Sacramento, CA – January 16, 2025 — The Wine Institute has issued a statement from its President & CEO, Robert P. Koch, in response to new proposed rules from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regarding nutrition and allergen labeling for wine. The two Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRMs) are set to be published in the Federal Register tomorrow.
Koch emphasized the commitment of wineries to provide consumers with the necessary information for informed purchasing decisions, but expressed concerns over the potential impact on small and medium-sized wineries across the country. “Our wineries are committed to ensuring consumers have the information they need to make informed choices about the wines they purchase,” he said. “We look forward to participating constructively to ensure future regulations balance the potential benefits for consumers with the significant costs and burdens placed on more than 17,000 small and medium-sized wineries.”
The statement pointed out that wine is not a standard recipe product. Unlike other beverages, each vintage is unique, shaped by various factors such as winegrape varietal, location, climate, and growing conditions. Due to the dynamic nature of winemaking, Koch warned that rigid labeling regulations could disrupt winery operations.
Koch praised the TTB’s willingness to question the necessity of mandatory on-label information and consider alternatives, such as electronic labels, which could offer more accurate and detailed consumer information. He highlighted that Europe has successfully adopted this approach, underscoring its potential for effectiveness.
The Wine Institute believes that the most efficient and least burdensome way to provide nutrition information would be to allow wineries the option of off-label disclosures through QR codes or other electronic means, ensuring both accuracy and flexibility in the winemaking industry.
You Might Be Interested In:
- Where Is Ice Wine From?
- Ice Wine vs. Regular Wine: Which Is Stronger?
- How Many Calories in a Bottle of Merlot Red Wine?
