4.3.2022

Official Journal of the European Union

C 104/5

Communication from the Commission pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco

(2022/C 104/05)

Annex B to the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco (1) has been replaced by the text in the Annex to this Communication, in accordance with Article 11(5) of the Agreement.

(1) OJ C 23, 28.1.2012.

ANNEX

‘ANNEX B

	Legal Provisions to be implemented	Deadline for implementing
Prevention of money laundering
1	Regulation (EU) 2015/847 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2015 on information accompanying transfers of funds and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1781/2006 (OJ L 141, 5.6.2015, p. 1)	30 June 2017 (2)
2	Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2015 on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing, amending Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council, and repealing Directive 2005/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Commission Directive 2006/70/EC (OJ L 141, 5.6.2015, p. 73)	30 June 2017 (2)
	Amended by:
3	Directive (EU) 2018/843 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018 amending Directive (EU) 2015/849 on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing, and amending Directives 2009/138/EC and 2013/36/EU (OJ L 156, 19.6.2018, p. 43)	31 December 2020 (4)
	Supplemented and implemented by:
4	Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 of 14 July 2016 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council by identifying high-risk third countries with strategic deficiencies (OJ L 254, 20.9.2016, p. 1)	1 December 2017 (3)
	Amended by:
5	Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2018/105 of 27 October 2017 amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675, as regards adding Ethiopia to the list of high-risk third countries in the table in point I of the Annex (OJ L 19, 24.1.2018, p. 1)	31 March 2019 (4)
6	Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2018/212 of 13 December 2017 amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards adding Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and Tunisia to the table in point I of the Annex (OJ L 41, 14.2.2018, p. 4)	31 March 2019 (4)
7	Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2018/1467 of 27 July 2018 amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards adding Pakistan to the table in point I of the Annex (OJ L 246, 2.10.2018, p. 1)	31 December 2019 (5)
8	Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/855 of 7 May 2020 amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards adding the Bahamas, Barbados, Botswana, Cambodia, Ghana, Jamaica, Mauritius, Mongolia, Myanmar/Burma, Nicaragua, Panama and Zimbabwe to the table in point I of the Annex and deleting Bosnia-Herzegovina, Ethiopia, Guyana, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Sri Lanka and Tunisia from this table (OJ L 195, 19.6.2020, p. 1)	31 December 2022 (7)
9	Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/37 of 7 December 2020 on amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards deleting Mongolia from the table in point I of the Annex (OJ L 14, 18.1.2021, p. 1)	31 December 2023 (7)
10	Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/758 of 31 January 2019 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards for the minimum action and the type of additional measures credit and financial institutions must take to mitigate money laundering and terrorist financing risk in certain third countries (OJ L 125, 14.5.2019, p. 4)	31 December 2020 (5)
11	Regulation (EU) 2018/1672 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2018 on controls on cash entering or leaving the Union and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1889/2005 (OJ L 284, 12.11.2018, p. 6)	31 December 2021 (5)
12	Directive (EU) 2018/1673 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2018 on combating money laundering by criminal law (OJ L 284, 12.11.2018, p. 22)	31 December 2021 (5)
Prevention of fraud and counterfeiting
13	Council Regulation (EC) No 1338/2001 of 28 June 2001 laying down measures necessary for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (OJ L 181, 4.7.2001, p. 6)
	Amended by:
14	Council Regulation (EC) No 44/2009 of 18 December 2008 amending Regulation (EC) No 1338/2001 laying down measures necessary for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (OJ L 17, 22.1.2009, p. 1)
15	Council Decision 2001/887/JHA of 6 December 2001 on the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (OJ L 329, 14.12.2001, p. 1)
16	Council Regulation (EC) No 2182/2004 of 6 December 2004 concerning medals and tokens similar to euro coins (OJ L 373, 21.12.2004, p. 1)
	Amended by:
17	Council Regulation (EC) No 46/2009 of 18 December 2008 amending Regulation (EC) No 2182/2004 concerning medals and tokens similar to euro coins (OJ L 17, 22.1.2009, p. 5)
18	With regard to the offences referred to in its Article 3(b) to (e): Directive 2014/42/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 April 2014 on the freezing and confiscation of instrumentalities and proceeds of crime in the European Union (OJ L 127, 29.4.2014, p. 39)	31 December 2022 (6)
19	Directive 2014/62/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 on the protection of the euro and other currencies against counterfeiting by criminal law, and replacing Council Framework Decision 2000/383/JHA (OJ L 151, 21.5.2014, p. 1)	30 June 2016 (1)
20	Directive (EU) 2019/713 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on combating fraud and counterfeiting of non-cash means of payment and replacing Council Framework Decision 2001/413/JHA (OJ L 123, 10.5.2019, p. 18)	31 December 2021 (5)
Banking and financial legislation
21	Directive 97/9/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 March 1997 on investor-compensation schemes (OJ L 84, 26.3.1997, p. 22)

’

(1) The Joint Committee agreed on this deadline in 2014 pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco.

(2) The Joint Committee agreed on this deadline in 2015 pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco.

(3) The Joint Committee agreed on this deadline in 2017 pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco.

(4) The Joint Committee agreed on this deadline in 2018 pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco.

(5) The Joint Committee agreed on this deadline in 2019 pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco.

(6) The Joint Committee agreed on this deadline in 2020 pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco.

(7) The Joint Committee agreed on this deadline in 2021 pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco.

4.3.2022

Official Journal of the European Union

C 104/15

Communication from the Commission published pursuant to Article 27(4) of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 in Case AT.40511 - Insurance Ireland: Insurance claims database and conditions of access

(2022/C 104/10)

1. Introduction

(1)

According to Article 9 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 of 16 December 2002 on the implementation of the rules on competition laid down in Articles 81 and 82 of the Treaty (1), the Commission may decide – in cases where it intends to adopt a decision requiring that an infringement be brought to an end and the parties concerned offer commitments to meet the concerns expressed to them by the Commission in its preliminary assessment – to make those commitments binding on the undertakings. Such a decision may be adopted for a specified period and shall conclude that there are no longer grounds for action by the Commission. According to Article 27(4) of the same Regulation, the Commission shall publish a concise summary of the case and the main content of the commitments. Interested parties may submit their observations within the time limit fixed by the Commission.

2. Summary of the case

(2)

On 14 May 2019, the Commission opened a formal investigation into Insurance Ireland (Member Association) Company Limited by Guarantee (‘Insurance Ireland’), an association of undertakings that administers the Insurance Link information exchange system. The investigation was opened in order to assess whether the conditions of access to the Insurance Link information exchange system may restrict competition. On 18 June 2021, the Commission adopted a Statement of Objections concerning suspected infringements of Insurance Ireland on the Irish motor vehicle insurance market. The Statement of Objections constitutes a preliminary assessment within the meaning of Article 9(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003.

(3)

The preliminary assessment, expresses the view that Insurance Ireland breached Article 101(1) TFEU and Article 53 of the EEA Agreement by restricting access to the Insurance Link information exchange system, thereby restricting competition in the Irish motor vehicle insurance market. The Insurance Link information exchange system comprises a non-life insurance claims data pool and a facility to request further information on such claims. The information exchange system contains information useful for detecting and combating fraud in the motor insurance industry.

(4)

The Commission preliminarily considered that Insurance Ireland arbitrarily delayed or de facto denied access to the information exchange system to companies that had a legitimate interest in joining it, and that hurdles remain in place that might affect companies seeking to enter the Irish motor insurance market. According to the preliminary assessment, this was achieved through a number of interlinked decisions that were applied with various degrees of intensity over different periods of time. Since at least 2009, access to Insurance Link has been linked to and/or has been made dependent upon membership of Insurance Ireland. Furthermore, the Commission preliminarily considered that the design and application of the criteria for membership to Insurance Ireland have not been clear, transparent, objective, non-discriminatory or readily available. The preliminary assessment, expresses the view that Insurance Ireland handled the Insurance Ireland membership application process in an arbitrary and discriminatory manner and delayed the membership application process for a number of applicants for extended periods of time. Certain categories of market participants (e.g. insurers established in other member States and providing services in Ireland on the basis of the rules relating to the free provision of services between Member States (hereinafter ‘freedom of services basis’), managing general agents) were excluded from membership for certain periods of time. Even when access to the data pool was granted to certain applicants, their access to the Insurance Link facility to request further information was de facto denied and/or delayed.

(5)

The Commission preliminarily considered that lack of or delayed access to Insurance Link had the effect of placing companies at a competitive disadvantage on the Irish motor vehicle insurance market in comparison to companies that had access to the information exchange system. This affected their costs, quality of service and pricing negatively. It also acted as a barrier to entry and thus reduced the possibility of more competitive prices and choice of suppliers. Lack of access to the relevant data contained in Insurance Link also had an effect on cross border trade between Member States, potentially resulting in the partitioning of the internal market.

3. The Main content of the offered commitments

(6)

Insurance Ireland does not agree with the Commission’s preliminary assessment. Insurance Ireland has nevertheless offered commitments pursuant to Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003, to meet the Commission’s competition concerns (‘the offered commitments’).

(7)

The text of the offered commitments is briefly summarized below and is published in full in English on the website of the Directorate-General for Competition at:

https://ec.europa.eu/competition-policy/index_en

A) Commitments concerning access to Insurance Link

(8)

Within 20 business days following the date on which Insurance Ireland receives formal notification of the Commission decision according to Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 Insurance Ireland commits to:

(a)	de-couple access to Insurance Link from membership of Insurance Ireland, such that there will be no requirement for an Insurance Link user to be, or become, a member of Insurance Ireland in order to access Insurance Link or use any of its functions;

(b)

adopt and make publicly available criteria for access to Insurance Link that will be fair, objective, transparent and non-discriminatory and applied uniformly to all applicants (including from other Member States) (2). Access to Insurance Link will be granted to: (i) any insurer that carries on insurance business in Ireland, or demonstrates an intention to carry on insurance business in Ireland on a freedom of services basis or on the basis of rules on the freedom of establishment; and (ii) any entity appointed by an insurer to perform, under delegated authority, underwriting functions and/or claims management functions in Ireland on the insurer’s behalf. In the case of entities operating by way of delegated authority, there is no requirement for the insurer for whom they are acting, to be, or become, a member of Insurance Ireland in order for the entity to access Insurance Link. Applicants will need to submit an application form, to agree to input data claims into Insurance Link, to enter and comply with a terms of access agreement (3) and to adhere to the 2013 Code of Practice on Data Protection for the Insurance Sector;

(c)

establish a new Insurance Link application procedure with a defined timetable for granting or refusing access to Insurance Link and a right to appeal (4). From the moment when the application is submitted and until a decision has been reached, the process should last 20 business days. Additional 10 days are foreseen to review the procedure and its outcome, if at first instance, access is refused or no decision is made during the 20 days.

(9)

Within 10 business days following the date on which Insurance Ireland receives formal notification of the Commission decision according to Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003, Insurance Ireland commits to:

(a)

designate an Insurance Link Application Officer who will have the responsibility to independently review and determine applications for access to Insurance Link in accordance with the Insurance Link application procedure. The Application Officer will report to Insurance Ireland as regards the outcome of the process, but neither Insurance Ireland nor any external party will be allowed to influence this process. Only in case the Application Officer decides that the applicant does not meet the criteria for access, will the Board of Insurance Ireland have to validate or overturn the decision of the Application Officer and grant access instead (5);

(b)

introduce revised fees for the use of Insurance Link set in accordance with principles of a revised fee structure that must be fair, objective, transparent and non-discriminatory for all Insurance Link users (6). The aggregate fees charged to Insurance Link users will reflect the actual costs incurred in the operation of Insurance Link. The fees charged to individual Insurance Link users will be determined on the basis of the user’s actual usage of the system over a given reference period. A one-time on-boarding fee will be charged to all new Insurance Link users to cover the costs of setting them up.

(10)

Within 30 business days following the date on which Insurance Ireland receives formal notification of the Commission decision according to Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 Insurance Ireland commits to set-up the Oversight Committee, (7) an appeal body composed of: (i) a person proposed by the Department of Finance; (ii) a qualified lawyer with expertise in dispute resolution, proposed by the Chair of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ireland Branch); (iii) a person representing the interests of business customers proposed by ISME, the Irish SME Association; (iv) a person proposed by the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland; and (v) a person proposed by the Personal Injuries Assessment Board. An applicant may appeal to the Oversight Committee following the refusal of its application by Insurance Ireland or its failure to act within the foreseen timeframe (8). The Oversight Committee will review and report on the operations of Insurance Link. It will also advise on any changes to Insurance Link operations and processes and it will advise on the fee structure for access to Insurance Link.

B) Commitments concerning membership to Insurance Ireland

(11)

(a)

adopt and make publicly available criteria for the admission to membership of Insurance Ireland for full and associate members that will be fair, objective, transparent and non-discriminatory. Insurance Ireland full membership will be open to insurers carrying on or intending to carry on their business in Ireland. Other entities offering services in the insurance sector in Ireland or intending to do so will be eligible for Insurance Ireland associate membership (9). Insurance Ireland will remove the criteria currently in force pursuant to which: (i) a membership applicant must have been in operation for at least one year; and (ii) an applicant must be sponsored by an existing full member of Insurance Ireland to be admitted as associate member; (10)

(b)	establish a new membership application procedure with a defined timetable and a right of appeal for membership applicants. The duration of the application process is the same as for access to Insurance Link; (11)

(c)

designate a Membership Application Officer that will have the responsibility and operational independence for processing applications for admission to Insurance Ireland in accordance with the membership application procedure. In case the Membership Application Officer decides that an applicant does not meet membership criteria, the Board of Insurance Ireland will have to validate or overturn the decision of the Membership Application Officer and admit to membership instead (12).

(12)

Within 30 business days following the date on which Insurance Ireland receives formal notification of the Commission decision according to Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 Insurance Ireland commits to designate a Membership Appeal Board that will be composed of independent adjudicators having proven knowledge of and expertise in the insurance sector and/or dispute resolution (13). The Membership Appeal Board will review appeals in respect of a decision taken by the Membership Application Officer and/or the Board of Insurance Ireland that an applicant does not meet membership criteria (14).

(13)

The duration of all offered commitments will be 10 years from the date on which Insurance Ireland receives formal notification of the Commission’s decision pursuant to Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003.

(14)

Insurance Ireland commits to appoint a Monitoring Trustee that will monitor and report to the Commission on the implementation of the offered commitments. During the first two years, the Monitoring Trustee will submit its report to the Commission every six months and, for the remainder of the duration of the offered commitments, on an annual basis.

(15)

Insurance Ireland commits not to circumvent, or attempt to circumvent the offered commitments either by action or omission.

4. Invitation to make Comments

(16)

Subject to market testing, the Commission intends to adopt a decision under Article 9(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 declaring binding the commitments summarised above. The decision will be published, on the website of the Directorate-General for Competition.

(17)

In accordance with Article 27(4) of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003, the Commission invites interested third parties to submit their observations on the offered commitments. These observations must reach the Commission no later than one month following the date of this publication. Interested third parties are also asked to submit a non-confidential version of their comments, in which any information they claim to be business secrets and other confidential information should be deleted and replaced as required by a non-confidential summary or by the words ’business secrets’ or ’confidential’.

(18)

Answers and comments should preferably be reasoned and should set out the relevant facts. If you consider that any part of the offered commitments would not effectively meet the concerns raised in the Commission’s preliminary assessment, the Commission would also invite you to suggest a possible solution.

(19)

Observations can be sent to the Commission under reference number AT.40511 - Insurance Ireland: Insurance claims database and conditions of access either by e-mail (COMP-GREFFE-ANTITRUST@ec.europa.eu), by fax (+32 22950128) or by post, to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Antitrust Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

(1) OJ L 1, 4.1.2003, p. 1. With effect from 1 December 2009, Articles 81 and 82 of the EC Treaty have become Articles 101 and, respectively, 102 of the TFEU. The two sets of provisions are in substance identical. For the purposes of this notice, references to Articles 81 and 82 of the EC Treaty should be understood as references to Articles 101 and 102 of the TFEU when applicable.

(2) See offered commitments and Annex 1 thereof.

(3) See Annex 3 of the offered commitments.

(4) See offered commitments and Annexes 4 and 5 thereof. As regards the right to appeal, see also paragraph 10 of this Communication.

(5) See offered commitments and Annex 4 thereof. In addition, the Board will review (i) any decision to withdraw or restrict or de facto deny an Insurance Link user’s rights of access (once granted) to Insurance Link or any of its facilities; (ii) a failure to comply with any aspect of the Insurance Link application procedure resulting in a delay to the processing of applications; or (iii) a failure to calculate the fees charged to an Insurance Link user for access to Insurance Link in accordance with the fee structure in place for Insurance Link.

(6) See offered commitments and Annex 7 thereof.

(7) See offered commitments and Annexes 5 and 6 thereof.

(8) In addition, the Oversight Committee will review appeals related to decision or action by the Application Officer or the Board to: (i) a decision not to grant access to InsuranceLink (ii) withdraw or restrict or de facto deny an Insurance Link user’s rights of access (once granted) to Insurance Link or any of its facilities; (iii) to fail to comply with any aspect of the Insurance Link application procedure resulting in a delay to the processing of an Insurance Link applicant’s application; and/or (iv) a failure to calculate the fees charged to an Insurance Link user for access to Insurance Link in accordance with the fee structure in place for Insurance Link.

(9) For example, loss adjusters, intermediaries acting as underwriting agents, entities having an insurance undertaking as a carrier, and others.

(10) See offered commitments and Annexes 9 and 10 thereof.

(11) See offered commitments and Annexes 12, 13 and 14 thereof.

(12) See offered commitments and Annex 13 thereof.

(13) See offered commitments and Annexes 13 and 14 thereof.

(14) See offered commitments and Annex 14 thereof. The Membership Appeal Board will also review appeals lodged by a member who, without reasonable justification, has been denied access in whole or in part to the facilities or services of Insurance Ireland that it is entitled to receive within its membership class.

4.3.2022

Official Journal of the European Union

C 104/20

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 104/11)

This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).

COMMUNICATION OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT TO THE SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Côtes de Thau’

PGI-FR-A1229-AM01

Date of communication: 6 December 2021

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1. Organoleptic description of the wine(s)

In Chapter I of the specification, at point 3.3 ‘Organoleptic description of the wines’, details have been added of the colour and organoleptic characteristics of the wines.

These amendments have also been made to the single document under ‘Description of the wine(s)’.

2. Geographical area

In Chapter I, point 4 of the specification, the geographical area has been extended to nine neighbouring municipalities in the department of Hérault. The existing geographical area comprised six municipalities in the department of Hérault: Agde, Castelnau de Guers, Florensac, Marseillan, Pinet and Pomerols. It has been extended to the nine municipalities of the department that border the current area to the north-east. These municipalities were part of the area in immediate proximity: Balaruc les Bains, Balaruc le Vieux, Bouzigues, Frontignan, Loupian, Mèze, Poussan, Sète and Villeveyrac.

The purpose is to make the geographical area of the PGI around the Thau Lagoon more consistent with the divisions used in the Thau Basin water planning and management scheme (SAGE). It is a catchment area with a warm Mediterranean climate. Extending the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI strengthens the link with the geographical area and consolidates the geographical identity of the PGI. It is a more consistent and unified geographical entity in terms of the climate, which is warm Mediterranean, and the characteristics both of the subsoil and of the human presence.

This amendment has also been made to the single document under ‘Demarcated Geographical Area’.

3. Area in immediate proximity

In Chapter I, point 4 of the specification, the area in immediate proximity has been more clearly defined and extended to the municipalities bordering the geographical area in which the practices are actually observed.

This amendment has also been made to the single document under ‘Further conditions - Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area’.

4. Grape varieties

In Chapter I, point 5 of the specification, the list of grape varieties used to produce the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI wines has been updated. The protection and management body wishes to withdraw 15 grape varieties from the specification as they are not used to produce the wines and not grown in the geographical area. The following varieties have been withdrawn: Chasselas B, Chasselas Rose Rs, Chambourcin N, Couderc Noir N, Danlas B, Jurançon Blanc B, Landal N, Lival N, Maréchal Foch N, Mondeuse N, Müller-Thurgau B, Ravat Blanc B, Rayon d’Or B, Rubilande Rs and Valérien B.

This amendment has also been made to the single document under ‘Main wine-grape varieties’.

5. Link with the geographical area

Further details have been added in Chapter I, point 7 of the specification. At point 7.1 ‘Specific characteristics of the geographical area’, there is an explanation that the PGI covers 15 municipalities of the department of Hérault at the north-east edge, which form an amphitheatre around the Thau Lagoon.

Further information has also been added at point 7.3 ‘Causal link’ to provide stronger evidence of the causal link, which is based on the connection between the characteristics of the geographical area and of the product. Côtes de Thau is a land of ancient tradition, and its vineyards have long been characterised by their focus on producing white wines. Skirting the Thau Lagoon, this area enjoys an aspect and Mediterranean climate that are particularly beneficial to vines. The soils, which are often permeable, are a mix of sand, loam, clay and limestone. This allows the vines to develop deep roots while lending the wines fruitiness and freshness.

These amendments have also been made to the single document under ‘Link with the geographical area’.

6. Presentation and labelling rules

A labelling rule has been added at point 8 of the specification, ‘Presentation and labelling rules’, in accordance with European rules, setting out the grape varieties that can be mentioned. The labelling rule also concerns the additional geographical designation of ‘Cap d’Agde’, included in the specification, and its use in relation to the designation ‘Côtes de Thau’. This labelling rule strengthens and preserves the identity of the PGI name.

7. Inspection authority

Contact details of the National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO), the body responsible for monitoring, have been added to Chapter III of the specification for the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI. Inspections are carried out by the inspection body CERTIPAQ on behalf of INAO.

This extra information has been added to the single document under ‘Detailed information on the monitoring body’.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1. Name(s)

Côtes de Thau

2. Geographical indication type

PGI - Protected geographical indication

3. Categories of grapevine products

Wine

5.	Quality sparkling wine

4. Description of the wine(s)

1. Analytical description

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI covers red, rosé and white still and quality sparkling wines.

For the still wines, the minimum and maximum levels provided for in EU regulations apply to the total alcoholic strength, total acidity, volatile acidity and total sulphur dioxide content.

For the quality sparkling wines, the minimum and maximum levels provided for in EU regulations apply to the actual alcoholic strength, total alcoholic strength, total acidity, volatile acidity, total sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide content.

By way of derogation, the volatile acidity content for wines with a fermentable sugar content (glucose and fructose) of at least 45 grams per litre is as established by an order jointly issued by the Minister for Consumer Affairs and the Minister for Agriculture.

General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)	9
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

2. Organoleptic description

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The wines are characterised above all by an expression of aromatic intensity and a balance of flavours underpinned by freshness.

The white wines are generally a clear bright yellow that corresponds to pale gold in colour. The initial sensation in the mouth is characterised by citrus notes and a generous freshness. With the finish, notes of citrus and/or exotic fruits can develop together with slightly amylic notes. The finish is long, sometimes with a touch of minerality.

The rosé wines are crystal clear with shades ranging from pale peach to violet tints. On the nose, they present subtle and delicate aromas of red fruit. In the mouth, the initial sensation is bold and lively with aromas of red berries while the finish may have notes of boiled sweets. Generally long in the mouth, they offer a pleasing freshness.

The red wines are deeply coloured with strong tints. The nose is powerful with notes of red fruit and local scrublands. In the mouth, the dominant sensation is that of a supple and fresh wine based on ripe fruit.

The quality sparkling wines have fine, elegant bubbles and a pleasant freshness combined with floral or fruity aromas, depending on the varieties used in the blend.

General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5. Wine-making practices

5.1. Specific oenological practices

1. Specific oenological practice

All wine-making practices followed must comply with the requirements laid down at EU level and in the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code.

5.2. Maximum yields

1. Rosé and white wines

120 hectolitres per hectare

2. Red wines

110 hectolitres per hectare

6. Demarcated geographical area

The harvesting of the grapes and the production and development of wines bearing the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI must take place in the territory of the following municipalities in the department of Hérault:

Agde, Balaruc-les-Bains, Balaruc-le-Vieux, Bouzigues, Castelnau-de-Guers, Florensac, Frontignan, Loupian, Marseillan, Mèze, Pinet, Pomerols, Poussan, Sète and Villeveyrac.

7. Main wine grape variety(-ies)

Alicante Henri Bouschet N

Alphonse Lavallée N

Altesse B

Aramon N

Aramon blanc B

Aramon gris G

Aranel B

Arinarnoa N

Auxerrois B

Baco blanc B

Cabernet franc N

Cabernet-Sauvignon N

Caladoc N

Cardinal Rg

Carignan N

Carignan blanc B

Carmenère N

Chardonnay B

Chasan B

Chenanson N

Chenin B

Clairette B

Clairette rose Rs

Clarin B

Colombard B

Counoise N

Egiodola N

Gamay N

Gamay de Chaudenay N

Gewurztraminer Rs

Grenache N

Grenache blanc B

Grenache gris G

Gros Manseng B

Lledoner pelut N

Marsanne B

Marselan N

Mauzac B

Merlot N

Meunier N

Muscadelle B

Muscardin N

Négrette N

Parrellada B

Petit Manseng B

Petit Verdot N

Pinot gris G

Pinot noir N

Piquepoul blanc B

Piquepoul gris G

Piquepoul noir N

Portan N

Riesling B

Roussanne B

Savagnin rose Rs

Sciaccarello N

Semillon B

Servant B

Seyval B

Sylvaner B

Tannat N

Tempranillo N

Terret blanc B

Terret gris G

Terret noir N

Ugni blanc B

Verdelho B

Villard blanc B

Villard noir N

Viognier B

8. Description of the link(s)

The geographical area of the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI covers 15 municipalities of the department of Hérault, forming an amphitheatre around the Thau Lagoon.

The Mediterranean Sea, lagoons, beaches and scrubland form a unique natural setting that provides the basis of an economy and a way of life. The Thau Lagoon exerts a moderating influence on the landscape and climate. It is separated from the Mediterranean by a narrow landform called a lido in French, on which vines are planted. The soils are reddish beige in colour, generally light in texture, ranging from sandy loam to sandy clay, largely free of stones and relatively deep. The climate is characterised by quite heavy rainfall in autumn and winter while summer rainfall is scarce but occasionally stormy. Fortunately, the sea breezes compensate by reducing evaporation and limiting the risk of water stress. Annual rainfall is around 600 millimetres. The Thau Lagoon is, in effect, a landlocked sea of 20 kilometres in length. Its influence is vital.

The aquatic environment mitigates the harsh Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures that are especially beneficial for the ripening of white grape varieties.

This natural heritage is closely linked to the economic assets of the area, in particular viticulture, shellfish aquaculture, fishing and tourism focused on, for example, sea-bathing, spas or nature.

Consumer trends are developing in favour of fresh and fruity white wines. The terroir of ‘Côtes de Thau’ wines is particularly suited to the production of this type of wine. This geographical area enjoys climate and soil conditions that allow white grape varieties to ripen slowly.

The still wines produced in the area of the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI come in three colours: white, rosé and red. There is an established tradition of dry white wines in this region. Indeed, the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI is one of the few which produces more white wines than reds.

The historic grape variety has always been Terret B. Nevertheless, there are also other varieties from different parts of France which can greatly enhance aroma and quality.

Côtes de Thau is a land of ancient tradition, and its vineyards have long been characterised by their focus on producing white wines. Skirting the Thau Lagoon, this area enjoys an aspect and Mediterranean climate that are particularly beneficial to vines. The soils, which are often permeable, are a mix of sand, loam, clay and limestone. This allows the vines to develop deep roots while lending the wines fruitiness and freshness.

The wine-makers have directed this production towards fresh and aromatic wines, making use of all the modern technology for gentle extraction and temperature control.

With their characteristic freshness, the wines of the ‘Côtes de Thau’ PGI reflect the very specific climate around the Thau Lagoon. They therefore go particularly well with the locally produced seafood.

The wine-makers have also been able to adapt to market demand from beyond the Thau Basin by developing significant red and rosé wine production.

At the same time, they are dedicated to preserving the very consideration biodiversity of their region through appropriate techniques. They participate in the Thau Basin scheme established by the national and local authorities, with the support of the European Commission.

The Thau Lagoon is a complex and attractive environment. In this respect, it provides an excellent basis for a sound environmental education. The wine-growers are adapting to these questions by developing practices that respect the biodiversity around them.

The lagoon is an important tourist attraction. It offers bathing, water sports, fishing, themed walks, visits to shellfish aquaculture sites, and Cap d’Agde, an area which receives hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. These are major factors in the reputation of the ‘Côtes de Thau’ wines.

The future of viticulture is closely linked to these issues. The wine-makers exist thanks to their very strong link with the Thau Basin. Protecting this precious environment is the foundation on which the PGI has been developed and its reputation established in this rich and complex setting.

9. Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

The area in immediate proximity, defined by derogation for the making and development of wines with the ‘Côtes de Thau’ protected geographical indication, comprises the following municipalities bordering the geographical area: Montagnac, Saint Pons de Mauchiens, Saint Pargoire, Plaissan, Cournonterral, Montbazin, Gigean, Vic la Gardiole, Saint Thibery, Pézenas, Nézignan l’Evèque, Bessan, Vias, Aumes and Cazouls d’Hérault.

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition:

The protected geographical indication ‘Côtes de Thau’ may be supplemented by the terms ‘primeur’ (early) or ‘nouveau’ (new).

The European Union PGI logo must appear on the label if the words ‘Indication géographique protégée’ (Protected Geographical Indication) are replaced by the traditional expression ‘Vin de pays’.

The protected geographical indication ‘Côtes de Thau’ may be supplemented by the name of one or more wine grape varieties.

The name of the grape variety or varieties must appear immediately below the name of the protected geographical indication ‘Côtes de Thau’. The size of the letters must not be larger, either in height or in width, than half the size of those used for the name of the PGI.

The protected geographical indication ‘Côtes de Thau’ may be supplemented by the smaller geographical unit ‘Cap d’Agde’.

The size of the letters used for the smaller geographical unit ‘Cap d’Agde’ must not be larger, either in height or in width, than those used for the protected geographical indication ‘Côtes de Thau’.

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-2cf1f3e1-6ab1-45ea-9fbb-0371f556cb1f

(1) OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

4.3.2022

Official Journal of the European Union

C 104/28

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 104/12)

This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).

COMMUNICATION OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT TO THE SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Var’

PGI-FR-A1145-AM02

Date of communication: 6 December 2021

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

Insertion of an additional geographical name

A new additional geographical name (‘Correns’) reserved for white ‘Var’ PGI wines has been included in Chapter I of the specification for the ‘Var’ PGI, under point 2 ‘Additional terms’.

This amendment has been included in the single document under the heading on further conditions.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1. Name(s)

Var

2. Geographical indication type

PGI - Protected Geographical Indication

3. Categories of grapevine product

Wine

5.	Quality sparkling wine

4. Description of the wine(s)

1. Still red, rosé and white wines

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The protected geographical indication ‘Var’ applies to still and quality sparkling red, rosé and white wines.

By way of derogation, the volatile acidity content for wines with a fermentable sugar content (glucose and fructose) of at least 45 grams per litre is as established by a joint order of the Minister for Consumer Affairs and the Minister for Agriculture.

In the case of still wines, the threshold or limit values for actual alcoholic strength (sparkling wines only), total alcoholic strength, total acidity, volatile acidity, total sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide (sparkling wines only) are as established in EU legislation.

The rosé wines (70 % of output) are generally pale in colour. They are typically lively with fruity aromas, with variations depending on the vine varieties and wine-making techniques employed.

The red wines are generally full-bodied with good structure, tending towards strong in the case of the more concentrated wines. Their colour ranges from ruby red to deep garnet with purple tints.

The white wines are fine, fruity and lively. They are brilliant and clear, with a pale yellow colour that has hints of green or gold.

General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)	9
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

2. Quality sparkling wines (red, rosé and white)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

The sparkling wines have the same colours and organoleptic properties as their still counterparts, but their finer and fresher aromas last longer and are enhanced by their elegant fine bubbles.

In the case of quality sparkling wines, the threshold or limit values for actual alcoholic strength, total alcoholic strength, total acidity, volatile acidity, total sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide (sparkling wines only) are as established in EU legislation.

General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5. Wine-making practices

5.1. Specific oenological practices

1. Specific oenological practice

All wine-making practices followed must comply with the requirements laid down at EU level and in the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code.

5.2. Maximum yields

1. 120 hectolitres per hectare

6. Demarcated geographical area

The harvesting of the grapes and the vinification and processing of ‘Var’ PGI wines must take place within the municipalities included in the department of Var.

7. Main wine grape variety(-ies)

Alicante Henri Bouschet N

Aligoté B

Alphonse Lavallée N

Altesse B

Aramon N

Aramon blanc B

Aramon gris G

Aranel B

Arbane B

Arinarnoa N

Arriloba B

Arrouya N

Artaban N

Aubin B

Aubin vert B

Aubun N - Murescola

Auxerrois B

Bachet N

Barbaroux Rs

Baroque B

Biancu Gentile B

Blanc Dame B

Bouchalès N

Bouillet N

Bouquettraube B

Bourboulenc B - Doucillon blanc

Brachet N - Braquet

Brun Fourca N

Brun argenté N - Vaccarèse

Béclan N - Petit Béclan

Béquignol N

Cabernet franc N

Cabernet-Sauvignon N

Caladoc N

Calitor N

Camaralet B

Carcajolo N

Carcajolo blanc B

Carignan N

Carignan blanc B

Carmenère N

Castets N

Chardonnay B

Chasan B

Chatus N

Chenanson N

Chenin B

Cinsaut N - Cinsault

Clairette B

Clairette rose Rs

Clarin B

Claverie B

Codivarta B

Colombard B

Corbeau N - Douce noire

Cot N - Malbec

Couderc noir N

Counoise N

Courbu B - Gros Courbu

Courbu noir N

Couston N

Crouchen B - Cruchen

César N

Duras N

Durif N

Egiodola N

Ekigaïna N

Elbling B

Etraire de la Dui N

Fer N - Fer Servadou, Braucol, Mansois, Pinenc

Feunate N

Floreal B

Folignan B

Folle blanche B

Fuella nera N

Furmint B

Gamaret

Gamay N

Gamay de Bouze N

Gascon N

Genovèse B

Gewurztraminer Rs

Goldriesling B

Gouget N

Graisse B

Gramon N

Grassen N - Grassenc

Grenache N

Grenache blanc B

Grenache gris G

Gringet B

Grolleau N

Grolleau gris G

Gros Manseng B

Gros vert B

Joubertin

Jurançon blanc B

Jurançon noir N - Dame noire

Knipperlé B

Lauzet B

Liliorila B

Listan B - Palomino

Lledoner pelut N

Macabeu B - Macabeo

Mancin N

Manseng noir N

Marsanne B

Marselan N

Maréchal Foch N

Mauzac B

Mauzac rose Rs

Mayorquin B

Melon B

Merlot N

Merlot blanc B

Meslier Saint-François B - Gros Meslier

Meunier N

Milgranet N

Molette B

Mollard N

Monarch N

Mondeuse N

Mondeuse blanche B

Monerac N

Montils B

Morrastel N - Minustellu, Graciano

Mourvaison N

Mourvèdre N - Monastrell

Mouyssaguès

Muresconu N - Morescono

Muscadelle B

Muscardin N

Muscaris B

Muscat Ottonel B - Muscat, Moscato

Muscat cendré B - Muscat, Moscato

Muscat d’Alexandrie B - Muscat, Moscato

Muscat de Hambourg N - Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à petits grains blancs B - Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à petits grains roses Rs - Muscat, Moscato

Muscat à petits grains rouges Rg - Muscat, Moscato

Mérille N

Müller-Thurgau B

Nielluccio N - Nielluciu

Noir Fleurien N

Négret de Banhars N

Négrette N

Oberlin noir N

Ondenc B

Orbois B

Pagadebiti B

Pascal B

Perdea B

Persan N

Petit Courbu B

Petit Manseng B

Petit Meslier B

Petit Verdot N

Picardan B - Araignan

Pineau d’Aunis N

Pinot blanc B

Pinot gris G

Piquepoul blanc B

Piquepoul gris G

Piquepoul noir N

Plant de Brunel N

Plant droit N - Espanenc

Portan N

Portugais bleu N

Prior N

Prunelard N

Précoce Bousquet B

Précoce de Malingre B

Raffiat de Moncade B

Riesling B

Riminèse B

Rivairenc N - Aspiran noir

Rivairenc blanc B - Aspiran blanc

Rivairenc gris G - Aspiran gris

Rosé du Var Rs

Roublot B

Roussanne B

Roussette d’Ayze B

Sacy B

Saint Côme B

Saint-Macaire N

Saint-Pierre doré B

Sauvignon B - Sauvignon blanc

Sauvignon gris G - Fié gris

Sciaccarello N

Segalin N

Seinoir N

Select B

Semebat N

Semillon B

Servanin N

Solaris B

Soreli B

Souvignier gris Rs

Sylvaner B

Syrah N - Shiraz

Tannat N

Tempranillo N

Terret blanc B

Terret gris G

Terret noir N

Tibouren N

Tourbat B

Tressot N

Téoulier N

Ugni blanc B

Valdiguié N

Varousset N

Velteliner rouge précoce Rs

Verdesse B

Vermentino B - Rolle

Vidoc N

Villard blanc B

Villard noir N

Viognier B

Voltis B

8. Description of the link(s)

8.1. Specificity of the geographical area

Var is one of the departments located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in south-eastern France. It takes its name from the coastal river Var, which used to mark the eastern boundary. It is bordered in the west by the department of Bouches-du-Rhône, in the north by the department of Alpes de Haute-Provence, in the east by the department of Alpes-Maritimes and in the south by the Mediterranean Sea.

The relief in the geographical area is varied, with two geologically distinct parts: a calcareous part to the west of the Toulon–Draguignan axis and a crystalline part to the east.

These two distinct geological formations are associated to two types of vegetation that are typical in the Mediterranean region, i.e.: ‘garrigue’ (brushwood) on the limestone soils and ‘maquis’ and forest (pine and holm oak) on the more crystalline soils. Neither of these types of vegetation provide more than a little humus. The soils in Var are generally poor with good drainage but liable to erosion. Vines can prosper in this kind of terrain. The Romans were not mistaken when they introduced vines 2 600 years ago while developing the Roman Province (or ‘Provence’).

One of the main hallmarks of the climate in Var is its sunshine. The department of Var benefits from a Mediterranean climate featuring hot, dry summers and mild winters with two rainy seasons in autumn and in spring. These conditions are ideal for vine-growing, and the temperature variations very often mean that certain parcels are devoted to grapes for making red and rosé wines.

The prevailing wind in the region is the Mistral (northerly). It is glacial in winter after having passed over the snow-capped Alps but it is a guarantee of freshness in summer. It can be harsh at times but winegrowers focus mostly on one essential quality: it preserves the vines from an excessively humid environment and from cryptogams such as mildew.

8.2. Specificity of the product

Production levels have continued to grow since the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication (Vin de Pays du Var) was created, stabilising at around 250 000 hl at the beginning of the 21st century.

Rosé wines are the main focus (70 % on average), mostly blended varieties.

Despite the continued importance of local varieties such as Grenache N, Cinsault N, Carignan N, Syrah N and Mourvèdre N for coloured wines and Vermentino B and Ugni Blanc B for whites, it must be said that the EU funds for restructuring vineyards have helped establish hallmark varieties from other French vineyards, such as Cabernet-Sauvignon N, Merlot N, Chardonnay B and, to a lesser extent, Viognier B. This range of varieties has made it possible to diversify the expression of the wines and contributed, in particular, towards fostering and developing the production of quality rosé wines.

One of the characteristics shared by most of the rosé wines, i.e. their very pale pink colour, is achieved thanks to the expertise in direct pressing of the bunches (whole or destemmed), often with the help of pneumatic presses, so that the clear juice immediately starts to ferment at a low temperature. The lively, fruity wines thus obtained are pale pink in colour.

Other techniques are also employed, such as ‘saignée’ (bleeding off some of the juice), maceration of the skins or prior to fermentation (where musts are kept at a low temperature for between 8 and 24 hours before pressing), with a view to making rosé wines that are stronger in colour and have a more consistent structure.

The red wines (which account for about 20 % of the eligible volume) are often strong and fleshy with good tannin structure. They are mostly made from the triad of Grenache N, Syrah N and Cabernet-Sauvignon N, although Merlot N and Cinsault N are often included too.

Accounting for a more modest proportion of the production (10 % of the eligible volume), the white wines appeal both to enthusiasts of varietal wine (Rolle B or Vermentino B, Viognier B or Chardonnay B) and to others, with blended wines that combine finesse and liveliness.

Quality sparkling wines are also made in the production area in question. The making of sparkling wine is not a new development in Provence. It is a traditional process that results in about a million bottles per year and that is guaranteed here by some fifty operators (producers, processors and traders). In the early 20th century, some cooperative wineries or winemakers such as ‘La Tête Noire’ were already trying to promote the quality sparkling wines produced in Provence.

One of the main characteristics of the sparkling wines covered by the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication is the fact that they are made from local vine varieties, as they are mostly rosé wines, which account for most of the still wines produced in the region.

Thus the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication would identify still wines associated with sparkling wines with relatively similar organoleptic profiles. Indeed, the sparkling rosé wines are very fruity and floral in terms of flavour and they have the same roundness as the still rosé wines.

It is precisely these organoleptic properties (floral and fruity in flavour together with the nice roundness) that distinguish the sparkling wines made in the Var region from those made in other parts of France.

8.3. Causal link between the specificity of the geographical area and the specificity of the product

Given its favourable climate, diverse landscapes and seaside location, as well as its rich historical and cultural heritage, craftsmanship and traditions, the Var region has undeniable potential for tourism. Aided by all of these strengths, the department has built up strong economic activity focusing on tourism.

This remarkably attractive region manages to draw in more than 14 million tourists a year. These tourists, many of whom come back again and again, will obviously learn to appreciate the cuisine and produce of Provence, including Var wines covered by a controlled designation of origin or protected geographical indication.

Since the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication was created under the rules that used to apply for ‘Vin de Pays’, its fame has grown largely thanks to the tourist activity in the region, as can be seen from the strong local demand for the rosé wines. Consumers appreciate and recognise the quality of the range of wines on offer.

Remarkably, producers have remained vigilant in continuing their progress in making their ‘Vins de Pays’ so as to always be aligned with consumer tastes (for example, the colour of the rosé wines).

This drive was apparent in the early 2000s when professional winemakers from Var took part in the creation of a national centre for research and experimentation focusing on rosé wine (in Vidauban - Var). A few projects have been published since then (one on the nuances of rosé wines, for example) and this contributes in operational terms towards further improving the quality levels of the rosé wines. The sector has also made major investments to ensure that it is equipped with the right tools to ensure perfect mastery of rosé wine-making. This state-of-the-art technology for rosé wines and the expertise of the producers are certainly beneficial for the production of wines covered by the controlled designations of origin but they also have an impact on the wine-making process for wines covered by the protected geographical indications.

Mention should also be made of the proximity of the Var vineyards to major regional urban centres and seaside resorts, a boon for producers, who can increase the value of their offering and thus choose to bottle on site. Direct sales (bottled wine or bag-in-box) now represent about 50 % of the volume, with direct sales at the cellars alone possibly accounting for 30 %.

Var is located in Provence, a region of acknowledged prestige. The image of Provence as a wine-producing region with a strong focus on quality rosé wines – world leader in the production of rosé – is well-established and has been validated by many spontaneous awareness surveys (source: cabinet Wine Intelligence Vinitrac - November 2009).

This prestige and expertise with a strong focus on rosé wines is also true of the red, white and sparkling wines made by the same producers from the vineyards of Var located in the same geographical environment.

In this way the success of the rosé wines undeniably reflects on the quality and reputation of the other wines produced in the department.

9. Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

—

Labelling

—	Legal framework:

—	National legislation

—	Type of further condition:

—	Additional provisions relating to labelling

—	Description of the condition:

—	The following can be added to the protected geographical indication ‘Var’:

—	the name/s of one or more vine varieties,

—	the terms ‘primeur’ (early) or ‘nouveau’ (new). The terms ‘primeur’ (early) and ‘nouveau’ (new) are reserved for still wines only.

The following names of smaller geographical units can be added to red, rosé and white wines bearing the protected geographical indication ‘Var’: ‘Argens’, ‘Coteaux du Verdon’, ‘Sainte Baume’.

The name of the smaller geographical unit ‘Correns’ may be added to white wines bearing the protected geographical indication ‘Var’.

The PGI logo of the European Union must appear on the label if the words ‘Indication géographique protégée’ (‘Protected Geographical Indication’) are replaced by the traditional term ‘Vin de Pays’.

Area in immediate proximity

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

The area in immediate proximity, defined by derogation for the making and development of the wines eligible for the ‘Var’ protected geographical indication, which may or may not be followed by the name of a smaller geographical unit, consists of the districts bordering the geographical area, as follows:

—	in the east, bordering on the department of Alpes-Maritimes: the district of Grasse;

—	in the west, bordering on the department of Bouches-du-Rhône: the districts of Aix-en-Provence and Marseille;

—	in the west/ north-west, bordering on the department of Vaucluse: the district of Apt;

—	in the north, bordering on the department of Alpes de Haute-Provence: the districts of Forcalquier, Digne and Castellane.

Link to the product specification

http://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-60d6245a-2c59-4f6c-9415-f07a40aa849e

(1) OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

4.3.2022

Official Journal of the European Union

C 104/39

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector, as referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 104/13)

This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).

COMMUNICATION OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT TO THE SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘Languedoc / Coteaux du Languedoc’

PDO-FR-A0922-AM07

Date of communication: 6 December 2021

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1. Vine varieties

In Chapter I, Section V of the specification, new secondary varieties have been added for the production of wines covered by the designation.

The new secondary varieties are consistent with the profile of the wines and make it possible to adapt to drought and fungal diseases. They allow the use of plant protection products to be reduced.

—	for red wines: Œillade N and Montepulciano N

—	for rosé wines: Œillade N

In the single document, the point regarding ‘Secondary wine grape varieties’ has been amended accordingly.

2. Inclusion of rosé wine under the supplementary geographical name ‘Saint-Saturnin’

Chapter I of the specification for ‘Languedoc’ has been supplemented to reintroduce rosé wine under the red-wine-producing supplementary geographical name ‘Saint-Saturnin’. Specific production conditions have been added to the specification to regulate the production of these rosé wines, which are subject to more restrictive rules than those produced under the ‘Languedoc’ designation. Such production rules had already been provided for as part of the transitional measures. They relate to vine varieties, the rules on blending vine varieties, the date of first production from young vines, the yield and the ban on the use of oenological charcoal. The link with the geographical area of origin has also been supplemented to specify the production of rosé wines under the ‘Saint-Saturnin’ supplementary geographical name.

The following sections of Chapter I of the specification have been amended:

Section V – Vine varieties

Section VIII – Yields – First production

Section IX – Processing, winemaking, maturation, packaging, storage

Section X – Link with the geographical area

These amendments to the specification do not affect the single document.

3. Transitional measures

In Chapter I, Section XI ‘Transitional measures’ of the specification, the obsolete measures and the measures relating to the production of rosé wines under the name ‘Saint-Saturnin’ have expired and have therefore been deleted. The measures in question relate to the rules governing yield, the blending of vine varieties, the maximum period for maturation and release onto the market, and labelling.

These amendments do not affect the single document.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1. Name(s)

Languedoc

Coteaux du Languedoc

2. Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected Designation of Origin

3. Category of grapevine products

Wine

4. Description of the wine(s)

1. Analytical characteristics

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

—	PDO ‘Languedoc’ wines are still, dry wines that are either red, rosé or white.

—	The minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume of the wines is 11,5 %.

—	Except for wines eligible for the terms ‘primeur’ (early) or ‘nouveau’ (new), the red wines have a malic acid content less than or equal to 0,4 g/l when ready to be marketed in bulk or packaged.

—	The wines have the following fermentable sugar content (glucose and fructose) when ready to be marketed in bulk or packaged:

—	Maximum fermentable sugar content:

—	White, rosé and red wines with a natural alcoholic strength by volume greater than 14 %: 4 g/l

—	Red wines with a natural alcoholic strength by volume less than or equal to 14 %: 3 g/l

—	Wines designated as ‘primeur’ or ‘nouveau’: 2 g/l

—	Unpackaged wines designated as ‘primeur’ or ‘nouveau’ have a volatile acidity less than or equal to 10,2 meq/l.

—

The total acidity and volatile acidity of wines not designated as ‘primeur’ and the total sulphur dioxide content are as laid down by EU legislation.

General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)	13
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

2. Organoleptic characteristics

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

—

The red wines, which are always a blend of several varieties, have a moderately to deeply intense colour, a palette of aromas ranging from red and black fruit to spicy and roasted notes, and a solid structure with ripe tannins. They can be kept for between 2 and 5 years on average, except for ‘primeur’ or ‘nouveau’ wines, which should be consumed in the months following production.

—	The rosé wines are a blend of at least two varieties, the principal varieties being Syrah N, Cinsaut N and Grenache N. The wines are made by direct pressing, short maceration or the saignée method and have a naturally bright colour. They have complex aromas and are fresh and round on the palate.

—

The white wines are also dry, and are produced by blending. They are usually pale in colour and have a typical Languedoc roundness and aromas reminiscent of tropical fruit, citrus, white flowers or dried fruit.

General analytical characteristics
Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)
Minimum total acidity
Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)
Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5. Winemaking practices

5.1. Specific oenological practices

1. Specific oenological practice

—

When making rosé wines, winemakers may use oenological charcoal, either alone or mixed in preparations, exclusively for press-musts and wines still in fermentation, in a proportion not exceeding 20 % of the volume of rosé wine produced by the winemaker concerned for a given harvest and at a dose of no more than 30 g/hl of the volume treated.

—	In addition to the above provision, all winemaking practices followed must comply with the requirements laid down at EU level and in the Rural Code.

2. Cultivation method

The minimum planting density of the vines is 4 000 plants per hectare. The distance between the rows must not exceed 2,50 m.

The area available for each vine must not exceed 2,50 m2. This area is calculated by multiplying the distance between rows by the distance between vines in the same row.

Pruning is carried out before stage E – three leaves spread over the first two count buds. The vines are spur pruned, with a maximum of 12 count buds per vine and a maximum of two per spur:

—	Single Guyot pruning may be used for the Syrah N variety, with a maximum of 10 count buds per vine, of which no more than six on the cane, and one or two replacement spurs with a maximum of one or two count buds each;

—	For the Grenache N variety, vines suffering from shatter may be pruned to a cane with a maximum of five count buds.

Irrigation may be authorised in accordance with Article D. 645-5 of the Rural and Maritime Fisheries Code.

5.2. Maximum yields

1.	Red and rosé wine yield

60 hectolitres per hectare

2.	White wine yield

70 hectolitres per hectare

6. Demarcated geographical area

(a)

For red and rosé wines, the grapes are harvested and the wines made and developed in the following municipalities:

—

Department of Aude: Aigues-Vives, Ajac, Albas, Alet-les-Bains, Alzonne, Antugnac, Aragon, Argeliers, Argens-Minervois, Armissan, Arquettes-en-Val, Azille, Badens, Bages, Bagnoles, Barbaira, Bizanet, Bize-Minervois, Blomac, Bouilhonnac, Bouriège, Boutenac, Cabrespine, Campagne-sur-Aude, Camplong-d’Aude, Canet, Capendu, Cascastel-des-Corbières, Cassaignes, Castelnau-d’Aude, Castelreng, Caunes-Minervois, Caunettes-en-Val, Caves, Cépie, Comigne, Conilhac-Corbières, Conilhac-de-la-Montagne, Conques-sur-Orbiel, Couiza, Cournanel, Coustaussa, Coustouge, Cruscades, Cucugnan, Davejean, Dernacueillette, La Digne-d’Amont, La Digne-d’Aval, Douzens, Duilhac-sous-Pyerepertuse, Durban-Corbières, Embres-et-Castelmaure, Escales, Espéraza, Fa, Fabrezan, Felines-Termenès, Ferrals-les-Corbières, Festes-et-Saint-André, Feuilla, Fitou, Fleury-d’Aude, Floure, Fontcouverte, Fontiès-d’Aude, Fontjoncouse, Fournes-Cabardès, Fraisse-Cabardès, Fraissé-des-Corbières, Gaja-et-Villedieu, Gardie, Ginestas, Gruissan, Homps, Les Ilhes, Jonquières, Labastide-en-Val, Ladern-sur-Lauquet, Lagrasse, Laroque-de-Fa, Lastours, Laure-Minervois, Leucate, Lézignan-Corbières, Limoux, Limousis, Loupia, Luc-sur-Aude, Luc-sur-Orbieu, Mailhac, Mayronnes, Maisons, Magrie, Malras, Malves-en-Minervois, Marseillette, Mirepeisset, Montazels, Montbrun-des-Corbières, Montgaillard, Montirat, Montlaur, Montolieu, Montredon-des-Corbières, Montséret, Monze, Moussoulens, Moux, Narbonne, Névian, Ornaisons, Padern, Palairac, La Palme, Paraza, Pauligne, Paziols, Pépieux, Peyriac-de-Mer, Peyriac-Minervois, Peyrolles, Pezens, Pennautier, Pieusse, Pomas, Port-la-Nouvelle, Portel-des-Corbières, Pouzols-Minervois, Pradelles-en-Val, Puichéric, Quintillan, La Redorte, Ribaute, Rieux-en-Val, Rieux-Minervois, Roquecourbe-Minervois, Roquefort-des-Corbières, Roquetaillade, Rouffiac-d’Aude, Roubia, Rouffiac-des-Corbières, Rustiques, Saint-André-de-Roquelongue, Saint-Couat-d’Aude, Saint-Couat-du-Razès, Sainte-Eulalie, Saint-Frichoux, Saint-Hilaire, Saint-Jean-de-Barrou, Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse, Saint-Nazaire-d’Aude, Saint-Pierre-des-Champs, Saint-Polycarpe, Sainte-Valière, Salles-d’Aude, Sallèles-Cabardès, Salsigne, La Serpent, Serres, Serviès-en-Val, Sigean, Talairan, Taurize, Termes, Thézan-des-Corbières, Tournissan, Tourouzelle, Tourreilles, Trassanel, Trausse-Minervois, Trèbes, Treilles, Tuchan, Ventenac-Cabardès, Ventenac-Minervois, Vignevieille, Villanière, Villalier, Villar-en-Val, Villar-Saint-Anselme, Villardonnel, Villarzel-Cabardès, Villebazy, Villedubert, Villegailhenc, Villegly, Villelongue-d’Aude, Villemoustaussou, Villeneuve-des-Corbières, Villeneuve-Minervois, Villerouge-Termenès, Villesèque-des-Corbières, Villetritouls, Vinassan;

—

Department of Gard: Aspères, Aujargues, Brouzet-lès-Quissac, La Cadière-et-Cambo, Calvisson, Cannes-et-Clairan, Carnas, Combas, Conqueyrac, Corconne, Crespian, Fontanès, Gailhan, Junas, Langlade, Lecques, Liouc, Montmirat, Montpezat, Moulézan, Nages-et-Solorgues, Nîmes, Orthoux-Sérignac-Quilhan, Saint-Clément, Saint-Hippolyte-du-Fort, Saint-Mamert-du-Gard, Salinelles, Sardan, Sommières, Souvignargues, Vic-le-Fesq, Villevieille;

—

Department of Hérault: Adissan, Agel, Aigne, Aigues-Vives, Alignan-du-Vent, Aniane, Arboras, Argelliers, Aspiran, Assas, Assignan, Aumelas, Autignac, Azillanet, Babeau-Bouldoux, Bassan, Beaufort, Beaulieu, Berlou, Béziers, Boisseron, Le Bosc, Boujan-sur-Libron, Brignac, Brissac, Cabrerolles, Cabrières, Campagne, Canet, Cassagnoles, Castelnau-le-Lez, Castries, La Caunette, Causse-de-la-Selle, Causses-et-Veyran, Caussiniojouls, Caux, Cazedarnes, Cazevieille, Cazouls-lès-Béziers, Cébazan, Cessenon-sur-Orb, Cesseras, Ceyras, Claret, Clermont-l’Hérault, Combaillaux, Corneilhan, Cournonsec, Cournonterral, Creissan, Cruzy, Faugères, Félines-Minervois, Ferrières-Poussarou, Fontanès, Fontès, Fos, Fouzilhon, Fozières, Gabian, Garrigues, Gignac, Guzargues, Jonquières, Juvignac, Lacoste, Lagamas, Laurens, Lauret, Lauroux, Lavalette, Lavérune, Liausson, Lieuran-Cabrières, La Livinière, Lodève, Lunel, Lunel-Viel, Magalas, Margon, Les Matelles, Mauguio, Mérifons, Minerve, Montagnac, Montarnaud, Montesquieu, Montbazin, Montblanc, Montouliers, Montoulieu, Montpellier, Montpeyroux, Moulès-et-Baucels, Mourèze, Murles, Murviel-lès-Béziers, Murviel-lès-Montpellier, Nébian, Neffiès, Nézignan-l’Evêque, Nissan-lez-Enserune, Nizas, Octon, Olmet-et-Villecun, Olonzac, Oupia, Paulhan, Pégairolles-de-Buèges, Pégairolles-de-l’Escalette, Péret, Pézenas, Pierrerue, Pignan, Plaissan, Poujols, Poussan, Pouzolles, Prades-le-Lez, Prades-sur-Vernazobre, Le Puech, Puéchabon, Puisserguier, Quarante, Restinclières, Roquebrun, Roquessels, Roujan, Saint-André-de-Buèges, Saint-André-de-Sangonis, Saint-Aunès, Saint-Bauzille-de-la-Sylve, Saint-Bauzille-de-Montmel, Saint-Clément-de-Rivière, Saint-Chinian, Saint-Christol, Saint-Drézéry, Saint-Félix-de-Lodez, Saint-Gély-du-Fesc, Saint-Geniès-des-Mourgues, Saint-Georges-d’Orques, Saint-Guiraud, Saint-Jean-de-Cuculles, Saint-Jean-de-la-Blaquière, Saint-Jean-de-Buèges, Saint-Jean-de-Fos, Saint-Jean-de-Minervois, Saint-Mathieu-de-Tréviers, Saint-Nazaire-de-Ladarez, Saint-Pargoire, Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens, Saint-Privat, Saint-Saturnin, Saint-Sériès, Saint-Thibéry, Saint-Vincent-de-Barbeyrargues, Sainte-Croix-de-Quintillargues, Saturargues, Sauteyrargues, Sauvian, Sérignan, Servian, Siran, Soubès, Soumont, Sussargues, Le Triadou, Usclas-du-Bosc, Vacquières, Vailhan, Vailhauquès, Valflaunès, Valmascle, Vendémian, Vendres, Vérargues, Vieussan, Villeneuve-lès-Maguelonne, Villeneuvette, Villeveyrac, Villespassans;

—

Department of Pyrénées-Orientales: Amélie-les-Bains-Palalda, Ansignan, Arboussols, Argelès-sur-Mer, Bages, Baho, Baixas, Banyuls-sur-Mer, Banyuls-dels-Aspres, Bélesta, Bouleternère, Le Boulou, Brouilla, Cabestany, Caixas, Calce, Camélas, Canet-en-Roussillon, Canohès, Caramany, Cases-de-Pene, Cassagnes, Castelnou, Caudiès-de-Fenouillèdes, Cerbère, Céret, Claira, Les Cluses, Collioure, Corbère, Corbère-les-Cabanes, Corneilla-del-Vercol, Corneilla-la-Rivière, Elne, Espira-de-Conflent, Espira-de-l’Agly, Estagel, Estoher, Felluns, Finestret, Fosse, Fourques, Ille-sur-Têt, Joch, Lansac, Laroque-des-Albères, Latour-Bas-Elne, Latour-de-France, Lesquerde, Llauro, Llupia, Marquixanes, Maureillas-las-Illas, Maury, Millas, Montalba-le-Château, Montauriol, Montescot, Montesquieu-des-Albères, Montner, Néfiach, Oms, Opoul-Périllos, Ortaffa, Palau-del-Vidre, Passa, Perpignan, Peyrestortes, Pézilla-de-Conflent, Pézilla-la-Rivière, Pia, Planèzes, Pollestres, Ponteilla, Port-Vendres, Prats-de-Sournia, Prugnanes, Rasiguères, Reynès, Rigarda, Riunoguès, Rivesaltes, Rodès, Saint-André, Saint-Arnac, Saint-Cyprien, Saint-Estève, Saint-Féliu-d’Amont, Saint-Féliu-d’Avall, Saint-Génis-des-Fontaines, Saint-Hippolyte, Saint-Jean-Lasseille, Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts, Saint-Martin, Saint-Michel-de-Llotes, Saint-Nazaire, Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, Sainte-Colombe-de-la-Commanderie, Saleilles, Salses-le-Château, Le Soler, Sorède, Sournia, Taillet, Tarerach, Tautavel, Terrats, Thuir, Tordères, Toulouges, Tresserre, Trévillach, Trilla, Trouillas, Villelongue-dels-Monts, Villemolaque, Villeneuve-de-la-Raho, Villeneuve-la-Rivière, Vinça, Vingrau, Vivès, Le Vivier.

(b)	For white wines, the grapes are harvested and the wines made and developed in the municipalities listed for red and rosé wines, plus the following municipalities in the department of Hérault: Castelnau-de-Guers, Florensac, Mèze, Pinet, Pomerols.

7. Main wine grape variety(-ies)

Bourboulenc B - Doucillon Blanc

Clairette B

Grenache N

Grenache Blanc B

Lledoner Pelut N

Marsanne B

Mourvèdre N - Monastrell

Piquepoul Blanc B

Roussanne B

Syrah N - Shiraz

Tourbat B

Vermentino B - Rolle

8. Description of the link(s)

Since the beginning of winegrowing in the Languedoc region, vines have always been grown on the dry, stony hillsides.

Since Roman times, the vagaries of history, the influence of monasteries and abbeys, the economic constraints of hillside vineyards and the changes in population groups have all contributed to the diversity and development of the products, leading, over time, to the production of sweet wines, fortified wines, red and white dry wines and table grapes, all of which require the grapes to be fully ripe.

Thus, over the generations, a whole range of specific locations have emerged that are recognised for the quality and originality of their wines.

Vines have been grown on the sunny hillsides between Collioure and the gates of Nîmes for over 2 000 years, and there are numerous accounts attesting to the quality and character of the wines produced.

Over the course of their history, the wines coming from these hillsides have enjoyed a reputation that was often built on that of the abbeys (Caunes-Minervois, Valmagne, Lagrasse, Fontfroide, etc.). Thus, Saint-Saturnin and Cabrières owe their origins to a companion of Saint Benedict of Aniane. Montpeyroux was a residence owned by the bishops of Montpellier from the 14th century onwards, and provided them with highly esteemed wines. The same is true of Saint-Aignan (Saint-Chinian), as Jean Clavel wrote in his book Histoire et avenir des vins en Languedoc [The history and future of wine in the Languedoc] (Edition Privat, 1985).

In a report to the King in 1788, the intendant, Baron de Ballainvilliers, wrote as follows: ‘These are all wines with a designation, which, under the generic name vins de Narbonne, were quite rightly held in high regard outside the province and outside France, in particular the wines of Lapalme, Leucate, Fitou ...’

In 1816, in Topographie de tous les vignobles connus [Topography of all the known vineyards], André Jullien highlighted the specific quality that the wines have on account of their place of origin and mentioned the vineyards located to the north of the river Têt, as far as Espira-de-l’Agly and Rivesaltes, and the wines of ‘Saint-Christol’, ‘Saint-Georges d’Orques’ and ‘Saint-Drézéry’: ‘The wines have a pleasant, clean taste, are full-bodied and spirituous, and are very distinguished after five or six years of ageing’.

That specific quality attributable to the wines’ place of origin is achieved because the demarcated parcel area for harvesting the grapes comprises parcels with soils that do not restrict root growth and are capable of providing the plants with a moderate and regular water supply so that they can withstand the hot, dry summers. The area consists of parcels with good exposure, stretching from the sea to an altitude of 400 m.

Most of the parcels are located on hillsides close to the sea or on the steeper slopes of the submontane zone, sometimes arranged in terraces.

The surface area of this precisely demarcated area accounts for less than a third of the total area of the region’s vineyards, and the wine that is produced there accounts for less than 15 % of the volume produced in the region.

The choice of vine varieties and planting location has been determined by the climate and the type of soil. The varieties have a fairly long growth cycle and sufficient resistance to drought and heat and thrive in high cumulative temperatures. Yield management, resulting in moderate yields, ensures that the harvest is fully ripe before the autumn rains come, and the wind helps to keep the grapes healthy.

The specific hot, dry Mediterranean climate allows ripe tannins to develop in the red wines and brings out the characteristic roundness of the rosé and white wines.

After the Second World War, many of the hillside vineyards had to be replanted, which strengthened the hold of the traditional varieties. The replanting of the vineyards signalled the start of a collective move towards recreating the region’s historic viticulture, bringing together the wine cooperatives and associations of independent estates.

The introduction of mechanisation and the more widespread cultivation of long-branched varieties, such as Syrah N, which must be trellised, have led to a change in cultivation methods. Vineyard parcels which used to be planted in squares without trellising have largely been replaced by parcels where the distance between rows does not exceed 2,50 m and the minimum planting density is 4 000 vines per hectare. However, the pruning method has remained the same: principally short, and always with a limited number of count buds per vine.

9. Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Labelling

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition:

—	The registered designation of origin ‘Languedoc’ may be supplemented by the terms ‘primeur’ or ‘nouveau’, which must be accompanied by the year of vintage.

—

Wines covered by the ‘Languedoc’ registered designation of origin and presented with that designation, whether or not it is accompanied by the supplementary geographical names ‘Cabrières’, ‘Grés de Montpellier’, ‘La Méjanelle’, ‘Montpeyroux’, ‘Pézenas’, ‘Quatourze’, ‘Saint-Christol’, ‘Saint-Drézéry’, ‘Saint-Georges-d’Orques’, ‘Saint-Saturnin’ or ‘Sommières’, cannot be declared after harvest, offered to the public, dispatched, marketed or sold unless the registered designation of origin, accompanied where necessary by any supplementary geographical names, appears in the accompanying documents, in the stock declaration, in advertisements, in catalogues and on any labels, invoices or containers.

Area in immediate proximity

Legal framework:

National legislation

Type of further condition:

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition:

The area in immediate proximity, defined by derogation for the making and development of the wines, comprises the territory of the following municipalities:

—

Department of Aude: Alaigne, Arques, Arzens, Auriac, Belcastel-et-Buc, Berriac, La Bezole, Bourigeole, Bram, Brenac, Brousses-et-Villaret, Brugairolles, Bugarach, Camps-sur-l’Agly, Carcassonne, Castans, Caudebronde, Caunette-sur-Lauquet, Caux-et-Sauzens, Citou, Clermont-sur-Lauquet, Couffoulens, Coursan, Courtauly, Cubières-sur-Cinoble, Cuxac-Cabardès, Cuxac-d’Aude, Donazac, Fajac-en-Val, Fontiers-Cabardès, Granes, Greffeil, Labastide-Esparbairenque, Lairière, Lauraguel, Lespinassière, Leuc, Malves-en-Minervois, Marcorignan, Mas-Cabardès, Mas-des-Cours, Massac, Miraval-Cabardès, Missègre, Montclar, Monthaut, Montjardin, Montjoi, Montréal, Moussan, Mouthoumet, Ouveillan, Palaja, Pomy, Pradelles-Cabardès, Preixan, Puilaurens, Puivert, Quillan, Raissac-d’Aude, Raissac-sur-Lampy, La Redorte, Rennes-le-Château, Rennes-les-Bains, Ribaute, Rieux-en-Val, Rieux-Minervois, Roquecourbe-Minervois, Roquefère, Roquefort-des-Corbières, Routier, Rouvenac, Saint-Benoît, Saint-Denis, Saint-Ferriol, Saint-Jean-de-Paracol, Saint-Louis-et-Parahou, Saint-Marcel-sur-Aude, Saint-Martin-des-Puits, Saint-Martin-de-Villereglan, Saint-Martin-le-Vieil, Saissac, Sallèles-d’Aude, Salza, Soulatge, Terroles, Valmigère, Véraza, Verzeille, Villarzel-Cabardès-du-Razès, Villedaigne, Villefloure, Villefort, Villesèquelande.

—

Department of Gard: Aigremont, Aigues-Mortes, Aigues-Vives, Aimargues, Aubais, Bernis, Boissières, Bouillargues, Bragassargues, Caissargues, La Calmette, Caveirac, Clarensac, Congénies, Cros, Dions, Domessargues, Durfort-et-Saint-Martin-de-Sossenac, Fons, Gajan, Gallargues-le-Montueux, Générac, Marguerittes, Milhaud, Monoblet, Montagnac, Mus, Parignargues, Pompignan, Poulx, Puechredon, Quissac, Rodilhan, Rogues, La Rouvière, Sainte-Anastasie, Saint-Come-et-Maruéjols, Saint-Dionizy, Saint-Gilles, Saint-Roman-de-Codières, Saint-Théodorit, Sauve, Sumène, Uchaud, Vergèze.

—

Department of Hérault: Abeilhan, Agde, Agonès, Les Aires, Aumes, Baillargues, Balaruc-le-Vieux, Bédarieux, Bélarga, Bessan, Boisset, La Boissière, Bouzigues, Brenas, Buzignargues, Campagnan, Candillargues, Capestang, Cazilhac, Cazouls-d’Hérault, Celles, Cers, Clapiers, Colombiers, Coulobres, Le Crès, Le Cros, Dio-et-Valquières, Espondeilhan, Fabrègues, Ferrals-les-Montagnes, Ferrières-les-Verreries, Frontignan, Galargues, Ganges, Gigean, Gorniès, Grabels, La Grande-Motte, Hérépian, Jacou, Lansargues, Laroque, Lattes, Lespignan, Lézignan-la-Cèbe, Lieuran-lès-Béziers, Lignan-sur-Orb, Loupian, Lunas, Maraussan, Marseillan, Marsillargues, Mas-de-Londres, Maureilhan, Mireval, Mons, Montady, Montaud, Montels, Montferrier-sur-Lez, Mudaison, Notre-Dame-de-Londres, Olargues, Pailhès, Palavas-les-Flots, Pardailhan, Pérols, Pézènes-les-Mines, Les Plans, Poilhes, Popian, Portiragnes, Le Pouget, Pouzols, Puilacher, Puimisson, Puissalicon, Rieussec, Riols, Les Rives, Romiguières, Roqueredonde, Rouet, Saint-Bauzille-de-Putois, Saint-Brès, Saint-Etienne-d’Albagnan, Saint-Etienne-de-Gourgas, Saint-Félix-de-l’Héras, Saint-Geniès-de-Fontedit, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Saint-Hilaire-de-Beauvoir, Saint-Jean-de-Cornies, Saint-Jean-de-Védas, Saint-Just, Saint-Martin-de-Londres, Saint-Maurice-Navacelles, Saint-Michel, Saint-Nazaire-de-Pézan, Saint-Paul-et-Valmalle, Saint-Pierre-de-la-Fage, Saint-Pons-de-Thomières, Salasc, Saussan, Saussines, Sète, Teyran, Thézan-lès-Béziers, Tourbes, Tressan, Usclas-d’Hérault, La Vacquerie-et-Saint-Martin-de-Castries, Valergues, Valras-Plage, Valros, Vélieux, Vendargues, Vias, Vic-la-Gardiole, Villeneuve-lès-Béziers, Villetelle, Viols-en-Laval, Viols-le-Fort.

—

Department of Pyrénées-Orientales: L’Albère, Alenya, Arles-sur-Tech, Baillestavy, Le Barcarès, Bompas, Boule-d’Amont, Calmeilles, Campoussy, Casefabre, Clara, Eus, Fenouillet, Glorianes, Los Masos, Molitg-les-Bains, Montbolo, Mosset, Le Perthus, Prunet-et-Belpuig, Rabouillet, Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans, Saint-Laurent-de-la-Salanque, Sainte-Marie, Saint-Marsal, Taurinya, Théza, Torreilles, Valmanya, Villelongue-de-la-Salanque, Vira.

Link to the product specification

http://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-7e46f9d3-55a7-4fed-a312-52a267e4f576

(1) OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

		ISSN 1977-091X
Official Journal of the European Union		C 104

English edition	Information and Notices	Volume 65 4 March 2022

Contents		page
	II Information
	INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
	European Commission
2022/C 104/01	Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10567 – ACE / MOSADEX / PHARMALOT COMPOUNDING) ( 1 )	1
2022/C 104/02	Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10480 – GOLDMAN SACHS / NN INVESTMENT PARTNERS HOLDING) ( 1 )	2
2022/C 104/03	Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10595 – CERBERUS / HBCE (FRENCH RETAIL BANKING)) ( 1 )	3
2022/C 104/04	Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10592 – KKR / KÖRBER / KÖRBER SUPPLY CHAIN SOFTWARE MANAGEMENT) ( 1 )	4
2022/C 104/05	Communication from the Commission pursuant to Article 11(5) of the Monetary Agreement between the European Union and the Principality of Monaco	5

	IV Notices
	NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
	European Commission
2022/C 104/06	Euro exchange rates — 3 March 2022	9

	Currency	Exchange rate
USD	US dollar	1,1076
JPY	Japanese yen	128,18
DKK	Danish krone	7,4399
GBP	Pound sterling	0,82773
SEK	Swedish krona	10,7688
CHF	Swiss franc	1,0192
ISK	Iceland króna	143,40
NOK	Norwegian krone	9,8418
BGN	Bulgarian lev	1,9558
CZK	Czech koruna	25,634
HUF	Hungarian forint	378,64
PLN	Polish zloty	4,7691
RON	Romanian leu	4,9496
TRY	Turkish lira	15,6897
AUD	Australian dollar	1,5139
CAD	Canadian dollar	1,3992
HKD	Hong Kong dollar	8,6547
NZD	New Zealand dollar	1,6329
SGD	Singapore dollar	1,5042
KRW	South Korean won	1 334,20
ZAR	South African rand	16,8798
CNY	Chinese yuan renminbi	6,9996
HRK	Croatian kuna	7,5700
IDR	Indonesian rupiah	15 934,42
MYR	Malaysian ringgit	4,6370
PHP	Philippine peso	57,293
RUB	Russian rouble
THB	Thai baht	36,063
BRL	Brazilian real	5,6041
MXN	Mexican peso	22,8945
INR	Indian rupee	84,1740

Group I	:	CFC 11, 12, 113, 114 or 115
Group II	:	other fully halogenated CFCs
Group III	:	halon 1211, 1301 or 2402
Group IV	:	carbon tetrachloride
Group V	:	1,1,1 trichloroethane
Group VI	:	methyl bromide
Group VII	:	hydrobromofluorocarbons
Group VIII	:	hydrochlorofluorocarbons
Group IX	:	bromochloromethane

	V Announcements
	PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMMON COMMERCIAL POLICY
	European Commission
2022/C 104/07	Notice of the impending expiry of certain anti-dumping measures	10
	PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY
	European Commission
2022/C 104/08	Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10597 – SMS / ALTOR FUND MANAGER / KAEFER HOLDING / KAEFER ISOLIERTECHNIK) – Candidate case for simplified procedure ( 1 )	11
2022/C 104/09	Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10613 – PORSCHE AUSTRIA / WOLFGANG DENZEL AUTO / SAUBERMACHER DIENSTLEISTUNG / JV) – Candidate case for simplified procedure ( 1 )	13
2022/C 104/10	Communication from the Commission published pursuant to Article 27(4) of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 in Case AT.40511 - Insurance Ireland: Insurance claims database and conditions of access	15
	OTHER ACTS
	European Commission
2022/C 104/11	Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33	20
2022/C 104/12	Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to the product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33	28
2022/C 104/13	Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector, as referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33	39
2022/C 104/14	Notice to undertakings intending to import or export controlled substances that deplete the ozone layer to or from the European Union in 2023 and undertakings intending to produce or import these substances for essential laboratory and analytical uses in 2023	46