Wine from the Achterhoek and Betuwe, also known as Rivierenlandwijn, is now protected against counterfeiting. This was decided by the European Commission after a request from three vineyards in the area.
EU rules make it possible to give products from European countries a protected status. This should prevent other countries from making counterfeit products. A well-known example of this is champagne. This drink can only be given that name if it is produced in the relevant French region.
Rivierenland wine will also now receive the protection, meaning that 85 percent of the grapes used in the wine must actually come from the area.
The first vines were planted in the region in 2004 after new grape varieties were developed for the Dutch climate. The plant was financed, among other things, with the help of European subsidies for rural renewal.
There is much horticulture and fruit growing in the region due to the fertile riverine soils. The conditions “contribute to the quality of the wines and give them fruity aromas,” the committee said in an explanation.
