Toscana IGT Revolution: Sparkling Wines Added to Regulations: Charmat and Classic Method

The National Wine Committee of Masaf has approved the amendments to the Toscana IGT production regulations, introducing the sparkling wine category for the first time, both Charmat and Classic Method. The green light came during the session on March 17 at the Ministry of Agriculture, completing a process that began with the approval of the Tuscany Region in December 2024. The text must now be reviewed by the European Commission. It is expected to come into force no earlier than the end of 2026.

Over the last five years, the average production of Toscana IGT wines has stood at around 91 million bottles, with a value exceeding €458 million. 31% remains on the Italian market, while 69% is destined for export. Europe represents the main outlet with 46%, followed by the United States (33%) and Asia (6%). The Tuscany Wine Consortium now has 450 members, compared to about 70 in 2019. Considering also the winegrowers of the cooperatives, the total exceeds 1,700 operators.

The main news concerns the introduction of sparkling wines within the Toscana IGT. Both Charmat and Classic method productions will be permitted, in white and rosé versions. This is a significant expansion for a Geographical Indication that has so far focused on still and semi-sparkling wines. The inclusion of sparkling wines formalizes a practice already widespread among various regional producers.

“Now everything is ready to face the final step, approval by the European Commission. The changes introduced respond to the evolution of consumption styles and market needs,” says Cesare Cecchi, president of the Tuscany Wine Consortium.

“The introduction of the sparkling wine category represents an important development opportunity for Tuscan wineries, as does the possibility of using only the geographical name ‘Toscana IGT’ on the label, eliminating ‘Toscano’ which no longer has a reason to be used, further strengthening the identity of the wine, which is consolidating as a true quality brand capable of enhancing the excellence of regional production.”

Alongside sparkling wines, the regulations also introduce a change to the denomination: the term “Toscana” will be used exclusively, eliminating “Toscano”. A choice aimed at strengthening identity and recognition on the markets.

The simplification also serves to protect the geographical name, already registered in Class 33, to counter improper use. Toscana IGT today includes white, rosé, and red wines, as well as semi-sparkling versions. Passito (from dried grapes) and late harvest types are also provided for.

With the final approval of the amendments, the range will be enriched with sparkling wines, expanding production possibilities. “The introduction of the two types of sparkling wine,” explains Stefano Campatelli, director of the Tuscany Wine Consortium, “was born from the request of many Tuscan producers who have been involved in this type of production for some time. It represents a concrete development opportunity for the sector which, while remaining anchored in tradition, is opening up to new perspectives in line with a market increasingly oriented towards quality and product diversification.”

“The amendment regarding the use of the geographical name Toscana only,” he continues, “will also allow us to strengthen the work the Consortium is doing to ensure compliance with the Regulations and to oppose, also thanks to the registration of the name ‘Toscana’ in Class 33, the registration of trademarks that improperly refer to the Geographical Indication.”