Legal Action Considered by Burgenland FPÖ Over 'Sekt Causa'

The Freedom Party of Burgenland (FPÖ) is contemplating legal action regarding the 'Sekt Causa', as stated by Norbert Hofer, the party's regional leader. This follows an inquiry response from the Burgenland Economic Agency concerning the purchase of 195,000 bottles of raw sparkling wine from A-Nobis Sektkellerei in 2023, aimed at stabilizing the financially troubled company.

According to the agency's response, these bottles, along with their storage boxes, are currently located in Parndorf. Hofer revealed that a capital investment of EUR135,000, along with a liability framework of EUR400,000, has been allocated from economic development funds to support this venture. The arrangement also includes a state guarantee for potential losses, as well as collateral in the form of a lien on the stored goods. Should the value from the sale of the sparkling wine fall short, Raiffeisen Landesbank Burgenland is contractually obligated to cover half of any uncovered balance.

The report asserted that the quality of the raw sparkling wine would not diminish under controlled storage conditions; however, it remains subject to standard market risks regarding pricing and sales performance. The agency did not provide details on ongoing storage expenses or revenue figures from any sales that have occurred thus far.

Hofer emphasized that the public has a right to access this information under the Freedom of Information Act. He intends to pursue legal channels to secure the necessary disclosures, indicating a strong commitment to transparency regarding the financial dealings associated with this case.