Is chaptalizing wine allowed in France?

Answer

Dear August,

In France, the INAO (Institut National des Appellations d’Origine) every yearr the amount of sugar that may be added in each wine region. The vintner must declare the amount added to the local tax office and will be taxed on it. The French legislature completely prohibits chaptalization in some regions, such as the Rhône and the Midi (although the EU allows it in those regions).

Kind regards,

Anita Van Landschoot