Russian Food

Russia Introduces National Standard GOST R for Wine Lists: A Boost for Domestic Wines

In a landmark move to promote Russian wines, Rosstandart has approved the national standard GOST R, recommending that wine lists in public catering establishments include at least 20% Russian wines.

This new guideline, set to take effect on April 1, 2025, aims to elevate the visibility and market share of domestically produced wines in restaurants, bars, and hotels across the country.

Key Features of GOST R

Titled "Public Catering Services. Recommendations for the Development, Design, and Content of Wine Lists," the standard provides detailed instructions on creating and maintaining wine lists. It categorizes wine lists into two types: classic and signature, offering guidance on the placement and description of wines within these formats.

The document emphasizes the importance of highlighting Russian wines, recommending they be featured prominently, either as a separate section or marked distinctly. Essential details such as product name, producer, grape-growing zone, country of origin, harvest year, volume, and price must be listed in Russian for each wine.

Additionally, GOST R outlines best practices for wine list design, periodic updates, and the inclusion of appendices for seasonal or promotional selections, such as "wines of the month" or "banquet wines."

Promoting Russian Wines

Rosstandart believes that this initiative will enhance consumer awareness of Russian wines and foster greater demand. Anton Shalayev, head of Rosstandart, underscored the collaborative effort behind the standard, involving experts, HoReCa representatives, and the Federation of Restaurateurs and Hoteliers.

"This standard will significantly raise the profile of Russian wines, ensuring consumers recognize the quality and diversity our wineries offer," Shalayev remarked.

Elena Saratseva, Deputy Head of Roskachestvo, highlighted the relevance of this move in addressing the lack of standardized requirements for wine lists and domestic wine promotion. "Restaurants adopting this standard will provide a clear, structured presentation of their wine offerings, placing Russian wines at the forefront," she added.

Elevating Domestic Wine Quality

The initiative aligns with the broader goals of Federal Law No. 468 on Viticulture and Winemaking in Russia. The standard underwent rigorous examination by the technical committee TC 162 "Viticulture and Winemaking" and incorporates input from the Russian Association of Sommeliers and the Association of Winegrowers and Winemakers of Russia.

Igor Bukharov, President of the Federation of Restaurateurs and Hoteliers of Russia, emphasized the importance of showcasing Russian wines, noting that many domestic wineries now rival international competitors in quality. "This standard not only promotes Russian wines but also incentivizes wineries to maintain and improve quality. With increased investment, consumers can expect high-quality, affordable wines from Russia," Bukharov stated.

Impact on the HoReCa Sector

For the HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, Café) sector, this standard provides a structured framework to align with national goals while catering to a growing consumer interest in locally produced wines. The initiative also opens new opportunities for Russian wineries to penetrate the market more effectively, leveraging the visibility provided by standardized wine lists.

Looking Ahead

With the national standard coming into force in 2025, the Russian wine industry is poised for significant growth. By ensuring a dedicated presence on wine lists and encouraging establishments to prioritize domestic offerings, GOST R could catalyze a cultural shift in wine consumption, paving the way for Russian wines to thrive in a competitive global market.

Source: RBC Vino

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