The Food and Economic Security Authority (ASAE) has halted the entry of four tons of grapes from abroad intended for mixing into the Douro production circuit.
During an operation conducted by the Northern Regional Unit, a vehicle was intercepted in circulation in the municipality of Resende. It was transporting a large quantity of grapes that were to be illegally introduced into the demarcated region’s production circuit.
The criminal prevention operation aimed to detect and suppress the illicit entry of wine products from other regions, protecting the authenticity of wines with Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) and Protected Geographical Indication (IGP), as well as safeguarding the economic integrity of legitimate sector agents, this authority stated in a communiqué.
During the operation, a suspect was identified, four tons of grapes were seized, as well as the transport vehicle, and a criminal case was initiated for the crime of trafficking in wine products.
The facts were reported to the competent Judicial Authority, and the destination of the seized grapes was destruction through controlled vinification.
