Guide to Wine Law

Generic Names & Traditional Expressions

There are no wine law restrictions on the use of generic wine-style names, unless those names are protected under an international wine agreement or have conditions of use prescribed under the Wine Australia Corporation Act. A number of specific names and traditional expressions cannot be used because they are listed in the Register of Protected Geographical  Indications and Other Terms. 

Australia’s Wine Agreement with the EU protects European Geographical Indications and traditional expressions of both parties.

Moscato

Wine Australia is of the view that “Moscato” is an indicator of variety and therefore can only be used in compliance with the Wine Australia Corporation Act and Regulations. That is, “Moscato” can only be used in the description and presentation of wines where at least 85% of the wine consists of “Muscat” varieties. There are many Muscat varieties, of which Muscat a Petits Grain and Muscat Gordo are the most commonly planted in Australia. Any of these, or a combination of them, can be used to produce Australian “Moscato”.

European GIs and Traditional Expressions

It is illegal to use the following European Geographical Indications (unless the wine originated in those GIs)

Since 31/12/93: Beaujolais, Cava, Frascati, Sancerre, Saint-Emilion, St. Emilion, Vinho Verde, Vino Verde, White Bordeaux

Since 31/12/97: Chianti, Frontignan, Hock, Madeira, Malaga

Since 31/12/2000, Riesling may only be used to describe a grape variety. 

The following European GIs and traditional expressions may be used until the listed phase-out date, but may not be exported to the EU.

On 1 September 2011: Amontillado, Auslese, Burgundy, Chablis, Champagne, Claret, Fino, Graves, Manzanilla, Marsala, Moselle, Oloroso, Port, Sauternes, Sherry, Spatlese, White Burgundy

On 1 September 2020: Tokay

Hermitage

Until 1 September 2011 the name Hermitage may be used as a synonym for the grape variety "Shiraz" for sale in countries outside the territory of the Community insofar as the laws and regulations in Australia and other countries permit, provided that this name is not used in such a manner as to mislead consumers.

Lambrusco

Until 1 September 2011 the name Lambrusco may be used for wines originating in Australia as a description of a style of wine traditionally made and marketed under that name for sale in countries outside the territory of the Community insofar as the laws and regulations in Australia and other countries permit, provided that the name is not used in such a manner as to mislead consumers.