Industry Circular

Number: 73-13

Date: July 31, 1973

Department of the Treasury

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms

Washington, DC 20226

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ADULTERATED FRUIT AND GRAPE CONCENTRATE

Bonded wineries and others concerned:

Purpose. The purpose of this circular is to inform all winemakers of the appearance of adulterated fruit and grape concentrates in the United States and of the fact that such concentrates have been sold to winemakers as "pure".

Background. It has recently been disclosed that certain concentrate material imported from Europe as pure apple concentrate, is, in fact, a mixture of apple and grape concentrate and also included approximately a one-third portion of sugar-water and citric acid.

Recommended Action. The above described material, will not produce a wine which can come within the standards of identity established under 27 CFR Part 4 for a standard wine. Further, under the provisions of 26 CFR 240.130, such mixtures are not materials authorized for receipt and use on winery premises used for the production or storage of standard wine. It is, therefore, advisable that winery proprietors using or intending to use, concentrated juice in wine production take all necessary precautions to establish that the concentrates are, in fact pure concentrates as contemplated by 26 U.S.C. 5382(b)(1). It is noted that, although normal laboratory procedures do not readily disclose that a concentrate is made of an unauthorized combination of material as described above, it is helpful to determine whether the acid contained therein has been derived from more than one source.

Inquiries. Inquiries regarding this circular should refer to its number and be addressed to your Regional Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

Rex D. Davis

Director