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WSTA launches EU wine strategy
The Wine & Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has launched an “EU wine plan for responsible consumption communication” at its spring conference today.
The new strategy is designed to ensure that wine is promoted in a way that encourages responsible consumption and the plan intends “to make moderation fashionable”.
A “common message” and will be communicated through the new Wine Information Council, an “Arts de Vivre” education campaign and the European Wine Communication Standards.
“We are delighted to announce the UK launch of the European Wine Plan at our spring conference,” said WSTA chief executive Jeremy Beadles. “We hope that it will complement and support much of the good work that is already being done in the UK, not only by the wine trade, but by the entire alcohol drinks sector in promoting the message of moderation particularly through the new Drinkaware Trust.
“We believe that the formation of the Wine Information Council will greatly help to ensure that all those involved in alcohol issues, from the trade, the media, NGOs and government departments can access reliable, up-to-date and accurate, science-based information from all around the world.
“Wine, as with all alcohol, if consumed in moderation can be part of a perfectly healthy lifestyle. We want to work with Comité Vins and with all our European counterparts in ensuring that alcohol is treated with respect and enjoyed responsibly. We hope that the Arts de Vivre campaign will help us in this.
“The WSTA is working closely with other organisations such as the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Alcohol in Moderation and the Institute of Masters of Wine to ensure that the trade’s European Wine Plan is adopted right across the UK industry. It provides building blocks which will be put to use in different ways in different countries, to reflect both the varying alcohol culture across Europe and also the differing levels of progress made in promoting the message of moderation.”
Chairman of the CEEV Wine and Health Working Committee George Sandeman commented: “The effective implementation of this commitment for the moderation and responsibility in the consumption of wines is a strategic priority to ensure the sustainable development of the EU wine chain, fully compatible with a healthier Europe.”
© db Patrick Schmitt, 18/04/07