The Prosecco Debate: A Sparkling Controversy Between Australia and Italy

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In the rolling hills of Italy’s Veneto region, Prosecco means a sparkling wine that is Italian, traditional, cultural and geographical. But a fizzy controversy has erupted as Australian winemakers produce and market their own Prosecco, and the debate goes global, across continents, legal frameworks and what a name means in the world of wine.

The History of Prosecco

Prosecco, a light, refreshing sparkling wine, comes from the northeastern part of Italy, specifically the regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia. It’s made mainly from the Glera grape, historically known as Prosecco. In 2009 Italy created the Prosecco DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) to protect the name Prosecco, tying it to the specific geographical areas where it’s produced. This move was to ensure that only wines produced in those regions and according to strict rules could be labelled Prosecco.

The Australian Scenario

Australia’s wine industry is known for its ability to innovate and adapt and started planting Glera grapes in the late 90s and early 2000s, long before the 2009 Italian legislation. Australian winemakers saw the name Prosecco as an opportunity to connect with consumers who knew the Italian original and the wine took off in Australia and internationally. Many producers jumped on the bandwagon and rode the name’s fun, approachable and affordable bubbles.

But as Australian Prosecco became popular, the Italian wine authorities and the European Union (EU) started to push back, saying the name Prosecco should be protected under the rules of geographical indication (GI). The Italians say just as Champagne must come from the Champagne region of France, Prosecco should be Italian only and tied to its place of origin.

The Legal Fight

The core of the debate is around the meaning of the word Prosecco itself. The Italian position is that Prosecco is not just a grape variety but a place name and therefore should be protected as a geographical indication. Australian producers argue that Prosecco is a grape variety they have been using for years and they shouldn’t be restricted from using the name to describe the wine made from it.

This has led to intense trade negotiations between the EU and Australia. The EU wants to include the protection of the name Prosecco in a broader trade agreement, effectively preventing Australian winemakers from using the term. Australia is resisting this move, seeing it as unfair to their wine industry and a threat to the livelihoods of their Prosecco producers.

The Bigger Picture

The Australian Prosecco debate is not just about wine; it’s about intellectual property, global trade and the balance between tradition and innovation in the wine industry. For Italy, the protection of the Prosecco name is about cultural heritage and making sure consumers aren’t misled by products that don’t meet the same standards as the Italian original.

For Australia it’s about market fairness and the right to use a term that’s become part of their wine industry. Australian winemakers say they’ve invested heavily in the Prosecco brand and consumers associate the name with a style of wine rather than a place.

Prosecco in Australia

For now the dispute remains unresolved with both sides dug in. The outcome of this will have big implications for other products that use geographical indications and potentially set a precedent for how these disputes are handled in the future.

For wine lovers and producers in Australia the name Prosecco may become a battlefield in a bigger fight over the right to use cultural terms in a globalised world. Whether Australian Prosecco will continue to be called Prosecco or will have to rebrand remains to be seen but one thing is for sure, this bubble is far from popped.

In the end the Prosecco debate gets to the heart of identity, authenticity and the future of the global wine industry. As Australia and Italy dig in their heels the world watches with interest, glass in hand, to see which way the cork will go.

World Pinot Noir Day: A Global Favourite

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Every year on August 18th wine fans around the world get together to celebrate one of the most loved and respected grape varieties—Pinot Noir. Elegance, complexity and versatility are the hallmarks of Pinot Noir and it has a special place in the hearts of wine fans and winemakers. World Pinot Noir Day is the chance to pour a glass to this classic varietal and explore its history, quirks and global reach.

The History of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir, known as the “heartbreak grape” due to its tricky nature in the vineyard, has a long history dating back over 2,000 years. Originating in the Burgundy region of France, Pinot Noir has been associated with some of the world’s greatest wines. The name Pinot Noir comes from the French words for “pine” (pin) and “black” (noir) and refers to the tight, pinecone shaped clusters of small, dark skinned grapes.

Burgundy is the spiritual home of Pinot Noir where the grape loves the cool climate and limestone soils. The wines here are famous for their subtlety, finesse and ability to age, with the best examples expressing the terroir of their individual vineyards.

Pinot Noir Around the World

While Burgundy is the reference point, Pinot Noir has found success in wine regions everywhere. In the New World, countries like the US, New Zealand and Australia have taken up the challenge of growing Pinot Noir and are producing wines that show the grape’s versatility and breadth.

In California, the cool climate regions of Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley and Santa Barbara have become hotbeds for great Pinot Noir. The wines from these regions often have bright red fruit flavours, silky tannins and a hint of spice and are loved by both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Marlborough and Central Otago in New Zealand have also gained international recognition for their juicy and aromatic Pinot Noirs. These wines are known for their fruit purity often with cherry, raspberry and plum flavours and a sense of minerality that is unique to the country.

Australia, particularly the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula, has found a home for Pinot Noir too. The wines from these regions are praised for their balance and complexity with a harmonious mix of fruit, earth and spice.

The Magic of Pinot Noir

What’s the magic of Pinot Noir? It’s its versatility and sense of place. Pinot Noir can be light and delicate or rich and full bodied and is a perfect match for many dishes. Whether with roasted chicken, grilled salmon or earthy mushroom risotto, Pinot Noir can complement flavours without overpowering them.

Plus Pinot Noir’s high acidity and moderate alcohol makes it a refreshing choice for summer and its complexity and depth can be comforting in winter. Its ability to adapt to different climates and winemaking styles means there’s a Pinot Noir for everyone.

How to celebrate World Pinot Noir Day

Celebrating World Pinot Noir Day is easy: open a bottle of your favourite Pinot Noir and enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just starting your wine journey this is a great opportunity to try many Pinot Noirs.

If you want to broaden your horizons consider hosting a Pinot Noir tasting with friends or attending a local wine event. Try different regions and styles from the classic Burgundian to the new world. Take the time to appreciate the subtle differences in flavour, aroma and texture that make Pinot Noir so special.

If you’re feeling bold try pairing your Pinot Noir with unusual dishes. The wine’s versatility can match many cuisines from Mediterranean to Asian inspired. Experimenting with food pairings can increase your appreciation of the grape and bring out new dimensions in both the wine and the dish.

End

World Pinot Noir Day is more than just a celebration of a grape; it’s a celebration of the craftsmanship, passion and dedication that goes into every bottle of wine. Pinot Noir’s journey from its ancient roots in Burgundy to its global status today is proof of its timeless appeal and the love winemakers and wine lovers have for this special grape.

Japan’s Koshu Wine Grapes: A Secret in the Wine World

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In the wine world, Japan isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But in the foothills of Mount Fuji, Koshu grapes are making a quiet impact, and wine lovers can taste Japanese terroir. With a history over 1000 years old, Koshu is Japan’s secret gem, and the country’s rich culture and attention to detail.

Koshu History

The origins of Koshu are unknown, but it’s thought to have been brought to Japan from the Caucasus region via the Silk Road around 1300 years ago. For centuries it was eaten rather than made into wine. It wasn’t until the late 19th century, during the Meiji era, that Koshu was first vinified and Japan’s wine industry was born.

Today Koshu is grown mainly in Yamanashi Prefecture which accounts for around 95% of Japan’s wine production. The region’s climate, hot and humid summers and cold winters, is perfect for Koshu. The volcanic soil, enriched by Mount Fuji, gives the grapes a unique mineral taste and Koshu wines are truly of their place.

Koshu Wine Characteristics

Koshu wines are light and subtle, perfect for those who like a lighter style of wine. The grapes produce a pale straw coloured wine with a pinkish tint, a reference to the grape skin. On the nose Koshu wines have white peach, citrus and floral notes with a hint of minerality from the volcanic soil.

On the palate Koshu wines are crisp and refreshing with bright acidity making them very food friendly. The flavours are delicate, often described as citrus, apple and pear with a hint of umami which pairs beautifully with Japanese food. The low alcohol, around 11-12%, makes it a great wine for casual and serious wine drinkers alike.

Grace Winery: Koshu Pioneers

Among Koshu producers, Grace Winery is one of the most respected and innovative. Located in the heart of Yamanashi Prefecture, Grace Winery has been at the forefront of Japan’s wine industry since 1923. They are known for their quality and being the first to produce Koshu wines that showcase the grape’s unique characteristics.

Grace Winery’s Koshu wines are elegant, balanced and terroir expressive. The winery takes great care in the vineyard and winemaking to ensure each bottle is a true representation of the Koshu grape. Their flagship wine, the Grace Koshu, is the perfect example of what this grape can produce – delicate floral aromas, crisp acidity and a refined mineral finish that lingers on the palate.

Koshu and Japanese Food

One of the best things about Koshu wine is how it pairs with Japanese food. The subtlety and elegance of the wine makes it a perfect match for dishes like sushi, sashimi and tempura where the focus is on the purity of the ingredients. The acidity of Koshu cuts through the richness of grilled fish or pork, and the mineral notes enhance the umami in miso soup or soy sauce based dishes.

Beyond Japanese food, Koshu’s versatility extends to many international cuisines. Its light body and crisp finish makes it a great match for Mediterranean food, seafood and light salads. Whether with food or on its own, Koshu is a refreshing and sophisticated drink.

Koshu in Australia

For wine lovers in Australia, the good news is that Koshu wines, including those from Grace Winery, are becoming more available. As Japanese wine interest grows, more Australian retailers and importers are starting to stock Koshu wines so you can try it without leaving the country. Whether you want to try Grace Winery or other Koshu producers, now is the time to add this Japanese gem to your cellar.

Koshu’s Growing Fame

Koshu wine is gaining international recognition. Japanese winemakers are fine tuning their skills and producing wines that can compete with the best in the world. The uniqueness of Koshu has caught the attention of sommeliers and wine critics and exports are increasing and Koshu is appearing in wine markets outside Japan, including Australia.

Despite its growing popularity, Koshu is still a niche product and a chance for wine lovers to try something different and new. For those looking to broaden their wine horizons, Koshu is a window into Japan’s emerging wine scene.

Final Thoughts

The Koshu grape is proof that Japan can blend tradition and modernity and create something unique. As more people around the world try Koshu wine, it’s clear this grape from the foot of Mount Fuji has a lot to look forward to. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just curious, Koshu is worth trying – an elegant and understated expression of Japan’s terroir and winemaking history. Now with Grace Winery wines available in Australia, it’s just a bottle away.