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
Date: 2024-07-25
Institutions: Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development, European Commission
Subjects: Community of Valencia, Spain, consumer information, designation of origin, labelling, product designation, quality control of agricultural products, wine








C_202404680EN.000101.fmx.xml












Official Journal of the European Union


EN
C series













C/2024/4680


25.7.2024






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
(C/2024/4680)

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


                     ‘Alicante’
                  


PDO-ES-A1526-AM03


Date of communication: 6 May 2024
                  


DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   CATEGORIES OF WINES
Description:
The categories of wine covered have been added, in accordance with Part II of Annex VII to Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013.
This amendment concerns point 2 of the product specification. It does not affect the single document as the categories of wine already appear there.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
According to Article 4(1) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33, the description of the grapevine products in the product specification ‘shall indicate the relevant category or categories of grapevine products from amongst the categories set out in Part II of Annex VII to Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013’.
2.   VARIOUS CHANGES TO THE LIMITS OF THE ANALYTICAL PARAMETERS
Description:
The minimum total alcoholic strength of the liqueur wines has been increased from 15 to 17,5 %. This change has been made in accordance with the definition of liqueur wine (category 3) as set out in Part II of Annex VII to Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013.
Amendments to the limits for sugars:
Still wines (white, rosé and red wines of category 1): the limit of < 4 g/l has been removed as there is no connection between quality and sugar limit in still wines.
Wines termed ‘Fondillón’: the limit has been increased from < 40 g/l to < 45 g/l. This is because 45 g/l represents the legal minimum at which a wine must be labelled ‘sweet’, and this product should not be sweet.
Amendments to the limits for total acidity:
The total acidity of the liqueur wines has been lowered from 3,5 to 3 g of tartaric acid per litre of wine. It is important to reduce this parameter for certain grapes in the area, such as the Moscatel varieties.
Amendments to the limits for volatile acidity:
For wines subject to long ageing, such as ‘Fondillón’, the volatile acidity naturally increases over time due to oxidation, giving the product its unique character. The limit for ‘Fondillón’ has been established as 2,2 g of acetic acid per 100 ml of wine. This exceeds the limit set down in Part C of Annex I to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/934 of 12 March 2019. It is, however, covered by the exceptions provided for in Part C(1) and (3) of Annex I to the aforementioned Regulation.
For the red wines, liqueur wines, ‘noble’ (aged for at least 18 months), ‘añejo’ (aged for at least 24 months) and sparkling wines, the maximum volatile acidity values have been corrected in accordance with Part C of Annex I to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/934 of 12 March 2019.
All of these changes affect point 2.1 of the product specification and point 4 of the single document.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
The following have been corrected as they did not comply with the rules: minimum total [alcoholic] strength of the liqueur wines; and volatile acidity limit of the red wines, liqueur wines, and ‘noble’, ‘añejo’ and sparkling wines.
The limit for sugars has been removed as there is no connection with quality in the case of still wines. In the case of ‘Fondillón’, the limit for sugars has been increased because the maximum of 45 g/l represents the legal minimum at which a wine must be labelled ‘sweet’, and this product should not be sweet.
It is important to reduce the total acidity in liqueur wines because of the nature of certain grapes in the area, including the Moscatel varieties.
For wines subject to long ageing, such as ‘Fondillón’, the volatile acidity naturally increases over time due to oxidation, giving the product its unique character.
3.   CHANGE IN THE ORGANOLEPTIC DESCRIPTIONS
Description:
The wording of the descriptions of the wines has been amended. An organoleptic description has been added of the rosé wines subject to ageing, i.e. those termed ‘noble’ and ‘añejo’.
This amendment affects point 2.2 of the product specification and point 4 of the single document.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
These terms have been used to make it possible to check the sensory analysis of products in accordance with ISO 17025. They can therefore also be used by our tasting committee. The wording is also based on the technical terms in the standard, which have been included in the terminology and reference values to be used by the tasting committee.
4.   CHANGES IN WINE-GROWING AND OENOLOGICAL PRACTICES
Description:
The limits on planting density have been abolished.
The ban on the use of wood chips has been lifted.
The requirements relating to proportions of grape varieties have been abolished in the case of red wines (> 80 % Monastrell) and aromatic sparkling wines (100 % Moscatel).
Conditions for making ‘Fondillón’ have been added, so that the system for ageing the wine can be described in detail. This will also make it possible to calculate the age of the ‘solera’ (blend of different vintages) in order to verify compliance with the rules.
Certain clarifications have been added concerning production of Moscatel liqueur wines and sweet wine.
Point 3 of the product specification and point 5.1 of the single document have been amended.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
The limits on planting density have little influence on the quality of the product.
In the case of wood chips, this is not something that can be checked with absolute certainty. Furthermore, the legislation does not prohibit their use.
The proportions of the different grape varieties have been corrected in accordance with national legislation: > 80 % Monastrell for the red wines; and 100 % Moscatel for the aromatic sparkling wines.
In the case of ‘Fondillón’, the description of the ‘solera’ has been improved to make it easier to understand in connection with the right to use the term, and so that checks can be conducted more easily.
The forthcoming amendment of Regulation (EU) 2019/934, on oenological practices, will remove the explicit reference to the Moscatel liqueur wines and sweet wines with this PDO among the exceptions to oenological rules. For this reason, certain clarifications have been added to the product specification for greater legal certainty.
5.   EXPANSION OF THE DEMARCATED AREA
Description:
The sub-areas have been reorganised and new territory has been included.
This amendment affects point 4 of the product specification and point 6 of the single document.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
Districts have been standardised as some of their municipalities did not previously appear, due to errors.
6.   INCREASE IN MAXIMUM YIELDS
Description:
The maximum quantities of grapes and wine that can be produced per hectare have been increased.
Point 5 of the product specification and point 5.2 of the single document have been amended.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
In recent years, the specification already allowed a 25 % increase in the maximum quantities, which was applied in the harvest rules. It has now been decided to set the maximum limits to include this 25 % increase, and to remove the option of applying it on a yearly basis. It is believed that, with these new maximum limits, which are lower than in other areas, it will be possible to develop the area’s potential.
7.   INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF GRAPE VARIETIES AND DIVISION INTO THREE GROUPS
Description:
New varieties have been included, and the grapes have been grouped into three categories: main, secondary and historical.
Point 6 of the product specification and point 7 of the single document have been amended accordingly.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
It is considered a priority to strengthen the character of, and the historical link with, the area by promoting local varieties, boosting varieties native to the area and reorganising the entire list.
Varieties mentioned in ancient sources have been termed ‘historical’ where they are in a minority, or less widely planted. ‘Main’ varieties are those most widely planted. This categorisation will also make it possible to establish quality levels according to category.
8.   IMPROVED WORDING IN THE SECTION ON THE LINK
Description:
There is now reference to the new territories that have been added. This does not, however, involve any change to the link with the PDO as the new areas have similar characteristics to the rest of the designation area. In addition, the opportunity was taken to format the section on the link correctly, based on each of the relevant product categories, in accordance with the legislation in force.
Point 7 of the product specification and point 8 of the single document have been amended.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
The wording has been improved and made clearer.
9.   VARIOUS CHANGES TO THE ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
Description:
A variation of up to 25 % in maximum yields was previously possible, according to the conditions of each year. This option has been abolished.
The option to vinify in places in immediate proximity to the demarcated area has been abolished.
A paragraph has been deleted which previously permitted different wines to coexist where the wine-making processes were properly separated.
The regulatory board no longer has the power to authorise labels.
Specific secondary labels have been introduced for wines termed ‘Fondillón’ and ‘Alicante Singular’.
The wording justifying the requirement to bottle in the place of origin has been improved. This requirement already existed, it is not new.
The requirement has been introduced for wines termed ‘Alicante Singular’ to be in glass containers.
The following traditional terms have been deleted: ‘Superior’, ‘Primero de Cosecha’ and ‘Clásico’. The following term has been introduced: ‘Rancio’.
Rules have been deleted regarding the terms: ‘nuevo’ or ‘joven’.
The conditions of use for the term ‘Moscatel de Alicante’ have changed. Its use has now been extended to still white wines and liqueur wines other than mistelles. It was previously used only for mistelles.
Conditions of use for the term ‘Alicante Singular’ have been added.
This amendment concerns point 8 of the product specification and point 9 of the single document.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
A variation of up to 25 % in maximum yields was previously possible. This option has been abolished as a higher overall limit has been added.
The option to vinify in places in immediate proximity to the demarcated area has been removed. This is to prevent requests for inclusion from wineries in neighbouring municipalities outside of the production area: a situation which has arisen in recent years and which could lead to confusion concerning brands or blends of wines.
Previously there was a paragraph permitting different wines to coexist where properly separated. This has been deleted as it was obvious. Traceability requires a clear separation of products even where there are different quality systems.
The regulatory board’s power to authorise labels has been abolished as this is not the board’s responsibility.
Specific secondary labels have been introduced for more traditional wines that are more closely linked to the area, such as those termed ‘Fondillón’ and ‘Alicante Singular’.
The opportunity was taken to improve the wording of the justification required for packaging in the place of origin.
Specific terms such as ‘Alicante Singular’ are better understood by the consumer, and have a higher perceived value, when they appear on glass containers.
The following traditional terms and descriptors have been abolished: ‘Superior’, ‘Primero de cosecha’, ‘Clásico’, ‘Nuevo’ and ‘Joven’. Either they were not being used, or they already appear in relevant national legislation, so including them did not add any particular value.
The conditions of use for ‘Moscatel de Alicante’ have changed as the term ‘Moscatel’ has been re-evaluated. It now applies to all wines using that grape. The tradition of using the term for mistelle remains.
The term ‘Alicante Singular’ has been created for more exclusive wine, adding value with specific requirements.
10.   CHANGES IN SOME CHECKING PROCEDURES
Description:
Details have been updated for the competent authority and the control body. Reference to checking vineyard parcels has been deleted.
This amendment concerns point 9 of the product specification and does not affect the single document.
It is a standard amendment because it does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 105(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 (single CMO).
Reasons:
Checking vineyard parcels did not involve any specific practice, and therefore was not linked to any particular level of quality in the wine.
It is felt that the official vineyard register and the annual production declarations are enough to prove the existence and production of the parcels.
SINGLE DOCUMENT
1.   Name(s)

Alicante
2.   Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected Designation of Origin
3.   Categories of grapevine product







1.


Wine










3.


Liqueur wine










4.


Sparkling wine










6.


Quality aromatic sparkling wine










16.


Wine from overripe grapes




4.   Description of the wine(s)

1.   White wines and rosé wines

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION

White Moscatel wines







—


Appearance: ranging from pale yellows to shades of amber.










—


Aroma: fruity (citrus), floral (white flowers), plant.










—


Taste: fruity (citrus), floral (white flowers), acidic, long.





Other white wines







—


Appearance: light yellow shades.










—


Aroma: fruity (citrus, tropical fruits), floral.










—


Taste: fruity (citrus, tropical fruits), floral, acidic, long.





Aged white wines







—


Appearance: yellow to golden yellow.










—


Aroma: ripe fruit, oak, toasted.










—


Taste: ripe fruit, oak, toasted, acidic, long.





Rosé wines







—


Appearance: a range from salmon to pink.










—


Aroma: fruity, floral.










—


Taste: fruity, floral, acidic, long.





Aged rosé wines termed ‘noble’ and ‘añejo’
                              







—


Appearance: from salmon to mahogany.










—


Aroma: ripe fruit.










—


Taste: fruity, acidic, bitter, long.










(*)


Maximum volatile acidity: white and rosé wines: 0,8 g/l (13,33 meq/l) acetic acid; aged white and rosé wines: 1,08 g/l (18 meq/l) acetic acid.










(**)


Maximum total sulphur dioxide: white and rosé wines: 200 mg/l; aged white and rosé wines (with ≥ 45 g/l sugar): 250 mg/l.










(***)


Where limits have not been specified, the EU legislation in force must be complied with.




General analytical characteristics






—


Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume): -










—


Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume): 10










—


Minimum total acidity: 3,5 in grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid










—


Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre): -










—


Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre): -




2.   Young red wines

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION






—


Appearance: medium to strong colour intensity, from ruby to violet shades.










—


Aroma: fruity (red fruits), floral, plant.










—


Taste: fruit (red fruits), floral, spiced, acidic, astringent, long.










(*)


Where limits have not been specified, the EU legislation in force must be complied with.




General analytical characteristics






—


Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume): -










—


Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume): 12










—


Minimum total acidity: 3,5 in grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid










—


Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre): 20










—


Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre): 150




3.   Aged red wines termed ‘noble’ and ‘añejo’
                              

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION






—


Appearance: medium to low intensity of colour, cherry or similar.










—


Aroma: fruity (ripe fruit), plant (balsamic notes, Mediterranean woodland), spiced, animal, toasted.










—


Taste: plant (balsamic notes, Mediterranean woodland), spiced, toasted, astringent, long.










(*)


Wines with ≥ 45 g/l sugar










(**)


Where limits have not been specified, the EU legislation in force must be complied with.




General analytical characteristics






—


Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume): -










—


Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume): 14










—


Minimum total acidity: 3,5 in grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid










—


Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre): 20










—


Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre): 200




4.   Liqueur wines

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION






—


Appearance: white wines: yellow to golden; red wines: cherry to violet.










—


Aroma: fruity (ripe fruit, raisins), floral (white flowers).










—


Taste: fruity (ripe fruit, raisins), floral (white flowers), sweet, long.










(*)


Maximum volatile acidity: white and rosé wines: 1,08 g/l (18 meq/l) acetic acid; red wines: 1,2 g/l (20 meq/l) acetic acid.










(**)


Wines with ≥ 45 g/l sugar










(**)


Maximum total sulphur dioxide: 250 mg/l for white and rosé wines; 200 mg/l for red wines.










(***)


Where limits have not been specified, the EU legislation in force must be complied with.




General analytical characteristics






—


Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume): -










—


Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume): 15










—


Minimum total acidity: 3 in grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid










—


Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre): -










—


Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre): -




5.   
                              ‘Fondillón’ (red)

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION






—


Appearance: mahogany, amber and shades of copper.










—


Aroma: fruity (ripe fruit, nuts), toasty, oak, coffee.










—


Taste: alcohol, fruit (ripe fruit, nuts), spiced, toasted, oak, acidic, bitter, long.










(*)


Maximum total sulphur dioxide: with < 5 g/l sugar: 150 mg/l; with ≥ 5 g/l sugar: 200 mg/l.










(**)


< 45 g/l sugar










(***)


Where limits have not been specified, the EU legislation in force must be complied with.




General analytical characteristics






—


Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume): -










—


Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume): 16










—


Minimum total acidity: 3,5 in grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid










—


Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre): 36,66










—


Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre): -




6.   Sparkling wines

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION






—


Appearance: ranging from pale yellow to cherry, with steady and consistent bubbles.










—


Aroma: predominantly fruity, with floral notes.










—


Taste: predominantly fruity, with floral notes, and a balance of sweetness and acidity predominating.










(*)


Maximum volatile acidity: white and rosé wines: 1,08 g/l (18 meq/l) acetic acid; red wines: 1,2 g/l (20 meq/l) acetic acid.










(**)


Where limits have not been specified, the EU legislation in force must be complied with.




General analytical characteristics






—


Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume): -










—


Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume): 6










—


Minimum total acidity: 3,5 in grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid










—


Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre): -










—


Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre): 185




7.   Quality aromatic sparkling wines

CONCISE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION






—


Appearance: pale yellow, steady and consistent bubbles.










—


Aroma: fruity, floral.










—


Taste: fruity, floral, sweet, acidic, long.










(*)


Where limits have not been specified, the EU legislation in force must be complied with.




General analytical characteristics






—


Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume): -










—


Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume): 6










—


Minimum total acidity: 3,5 in grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid










—


Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre): 13,33










—


Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre): 185




5.   Winemaking practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices









1.


Production of ‘Fondillón’ wines
Specific oenological practice
This process refers to wines made exclusively from grapes of the Monastrell variety grown in the production area and left to over-ripen on the vine. In the fermentation, only local yeasts are used. The minimum actual alcoholic strength is 16 %, and must be entirely natural.
The wine must be aged for at least 10 years in oak barrels, in dedicated areas for this product.
Barrels for use in ageing this wine must first be registered. The product can be aged using the ‘añada’ system (without blending vintages) or the ‘criaderas y solera’ method (blending vintages). The latter process involves topping up a barrel with wine from a similar barrel. The idea is to refill the barrel after ‘sacas’ (when a quantity of wine is removed) or after wine has been lost during oxidation. The ‘Fondillón’ wines suitable for the method involving topping up the butts must be at least 5 years old. The annual amount of refill must be 20 %. It is permitted to refill a maximum of 40 % every 2 years and 60 % every 3 years. The age of wines made by this system can be calculated using the ‘arithmetic mean age’, until a minimum age of 10 years is reached.












2.


Production of ‘Moscatel de Alicante’ liqueur wines and sweet wine
Specific oenological practice
These wines can be made with grape must or a blend of grape must and wine.
They can also be made with concentrated grape must in compliance with the definition thereof, except that the grape must is concentrated by application of direct heat.




5.2.   Maximum yields









1.


White varieties

                     12 000 kilograms of grapes per hectare












2.


White varieties
88,8 hectolitres per hectare












3.


Red varieties

                     9 100 kilograms of grapes per hectare












4.


Red varieties
67,34 hectolitres per hectare




6.   Demarcated geographical area

Sub-area L’Alacantí: Alicante, Agost, Aigües, Busot, El Campello, Jijona, Mutxamel, Sant Joan d’Alacant, San Vicente del Raspeig and Torremanzanas.
Sub-area L’Alcoià: Castalla, Ibi, Onil, Tibi, Alcoy, Benifallim and Penáguila.
Sub-area Alto Vinalopó: Beneixama, Biar, Campo de Mirra, Cañada, Sax, Salinas, Banyeres de Mariola, Villena and the smaller administrative areas belonging to, and bordering, Caudete (Albacete), namely Palacios, Mingote, Derramador, El Rincón and La Cañada. Specifically, these are the zones (‘polígonos’) in the 2019 LPIS with the following references: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.
Sub-area Medio Vinalopó: Algueña, Elda, Hondón de las Nieves, Hondón de los Frailes, La Romana, Monóvar and its Mañán area, Petrer, Pinoso and Novelda. Also, the area of Barbarroja, in the municipality of Orihuela, and certain zones in the outlying areas which are registered as belonging to this designation of origin under the Regulation on the Alicante Designation of Origin, approved by Order of 21 February 1957. This is on condition that there has been no break in the continuity of registration, and that the grapes, must or wine produced in each is intended exclusively for products covered by the ‘Alicante’ PDO made in registered wineries. These zones are: Cantón, Cañada de la Leña and Maciscada, in the municipality of Abanilla; Alberquilla, Cañada de Trigo, Raja, Casa los Frailes, Torre del Rico and Zarza, in the municipality of Jumilla; and Hoyas and Raspay, in the municipality of Yecla. Their references in the 2019 LPIS are as follows:






 


In the municipality of Abanilla: zones 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 10 and 029.










 


In the municipality of Jumilla: zones 056, 057, 058, 059, 068, 069, 070, 071, 072, 073,074, 075, 076, 077, 078, 079, 085, 086, 087, 088, 089, 090, 091, 092.










 


In the municipality of Yecla: zones 054, 055, 056, 057, 058, 059, 060, 061, 062, 063, 064, 065, 066, 067, 068, 069, 070, 071, 072, 073, 078, 117.




Sub-area Bajo Vinalopó: Elche, Crevillente and Santa Pola.
Sub-area La Marina Alta: Alcalalí, Beniarbeig, Benigembla, Benidoleig, Benimeli, Benissa, Benitachell, Calp, Castell de Castells, Dénia, Els Poblets, Gata de Gorgos, Llíber, Murla, Ondara, Orba, Parcent, Pedreger, Sagra, Sanet i Negrals, Senija, Teulada, El Rafól d’Almunia, Tormos, La Vall de Laguar, El Verger, Jávea, Xaló, L’Altzúbia, Pego, La Vall d’Alcalà, La Vall d’Ebo, Vall de Gallinera, and the municipality’s smaller territorial entities of Llosa de Camacho, La Xara and Jesús Pobre.
Sub-area La Marina Baja: Benidorm, Alfaz del Pí, Altea, Callosa d’en Sarrià, Finestrat, La Nucía, Polop de La Marina, Guadalest, Benimantell, Benifato, Confrides, Sella, Beniardá, Bolulla, Relleu, Villajoyosa, Orcheta and Tàrbena.
Sub-area El Comtat: Alfafara, Alcolecha, Alcocer de Planes, Agres, Muro de Alcoy, Gayanes, Beniarrés, Benimasot, Lorcha, Planes, Tollos, Facheca, Famorca, Quatretondeta, Benasau, Gorga, Millena, Balones, Benilloba, Benillup, Alquería de Aznar, Almudaina, Benimarfull and Cocentaina.
Vineyards located within the demarcated area ‘Parque Natural de las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja’.
7.   Wine grape variety(ies)







 


AIRÉN










 


ALARIJE - SUBIRAT PARENT










 


BOBAL










 


BONICAIRE










 


CABERNET FRANC










 


CABERNET SAUVIGNON










 


CHARDONNAY










 


FORCALLAT BLANCA










 


FORCALLAT TINTA










 


GARNACHA BLANCA










 


GARNACHA TINTA - GIRONET










 


GARNACHA TINTORERA










 


GARRO - MANDO










 


MACABEO - VIURA










 


MERLOT










 


MERSEGUERA - VERDOSILLA










 


MIGUEL DEL ARCO










 


MONASTRELL










 


MOSCATEL DE ALEJANDRÍA










 


MOSCATEL DE GRANO MENUDO










 


PEDRO XIMÉNEZ










 


PETIT VERDOT










 


PINOT NOIR










 


PLANTA FINA DE PEDRALBA










 


PLANTA NOVA - TARDANA










 


SAUVIGNON BLANC










 


SYRAH










 


TEMPRANILLO










 


TORTOSÍ










 


TREPAT










 


VALENCÍ BLANCO










 


VALENCÍ TINTO










 


VERDEJO










 


VERDIL










 


VIOGNIER




8.   Description of the link(s)

8.1.   Wine

The exposure to direct sunlight and the high number of hours of intense sunshine during summer, just as the grapes are ripening, result in wines with notes of ripe fruit and intense colours, especially the red wines.
The limestone soils have active limestone and limited capacity to retain water. These soils are responsible for the astringency and good acidity of the wines produced, as well as the mineral influences in their flavour.
Wines made from the Moscatel de Alejandría grape variety appear in a great range of diverse shades due to their different production methods.
8.2.   Liqueur wines

The many hours of sunshine mean a high degree of ripeness in grapes from the ‘Alicante’ PDO area, resulting in medium to high levels of natural sugar. Consequently, in the area there are very good conditions for producing sweet wines and liqueur wines.
In addition, varieties such as Moscatel, Garnacha and Monastrell are very suitable for this purpose. Liqueur wine is among the age-old traditions, accentuating this sweet character by blending grape juice and alcohol, as for white and red mistelles.
8.3.   Quality sparkling wines and aromatic sparkling wines

Given their versatility, the aromatic character of varieties such as Moscatel and Malvasía has given rise to very diverse production methods in the ‘Alicante’ PDO area. The techniques in use have led to the production of quality sparkling wines and aromatic sparkling wines able to give clearer expression to the grape variety, especially in their fruity, floral and fresh characteristics. They can do so without any additions, and by balancing the acidity with the bubbles.
8.4.   Wine from overripe grapes

Some traditional and historical varieties ripen slowly, which allows the grape to remain longer on the vine. The summer season is very long in the area, which, with its dry weather, keeps the grapes healthy and allows them to over-ripen easily. Consequently, the over-ripening of the grapes on the vine, and the raisining of the grapes in the sun, produce characteristic wines. Their organoleptic development produces notes of ripe fruit without the need for barrel-ageing. They also have a deep colour and intense fruit aromas.
9.   Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Legal framework:
In national legislation
Type of further condition:
Additional provisions relating to labelling
Description of the condition:
The words ‘Alicante. Denominación de Origen’ [Alicante. Designation of Origin] must always appear on products with prior authorisation and the appropriate certification.
Rules apply to the use of the optional terms ‘MOSCATEL ALICANTE’ and ‘ALICANTE SINGULAR’.
Legal framework:
In national legislation
Type of further condition:
Packaging within the demarcated geographical area
Description of the condition:
In order to preserve the quality of the product and ensure traceability, wines with the ‘Alicante’ PDO must be packaged in the production area. This is because, prior to packaging, wines must undergo filtering and stabilisation operations that are part of the production process. In addition, moving and repackaging wines can lead to oxidation and reduced quality. The whole purpose of this measure is to protect the designation of origin. It is very important for all the producers who benefit from the designation. The wines must be labelled in accordance with the rules in force.

Link to the product specification


https://breu.gva.es/b/g4w8NnFVa3



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


ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/4680/oj
ISSN 1977-091X (electronic edition)