NABI Press Release (2021-13) – October 25, 2021
NABI Supports TTB Proposal on “Singani” as Distinctive Product of Bolivia
Today, the National Association of Beverage Importers (NABI) filed a comment letter supporting the proposal by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to recognize Singani as a distinctive type of Brandy produced in accordance with the laws of Bolivia for consumption in that country including the alcohol content range. Recognition of Singani as a distinctive product of Bolivia protects consumers by ensuring that the label bearing this class and type designation is authentic and made in accordance with the specifications under the laws of Bolivia.
Singani is a distilled spirit made from white Muscat grapes and has been called the “national drink” of Bolivia. It is produced in the Bolivian Andes at elevations between 5,250 feet and 9,200 feet. Bolivia has asked the United States to recognize Singani as a distinctive product of Bolivia, and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR)has asked Bolivia to recognize Bourbon Whiskey and Tennessee Whiskey as distinctive products of the United States. Similar product status was granted for U.S. Bourbon and Whiskey in U.S. free trade agreements with Mexico, Canada, Peru and Chile, and by a letter exchange with Brazil. Under this agreement with Bolivia and in response to a joint petition submitted by the government of Bolivia and Singani 63, Inc., and subsequent discussions with USTR, TTB published a notice of proposed rulemaking that solicits comments from the public.
The very purpose of a distinctive designation embodies the fundamental requirement that the distilled spirits be produced in accordance with the legal standards of the country of origin. TTB recognizes this point in its proposal to authorized the alcohol by volume (ABV) range of 35 to 45 percent ABV for bottling strength of Singani. Under current standards of identify for brandy, of which Singani is proposed as a type, the minimum ABV is 40 percent or 80 proof. Ensuring the consumer receives a product that is fully true to its heritage in the country of origin, this proposal makes complete sense and is supported by NABI.
If TTB promulgates a final regulation designating Singani as a distinctive product of Bolivia, Bolivia will recognize Bourbon Whiskey and Tennessee Whiskey as distinctive products of the United States. This would be a favorable outcome for both U.S. and Bolivian industries and will create increased opportunities for exports of these spirits as previous designations have prompted.
A copy of the letter is here.
For more information, please contact NABI at (202) 393-6224 or nabipresident@bevimporters.org