Polish vodka recognized by European Commission as traditional spirit

Spirits products labeled "Polska Wodka", or Polish Vodka, will be manu factured only in Poland, from Polish ingredients and in accordance with traditional Polish recipes, announced the European Commission (EC). The protected spirit brands include Zubrowka, Krupnik and Rosolis. At the same time, the EC approved the exceptionality of Wisniowka - Polish Cherry liqueur, turning down the arguments of Spain that the name of this product may be confused with Spanish Sherry to which Madrid has for a long time had exclusive rights. The EC pointed out that in contrast to the Spanish p roduct, the Polish vodka is made from cherries. At the same time, the Commission decided that other Polish brands - Wodka Wyborowa and Wodka Luksusowa - are not traditional spirit products and that the brand names are commercial. The Commission permitted use of the expression, "Polish fruit wine" on the grounds that consumers would not come to the conclusion that they are drinking a wine comparable with those of France or Germany. In the last few months, Polish EU negotiators have done their utmost to prove that Polish vodka has a particular character, but at the same time Polish spirit producer Polmos will have to comply with strict production specifications. (Rzeczpospolita, Oct. 12-13; p. B2) A.Z.