Table 1.
Summary of the tolerances for indication of alcoholic strength by volume in the labelling of alcoholic beverages allowed by European Union Laws
| Beverage Group | Tolerance allowed in the indication of the alcoholic strength (± % vol) | Legal Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Beers (not exceeding 5.5% vol) | 0.5 | Commission directive 87/250/EC |
| Beers (exceeding 5.5% vol), ciders, perries, fruit wines and similar beverages | 1.0 | Commission directive 87/250/EC |
| Wine | 0.5 | Commission directive 607/2009/EC |
| Wine stored in bottles for more than three years, sparkling wine, semi-sparkling wine | 0.8 | Commission directive 607/2009/EC |
| Beverages containing macerated fruit or parts of plants | 1.5 | Commission directive 87/250/EC |
| Spirits, beverages not specified otherwise (e.g., alcopops) | 0.3 | Commission directive 87/250/EC |