1985 Austrian diethylene glycol wine scandal

The 1985 Austrian diethylene glycol wine scandal was a significant event in the history of Austrian wine, where it was discovered that some Austrian wineries had been adulterating their wines with diethylene glycol, a toxic chemical compound, to make them appear sweeter and more full-bodied. This scandal had far-reaching consequences for the Austrian wine industry, leading to stricter regulations and a loss of consumer confidence.

Background

Grapes affected by noble rot, often used in sweet wine production.

In the early 1980s, the global demand for sweet wines was high, and Austrian winemakers sought to capitalize on this trend. Traditionally, sweet wines are produced using grapes affected by noble rot, which concentrates the sugars and flavors. However, this process is labor-intensive and dependent on specific climatic conditions.

To meet the demand and reduce production costs, some Austrian producers began adding diethylene glycol to their wines. This compound, commonly used in antifreeze, mimicked the effects of noble rot by increasing the sweetness and viscosity of the wine.

Discovery of the Scandal

The scandal came to light in 1985 when a German wine laboratory detected unusual chemical properties in some Austrian wines. Further investigations revealed the presence of diethylene glycol, prompting a widespread recall of affected wines.

3D model of a diethylene glycol molecule.

The discovery led to a major public health scare, as diethylene glycol is toxic and can cause serious health issues if consumed in large quantities. Although the levels found in the wines were not immediately life-threatening, the potential risks were significant enough to cause alarm.

Impact on the Wine Industry

The scandal had a devastating impact on the Austrian wine industry. Exports plummeted as countries around the world banned the import of Austrian wines. The reputation of Austrian wine was severely damaged, and it took years for the industry to recover.

In response to the scandal, the Austrian government implemented stringent new regulations to ensure the quality and safety of its wines. These included mandatory testing for chemical additives and stricter labeling requirements.

Legal and Economic Consequences

Heiner Geißler, a prominent German politician, was involved in discussions about the scandal.

Several winemakers were prosecuted and fined for their involvement in the scandal. The legal proceedings highlighted the need for better oversight and regulation within the industry.

Economically, the scandal resulted in significant financial losses for Austrian winemakers. Many small producers went out of business, and the industry as a whole faced a long road to recovery.

Reforms and Recovery

In the aftermath of the scandal, Austria overhauled its wine laws, introducing the Austrian Wine Law of 1985, which set strict standards for wine production and labeling. These reforms helped restore confidence in Austrian wines over time.

Austrian wine bottle seal, introduced as part of quality control measures.

The industry also focused on promoting the unique qualities of Austrian wines, such as their terroir and traditional grape varieties, to rebuild its reputation.

Legacy

The 1985 diethylene glycol wine scandal remains a pivotal moment in the history of Austrian wine. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising quality for profit and underscores the importance of transparency and regulation in the food and beverage industry.

Related pages

• Austrian wine
• Wine fraud
• Food safety

The Oberverwaltungsgericht in Berlin, where some legal proceedings took place.