Vermont's Champlain Valley Eyes Official Wine Region Status
Published Date: 3/24/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The government wants to create a new wine region called the Champlain Valley of Vermont, covering over a million acres in western Vermont. This helps local winemakers label their wines with a special place name, making it easier for wine lovers to know where their bottle comes from. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until May 26, 2026, to share them—no cost to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
New Champlain Valley of Vermont AVA
TTB proposes a new American Viticultural Area named “Champlain Valley of Vermont” covering about 1,035,104 acres in western Vermont (parts of Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Rutland counties). If approved, vintners who produce wine from grapes grown inside this area can label their wine with that AVA name to show geographic origin.
Label Eligibility and Required Changes
If the AVA is established, wine may be labeled with the AVA name only if at least 85% of the wine’s grapes are from that named area and other Sec. 4.25(e)(3) conditions are met. Bottlers using “Champlain Valley of Vermont” in a brand name or other origin reference but not meeting the eligibility rules would have to change the brand name or obtain approval of a new label.
No Significant Small-Business Burden Claimed
TTB certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities and imposes no new reporting, recordkeeping, or other administrative requirements.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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