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The German Winegrowers' Association (DWV), the professional organisation of German winegrowers, celebrated its 150th anniversary at a ceremony in Neustadt an der Weinstraße. In his speech, the Federal Minister of Agriculture, Cem Özdemir (pictured right with DWV President Klaus Schneider), emphasised that German wine is a living cultural asset and a strong economic factor and makes a significant contribution to biodiversity: "Vineyards provide a refuge for rare and endangered species".
DWV President Klaus Schneider emphasised three milestones from the past 25 years of the association's history: the guidelines on integrated pest management, which fulfil society's expectations of reduced pest management. The founding of the European initiative "Wine in Moderation" had also made a clear commitment to moderate wine consumption and against alcohol abuse. He criticised the current developments in the WHO, in some member states and also in parts of the EU Parliament, which no longer differentiate between moderate consumption and abuse: "I call for a return to a fact-based, scientific discussion. The industry remains committed to its voluntary commitment and is focussing on education rather than bans."
Schneider cited the transition from the Germanic to the Romance labelling system as the third milestone. With the creation of the protective associations initiated by the association and adjustments to the labelling law, this paradigm shift could also be reflected in the law. Origin and quality are now legally linked.
A panel discussion on the topic of "Biodiversity services in viticulture - political demands and practical necessities" rounded off the event.
(al / Source: DWV)