EU Defends Champagne and Prosecco Names in Trade Deals

The Drinks Business reports that the EU is treating wine as a red-line issue in trade negotiations, even while offering limited concessions on agricultural imports such as beef and sheep meat. According to its summary of Euronews reporting, Brussels continues to insist on strong protection for geographical indications such as Champagne and Prosecco, with partner countries often required to restrict or phase out those names in export markets. The broader takeaway is that the EU sees wine names tied to origin as strategic commercial assets, not just labelling details.