The "Organisation Internationale de la Vigne et du Vin" (International Organisation of Vine and Wine) is an international and supranational body based in Paris (France) that represents the interests of viticulture in the areas of grapevine, wine, wine-based beverages, table grapes, sultanas and other vine products of currently 46 member states. In 2001, a reorganisation and change of name took place (previously "Office International de la Vigne et du Vin"). The tasks of the new organisation were modernised and adapted. The predecessor organisation was founded in 1924 (jointly by the countries of France, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia and Hungary) during Prohibition in the USA (1920-1933) with the mission of spreading the positive effects of wine consumption, coordinating research and nomenclature and ensuring good quality standards in production. Even during the Second World War (1939 to 1945), the work continued uninterrupted under the protection of diplomatic immunity.
The focus is on coordination in the field of research, the publication of books, working papers and journals on technical, social and legal aspects of viticulture, as well as the compilation of international statistics (areas under vines and wine production). In this respect, the "Bulletin de l'OIV" is published regularly. Furthermore, a system for the determination of grape varieties has been defined. The OIV has also defined the profession of oenologist. Prizes are regularly awarded to particularly meritorious personalities in viticulture; in 1983, the ampelographer Pierre Galet (1921-2019) was honoured for his extensive oeuvre. International competitions with awards are also held under OIV patronage, these include CIVM, Türkiye Uluslararasi Sarap Yarismasi and Vinalies Internationales. Other authorities in France regarding viticulture include INAO and INRAE.
Logo: OIV
World Congress: By Olaf Kosinsky - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0 en, Link
