It appears several wine scandals have been uncovered in Italy more or less simultaneously, which may have an extent similar to the ill-fated methanol additions of some 22 years ago. It is claimed some 70 million litres of Italian wine contain fertiliser and hydrochloric acid, while in the case of Brunello di Montalcino the allegations are focused on large-scale illegal blending.

The last thing the Vinitaly wine trade fair in Verona, which has just opened, needs are new wine scandals. As reported by the Italian news magazine L'Espresso, police are investigating allegations against some 20 wine producers in various regions, mainly in Northern Italy. In total, it is claimed they brought to market some 70 million litres of wine in a retail price category of 70 cents to 2 Euros, and that cancer-promoting substances had been added to these wines, including fertiliser and hydrochloric acid. The additions were made to reduce production costs. It appears a large part of this volume has already been distributed, and many of the wines will have been consumed by now.

Not only simple country wines and third-rate producers are affected by the allegations of illegal blending, but one of the legendary wines of Italy, Brunello di Montalcino, as well - although here the allegation is not that hydrochloric acid has been added, but that grape varieties other than Sangiovese have been illegally added to the wine. According to agency reports, authorities are also investigating internationally renowned producers such as Castello Banfi, Antinori and Frescobaldi - at the Banfi estate, the Siena state prosecutors seized 600.000 bottles of wine as well as six vineyards. It appears some producers have tried to make their Brunello appear lighter and more easy-drinking in style by liiegally adding some Merlot. Italiens Landwirtschaftsminister Paolo De Castro, the Italian minister of agriculture, warned there was no reason to panic. (WF/agencies)