The Congress of the German Winegrowers' Association (DWV), held from December 1st to 3rd in Mainz, marked an important milestone for the European wine sector.
During the event, the DWV officially announced its membership in the European Federation of Wines of Origin (EFOW)—a strategic move that reinforces cooperative efforts to protect, promote, and strengthen wines with Geographical Indications (GIs) across Europe.
This alliance arrives at a time when debates on quality standards, market positioning, and the future of origin-based wines are gaining relevance both in Brussels and on global markets.
A Strategic Step for European GI Wines
With Germany’s rich and diverse winemaking tradition—spanning Riesling from the Mosel, Spätburgunder from Baden, Silvaner from Franken, and many other regional specialties—the DWV brings both heritage and influence to EFOW’s platform.
EFOW represents national and regional associations defending wines with Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs). Its mission is clear:
- Protect the value of origin,
- Strengthen quality policies,
- Support producer groups,
- Advocate for GI-focused legislation at EU and Member State level.
By joining EFOW, the DWV becomes part of a united European voice promoting terroir-driven wines in a competitive and increasingly globalized market.
EFOW’s Perspective: A Stronger Unified Voice
According to Riccardo Ricci Curbastro, president of EFOW, the DWV’s entry marks a “significant step forward” for the federation. He emphasized that Germany’s participation enhances EFOW’s representativeness and strengthens its ability to influence discussions surrounding origin protection, sustainability, and quality standards in Brussels.
For EFOW, the DWV’s membership is more than symbolic; it is a tangible reinforcement of the European model of origin-based wines, which relies on strict standards, regional identity, and authentic production.
DWV’s Perspective: Better Representation, Stronger Impact
DWV president Klaus Schneider emphasized the strategic value of joining EFOW. German winegrowers stand to benefit from closer collaboration with European peers at a time when GI protection, market differentiation, and export competitiveness are crucial to long-term success.
Schneider explained that EFOW membership allows German GI groups to:
- Receive stronger representation in EU policy discussions,
- Utilize EU quality policies more effectively,
- Strengthen their market positioning amid global competition,
- Foster collaboration with other leading wine nations.
This step underscores Germany’s commitment not only to protecting its regional wine identities, but also to shaping the future landscape of GI wines at a European level.
A Shared Mission for the Future of European Wines
The integration of DWV into EFOW sends a strong message: Europe’s GI wines will benefit from coordinated action, shared strategy, and unified representation.
Together, both organizations will work to ensure that European policies:
- Recognize the value of terroir,
- Protect products rooted in tradition and place,
- Promote sustainable quality,
- Support producer groups navigating evolving market challenges.
As origin-based wines continue to gain global attention, this strengthened alliance enhances Europe’s ability to defend its unique heritage and ensure that wines with Protected Geographical Indications maintain their rightful place at the forefront of quality wine production.
Source: Vinetur