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The general assembly of the Etna DOC consortium has unanimously decided that the appellation may only grow by 50 hectares per year. The decision initially applies for the next three years, from 1 August 2024 to 31 July 2027, and each winery can apply for a maximum of one hectare of new vines. If the requests exceed the annual quota, the area authorised for the individual wineries will be reduced proportionally.
"The controlled expansion of the area is a necessary condition for the well-considered growth of the appellation. The decision is intended to protect the growing area and at the same time consolidate a market positioning that is increasingly focussed on quality. The fact that the vote on such a controversial issue passed without a veto shows that the members are acting in a very considered manner. The consortium wants to offer all producers equal opportunities for growth," commented Francesco Cambria, president of the consortium, on the strategic decision.
The Etna DOC appellation currently comprises 1,500 hectares spread over 20 municipalities and 133 contrade (individual vineyards). The average annual production is six million bottles, 60 per cent of which are exported. The most important markets are the USA, Canada, Switzerland and the UK.
(ru / Agrisole)