Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau proposed to amend the standards of identity for distilled spirits to designated Singani as a type of brandy that is a distinctive product of Bolivia. This proposal follows a joint petition submitted by the Plurinational State of Bolivia and Singani 63, Inc., a distilled spirits importer, and subsequent discussions with the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Among the amendments to regulations, TTB invited comments on authorizing a minimum ABV of 35% for Singani. Comments on the proposal are due on or before Oct. 25.
Singani is an alcohol beverage product that is distilled from grape wine or grape pomace, produced in certain parts of Bolivia generally classified as a brandy. Boliva permits Singani to have an ABV of 35%, but under TTB’s rules, all brandy must be at least 40% ABV.
In proposing the change, TTB is acting on a petition by Singani 63, which argued that TTB’s recognition of Singani as a distinctive product would benefit consumers by informing them that the product was produced and labeled in compliance with Bolivia’s laws. It also asserted that Singani is a product that is distinct from other types of brandy.
Once TTB classifies Singani as a type of brandy that is a distinctive product of Bolivia, Bolivia will then recognize Bourbon Whiskey and Tennessee Whiskey as distinctive products of the United States.
Following such recognition, Bolivia shall prohibit the sale within Bolivia of any product as Bourbon, Bourbon Whiskey, or Tennessee Whiskey, if it has not been manufactured in the United States in accordance with U.S. laws and regulations the manufacture of Bourbon Whiskey and Tennessee Whiskey. These protections will also apply to products spelled as “Bourbon Whisky” or “Tennessee Whisky,” TTB said.