Proposed Establishment of the Nashoba Valley Viticultural Area, 721-725 [2024-00060]
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 4 / Friday, January 5, 2024 / Proposed Rules
we consider all comments as originals.
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are commenting on your own behalf or
on behalf of an organization, business,
or other entity. If you are commenting
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determine whether to hold a public
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Confidentiality and Disclosure of
Comments
All submitted comments and
attachments are part of the rulemaking
record and are subject to public
disclosure. Do not enclose any material
in your comments that you consider
confidential or that is inappropriate for
disclosure.
TTB will post, and you may view,
copies of this document, the related
petition and selected supporting
materials, and any comments TTB
receives about this proposal within the
related Regulations.gov docket. In
general, TTB will post comments as
submitted, and it will not redact any
identifying or contact information from
the body of a comment or attachment.
Please contact TTB’s Regulations and
Rulings division by email using the web
form available at https://www.ttb.gov/
contact-rrd, or by telephone at 202–453–
2265, if you have any questions about
commenting on this proposal or to
request copies of this document, the
related petition and its supporting
materials, or any comments received.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
TTB certifies that this proposed
regulation, if adopted, would not have
a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities.
The proposed regulation imposes no
new reporting, recordkeeping, or other
administrative requirement. Any benefit
derived from the use of a viticultural
area name would be the result of a
proprietor’s efforts and consumer
acceptance of wines from that area.
Therefore, no regulatory flexibility
analysis is required.
Executive Order 12866
It has been determined that this
proposed rule is not a significant
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regulatory action as defined by
Executive Order 12866 of September 30,
1993, as amended. Therefore, no
regulatory assessment is required.
List of Subjects in 27 CFR Part 9
Wine.
Proposed Regulatory Amendment
For the reasons discussed in the
preamble, TTB proposes to amend title
27, chapter I, part 9, Code of Federal
Regulations, as follows:
PART 9—AMERICAN VITICULTURAL
AREAS
1. The authority citation for part 9
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 27 U.S.C. 205.
Subpart C—Approved American
Viticultural Areas
2. Subpart C is amended by adding
§ 9.ll to read as follows:
■
§ 9.ll
Tryon Foothills.
(a) Name. The name of the viticultural
area described in this section is ‘‘Tryon
Foothills’’. For purposes of part 4 of this
chapter, ‘‘Tryon Foothills’’ is a term of
viticultural significance.
(b) Approved maps. The 10 United
States Geological Survey (USGS)
1:24,000 scale topographic maps used to
determine the boundary of the Tryon
Foothills viticultural area are:
(1) Lake Lure, NC, 1982;
photoinspected 1987;
(2) Shingle Hollow, NC, 1982;
(3) Pea Ridge, NC, 1982;
(4) Rutherfordton South, NC, 1966;
(5) Fingerville East, SC-NC, 1993
(provisional edition);
(6) Fingerville West, SC-NC, 1983
(provisional edition);
(7) Landrum, SC-NC, 2020;
(8) Saluda, NC-SC, 2019;
(9) Cliffield Mountain, NC, 1997; and
(10) Mill Spring, NC, 1982;
photorevised 1990.
(c) Boundary. The Tryon Foothills
viticultural area is located in Polk
County, North Carolina. The boundary
of the viticultural area is as described as
follows:
(1) The beginning point is on the Lake
Lure map at the intersection of the
1,200-foot elevation contour and the
shared Polk-Rutherford County line just
west of State Highway 9 and north of an
unnamed road known locally as Owl
Hollow Road. From the beginning point,
proceed clockwise along the shared
Polk-Rutherford County line and across
the Shingle Hollow, Pea Ridge, and
Rutherford South maps and onto the
Fingerville East map, to the intersection
of the shared Polk-Rutherford County
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721
line and the shared North CarolinaSouth Carolina State line; then
(2) Proceed west along the shared
North Carolina-South Carolina State line
across the Fingerville East, Fingerville
West, and Landrum maps and onto the
Saluda map to the intersection of the
North Carolina-South Carolina State line
with the 1,200-foot elevation contour
north of Dug Hill Road; then
(3) Proceed generally northerly along
the meandering 1,200-foot elevation
contour, crossing back and forth onto
the Landrum and Saluda maps and onto
the Mill Spring map, and continuing
along the 1,200-foot elevation contour as
it crosses onto the Cliffield Mountain
map and then back onto the Mill Spring
map and finally onto the Lake Lure
map, returning to the beginning point at
the intersection of the 1,200-foot
elevation contour and the shared PolkRutherford County line just west of
State Highway 9.
Signed: December 19, 2023.
Mary G. Ryan,
Administrator.
Approved: December 20, 2023.
Thomas C. West, Jr.,
Deputy Assistant Secretary (Tax Policy).
[FR Doc. 2024–00058 Filed 1–4–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810–31–P
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade
Bureau
27 CFR Part 9
[Docket No. TTB–2023–0012; Notice No.
230]
RIN 1513–AD07
Proposed Establishment of the
Nashoba Valley Viticultural Area
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau, Treasury.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.
AGENCY:
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax
and Trade Bureau (TTB) proposes to
establish the approximately 18,367-acre
‘‘Nashoba Valley’’ viticultural area in
Worcester County, Massachusetts. The
proposed viticultural area is not within
any other established viticultural area.
TTB designates viticultural areas to
allow vintners to better describe the
origin of their wines and to allow
consumers to better identify wines they
may purchase. TTB invites comments
on this proposed addition to its
regulations.
SUMMARY:
Comments must be received by
March 5, 2024.
DATES:
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You may electronically
submit comments to TTB on this
proposal using the comment form for
this document posted within Docket No.
TTB–2023–0012 on the Regulations.gov
website at https://www.regulations.gov.
At the same location, you also may view
copies of this document, the related
petition and selected supporting
materials, and any comments TTB
receives on this proposal. A direct link
to that docket is available on the TTB
website at https://www.ttb.gov/wine/
notices-of-proposed-rulemaking under
Notice No. 230. Alternatively, you may
submit comments via postal mail to the
Director, Regulations and Ruling
Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau, 1310 G Street NW, Box
12, Washington, DC 20005. Please see
the Public Participation section of this
document for further information on the
comments requested on this proposal
and on the submission, confidentiality,
and public disclosure of comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Karen A. Thornton, Regulations and
Rulings Division, Alcohol and Tobacco
Tax and Trade Bureau, 1310 G Street
NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005;
phone 202–453–1039, ext. 175.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
ADDRESSES:
Background on Viticultural Areas
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TTB Authority
Section 105(e) of the Federal Alcohol
Administration Act (FAA Act), 27
U.S.C. 205(e), authorizes the Secretary
of the Treasury to prescribe regulations
for the labeling of wine, distilled spirits,
and malt beverages. The FAA Act
provides that these regulations should,
among other things, prohibit consumer
deception and the use of misleading
statements on labels and ensure that
labels provide the consumer with
adequate information as to the identity
and quality of the product. The Alcohol
and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
(TTB) administers the FAA Act
pursuant to section 1111(d) of the
Homeland Security Act of 2002,
codified at 6 U.S.C. 531(d). In addition,
the Secretary of the Treasury has
delegated certain administrative and
enforcement authorities to TTB through
Treasury Order 120–01.
Part 4 of the TTB regulations (27 CFR
part 4) authorizes TTB to establish
definitive viticultural areas and regulate
the use of their names as appellations of
origin on wine labels and in wine
advertisements. Part 9 of the TTB
regulations (27 CFR part 9) sets forth
standards for the preparation and
submission of petitions for the
establishment or modification of
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American viticultural areas (AVAs) and
lists the approved AVAs.
Definition
Section 4.25(e)(1)(i) of the TTB
regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(1)(i)) defines
a viticultural area for American wine as
a delimited grape-growing region having
distinguishing features as described in
part 9 of the regulations and, once
approved, a name and a delineated
boundary codified in part 9 of the
regulations. These designations allow
vintners and consumers to attribute a
given quality, reputation, or other
characteristic of a wine made from
grapes grown in an area to the wine’s
geographic origin. The establishment of
AVAs allows vintners to describe more
accurately the origin of their wines to
consumers and helps consumers to
identify wines they may purchase.
Establishment of an AVA is neither an
approval nor an endorsement by TTB of
the wine produced in that area.
Requirements
Section 4.25(e)(2) of the TTB
regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(2)) outlines
the procedure for proposing an AVA
and allows any interested party to
petition TTB to establish a grapegrowing region as an AVA. Section 9.12
of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 9.12)
prescribes standards for petitions to
establish or modify AVAs. Petitions to
establish an AVA must include the
following:
• Evidence that the area within the
proposed AVA boundary is nationally
or locally known by the AVA name
specified in the petition;
• An explanation of the basis for
defining the boundary of the proposed
AVA;
• A narrative description of the
features of the proposed AVA affecting
viticulture, such as climate, geology,
soils, physical features, and elevation,
that make the proposed AVA distinctive
and distinguish it from adjacent areas
outside the proposed AVA;
• The appropriate United States
Geological Survey (USGS) map(s)
showing the location of the proposed
AVA, with the boundary of the
proposed AVA clearly drawn thereon;
and
• A detailed narrative description of
the proposed AVA boundary based on
USGS map markings.
Nashoba Valley Petition
TTB received a petition from Justin
Pelletier, Chief Operating Officer and
Quality Control Manager of Nashoba
Valley Winery, proposing the
establishment of the ‘‘Nashoba Valley’’
AVA on behalf of Nashoba Winery. The
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proposed AVA is located in Worcester
County, Massachusetts, and contains
approximately 18,367 acres. There are
three vineyards covering a total of
approximately 16 acres within the
proposed AVA. According to the
petition, the distinguishing features of
the proposed Nashoba Valley AVA
include its soils and climate. Unless
otherwise noted, all information and
data pertaining to the proposed AVA is
from the petition and its supporting
exhibits.
Name Evidence
According to the petition, Nashoba
Valley is the name given to a region of
Massachusetts in northwestern
Middlesex and northeastern Worcester
Counties that roughly encompasses the
land around the interchange of
Interstate 495 and Massachusetts Route
2. Although the name ‘‘Nashoba Valley’’
applies to the entire region, commercial
viticulture currently occurs only in the
Worcester County portion of the valley.
Therefore, the proposed Nashoba Valley
AVA is limited to the portion of the
valley that is in Worcester County.
The petition included multiple
examples of businesses and
organizations located within or serving
the region of the proposed AVA that use
the name ‘‘Nashoba Valley.’’ The
Nashoba Valley Ski Area and Nashoba
Valley Tubing Park are recreational
areas, and Nashoba Valley Winery and
Nashoba Valley Spirits produce alcohol
beverages within the proposed AVA.
The proposed AVA is served by the
Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce,
and the Nashoba Valley Regional
Dispatch District answers emergency
and non-emergency public safety calls
within the region. The Nashoba Valley
Voice covers local news within the
proposed AVA. Other businesses within
or serving the proposed AVA include
Nashoba Valley Fitness, Nashoba Valley
Express Company, Nashoba Valley
Movement Dance Studio, COWS of
Nashoba Valley, Oh Deer of Nashoba
Valley, Nashoba Valley Elder Care, and
Life Care Center of Nashoba Valley.
Boundary Evidence
The northern boundary of the
proposed Nashoba Valley AVA follows
Massachusetts Route 117 to separate the
proposed AVA from Fort Devens and
the Bolton Flats Wildlife Management
Area, neither of which are available for
commercial viticulture. The proposed
eastern boundary follows Interstate 495
to separate the proposed AVA from
regions with climates that are more
heavily influenced by the Atlantic
Ocean and Cape Cod Bay. The proposed
southern boundary follows a series of
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roads that separate the proposed AVA
from the Wachusett Reservoir and,
farther south, the city of Worcester and
its suburbs. According to the petition,
Worcester was historically a
manufacturing town and, as a result, has
little land available for commercial
agricultural activities. The proposed
western boundary follows Interstate 190
and separates the proposed AVA from
areas with soils and climates that differ
from the proposed AVA.
Distinguishing Features
The distinguishing features of the
proposed Nashoba Valley AVA include
its soils and climate.
Soils
The petition states that most of the
soil within the proposed Nashoba
Valley AVA has parent soil of
supraglacial till, subglacial till, alluvial
deposits, and glaciofluvial deposits. The
petition notes that soils within the
proposed AVA are classified by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) as
‘‘prime farmland,’’ which means that
they have specific physical and
chemical characteristics that make them
well suited for growing crops.1 The
most common soils in the proposed
AVA belong to the Paxton soil series
and comprise approximately 21 percent
of the soils in the AVA. These soils are
well-drained loamy soils and are
moderately deep to very deep. The soil
depth allows for unobstructed root
growth, as roots can penetrate
moderately deeply before hitting denser
soils and very deeply before touching
bedrock. The petition states that the
soils promote strong root systems that
allow grapevines to survive the harsher
winters within the proposed AVA. The
petition also states that the soils
promote strong root systems that allow
grapevines to survive the harsher
winters within the proposed AVA.
Paxton soils also have high saturated
hydraulic conductivity values, which
means that water moves quickly through
the soil. The petition states this soil
characteristic is essential for successful
viticulture as it aids in minimizing
fungal infections and rot.
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1 See Appendix C to the petition in Docket No.
TTB–2023–0012 at https://www.regulations.gov.
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To the immediate north of the
proposed AVA are Fort Devens and the
Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area,
which are not available for commercial
viticulture. Further north, the soils have
a slower water infiltration rate and do
not drain as quickly as soils within the
proposed AVA. East of the proposed
AVA, the soils have a very slow water
infiltration rate and a high-water table,
increasing both the risk of flooding and
fungal disease in vineyards. The region
south of the proposed AVA is largely
urban, with little land left open for
agriculture to occur. The petition notes
that what open land does exist is not
classified as ‘‘prime farmland’’ by the
USDA. To the west, the soils are
shallower than within the proposed
AVA and have a slow water infiltration
rate.
Climate
The petition states that the proposed
Nashoba Valley AVA has a warm
climate suitable for growing grape
varietals such as Albarino, Cabernet
Franc, Chardonnay, Riesling, and St.
Croix, among others. Throughout the
growing season, average monthly
temperatures range from a low of 47
degrees Fahrenheit (F) to 72 degrees F.
July is typically the warmest month
when the average high temperature is 82
degrees F. The proposed Nashoba Valley
AVA has an average of 1,697 growing
degree days (GDDs) 2 calculated in
degrees Celsius,3 which places it in
Region III of the Winkler system.
According to the petition, wind is
another climate factor that affects
viticulture within the proposed AVA.
The petition states that between March
and May, average wind speeds within
the proposed AVA range from 6.6 to
2 See Albert J. Winkler, General Viticulture
(Berkeley: University of California Press, 1974),
pages 61–64. In the Winkler climate classification
system, annual heat accumulation during the
growing season, measured in annual Growing
Degree Days (GDDs), defines climatic regions. One
GDD accumulates for each degree Celsius that a
day’s mean temperature is above 10 degrees C, the
minimum temperature required for grapevine
growth. The Winkler scale regions are as follows:
Region Ia, 850–1,111 GDDs; Region Ib, 1,112–1,389
GDDs; Region II, 1,390–1,667 GDDs; Region III,
1,668–1,944 GDDs; Region IV, 1,945–2,222 GDDs;
Region V, 2,223–2,700 GDDs.
3 Unless otherwise noted, all GDD accumulations
listed in this document are in degrees Celsius.
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723
4.7miles per hour. In the springtime, air
movement through the vineyards can
reduce the risk of frost damage to new
tender shoots and buds. However, more
intense winds during the same period
can damage shoots and flowers, which
will lead to a smaller harvest. During
the summer months of June to August,
average wind speeds range from 4.2 to
3.9 miles per hour. According to the
petition, humidity increases and
rainstorms are common within the
proposed AVA during the summer, so
the gentle winds can decrease the time
it takes for vineyards to dry and lessen
the potential for molds and mildews to
form.
To the north, the town of Fitchburg
has a cooler climate than the proposed
AVA. Fitchburg’s average GDD
accumulations total 1,536, placing it in
the Region II category. Average monthly
temperatures are lower for each month
except July, when they are the same as
the average monthly temperature for the
proposed AVA. Additionally, Fitchburg
has lower monthly average wind speeds.
To the east, the city of Waltham’s
average GDD accumulations place it in
the Region III category, which is the
same as the proposed AVA. However,
Waltham still has higher average GDD
accumulations than the proposed AVA,
with 1,738 GDDs. Waltham also has
higher average monthly wind speeds
than the proposed AVA, ranging from
4.3 to 7.6 miles per hour. South of the
proposed AVA, the city of Worcester’s
climate is classified as Region II, with
an average accumulation of 1,598 GDDs.
During the growing season, Worcester
also has slightly lower average monthly
temperatures and average monthly wind
speeds than the proposed AVA. To the
west of the proposed AVA, the town of
Barre also has a Region II climate, with
average accumulations of 1,548 GDDs
and lower average monthly
temperatures throughout the year.
Average monthly wind speeds in Barre
are also lower each month than wind
speeds within the proposed AVA.
Summary of Distinguishing Features
The following table summarizes the
features of the proposed Nashoba Valley
that distinguish it from the surrounding
regions.
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FEATURES OF THE PROPOSED NASHOBA VALLEY AVA AND SURROUNDING REGIONS
Features
Region
Soils
Climate
Proposed AVA ..
Derived from supraglacial till, subglacial till, alluvial deposits,
and glaciofluvial deposits; classified as ‘‘prime farmland’’;
Paxton series is most prevalent; deep, well-drained loams.
North .................
Slow water infiltration rate ........................................................
South .................
Little land open for agricultural purposes; land not classified
as ‘‘prime farmland’’.
East ...................
Very slow water infiltration rate and high-water table ..............
West ..................
Shallower soils with slow water infiltration rate ........................
Average monthly growing season temperatures range from
47 to 72 degrees F; average of 1,697 GDDs (Celsius);
Winkler Region III; growing season wind speeds range
from 6.6 to 4.7 mph.
Cooler climate with lower average monthly temperatures; average of 1,536 GDDs; Winkler Region II; lower wind
speeds.
Cooler climate with slightly lower average monthly temperatures; average of 1,598 GDDs; Region II; lower average
monthly wind speeds.
Average of 1,738 GDDs; Region III; higher average monthly
wind speeds.
Cooler climate with lower average monthly temperatures; average of 1,548 GDDs; Region II; lower average monthly
wind speeds.
TTB Determination
TTB concludes that the petition to
establish the proposed Nashoba Valley
AVA merits consideration and public
comment, as invited in this notice of
proposed rulemaking.
Boundary Description
See the narrative description of the
boundary of the petitioned-for AVA in
the proposed regulatory text published
at the end of this proposed rule.
Maps
The petitioner provided the required
maps, and TTB lists them below in the
proposed regulatory text. You may also
view the proposed Nashoba Valley AVA
boundary on the AVA Map Explorer on
the TTB website, at https://www.ttb.gov/
wine/ava-map-explorer.
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Impact on Current Wine Labels
Part 4 of the TTB regulations prohibits
any label reference on a wine that
indicates or implies an origin other than
the wine’s true place of origin. For a
wine to be labeled with an AVA name,
at least 85 percent of the wine must be
derived from grapes grown within the
area represented by that name, and the
wine must meet the other conditions
listed in § 4.25(e)(3) of the TTB
regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(3)). If the
wine is not eligible for labeling with an
AVA name and that name appears in the
brand name, then the label is not in
compliance and the bottler must change
the brand name and obtain approval of
a new label. Similarly, if the AVA name
appears in another reference on the
label in a misleading manner, the bottler
would have to obtain approval of a new
label. Different rules apply if a wine has
a brand name containing an AVA name
that was used as a brand name on a
label approved before July 7, 1986. See
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§ 4.39(i)(2) of the TTB regulations (27
CFR 4.39(i)(2)) for details.
If TTB establishes this proposed AVA,
its name, ‘‘Nashoba Valley,’’ will be
recognized as a name of viticultural
significance under § 4.39(i)(3) of the
TTB regulations (27 CFR 4.39(i)(3)). The
text of the proposed regulation clarifies
this point. Consequently, wine bottlers
using the name ‘‘Nashoba Valley’’ in a
brand name, including a trademark, or
in another label reference as to the
origin of the wine, would have to ensure
that the product is eligible to use the
AVA name as an appellation of origin if
TTB adopts this proposed rule as a final
rule.
Public Participation
Comments Invited
TTB invites comments from interested
members of the public on whether it
should establish the proposed Nashoba
Valley AVA. TTB is also interested in
receiving comments on the sufficiency
and accuracy of required information
submitted in support of the petition.
Please provide specific information in
support of your comments.
Because of the potential impact of the
establishment of the proposed Nashoba
Valley AVA on wine labels that include
the term ‘‘Nashoba Valley’’ as discussed
above under Impact on Current Wine
Labels, TTB is particularly interested in
comments regarding whether there will
be a conflict between the proposed AVA
name and currently used brand names.
If a commenter believes that a conflict
will arise, the comment should describe
the nature of that conflict, including any
anticipated negative economic impact
that approval of the proposed AVA will
have on an existing viticultural
enterprise. TTB is also interested in
receiving suggestions for ways to avoid
conflicts, for example, by adopting a
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modified or different name for the
proposed AVA.
Submitting Comments
You may submit comments on this
proposal by using one of the following
methods:
• Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: You
may send comments via the online
comment form posted with this
document within Docket No. TTB–
2023–0012 on ‘‘Regulations.gov,’’ the
Federal e-rulemaking portal, at https://
www.regulations.gov. A direct link to
that docket is available under Notice
No. 230 on the TTB website at https://
www.ttb.gov/wine/notices-of-proposedrulemaking. Supplemental files may be
attached to comments submitted via
Regulations.gov. For complete
instructions on how to use
Regulations.gov, visit the site and click
on the ‘‘FAQ’’ link at the bottom of the
page.
• U.S. Mail: You may send comments
via postal mail to the Director,
Regulations and Rulings Division,
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade
Bureau, 1310 G Street NW, Box 12,
Washington, DC 20005.
Please submit your comments by the
closing date shown above in this
document. Your comments must
reference Notice No. 230 and include
your name and mailing address. Your
comments also must be made in
English, be legible, and be written in
language acceptable for public
disclosure. We do not acknowledge
receipt of comments, and we consider
all comments as originals.
Your comment must clearly state if
you are commenting on your own behalf
or on behalf of an organization,
business, or other entity. If you are
commenting on behalf of an
organization, business, or other entity,
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your comment must include the entity’s
name as well as your name and position
title. If you comment via
Regulations.gov, please enter the
entity’s name in the ‘‘Organization’’
blank of the online comment form. If
you comment via postal mail, please
submit your entity’s comment on
letterhead.
You may also write to the
Administrator before the comment
closing date to ask for a public hearing.
The Administrator reserves the right to
determine whether to hold a public
hearing.
Confidentiality
All submitted comments and
attachments are part of the public record
and subject to disclosure. Do not
enclose any material in your comments
that you consider to be confidential or
inappropriate for public disclosure.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
TTB certifies that this proposed
regulation, if adopted, would not have
a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities.
The proposed regulation imposes no
new reporting, recordkeeping, or other
administrative requirement. Any benefit
derived from the use of a viticultural
area name would be the result of a
proprietor’s efforts and consumer
acceptance of wines from that area.
Therefore, no regulatory flexibility
analysis is required.
Executive Order 12866
It has been determined that this
proposed rule is not a significant
regulatory action as defined by
Executive Order 12866 of September 30,
1993, as amended. Therefore, no
regulatory assessment is required.
List of Subjects in 27 CFR Part 9
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
Public Disclosure
Wine.
TTB will post, and you may view,
copies of this document, selected
supporting materials, and any online or
mailed comments received about this
proposal within Docket No. TTB–2023–
0012 on the Federal e-rulemaking
portal, Regulations.gov, at https://
www.regulations.gov. A direct link to
that docket is available on the TTB
website at https://www.ttb.gov/wine/
notices-of-proposed-rulemaking under
Notice No. 230. You may also reach the
relevant docket through the
Regulations.gov search page at https://
www.regulations.gov. For instructions
on how to use Regulations.gov, visit the
site and click on the ‘‘FAQ’’ link at the
bottom of the page.
All posted comments will display the
commenter’s name, organization (if
any), city, and State, and, in the case of
mailed comments, all address
information, including email addresses.
TTB may omit voluminous attachments
or material that it considers unsuitable
for posting.
You may also obtain copies of this
proposed rule, all related petitions,
maps, and other supporting materials,
and any electronic or mailed comments
that TTB receives about this proposal at
20 cents per 8.5 x 11-inch page. Please
note that TTB is unable to provide
copies of USGS maps or any similarlysized documents that may be included
as part of the AVA petition. Contact
TTB’s Regulations and Rulings Division
by email using the web form at https://
www.ttb.gov/contact-rrd, or by
telephone at 202–453–1039, ext. 175, to
request copies of comments or other
materials.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:14 Jan 04, 2024
Jkt 262001
Proposed Regulatory Amendment
For the reasons discussed in the
preamble, TTB proposes to amend title
27, chapter I, part 9, Code of Federal
Regulations, as follows:
PART 9—AMERICAN VITICULTURAL
AREAS
1. The authority citation for part 9
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 27 U.S.C. 205.
Subpart C—Approved American
Viticultural Areas
2. Subpart C is amended by adding
§ 9.ll to read as follows:
■
§ 9.ll
Nashoba Valley.
(a) Name. The name of the viticultural
area described in this section is
‘‘Nashoba Valley’’. For purposes of part
4 of this chapter, ‘‘Nashoba Valley’’ is a
term of viticultural significance.
(b) Approved maps. The 2 United
States Geological Survey (USGS)
1:100,000 scale topographic maps used
to determine the boundary of the
Nashoba Valley viticultural area are:
(1) Hudson, MA, 2021; and
(2) Clinton, MA, 2021.
(c) Boundary. The Nashoba Valley
viticultural area is located in Worcester
County, Massachusetts. The boundary of
the viticultural area is as described as
follows:
(1) The beginning point is on the
Hudson map at the intersection of Route
62 (also known as Central Street) and I–
495 in Hudson, Massachusetts. From the
beginning point, proceed southwest,
then westerly on Route 62 for a total of
PO 00000
Frm 00012
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 9990
725
4.5 miles, crossing onto the Clinton
map, to the point where it intersects and
becomes concurrent with Route 70 (also
known as Boylston Street); then
(2) Proceed north on Route 70/Route
62 for 2.09 miles to its intersection with
Route 110/Main Street in Clinton,
Massachusetts; then
(3) Proceed south on Route 110/Main
Street as it becomes known as West
Boylston Road, and continue along West
Boylston Road for a total of 1 mile to its
intersection with South Meadow Road;
then
(4) Proceed north along South
Meadow Road for 0.95 mile to its
intersection with Moffett Street in
Lancaster, Massachusetts; then
(5) Proceed northwest along Moffett
Street to its intersection with an
unnamed road known locally as Chace
Hill Road; then
(6) Proceed northeast along Chace Hill
Road to its intersection with Sterling
Street (also known as Route 62); then
(7) Proceed northwesterly along
Sterling Street/Route 62 to its
intersection with an unnamed road
known locally as Chocksett Road; then
(8) Proceed northwesterly along
Chocksett Road to its intersection with
Pratts Junction Road; then
(9) Proceed northwesterly along Pratts
Junction Road to its intersection with I–
190; then
(10) Proceed northerly along I–190 for
2.35 miles to its intersection with Route
117 in Leominster, Massachusetts; then
(11) Proceed southeasterly along
Route 117 for 7.8 miles, crossing onto
the Hudson map, to its intersection with
I–495; then
(12) Proceed southerly along I–495 to
the beginning point.
Signed: December 19, 2023.
Mary G. Ryan,
Administrator.
Approved: December 20, 2023.
Thomas C. West, Jr.,
Deputy Assistant Secretary (Tax Policy).
[FR Doc. 2024–00060 Filed 1–4–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810–31–P
E:\FR\FM\05JAP1.SGM
05JAP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 4 (Friday, January 5, 2024)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 721-725]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-00060]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
27 CFR Part 9
[Docket No. TTB-2023-0012; Notice No. 230]
RIN 1513-AD07
Proposed Establishment of the Nashoba Valley Viticultural Area
AGENCY: Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, Treasury.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) proposes to
establish the approximately 18,367-acre ``Nashoba Valley'' viticultural
area in Worcester County, Massachusetts. The proposed viticultural area
is not within any other established viticultural area. TTB designates
viticultural areas to allow vintners to better describe the origin of
their wines and to allow consumers to better identify wines they may
purchase. TTB invites comments on this proposed addition to its
regulations.
DATES: Comments must be received by March 5, 2024.
[[Page 722]]
ADDRESSES: You may electronically submit comments to TTB on this
proposal using the comment form for this document posted within Docket
No. TTB-2023-0012 on the Regulations.gov website at https://www.regulations.gov. At the same location, you also may view copies of
this document, the related petition and selected supporting materials,
and any comments TTB receives on this proposal. A direct link to that
docket is available on the TTB website at https://www.ttb.gov/wine/notices-of-proposed-rulemaking under Notice No. 230. Alternatively, you
may submit comments via postal mail to the Director, Regulations and
Ruling Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, 1310 G
Street NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005. Please see the Public
Participation section of this document for further information on the
comments requested on this proposal and on the submission,
confidentiality, and public disclosure of comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Karen A. Thornton, Regulations and
Rulings Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, 1310 G
Street NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005; phone 202-453-1039, ext. 175.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background on Viticultural Areas
TTB Authority
Section 105(e) of the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (FAA Act),
27 U.S.C. 205(e), authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe
regulations for the labeling of wine, distilled spirits, and malt
beverages. The FAA Act provides that these regulations should, among
other things, prohibit consumer deception and the use of misleading
statements on labels and ensure that labels provide the consumer with
adequate information as to the identity and quality of the product. The
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) administers the FAA Act
pursuant to section 1111(d) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002,
codified at 6 U.S.C. 531(d). In addition, the Secretary of the Treasury
has delegated certain administrative and enforcement authorities to TTB
through Treasury Order 120-01.
Part 4 of the TTB regulations (27 CFR part 4) authorizes TTB to
establish definitive viticultural areas and regulate the use of their
names as appellations of origin on wine labels and in wine
advertisements. Part 9 of the TTB regulations (27 CFR part 9) sets
forth standards for the preparation and submission of petitions for the
establishment or modification of American viticultural areas (AVAs) and
lists the approved AVAs.
Definition
Section 4.25(e)(1)(i) of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(1)(i))
defines a viticultural area for American wine as a delimited grape-
growing region having distinguishing features as described in part 9 of
the regulations and, once approved, a name and a delineated boundary
codified in part 9 of the regulations. These designations allow
vintners and consumers to attribute a given quality, reputation, or
other characteristic of a wine made from grapes grown in an area to the
wine's geographic origin. The establishment of AVAs allows vintners to
describe more accurately the origin of their wines to consumers and
helps consumers to identify wines they may purchase. Establishment of
an AVA is neither an approval nor an endorsement by TTB of the wine
produced in that area.
Requirements
Section 4.25(e)(2) of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(2))
outlines the procedure for proposing an AVA and allows any interested
party to petition TTB to establish a grape-growing region as an AVA.
Section 9.12 of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 9.12) prescribes standards
for petitions to establish or modify AVAs. Petitions to establish an
AVA must include the following:
Evidence that the area within the proposed AVA boundary is
nationally or locally known by the AVA name specified in the petition;
An explanation of the basis for defining the boundary of
the proposed AVA;
A narrative description of the features of the proposed
AVA affecting viticulture, such as climate, geology, soils, physical
features, and elevation, that make the proposed AVA distinctive and
distinguish it from adjacent areas outside the proposed AVA;
The appropriate United States Geological Survey (USGS)
map(s) showing the location of the proposed AVA, with the boundary of
the proposed AVA clearly drawn thereon; and
A detailed narrative description of the proposed AVA
boundary based on USGS map markings.
Nashoba Valley Petition
TTB received a petition from Justin Pelletier, Chief Operating
Officer and Quality Control Manager of Nashoba Valley Winery, proposing
the establishment of the ``Nashoba Valley'' AVA on behalf of Nashoba
Winery. The proposed AVA is located in Worcester County, Massachusetts,
and contains approximately 18,367 acres. There are three vineyards
covering a total of approximately 16 acres within the proposed AVA.
According to the petition, the distinguishing features of the proposed
Nashoba Valley AVA include its soils and climate. Unless otherwise
noted, all information and data pertaining to the proposed AVA is from
the petition and its supporting exhibits.
Name Evidence
According to the petition, Nashoba Valley is the name given to a
region of Massachusetts in northwestern Middlesex and northeastern
Worcester Counties that roughly encompasses the land around the
interchange of Interstate 495 and Massachusetts Route 2. Although the
name ``Nashoba Valley'' applies to the entire region, commercial
viticulture currently occurs only in the Worcester County portion of
the valley. Therefore, the proposed Nashoba Valley AVA is limited to
the portion of the valley that is in Worcester County.
The petition included multiple examples of businesses and
organizations located within or serving the region of the proposed AVA
that use the name ``Nashoba Valley.'' The Nashoba Valley Ski Area and
Nashoba Valley Tubing Park are recreational areas, and Nashoba Valley
Winery and Nashoba Valley Spirits produce alcohol beverages within the
proposed AVA. The proposed AVA is served by the Nashoba Valley Chamber
of Commerce, and the Nashoba Valley Regional Dispatch District answers
emergency and non-emergency public safety calls within the region. The
Nashoba Valley Voice covers local news within the proposed AVA. Other
businesses within or serving the proposed AVA include Nashoba Valley
Fitness, Nashoba Valley Express Company, Nashoba Valley Movement Dance
Studio, COWS of Nashoba Valley, Oh Deer of Nashoba Valley, Nashoba
Valley Elder Care, and Life Care Center of Nashoba Valley.
Boundary Evidence
The northern boundary of the proposed Nashoba Valley AVA follows
Massachusetts Route 117 to separate the proposed AVA from Fort Devens
and the Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area, neither of which are
available for commercial viticulture. The proposed eastern boundary
follows Interstate 495 to separate the proposed AVA from regions with
climates that are more heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and
Cape Cod Bay. The proposed southern boundary follows a series of
[[Page 723]]
roads that separate the proposed AVA from the Wachusett Reservoir and,
farther south, the city of Worcester and its suburbs. According to the
petition, Worcester was historically a manufacturing town and, as a
result, has little land available for commercial agricultural
activities. The proposed western boundary follows Interstate 190 and
separates the proposed AVA from areas with soils and climates that
differ from the proposed AVA.
Distinguishing Features
The distinguishing features of the proposed Nashoba Valley AVA
include its soils and climate.
Soils
The petition states that most of the soil within the proposed
Nashoba Valley AVA has parent soil of supraglacial till, subglacial
till, alluvial deposits, and glaciofluvial deposits. The petition notes
that soils within the proposed AVA are classified by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) as ``prime farmland,'' which means
that they have specific physical and chemical characteristics that make
them well suited for growing crops.\1\ The most common soils in the
proposed AVA belong to the Paxton soil series and comprise
approximately 21 percent of the soils in the AVA. These soils are well-
drained loamy soils and are moderately deep to very deep. The soil
depth allows for unobstructed root growth, as roots can penetrate
moderately deeply before hitting denser soils and very deeply before
touching bedrock. The petition states that the soils promote strong
root systems that allow grapevines to survive the harsher winters
within the proposed AVA. The petition also states that the soils
promote strong root systems that allow grapevines to survive the
harsher winters within the proposed AVA. Paxton soils also have high
saturated hydraulic conductivity values, which means that water moves
quickly through the soil. The petition states this soil characteristic
is essential for successful viticulture as it aids in minimizing fungal
infections and rot.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ See Appendix C to the petition in Docket No. TTB-2023-0012
at https://www.regulations.gov.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
To the immediate north of the proposed AVA are Fort Devens and the
Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area, which are not available for
commercial viticulture. Further north, the soils have a slower water
infiltration rate and do not drain as quickly as soils within the
proposed AVA. East of the proposed AVA, the soils have a very slow
water infiltration rate and a high-water table, increasing both the
risk of flooding and fungal disease in vineyards. The region south of
the proposed AVA is largely urban, with little land left open for
agriculture to occur. The petition notes that what open land does exist
is not classified as ``prime farmland'' by the USDA. To the west, the
soils are shallower than within the proposed AVA and have a slow water
infiltration rate.
Climate
The petition states that the proposed Nashoba Valley AVA has a warm
climate suitable for growing grape varietals such as Albarino, Cabernet
Franc, Chardonnay, Riesling, and St. Croix, among others. Throughout
the growing season, average monthly temperatures range from a low of 47
degrees Fahrenheit (F) to 72 degrees F. July is typically the warmest
month when the average high temperature is 82 degrees F. The proposed
Nashoba Valley AVA has an average of 1,697 growing degree days (GDDs)
\2\ calculated in degrees Celsius,\3\ which places it in Region III of
the Winkler system.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\2\ See Albert J. Winkler, General Viticulture (Berkeley:
University of California Press, 1974), pages 61-64. In the Winkler
climate classification system, annual heat accumulation during the
growing season, measured in annual Growing Degree Days (GDDs),
defines climatic regions. One GDD accumulates for each degree
Celsius that a day's mean temperature is above 10 degrees C, the
minimum temperature required for grapevine growth. The Winkler scale
regions are as follows: Region Ia, 850-1,111 GDDs; Region Ib, 1,112-
1,389 GDDs; Region II, 1,390-1,667 GDDs; Region III, 1,668-1,944
GDDs; Region IV, 1,945-2,222 GDDs; Region V, 2,223-2,700 GDDs.
\3\ Unless otherwise noted, all GDD accumulations listed in this
document are in degrees Celsius.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to the petition, wind is another climate factor that
affects viticulture within the proposed AVA. The petition states that
between March and May, average wind speeds within the proposed AVA
range from 6.6 to 4.7miles per hour. In the springtime, air movement
through the vineyards can reduce the risk of frost damage to new tender
shoots and buds. However, more intense winds during the same period can
damage shoots and flowers, which will lead to a smaller harvest. During
the summer months of June to August, average wind speeds range from 4.2
to 3.9 miles per hour. According to the petition, humidity increases
and rainstorms are common within the proposed AVA during the summer, so
the gentle winds can decrease the time it takes for vineyards to dry
and lessen the potential for molds and mildews to form.
To the north, the town of Fitchburg has a cooler climate than the
proposed AVA. Fitchburg's average GDD accumulations total 1,536,
placing it in the Region II category. Average monthly temperatures are
lower for each month except July, when they are the same as the average
monthly temperature for the proposed AVA. Additionally, Fitchburg has
lower monthly average wind speeds. To the east, the city of Waltham's
average GDD accumulations place it in the Region III category, which is
the same as the proposed AVA. However, Waltham still has higher average
GDD accumulations than the proposed AVA, with 1,738 GDDs. Waltham also
has higher average monthly wind speeds than the proposed AVA, ranging
from 4.3 to 7.6 miles per hour. South of the proposed AVA, the city of
Worcester's climate is classified as Region II, with an average
accumulation of 1,598 GDDs. During the growing season, Worcester also
has slightly lower average monthly temperatures and average monthly
wind speeds than the proposed AVA. To the west of the proposed AVA, the
town of Barre also has a Region II climate, with average accumulations
of 1,548 GDDs and lower average monthly temperatures throughout the
year. Average monthly wind speeds in Barre are also lower each month
than wind speeds within the proposed AVA.
Summary of Distinguishing Features
The following table summarizes the features of the proposed Nashoba
Valley that distinguish it from the surrounding regions.
[[Page 724]]
Features of the Proposed Nashoba Valley AVA and Surrounding Regions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Features
Region ---------------------------------------------
Soils Climate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed AVA.............. Derived from Average monthly
supraglacial till, growing season
subglacial till, temperatures range
alluvial deposits, from 47 to 72
and glaciofluvial degrees F; average
deposits; classified of 1,697 GDDs
as ``prime (Celsius); Winkler
farmland''; Paxton Region III; growing
series is most season wind speeds
prevalent; deep, range from 6.6 to
well-drained loams. 4.7 mph.
North..................... Slow water Cooler climate with
infiltration rate. lower average
monthly
temperatures;
average of 1,536
GDDs; Winkler Region
II; lower wind
speeds.
South..................... Little land open for Cooler climate with
agricultural slightly lower
purposes; land not average monthly
classified as temperatures;
``prime farmland''. average of 1,598
GDDs; Region II;
lower average
monthly wind speeds.
East...................... Very slow water Average of 1,738
infiltration rate GDDs; Region III;
and high-water table. higher average
monthly wind speeds.
West...................... Shallower soils with Cooler climate with
slow water lower average
infiltration rate. monthly
temperatures;
average of 1,548
GDDs; Region II;
lower average
monthly wind speeds.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
TTB Determination
TTB concludes that the petition to establish the proposed Nashoba
Valley AVA merits consideration and public comment, as invited in this
notice of proposed rulemaking.
Boundary Description
See the narrative description of the boundary of the petitioned-for
AVA in the proposed regulatory text published at the end of this
proposed rule.
Maps
The petitioner provided the required maps, and TTB lists them below
in the proposed regulatory text. You may also view the proposed Nashoba
Valley AVA boundary on the AVA Map Explorer on the TTB website, at
https://www.ttb.gov/wine/ava-map-explorer.
Impact on Current Wine Labels
Part 4 of the TTB regulations prohibits any label reference on a
wine that indicates or implies an origin other than the wine's true
place of origin. For a wine to be labeled with an AVA name, at least 85
percent of the wine must be derived from grapes grown within the area
represented by that name, and the wine must meet the other conditions
listed in Sec. 4.25(e)(3) of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 4.25(e)(3)).
If the wine is not eligible for labeling with an AVA name and that name
appears in the brand name, then the label is not in compliance and the
bottler must change the brand name and obtain approval of a new label.
Similarly, if the AVA name appears in another reference on the label in
a misleading manner, the bottler would have to obtain approval of a new
label. Different rules apply if a wine has a brand name containing an
AVA name that was used as a brand name on a label approved before July
7, 1986. See Sec. 4.39(i)(2) of the TTB regulations (27 CFR
4.39(i)(2)) for details.
If TTB establishes this proposed AVA, its name, ``Nashoba Valley,''
will be recognized as a name of viticultural significance under Sec.
4.39(i)(3) of the TTB regulations (27 CFR 4.39(i)(3)). The text of the
proposed regulation clarifies this point. Consequently, wine bottlers
using the name ``Nashoba Valley'' in a brand name, including a
trademark, or in another label reference as to the origin of the wine,
would have to ensure that the product is eligible to use the AVA name
as an appellation of origin if TTB adopts this proposed rule as a final
rule.
Public Participation
Comments Invited
TTB invites comments from interested members of the public on
whether it should establish the proposed Nashoba Valley AVA. TTB is
also interested in receiving comments on the sufficiency and accuracy
of required information submitted in support of the petition. Please
provide specific information in support of your comments.
Because of the potential impact of the establishment of the
proposed Nashoba Valley AVA on wine labels that include the term
``Nashoba Valley'' as discussed above under Impact on Current Wine
Labels, TTB is particularly interested in comments regarding whether
there will be a conflict between the proposed AVA name and currently
used brand names. If a commenter believes that a conflict will arise,
the comment should describe the nature of that conflict, including any
anticipated negative economic impact that approval of the proposed AVA
will have on an existing viticultural enterprise. TTB is also
interested in receiving suggestions for ways to avoid conflicts, for
example, by adopting a modified or different name for the proposed AVA.
Submitting Comments
You may submit comments on this proposal by using one of the
following methods:
Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: You may send comments via the
online comment form posted with this document within Docket No. TTB-
2023-0012 on ``Regulations.gov,'' the Federal e-rulemaking portal, at
https://www.regulations.gov. A direct link to that docket is available
under Notice No. 230 on the TTB website at https://www.ttb.gov/wine/notices-of-proposed-rulemaking. Supplemental files may be attached to
comments submitted via Regulations.gov. For complete instructions on
how to use Regulations.gov, visit the site and click on the ``FAQ''
link at the bottom of the page.
U.S. Mail: You may send comments via postal mail to the
Director, Regulations and Rulings Division, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau, 1310 G Street NW, Box 12, Washington, DC 20005.
Please submit your comments by the closing date shown above in this
document. Your comments must reference Notice No. 230 and include your
name and mailing address. Your comments also must be made in English,
be legible, and be written in language acceptable for public
disclosure. We do not acknowledge receipt of comments, and we consider
all comments as originals.
Your comment must clearly state if you are commenting on your own
behalf or on behalf of an organization, business, or other entity. If
you are commenting on behalf of an organization, business, or other
entity,
[[Page 725]]
your comment must include the entity's name as well as your name and
position title. If you comment via Regulations.gov, please enter the
entity's name in the ``Organization'' blank of the online comment form.
If you comment via postal mail, please submit your entity's comment on
letterhead.
You may also write to the Administrator before the comment closing
date to ask for a public hearing. The Administrator reserves the right
to determine whether to hold a public hearing.
Confidentiality
All submitted comments and attachments are part of the public
record and subject to disclosure. Do not enclose any material in your
comments that you consider to be confidential or inappropriate for
public disclosure.
Public Disclosure
TTB will post, and you may view, copies of this document, selected
supporting materials, and any online or mailed comments received about
this proposal within Docket No. TTB-2023-0012 on the Federal e-
rulemaking portal, Regulations.gov, at https://www.regulations.gov. A
direct link to that docket is available on the TTB website at https://www.ttb.gov/wine/notices-of-proposed-rulemaking under Notice No. 230.
You may also reach the relevant docket through the Regulations.gov
search page at https://www.regulations.gov. For instructions on how to
use Regulations.gov, visit the site and click on the ``FAQ'' link at
the bottom of the page.
All posted comments will display the commenter's name, organization
(if any), city, and State, and, in the case of mailed comments, all
address information, including email addresses. TTB may omit voluminous
attachments or material that it considers unsuitable for posting.
You may also obtain copies of this proposed rule, all related
petitions, maps, and other supporting materials, and any electronic or
mailed comments that TTB receives about this proposal at 20 cents per
8.5 x 11-inch page. Please note that TTB is unable to provide copies of
USGS maps or any similarly-sized documents that may be included as part
of the AVA petition. Contact TTB's Regulations and Rulings Division by
email using the web form at https://www.ttb.gov/contact-rrd, or by
telephone at 202-453-1039, ext. 175, to request copies of comments or
other materials.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
TTB certifies that this proposed regulation, if adopted, would not
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small
entities. The proposed regulation imposes no new reporting,
recordkeeping, or other administrative requirement. Any benefit derived
from the use of a viticultural area name would be the result of a
proprietor's efforts and consumer acceptance of wines from that area.
Therefore, no regulatory flexibility analysis is required.
Executive Order 12866
It has been determined that this proposed rule is not a significant
regulatory action as defined by Executive Order 12866 of September 30,
1993, as amended. Therefore, no regulatory assessment is required.
List of Subjects in 27 CFR Part 9
Wine.
Proposed Regulatory Amendment
For the reasons discussed in the preamble, TTB proposes to amend
title 27, chapter I, part 9, Code of Federal Regulations, as follows:
PART 9--AMERICAN VITICULTURAL AREAS
0
1. The authority citation for part 9 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 27 U.S.C. 205.
Subpart C--Approved American Viticultural Areas
0
2. Subpart C is amended by adding Sec. 9.__ to read as follows:
Sec. 9.__ Nashoba Valley.
(a) Name. The name of the viticultural area described in this
section is ``Nashoba Valley''. For purposes of part 4 of this chapter,
``Nashoba Valley'' is a term of viticultural significance.
(b) Approved maps. The 2 United States Geological Survey (USGS)
1:100,000 scale topographic maps used to determine the boundary of the
Nashoba Valley viticultural area are:
(1) Hudson, MA, 2021; and
(2) Clinton, MA, 2021.
(c) Boundary. The Nashoba Valley viticultural area is located in
Worcester County, Massachusetts. The boundary of the viticultural area
is as described as follows:
(1) The beginning point is on the Hudson map at the intersection of
Route 62 (also known as Central Street) and I-495 in Hudson,
Massachusetts. From the beginning point, proceed southwest, then
westerly on Route 62 for a total of 4.5 miles, crossing onto the
Clinton map, to the point where it intersects and becomes concurrent
with Route 70 (also known as Boylston Street); then
(2) Proceed north on Route 70/Route 62 for 2.09 miles to its
intersection with Route 110/Main Street in Clinton, Massachusetts; then
(3) Proceed south on Route 110/Main Street as it becomes known as
West Boylston Road, and continue along West Boylston Road for a total
of 1 mile to its intersection with South Meadow Road; then
(4) Proceed north along South Meadow Road for 0.95 mile to its
intersection with Moffett Street in Lancaster, Massachusetts; then
(5) Proceed northwest along Moffett Street to its intersection with
an unnamed road known locally as Chace Hill Road; then
(6) Proceed northeast along Chace Hill Road to its intersection
with Sterling Street (also known as Route 62); then
(7) Proceed northwesterly along Sterling Street/Route 62 to its
intersection with an unnamed road known locally as Chocksett Road; then
(8) Proceed northwesterly along Chocksett Road to its intersection
with Pratts Junction Road; then
(9) Proceed northwesterly along Pratts Junction Road to its
intersection with I-190; then
(10) Proceed northerly along I-190 for 2.35 miles to its
intersection with Route 117 in Leominster, Massachusetts; then
(11) Proceed southeasterly along Route 117 for 7.8 miles, crossing
onto the Hudson map, to its intersection with I-495; then
(12) Proceed southerly along I-495 to the beginning point.
Signed: December 19, 2023.
Mary G. Ryan,
Administrator.
Approved: December 20, 2023.
Thomas C. West, Jr.,
Deputy Assistant Secretary (Tax Policy).
[FR Doc. 2024-00060 Filed 1-4-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810-31-P