What is the minimum percentage that must be claimed on the label for vintage, variety, and region of origin?

What is the minimum percentage that must be claimed on the label for vintage, variety, and region of origin?

• A. 75%
• B. 95%
• C. 85%
• D. 100%

Answer: (C)

When a wine label makes claims about vintage, grape variety, or geographic origin, the label must reflect that claim with a substantial majority of the wine coming from that source. The standard minimum for each of these declarations is 85%, meaning at least 85% of the grapes (or wine) come from the named vintage, the named grape variety, or the named region. The remaining portion—up to 15%—can come from other vintages, other grape varieties, or other regions, which is why the label still reads as it does. The other options are too low or too high for this common rule, so 85% is the best choice.

When a wine label makes claims about vintage, grape variety, or geographic origin, the label must reflect that claim with a substantial majority of the wine coming from that source. The standard minimum for each of these declarations is 85%, meaning at least 85% of the grapes (or wine) come from the named vintage, the named grape variety, or the named region. The remaining portion—up to 15%—can come from other vintages, other grape varieties, or other regions, which is why the label still reads as it does. The other options are too low or too high for this common rule, so 85% is the best choice.