The English and Welsh wine industry is set for the launch of the second phase of the Geographical Indication Scheme Review by industry body WineGB. With the initial consultation completed, a proposal for sparkling wines is now being put forward. The outcome of this second industry consultation will have important ramifications for English and Welsh wines, impacting not only the commercial success of winemakers, but also the quality and authenticity of the wines produced.
Source: Grape Britannia
A Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) scheme is designed to protect the names of regional products, such as Champagne or Parma Ham, and prevent them from being used by producers outside of their designated areas. In the case of English and Welsh wine, the scheme will establish rules for labelling, production, and marketing.
From WineGB's review of the the initial consultation, four key issues were presented. The first issue addressed the use of the descriptors England and Wales, which is not currently protected under the PDO/PGI system, leading to consumer confusion. The second issue was the protection of the term "British" in the PDO/PGI, which is currently not protected and could be misleading. The third issue related to grape varieties, suggesting the need for flexibility to broaden the permitted varieties. Finally, 'English Quality Sparkling Wine' has developed an identity of being made from the traditional Champagne varieties and as such could be considered separately within the GI schemes.
The latest proposal for sparkling wines contains some important questions for industry members to consider. One of the most significant implications is that it will allow for the creation of sub-regions within the scheme. This will enable producers to highlight the specific characteristics of their wines and differentiate themselves from their competitors. For example, a producer in Sussex may be able to label their wine as Sussex Downs, while a producer in Kent could label their wine as North Downs. This level of specificity will help to build consumer recognition of the unique terroir and style of wine produced in different areas, which could increase the value of the wines produced in these areas.
Sussex has already been awarded its own PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) for English wines which requires traditional method production, using specific grape varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, and certain quality standards. At least 85% of grapes used must be from the nominated year, while single variety wines require at least 90% of that stated variety. For still wine, minimum alcohol content and restrictions on acid, sulphur dioxide, iron, and magnesium content are in place. Wine Standards, part of the UK government’s Food Standards Agency, approves each cuvée.
Source: Rathfinny Estate
In the context of the PDO/PGI consultation for English and Welsh sparkling wines, there may be questions around the use of oak barrels and malolactic fermentation that could impact the flavour and quality of the wine. For example, some winemakers may choose to use oak barrels to ferment and age their sparkling wines, which can add notes of vanilla, spice, and toast to the wine. However, this can also mask some of the delicate fruit and floral notes that are characteristic of English and Welsh sparkling wines, which could be a concern for those seeking to protect and promote the unique characteristics of these wines.
Similarly, the use of malolactic fermentation, a process that converts malic acid to lactic acid, resulting in a softer, creamier mouthfeel, can also impact the flavour and texture of sparkling wines. While some winemakers may prefer the softer, creamier style that results from malolactic fermentation, others may prefer a crisper, more acidic style that better showcases the fruit and mineral notes of the wine.
As part of the consultation process for the PDO/PGI designation for English and Welsh sparkling wines, these and other winemaking practices may be discussed and debated. The goal of the consultation process is to identify the practices and characteristics that are most important for protecting and promoting the unique qualities of English and Welsh sparkling wines, while also allowing for some flexibility and innovation within the winemaking process.
It is worth noting that the still wine schemes will be tackled separately, with a further consultation process planned for the second half of 2023. Additionally, there will be a parallel exercise to address questions surrounding Welsh wine production.
The Geographical Indication Scheme will help to raise the profile of the industry, both domestically and internationally, building consumer recognition of the unique terroir and style of wine produced in different areas of England and Wales. This, in turn, could increase demand for these wines, both in the UK and in export markets, and potentially increase the value of the wines produced in these areas.
As the industry ratification stage begins, WineGB members are urged to engage with the consultation process and provide their feedback. The deadline to complete the survey is close of play on Monday 22 May. A formal proposal will then be written and submitted to Defra in early June.
Overall, the Geographical Indication Scheme Review is a positive development for the English and Welsh wine industry. By establishing clear rules and standards, it will help to build consumer trust and recognition of the region's wines. It is an exciting time for the industry, and we look forward to seeing how the proposal for sparkling wines evolves.
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