There's an article on the front page of the EU IHT today by Thomas Fuller, entitled "US and EU reconcile over glass of wine." I'm unable to find the article online, although it is likely to turn up on
In brief, it recounts that negotiators in Washington have agreed to label and some content common ground. US producers can use "traditional EU expressions" like "chateau" and "sur lie" but are restricted from using place names like Chablis and Champagne. The exception is for wines that already hold such branding. Also addressed apparently is the legalization of things like oak tea-bags, special filtration techniques and the addition of water in the EU.
No more california retsina. Shucks.
The bill will be introduced to congress by shrub's men, and is seen as a victory for US interests.
On a related note on wednesday at a rather good restaurant in Paris I was offered a zin! When I inquired further I was told it was Turning Leaf CA zin, to which I could only reply "surtout pas ca!" :)
-E