Geographical Indications (GIs) play a significant role for Europe’s spirits sector. There are 240 registered Geographical Indications (EU database) for spirits which represent about 2/3 of our exports outside Europe.
The geographical indication identifies a spirit drink as originating in the territory of a specific country, region or locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of that spirit drink is essentially attributable to its geographical origin. Natural, human and additional process factors are among the core elements that help to create distinctive GI spirits.
Spirits such as Brandy de Jerez, Cognac, Grappa, Polish Vodka or Scotch Whisky are examples of geographical indications which can be made only in the named and protected area. They have an international reputation and are a source of growth and jobs in rural areas across Europe because the production cannot be moved elsewhere. Thus, they are much more than an IP tool.
Against this background, spiritsEUROPE and its members will carefully assess the EU COM’s proposal in the weeks to come and will develop clear recommendations and questions for policy makers. Following first exchanges with European Parliament and Commission representatives, the sector looks forward to a constructive continuation on a topic of utmost importance which drives many policy considerations in the sector: increased sustainability – not only on paper, but in practice.
