EU WILLING TO COMPROMISE IN CONTROVERSIAL WINE REFORM

In a small victory for critics, the European Commission has agreed to compromise on some of its highly controversial wine reform proposals after meeting with agricultural ministers yesterday (Sept. 27).

Following protests by several countries, mainly France and Germany, EU agriculture commissioner Marian Fischer Boel said she is willing to delay the timetable for ending the current restrictions on planting rights. By extending the deadline, competitive wine producers will be able to expand production.

Also, she agreed to compromise on a proposal to ban the use of sugar, which is common in Germany and other northern countries, as long as it was limited to small producers who use it for their own production.

For background on the EU’s proposed wine reforms, click here.