EU resolves White Zinfandel row

Published: 09 January, 2012

A dispute over the use of the term White Zinfandel in the European Union has been resolved.

A dispute over the use of the term White Zinfandel in the European Union has been resolved.

The row broke out last autumn after Italian authorities complained about the grape being referred to as "White Zinfandel" when it is a red grape, which they said would be confusing to consumers. However the term is widely understood as a brand name in the USA and UK denoting the popular rosé wine.

A Blossom Hill spokeswoman said: "We are delighted to confirm that the labelling issue regarding the term 'White Zinfandel' has been resolved. Diageo has worked closely with the WSTA to establish positive dialogue with the EU, and the EU institutions have been supportive in getting to a solution with the Italian authorities.

"The issue relating to the labelling of White Zinfandel was put on the agenda at the US/EU mid November bi-lateral trade agreement meeting, which resulted in White Zinfandel being officially recognised for use on labelling within the EU, as it has been in the US since its introduction.

"This was subsequently ratified by all 27 EU member states in December. As a result Italian authorities have now released the small volume of stock originally impounded.

"Whilst the liquid and product have remained constant during this period, we had altered the labelling to Zinfandel Rose. The labelling will now transition back to White Zinfandel with immediate effect."

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