More than 80, 000 vine growers in France are dependant on the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée, one of the most successful wine classification system established and administered by Institut National des Apellations d'Origine (INAO). This appellation contrôlée designation is generally a reliable guide to the country's best wines however; it is like every system, subjective and critical of its accuracy. The Vintners' Session will explore and enlighten this profound classification system as well as probe into the various tangible factors surrounding its viability. One of the more serious disadvantages is the extent of how it stifles experimentation of cultivation. Are AOC wines really that superior after all? And is the practice for this classification system fair? Are GMOs a source of progress for the production of Burgundy's AOC wines? Will using GMO micro-organisms in winemaking pose a danger? INAO had forbid any genetically modified grape varieties and rootstocks to be used for AOC wines. What are its implications?

Overview

Part I

The moderator will introduce the speakers and a brief outline of each speakers' background and introduce the session. Next, the moderator invites the guest speaker to presents his views and opinions. The time allocated will be 10 minutes. The moderator will then invite the panelists to give their views and their opinions. Every speaker will be given approximately 5 minutes. A total of 20 minutes has been allocated.

Part II

The moderator will recap on each speakers' opinions and comments and invite the panel of speakers to raise their doubts and opinions on the topic. This session gives the speakers the freedom to voice their concerns. The second half will last not more than 15 minutes. To round up the session, the moderator will invite the audience to pose questions to the panel speakers whereby the panel speakers will answer these questions.