European Union Geographical Indication (EU GI),

is a distinctive sign used to identify a product as originating in the territory of a particular country, region or locality where its quality, reputation or other characteristic is linked to its geographical origin.

Geographical Indications can assure consumers that these are the genuine products, not imitations seeking to benefit from the good name and reputation of the original.

Moreover the protection of geographical indications matters economically and culturally. They can create value for local communities through products that are deeply rooted in tradition, culture and geography. They support rural development and promote new job opportunities in production, processing and other related services.

European Union up today has 43 established EU GIs from wine spirits and 39 Established EU GI from grape marc spirit or grape marc. Greece has 6 established EU GIs from grape marc spirit or grape marc while Bulgaria has 9 established EU GIs from wine spirit.

Further information on "E-SPIRIT-DRINKS" the database on Geographical Indications protected in the European Community for spirits originating in Member States and third countries.