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The designation of origin Toscana IGT has introduced the "Spumante" category. It applies to bottle-fermented sparkling wines (Metodo Classico) and tank-fermented products (Metodo Charmat). This means that Tuscan wineries can now market their sparkling wines, which have been produced for decades, with a designation of origin for the first time.
According to a statement from the Toscana IGT consortium, the change to the production rules has already been approved by the Tuscany region. "In view of the increasing demand for sparkling wines on national and international markets, this innovation offers Tuscan wineries the opportunity to diversify and increase their production," said Stefania Saccardi, Vice-President of the Tuscany Region.
In addition to the introduction of the new category, the consortium has taken a further step to consolidate the value of the brand. From the 2025 vintage, only the name "Toscana" will be allowed to appear on the bottle labels. Until now, producers were allowed to write "Toscano or Toscana" on their bottles. The decision to reduce the name to "Toscana" is intended to strengthen the territorial identity of the wines.
"The process was long and complex, but we have finally taken the first step towards giving more value to the wines of 'Toscana IGT'," explained Cesare Cecchi, President of the consortium. With over 1,500 members, a production of 95.5 million bottles and an export share of 69 per cent, the consortium is one of the most important players in the region.
The proposal will now be examined by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture before being submitted for approval at European level. The aim is to bring the changes into force in time for the 2025 harvest.
(ru / Winenews)