loza (Melnik 55), Melnik 82, Melnik 1300, Rubin, Ruen, Melnishki Rubin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Grenache. |
| --- | --- |

—

for red and rosé wines: Shiroka Melnishka Loza, Ranna Melnishka Loza (Melnik 55), Melnik 82, Melnik 1300, Rubin, Ruen, Melnishki Rubin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Grenache.

This amendment affects point 5 ‘Wine grape varieties authorised for production of “Мелник” PDO wine’ of the product specification and point 7 ‘Main wine grape variety(ies)’ of the single document.

3.3.   Addition of white wine production

In view of the broadened varietal structure and market demand, the production of white wines in the area has been authorised. The white wines are distinctive and of high quality, as the white varieties are well adapted to the terroir. The white wines complement the specificity of the area, and their distinctiveness is due to the soil and climate characteristics and human factors. This amendment affects points 2 ‘Wine produced, characteristics’ and 6 ‘Link to the geographical area’ of the product specification and points 4 ‘Description of the wine(s)’, 5 ‘Wine-making practices’ and 8 ‘Description of the link(s)’ of the single document.

3.4.   Change in the cultivation practices applied

As a result of the newly established vineyards and the restructuring of existing ones, and in order to take account of the specific climate and improve the performance of the wine produced, the following new training methods may be used: Guyot and goblet. Due to the change in the vineyard structure, the permitted vineyard density is up to a maximum of 500 vines per decare, or 5 000 vines per hectare. This amendment affects point 6 ‘Link to the geographical area’ of the product specification and point 5 ‘Wine-making practices’ of the single document.

3.5.   Maximum wine yield from 100 kg of grapes (wine obtained after vinification of 100 kg of grapes)

As white wine production has been authorised, a 60 l maximum yield (wine obtained after vinification of 100 kg of grapes) has been added for white wines. This amendment affects point 6 of the product specification and point 5 ‘Wine-making practices’ of the single document.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name of product

Мелник

2.   Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected Designation of Origin

3.   Categories of grapevine products

Category 1. Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

White wine

The white wines are produced from the Misket Sandanski, Keratsuda, Tamyanka, Muscat Ottonel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Pinot Gris varieties, either as single-varietal wines or as cuvée wines produced from several varieties. They are full-bodied with a clear straw to vibrant golden colour, a rich palette of aromas ranging from notes of white flowers to delicate citrus, and fruity aromas of quince jam, cherry and peach. The provisions of Part II of Annex VII to Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 apply to the maximum total alcoholic strength.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | 10,5 |
| Minimum total acidity | 4,0 g/l, expressed as tartaric acid |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | 13,3 |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | 200 |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

10,5

Minimum total acidity

4,0 g/l, expressed as tartaric acid

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

13,3

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

200

Red wine

The red wines are produced from the Shiroka Melnishka Loza, Ranna Melnishka Loza (Melnik 55), Melnik 82, Melnik 1300, Rubin, Ruen, Melnishki Rubin, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Grenache varieties, either as single-varietal wines or as cuvée wines produced from several varieties. They are ruby to dark red in colour, with intense aromas and a wide range of flavours from forest fruits to exotic spices such as cloves, cinnamon and dry herbs. They are tannin and extract-rich, full-bodied and have considerable potential for long-term ageing. The provisions of Part II of Annex VII to Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 apply to the maximum total alcoholic strength.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | 11,5 |
| Minimum total acidity | 4,0 g/l, expressed as tartaric acid |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | 15 |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | 150 |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

11,5

Minimum total acidity

4,0 g/l, expressed as tartaric acid

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

15

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

150

Rosé wine

The rosé wines are produced from the Shiroka Melnishka Loza, Ranna Melnishka Loza (Melnik 55), Melnik 82, Melnik 1300, Rubin, Ruen, Melnishki Rubin, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Grenache varieties, either as single-varietal wines or as cuvée wines produced from several varieties. They have a rich colour palette ranging from delicate pale to raspberry tones. Aromas of ripe strawberries and juicy raspberries are intertwined with mineral citrus notes, a tender freshness, a strong flavour of strawberries and a long fruity finish. The provisions of Part II of Annex VII to Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 apply to the maximum total alcoholic strength.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | 10,5 |
| Minimum total acidity | 4,0 g/l, expressed as tartaric acid |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | 13,3 |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | 200 |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

10,5

Minimum total acidity

4,0 g/l, expressed as tartaric acid

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

13,3

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

200

5.   Wine making practices

a.   Specific oenological practices

Yield (wine obtained after vinification of 100 kg of grapes)

Relevant restriction on making the wines

The wine is produced using the traditional method of producing red, white and rosé wines. Ageing in oak barrels is permitted.

Maximum wine yield from 100 kg of grapes (wine obtained after vinification of 100 kg of grapes)

| — | 65 l for red wines (65 %); |
| --- | --- |

—

65 l for red wines (65 %);

| — | 60 l for white wines (60 %); |
| --- | --- |

—

60 l for white wines (60 %);

| — | 60 l for rosé wines (60 %). |
| --- | --- |

—

60 l for rosé wines (60 %).

Cultivation requirements

Cultivation method

The requirements for cultivating the vines are:

| — | training: umbrella, Moser, mid-wire bilateral cordon, Guyot or goblet; |
| --- | --- |

—

training: umbrella, Moser, mid-wire bilateral cordon, Guyot or goblet;

| — | pruning: combined and low pruning, retaining up to 54 buds per vine; |
| --- | --- |

—

pruning: combined and low pruning, retaining up to 54 buds per vine;

| — | planting distances: from 2,0 to 3,4 m between rows and a spacing of 1,0 to 1,5 m within rows, up to a maximum of 500 vines per decare, or 5 000 vines per hectare. |
| --- | --- |

—

planting distances: from 2,0 to 3,4 m between rows and a spacing of 1,0 to 1,5 m within rows, up to a maximum of 500 vines per decare, or 5 000 vines per hectare.

b.   Maximum yields

9 000 kg of grapes per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

The demarcated area for the production of ‘Мелник’ PDO (GKNP – guaranteed and controlled appellation of origin) wine is within the boundaries of the following localities:

| — | in the municipality of Sandanski, the villages of Lehovo, Novo Hodzhovo, Piperitsa, Petrovo, Yanovo, Vranya, Katuntsi, Kalimantsi, Harsovo, Zlatolist, Zornitsa, Vinogradi, Hotovo, Lozenitsa, Levunovo, Novo Delchevo, Damyanitsa, Spatovo, Sklave, Leshnitsa, Polenitsa, Ploski, Debrene, Dzhigurovo, Laskarevo, Ladarevo, Lyubovka, Gorna Sushitsa, Rozhen, Kovachevo, Chereshnitsa, Gorno Spanchevo and Belevehchevo, and the town of Sandanski; |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Sandanski, the villages of Lehovo, Novo Hodzhovo, Piperitsa, Petrovo, Yanovo, Vranya, Katuntsi, Kalimantsi, Harsovo, Zlatolist, Zornitsa, Vinogradi, Hotovo, Lozenitsa, Levunovo, Novo Delchevo, Damyanitsa, Spatovo, Sklave, Leshnitsa, Polenitsa, Ploski, Debrene, Dzhigurovo, Laskarevo, Ladarevo, Lyubovka, Gorna Sushitsa, Rozhen, Kovachevo, Chereshnitsa, Gorno Spanchevo and Belevehchevo, and the town of Sandanski;

| — | in the municipality of Petrich, the villages of Kulata, Chuchuligovo, Dolno Spanchevo, Marino Pole, Topolnitsa, Drangovo, Kapatovo, Mitino, Marikostinovo, Kromidovo, Novo Konomladi, General Todorov, Rupite, Starchevo, Karnalovo, Mihnevo and Belasitsa, and the town of Petrich; |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Petrich, the villages of Kulata, Chuchuligovo, Dolno Spanchevo, Marino Pole, Topolnitsa, Drangovo, Kapatovo, Mitino, Marikostinovo, Kromidovo, Novo Konomladi, General Todorov, Rupite, Starchevo, Karnalovo, Mihnevo and Belasitsa, and the town of Petrich;

| — | in the municipality of Strumyani, the villages of Ilindentsi, Drakata, Mikrevo and Kamenitsa; |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Strumyani, the villages of Ilindentsi, Drakata, Mikrevo and Kamenitsa;

| — | in the municipality of Kresna, the town of Kresna and the village of Dolna Gradeshnitsa. |
| --- | --- |

—

in the municipality of Kresna, the town of Kresna and the village of Dolna Gradeshnitsa.

7.   Wine grape variety(ies)

| | Viognier |
| --- | --- |

Viognier

| | Grenache |
| --- | --- |

Grenache

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

Cabernet Sauvignon

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

Cabernet Franc

| | Keratsuda |
| --- | --- |

Keratsuda

| | Melnik 82 |
| --- | --- |

Melnik 82

| | Melnik Yubileen 1300 |
| --- | --- |

Melnik Yubileen 1300

| | Melnishki Rubin |
| --- | --- |

Melnishki Rubin

| | Merlot |
| --- | --- |

Merlot

| | Misket Sandanski - Muscat Sandanski |
| --- | --- |

Misket Sandanski - Muscat Sandanski

| | Mourvèdre |
| --- | --- |

Mourvèdre

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

Muscat Ottonel

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

Pinot Gris

| | Pinot Noir |
| --- | --- |

Pinot Noir

| | Ranna Melnishka Loza - Melnik 55 |
| --- | --- |

Ranna Melnishka Loza - Melnik 55

| | Rubin |
| --- | --- |

Rubin

| | Ruen |
| --- | --- |

Ruen

| | Syrah - Shiraz |
| --- | --- |

Syrah - Shiraz

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

Sauvignon Blanc

| | Tamyanka - Temenuga |
| --- | --- |

Tamyanka - Temenuga

| | Chardonnay |
| --- | --- |

Chardonnay

| | Shiroka Melnishka Loza - Melnik |
| --- | --- |

Shiroka Melnishka Loza - Melnik

8.   Description of the link(s)

The vineyards in the demarcated area are located in south-western Bulgaria in the Struma valley, along the Melnik River, the southern part of the Kresna Gorge and in the foothills of the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountains. The area has a transitional Mediterranean climate, and the warmth of the Aegean, which is channelled by the Struma River, can be felt throughout the year. The winter is short, mild and without snowfall, the summer is hot, and the autumn is long and warm. The average annual temperature is between 12,5 and 14 oC. The period of sustained temperatures over 5 oC in low-altitude areas lasts 280-290 days, during which the temperature sum reaches 4 800 oC. The period of temperatures over 10 oC lasts 225-230 days, with a temperature sum of 4 300 to 4 400 oC. Annual rainfall is between 470 and 670 mm. The average daily temperature of the warmest month is 24,9 oC. The soil types are: moderate to heavy sandy-clayey, rendzina and pararendzina, colluvial, and alluvial meadow and brown forest soils.

The typical climate of the area influenced by the Aegean Sea channelled by the Struma River, the proximity of the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountains, the favourable soil conditions, as well as the restrictions imposed by human intervention, result in the wines typical of the area. The role of the human factor is reflected in the selection of varieties, the cultivation practices applied to the vines, the limitation of the grape and wine yields and the wine production methods.

The wines produced in the area are distinguished, and their organoleptic characteristics influenced, by the specific climate and soil composition of the area. Thanks to the soil and climate conditions, the wines produced stand out for being extract-rich, and for their excellent structure and high aromatic content. The wines owe their distinctive structure and organoleptic characteristics to the appropriate selection of varieties adapted to the soils typical of the area – brown forest soils formed on ancient quaternary deposits, colluvial soils formed on colluvium, rendzina formed on limestone, pararendzina formed on underlying limestone materials, and alluvial soils formed on river alluvium. The soils and subsoils in the area are very deep, have a medium to heavy sandy-clayey mechanical composition, and good water retention and drainage capacity. This allows the roots of the vines to penetrate deep into the ground and supply the plant with the necessary nutrients, factors which have a direct bearing on the extract-rich nature of the wines. The high average temperatures in the area mean that the grapes ripen very well, which guarantees high quality when the fruit is processed. With temperatures exceeding 10 oC on more than 220 days per year and around 209 frost-free days per year, even the latest ripening varieties have the temperatures they need to ripen perfectly. These features determine the typical organoleptic characteristics of the wines produced in the area.

9.   Specific further requirements (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Legal framework:

In national legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation from production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

Vinification and processing take place in the demarcated area and in an area in the immediate proximity of the demarcated area in question. For the purposes of demarcating the area for the production of ‘Мелник’ PDO wines, the area in the immediate proximity is understood to cover the territory of the administrative region of Blagoevgrad.

Link to the product specification

https://eavw.com/updocs/2323031679562021_PDO_Melnik_Specification-NEW.pdf

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(1)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 671.

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| 1.8.2023 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 272/15 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

1.8.2023

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 272/15

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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

(2023/C 272/07)

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

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka'

EU No: PGI-SE-02824 — 14.12.2021

PDO ( ) PGI (X)

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

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka'

2.   Member State or Third Country

Sweden

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   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

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' is a greenhouse-grown white gherkin pickled in brine and spices. The following ingredients are used: Salt (NaCl), spices, dill, preservatives (sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate) and citric acid. With the exception of the mandatory addition of dill, the composition of the spices may vary. The ratio of salt to water for the brine is traditionally determined by the producers.

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' is a perishable fresh product. 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' is sold whole or sliced.

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' has the following characteristics.

Physical properties:

| | Whole 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka': | Length: 120–150 mm |
| --- | --- | --- |

Whole 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka':

Length: 120–150 mm

| | Diameter: 30–50 mm |
| --- | --- |

Diameter: 30–50 mm

| | Weight: 50–90 grams |
| --- | --- |

Weight: 50–90 grams

| | Sliced 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka': | Diameter: 30–50 mm |
| --- | --- | --- |

Sliced 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka':

Diameter: 30–50 mm

| | Thickness: 5–7 mm |
| --- | --- |

Thickness: 5–7 mm

| | Surface: ridged |
| --- | --- |

Surface: ridged

The following applies to both whole and sliced 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka':

| | Chemical characteristics: | Salt content: 10–15 % |
| --- | --- | --- |

Chemical characteristics:

Salt content: 10–15 %

| | Organoleptic characteristics: | Colour: | Skin: Warm yellowish white with green tints (NSC S0520-G60Y to S0520-G50Y). |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

Organoleptic characteristics:

Colour:

Skin: Warm yellowish white with green tints (NSC S0520-G60Y to S0520-G50Y).

| | Interior: Uniform colour on the same colour scale as the outer side of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka'. The flesh of the gherkin is lime yellow, while the core has a somewhat darker green shade than the skin. |
| --- | --- |

Interior: Uniform colour on the same colour scale as the outer side of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka'. The flesh of the gherkin is lime yellow, while the core has a somewhat darker green shade than the skin.

| | Flavour: A pronounced saltiness that is toned down by the white gherkin’s inherent sweetness. The flavour also has a touch of fullness reminiscent of dill and caraway. |
| --- | --- |

Flavour: A pronounced saltiness that is toned down by the white gherkin’s inherent sweetness. The flavour also has a touch of fullness reminiscent of dill and caraway.

| | Finish: Salty with hints of dill and fresh green peas. |
| --- | --- |

Finish: Salty with hints of dill and fresh green peas.

| | Aroma: A deep palette of aromas with notes of soil / underground cellar and notes of pea shoots and unspiced distilled alcohol. |
| --- | --- |

Aroma: A deep palette of aromas with notes of soil / underground cellar and notes of pea shoots and unspiced distilled alcohol.

| | Consistency: Firm and crunchy, with a slightly less firm core. |
| --- | --- |

Consistency: Firm and crunchy, with a slightly less firm core.

| | Mouthfeel: A pleasant structure and firmness to the bite. A distinctive saltiness, and a distinct crunchiness that has retained much of the freshness characteristic of the newly harvested greenhouse-grown white gherkin. |
| --- | --- |

Mouthfeel: A pleasant structure and firmness to the bite. A distinctive saltiness, and a distinct crunchiness that has retained much of the freshness characteristic of the newly harvested greenhouse-grown white gherkin.

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

Raw material: Greenhouse-grown white gherkins of the Lilla Delikatessen variety. The greenhouse-grown white gherkin is 120–150 mm long and has a diameter of 30–50 mm. The newly harvested gherkin is whitish, with a light-green sheen. The skin has fine bumps and is relatively hard. The flesh of the greenhouse-grown white gherkin is lime yellow, while the relatively small core is greenish in colour.

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

The entire production process – from the cultivation of the white gherkin to the pickling of the greenhouse-grown white gherkin in brine – must take place within the geographical area indicated under point 4.

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

-

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

-

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

The production area of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' consists of the province of Östergötland.

5.   Link with the geographical area

The link between the characteristics of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' and the geographical area is based on the human factors associated with the geographical area.

Special characteristics of the product:

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' has the same warm yellowish-white outer side, lime-yellow flesh and greenish core as the newly harvested greenhouse-grown white gherkin. The flavour and aroma are marked by the freshness typical of the newly harvested white gherkin.

As a result of its relatively hard skin and small core, 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' is much crunchier than fresh-salted gherkins made from green gherkins. The firm and crunchy consistency of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' gives it a pleasant firmness to the bite.

In 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka', the white gherkin’s inherent sweetness is balanced by a pronounced saltiness. The aroma is complex, with notes of soil, fresh pea shoots and distilled alcohol.

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' is different from other types of salted gherkin commonly on sale, as the spiced brine used for the pickling contains no added sugar or vinegar. 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' also differs from 'ättiksgurka', the sour pickled gherkin which is far more common in Sweden and has a distinct sweet-and-sour flavour of vinegar, sugar and mustard.

Human factors associated with the geographical area:

’Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' is a very typical speciality of Östergötland. In Östergötland, pickled gherkins are traditionally white and prepared in brine, while in the rest of Sweden people have preferred green gherkins pickled in a solution of vinegar, sugar and salt.

The Hagdahl Academy has awarded a prize to the producers of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' for their work to preserve this culinary tradition from Östergötland.

The origin of the regional preference for 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' in Östergötland is unknown, but at the end of the 19th century it was discovered that the white gherkin had characteristics (a harder skin and smaller core) which produced a crunchier fresh-salted gherkin than the green gherkin, provided that it is handled properly during the pickling process.

The white gherkin traditionally cultivated for the production of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' is of the Lilla Delikatessen type. The Lilla Delikatessen gherkin is grown in greenhouses in Östergötland and harvested between March and October. ‘Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka’ is therefore a seasonal product produced only from March to October.

The cultivation of Lilla Delikatessen requires particular efforts on the part of the grower. Unlike green gherkins, for example, Lilla Delikatessen is not self-pollinating. In order for the gherkin to set fruit, it needs the grower’s help with pollination, which in turn means that the gherkin plants must be pruned and trained to enable the grower to pollinate the flowers.

Growers prepare the seeds for the following year’s production of Lilla Delikatessen from the farm itself by selecting a number of gherkin plants to produce seedlings. The selection is based on the plant’s ability to produce a good harvest of white gherkins having the qualitative characteristics (colour of the gherkin, flesh and core as well as hardness of the skin and size of the core) required for the production of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka'.

The producers’ ability to preserve the colour, crunchiness and freshness typical of the newly harvested white greenhouse-grown gherkin during pickling is essential to the characteristics associated with 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka'.

For the production of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka', the white gherkins must be newly harvested. The white gherkin is therefore picked daily. In order for the white gherkin to meet the quality requirements for 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka', the newly harvested gherkin must have a length of 12 cm to 15 cm and a diameter of 3 cm to 5 cm.

The newly harvested white gherkins are washed in water, brushed and pierced so that the brine is absorbed more easily by the whole cucumber. After that the white gherkins are sorted and quality-controlled before – when producing whole 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' – they are placed whole in brine, dill and spices.

When producing sliced 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka', the washed white gherkin is cut into slices approximately 6 millimetres wide using knives that leave a ridged cut surface, after which the slices are placed in the brine, dill and spices.

In the production of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka', producers must place the newly harvested white gherkins in brine within 1 to 2 days in order to preserve the white gherkin’s characteristic colour and crunchiness. If the white gherkin is stored for longer, it softens and turns yellow in colour.

Each producer of 'Vit färsksaltad Östgötagurka' uses their own recipe when preparing the brine. The brine must traditionally contain enough salt for a hen’s egg to float in it. However, the part of the egg above the water surface was not allowed to be larger than a 25-öre coin. The brine always contains dill, but the exact composition of the spices is facultative and based on old recipes that have often been passed down from generation to generation.

Reference to publication of the specification

https://www.livsmedelsverket.se/globalassets/foretag-regler-kontroll/livsmedelsinformation-markning-halsopastaenden/skyddade-beteckningar/produktbeskrivning_vit_farsksaltad-ostgotagurka_23-02-08.pdf

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

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