France, Italy, Spain and Portugal are blocking a move by the European Commission to allow the import into the EU of Australian wine flavoured by the addition of oak chips. This is a faster and cheaper process than the traditional method of ageing wine in oak barrels.
Brussels wants to grant Australia a “derogation” from the regulations, similar to that enjoyed by Chile, in order to sweeten the atmosphere for negotiations on a wine and spirit agreement between the two sides.
But Commission agriculture spokesman Gregor Kreuzheuber admitted that the plan is being opposed by these traditional EU wine-producing countries.
Sign up for our daily news round-up!
Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights.
Just Drinks Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed
Nominations are now closed for the Just Drinks Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.
Excellence in Action
De Kuyper Royal Distillers’ De Kuyper Batched 0.0% range has won both Innovation and Product Launches honours in the 2025 Just Drinks Excellence Awards. Learn how these premium, non-alcoholic RTD cocktails help operators serve consistent, bar-quality drinks while tapping fast-growing demand for sophisticated alcohol-free options.
Discover the Impact
