The Consortium for the Protection of Controlled Designation of Origin Prosecco (Consorzio) alleges that father-and-son Michael and Ralph Goldstein and their company Prosecco International Ltd have infringed European regulations and the PROSECCO certification mark on two websites and by marketing non-genuine sparkling wine under the name Bella Principessa. The Goldsteins vigorously contest the claim, denying any infringement and asserting that their white and rosé Bella Principessa wines conform to the Prosecco specification. Judge Hacon, acknowledging that the Goldsteins' evidence 'seems persuasive', nevertheless ordered a full trial.
He noted: 'As is widely known, Prosecco is the name given to certain wines produced in the northeast of Italy. ' Prosecco was officially recognized by the Italian government in 2009 as a distinct wine restricted to specific areas of north-eastern Italy. Prosecco International is a London-based company; Michael Goldstein was a director from 2018 to 2024, and his father Ralph is currently a director.
The exact date of the trial and details of alleged infringement, such as sales figures, are not yet known.