The European Court of Justice on
Wednesday gave wines from the Tuscan area of Chianti exclusive
rights to use the iconic 'Gallo' (Rooster) symbol on their
products.
The court upheld a ruling by the EU Intellectual Property Office
(EUIPO) that rejected an application by a similar wine to use
the symbol.
"Taking into account the image of excellence and prestige
associated with the front trademark of Chianti wine," the Court
of Justice said, "the requested use of the trademark (by the
rival producer) could have generated an undue advantage for it."
The Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) was the historic symbol of the
medieval League of Chianti and has become the symbol of the
wines of Chianti Classico.
The Black Rooster symbol is linked to a medieval legend that
takes place during the time of open hostilities between Firenze
and Siena for control of the Chianti territory.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
