Download
Russian law bursts the Champagne bubble(s) and France isn't happy
Updated 02:20, 09-Jul-2021
Patrick Rhys Atack
Europe;

Translating...

Content is automatically generated by Microsoft Azure Translator Text API. CGTN is not responsible for any of the translations.

Error loading player: No playable sources found
01:30

 

French winemakers have objected angrily to a Russian law that changes the label given to sparkling wines and Champagnes. 

According to the system of Appellation of Controlled Origin (AOC), only sparkling wine from the Champagne region in northern France can be labeled as such. 

But Russia doesn't recognize AOCs and President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law that flips the naming convention on its head.

 

Error loading player: No playable sources found
00:46

 

Now, Russian sparkling wines will be given the name "Shampanskoye" and French imports will simply be called "sparkling wine."

The French Champagne Committee said it was "scandalous" and some champagne houses have threatened to stop exporting their produce to Russia in response. 

But will it affect the Russian market? According to Vadim Drobiz, an expert on the Russian drinks sector, probably not. 

"If there is no Moet, there won't be a state coup and Russian elites will not commit suicide," Drobiz told AFP, when asked if foreign imports would be missed.  

 

Russian wine is being labeled as "champagne" and the wine industry is perplexed / AFP / screengrab

Russian wine is being labeled as "champagne" and the wine industry is perplexed / AFP / screengrab

Video edited by Pedro Duarte

Source(s): AFP
TOP NEWS
Intl Children's Day: China's efforts in children's health, development
{"type":2,"value":"CGTN","commentator":[],"valueShow":true,"commentatorShow":false}

Politics

12:00, 30-May-2025

{"type":2,"value":"CGTN","commentator":[],"valueShow":true,"commentatorShow":false}

Politics

13:47, 31-May-2025

UN says Gaza humanitarian situation worst since beginning of war
{"type":2,"value":"CGTN","commentator":[],"valueShow":true,"commentatorShow":false}

Politics

11:15, 31-May-2025

Search Trends