(WB) - Winemakers in France recently obtained formal recognition from French authorities with regard to the existence of “natural wine.” The new denomination is defined by a quality production charter and marketed under the term, vin méthode nature.

After 10 years effort, the French wine industry has obtained the right to market wines officially recognized as “natural”. In collaboration with the French Ministry for Agriculture, the French National Institute for Origins and Quality (INAO) and the French Fraud Control Office, the newly created Natural Wines Union, presided by Loire Valley vintner Jacques Carroget, has established a list of criteria and a screening protocol dedicated to this new designation.