French Champagne exports to Russia will resume from today after labelling row.
France will reportedly resume Champagne exports to Russia today after a row about new labelling laws. Agence France-Presse said that the lobby group Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC) voted to lift the suspension from September 15.
CIVC had asked its producers to boycott Russia after the rules forcing foreign producers to add a reference to “sparkling wine” on their bottles, came into force in July. The co-head of CIVC Jean-Marie Barillère was quoted as saying that the move is a “peace offering” and French producers would respect the law.
Agence France Presse reported at least 95% of Champagne producers took part in the boycott, including Moet Hennessy brands. It said the committee’s leadership had decided to scrap the boycott because they thought they had made their point and no longer wanted to harm their clients. Russia is the 15th biggest market in value for Champagne producers, who are famously protective of their designation.
