NAPA VINTNERS GRANTED MORE TIME TO PROTEST

The heated debate surrounding Calistoga, AVAs within AVAs and wine labels may stick around a little longer than we originally thought. A spokesman from the TTB says the he expects the bureau to extend the amount of time vintners have to respond to its controversial proposals, according to the St. Helena Star. As formally request by Rep. Mike Thompson, the extension will last until March 22. Vintners were originally given until Dec. 20 to respond to some of the proposals, and until Jan. 22 to respond to the rest.

As you’ll recall, the proposals would create a “grandfathering clause” for Calistoga Cellars and alter the government’s rules on establishing AVAs. The “grandfather” clause would allow Calistoga Cellars to keep “Calistoga” on its labels although its wines are not made from 85% of Calistoga grapes. Calistoga Cellars said it is willing to place disclaimers on the back of its labels as a result. Calistoga Estates, which also does not source 85% of Calistoga grapes, would have to change its name because it was formed after the “grandfather” cut-off date.

The TTB says its goal is to prevent wineries from trying to stifle competition by applying for AVAs within AVAs. Wineries against the proposals argue that a “grandfather clause” would hurt the value of the Calistoga name and mislead consumers.

To read more background on the proposals, click here.