Council Regulation (EEC) No. 1576/89 laying down general rules on the definition, description and presentation of spirit drinks.

This Regulation establishes general principles and rules in matter of definition, description and presentation of spirit drinks. In order to clearly determine the application scope of these provisions, article 1(2) lays down the definition of spirit drink . Further, article 1(4) sets forth the definition of different categories of spirit drinks. A spirit drink may be marketed for human consumption under one of the names listed in article 1 (4) provided that it complies with the definition and requirements applicable to the category to which it belongs. Article 3 fixes the minimum alcoholic strength by volume for release for human consumption. Article 4 determines the conditions under which the colouring and flavouring of spirit drinks may take place. In addition, article 7 makes provision in matter of labelling, presentation and advertising. The Implementation Committee for Spirit Drinks is set up in accordance with article 13. Lastly, three Annexes are attached.