Europe to formalise NoLo wine terminology

"Alcohol-free", "0.0%"’ and "alcohol light" are the new standardised denominations proposed by the European Commission for no- and low-alcohol wines.

The legislation for NoLo wine products is a bid to enhance their appeal.

As part of its newly presented wine package, the EU executive has proposed the three new classifications seeking to harmonise terminology across member states and support the growing market for non-alcoholic wines.

The overall package introduces targeted measures to help the sector manage its production potential, adapt to changing consumer preferences, and exploit new market opportunities, EuroNews reports.

The overall package introduces targeted measures to help the sector manage its production potential, adapt to changing consumer preferences, and exploit new market opportunities.

The proposed designations define ‘alcohol-free’ as wines with an alcohol content not exceeding 0.5% by volume, while ‘0.0%’ is reserved for wines with an alcohol content not exceeding 0.05% by volume.

The term ‘alcohol-light’ will apply to wines with an alcohol content above 0.5% but at least 30% lower than the minimum strength of the category before dealcoholisation.

Previously, EU legislation used the technical terms “fully and partially de-alcoholised” wines, which were seen as less consumer-friendly.

“The idea is to replace them with names that are more attractive and also more familiar to consumers,” the Commission said.

The three new terms, while already widely used, are currently regulated differently across member states, and the new rules aim to ensure uniform wine labelling throughout the EU.

Image: Carmen Ramon Cami, Scop.io  

Wine wars: Old World and New World get the boot

Old World wine comes from traditional producers in nations like France, Italy, Spain and Portugal. 

New World wine is usually from more recent arrivals on the global world scene: think the US, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentine.

Pretty straightforward you would think. And easy to understand for casual consumers. 

But this is the wine industry, so let's muddy the waters a little, should we? 

Wine producing countries will no longer be referred to as Old World or New World in materials from the US arm of the Court of Master Sommeliers, it has announced in its December newsletter.

The Court of Master Sommeliers says it "sets the global standard of excellence for beverage service within the hospitality industry with integrity, exemplary knowledge, and humility". 

It may be pompous, but it carries considerable clout, particularly in North America.

The Court said the decision was prompted by “commitment to uphold historical accuracy, eliminate cultural bias, and acknowledge the growing challenge of distinguishing between ‘Old World’ and ‘New World’ wines.” 

Referencing “evolving styles” in a “dynamic wine landscape” the somms said they will no longer feature Old World/New World terminology in published materials or examination assessments.

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) has already done away with the terms, trade publication The Drinks Business says. 

Traditionally, New World wines have been produced in countries where vines were originally transported from Europe. 

But are wines from say, Armenia, Lebanon, or even Israel, Old World or New World? 

It will be interesting to see how this evolves. 

Image: Juan Garcia Hinojosa, Scop.io