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COLA Guidelines for Port-style and Other Semi-Generic Wine Name Labels
Since the March 2006 agreement on the use of foreign geographic place names on the labels of American-made wines, sweet and fortified wine producers are confused and concerned. According the agreement as we read it, the use of the term “port” on a domestic label will no longer be approved for new COLAs (Certificate of Label Approval). This presents an interesting challenge for producers wishing to introduce a new fortified wine product which they could previously call “port”, “maderia”, or other semi-generic place name.
While we understand that each COLA approval is based on the specific language and appearance of the label application, we asked the TTB two very basic questions regarding what is acceptable or at least likely to be acceptable.
First, is the term “port-style” acceptable on a new wine label? Is any use of the word “port” in conjunction with any other word, words, or phraseology acceptable?
Second, is the term “fortified” acceptable on new wine labels? Is there any restrictions on the use of the word “fortified” on wine labels”?
We received the following response to our inquiry.
Thank you for your inquiry regarding semi-generic type designations for grape wines (e.g. Port). You asked if Port-Style or any variations of that term would be acceptable for the labeling of domestic dessert wines in excess of 14% alcohol by volume that no longer can use the term “Port.” See TTB Industry Circular 2006-1. It is my understanding that we would not allow Certificate of Label Approvals (COLAs) for use of the term “Port-Style,” “Port Type,” etc. since those references would be in conflict with our commitment to the Agreement on Trade in Wine between the US and EC. Also, the term “Fortified” or similar terms are not allowed on wine labels per 27 CFR, 4.39(a)(7).
Please refer to 27 CFR, 4.21(a) for possible labeling options. Grape wines in excess of 14% alcohol by volume may be designated (Dessert Wine, Grape Wine, Red/White Wine, Sweet Dessert Wine, Sweet Grape Wine, Sweet Red/White Wine, etc.)…
I hope this satisfactorily answers your questions.
ALFD Customer Service Team (EAR)
The Sweet and Fortified Wine Association will continue to monitor the new COLA requirements regarding semi-generic named wines and provide additional information to producers and consumers as appropriate.