INAO Demands Stricter Rules for Champagne's Herbicide Ban, 2025 Deadline Looms

The National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO) has directed the General Syndicate of Champagne Winegrowers (SGV) to provide detailed specifications regarding the ban on chemical weeding in order to ensure proper enforcement. This measure aims to be implemented starting with the 2025 vintage.

During meetings held on June 25 and 26 at the INAO, the National Committee for Appellations of Origin concerning wines advised the SGV to reformulate their proposal to ban herbicides between vineyard rows for better clarity. The current formulation states, "the use of herbicides is prohibited between rows, with the exception of biocontrol products approved by public authorities in viticulture." INAO's services have requested further details to facilitate both internal and external controls, as reported by David Gaudinat, vice-president of SGV in charge of technical affairs. Gaudinat emphasized the necessity for precise measures to ease the monitoring process on the ground, with suggestions made in the technical committee to enhance the observability of the ban in practice.

This revision process, which includes specifying the dimensions of the grass-covered strip between rows, does not alter the fundamental goal of reducing herbicide use. Maxime Toubart, SGV president, reiterated that the primary objective remains the same: to have the ban in effect for the 2025 growing season.

Another topic of discussion within the AOC Champagne specifications is the requirement for bottle caps. While internally approved by the SGV, this issue has not yet been presented to the INAO, despite generating considerable debate. Toubart advocates for continued discussions and refinements on this matter, acknowledging differing opinions within the community. He underscores the need to balance administrative flexibility, carbon footprint considerations, and the expectations associated with purchasing a bottle of champagne.

The path toward banning chemical weeding in Champagne vineyards by 2025 is marked by a call for precise, enforceable measures. The SGV is tasked with refining its proposal to ensure it can be effectively monitored and implemented. Concurrently, the debate over bottle caps highlights the ongoing efforts to achieve consensus within the industry, blending tradition with modern environmental and consumer expectations. As these measures take shape, the commitment to sustainable viticulture remains a guiding principle for the Champagne region.