The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG Protection Consortium and its membership base now adhere to a single idea of promoting the Denomination. The Consortium's Board of Directors and the producers have overcome their differences to find new points of convergence.
During the recent meeting of the Board of Directors, the signatories of the requests addressed to the Consortium actively participated, helping to outline a new synergy between the Board of Directors and the members. Both understand the importance of land and the need to protect it. Rules, regulations and members' actions can contribute to change.
Protection of the Name
The agreement developed from the awareness that communication that does not highlight the specificity of places through the use of geographical names can be misleading. The Consortium reiterates the need to protect the denomination as "Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG" and its sparkling wine as "Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG".
To avoid misunderstandings, the Consortium will strengthen control and supervision, involving legal consultant firms.
Control over Names
The Consortium is monitoring and controlling the use of definitions by third parties for events, demonstrations, promotional initiatives and communications in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene area that include the word Prosecco. This effort aims to ensure that such events correctly invoke the Denomination in their name.
The agreement is in the final stage with the managers of the "Prosecco Marathon" for the correct use of the name Prosecco. Further checks are underway for other events in the area.
Cooperation between Prosecco Consortia
Unity among Prosecco consortia is crucial to address the challenges and opportunities offered by the new European regulation which will come into force in March 2024. This regulation requires greater protection for designations of origin and offers powers to consortia to combat unfair practices.
The discussion between the consortia aims to preserve the reputation and excellence of Prosecco, avoiding internal divisions that could put the future of the denomination at risk.
The Case of Australia
The free trade agreement between Australia and the European Union has stalled, partly because of Prosecco. Australia has tried to limit use of the brand, but the European Union has not agreed to significant concessions on other products. This has raised concerns among Australian Prosecco producers.
The recognition of geographical indications is fundamental, and many importing countries have already adopted it. Australia, however, resisted.
PDO and PGI reform
The reform on Geographical Indications and Quality Marks has been discussed at European level. The reform defines the role of producer associations and introduces innovations in terms of domain names and traditional mentions.
The reform represents a step forward in the protection of designations of origin, but requires the cooperation of all interested parties.
In conclusion, unity and cooperation between Prosecco consortia are fundamental to protecting the tradition and identity of Prosecco, facing challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities offered by the new regulations.
