CERTIFICATES OF ORIGIN AND IDENTITY AND CERTIFICATES OF AUTHENTICITY OF VINTAGE DATES FOR SPANISH RIOJA WINES

Importers, and others concerned:

Purpose. The purpose of this circular is to inform importers of Spanish Rioja Wines that all such wines shipped from foreign ports on and after June 1, 1959, must be accompanied by appropriate certificates of origin and identity and authenticity of vintage dates issued under authority of the Spanish Government with respect to such wines.

Background. Refer to Industry Circular No. 58-35 issued December 29, 1958.

Conclusion. Under Spanish law The Advisory Board for Rioja Wines (Consejo Regulador De La Denominacion De Origen) is authorized to issue the "Certificado De La Denominacion De Origen" to cover all Rioja wines exported from Spain. In addition to a verification of origin and identity this certificate will attest to the accuracy of any vintage date which may appear on the labels.

In all instances the certificate must identify the wine covered thereby as follows: (1) mark and numbers on the barrels or cases (2) number of barrels or cases (3) designation "Rioja" (4) total volume and (5) if vintage wine, the year of vintage (under heading Denominacion).

In order to avoid detention of merchandise at the ports of entry, all importers of Rioja wines should advise their principals abroad of these provisions.

Inquiries. Correspondence in regard to this industry circular should refer to its number and be addressed to the Director, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax (O:AT:BT), Washington 25, D. C.

Dwight E. Avis
Director, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Division

IRS D. C. 48977