Regional wine classification

Regional Wine Classification

File:Wine regions map.jpg

Map of major wine regions in the world

Regional wine classification is the categorization of wine based on the geographic origin where the grapes are grown. This classification system is used globally and is recognized by various names such as appellation in France, denominazione di origine controllata in Italy, and denominación de origen in Spain.

History

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Historical timeline of wine

The history of regional wine classification dates back to the Roman Empire. However, the modern system of classification was established in the 20th century. The first country to implement a comprehensive system was France with the Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) in 1935.

Classification Systems

France

In France, the Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) is the certification granted to certain French geographical indications for wines, cheeses, butters, and other agricultural products. The AOC products are subject to regulations that may cover the geographical area of production, the varieties of grape used, the yield, the alcohol content, and other factors.

Italy

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Map of Italian wine regions

In Italy, the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) and Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) are the Italian equivalents of the French AOC. These classifications recognize the area of origin, the quality, the production method and the type of grape.

Spain

In Spain, the Denominación de Origen (DO) is the classification system used. It is similar to the French AOC and Italian DOC, recognizing the geographical area of production and the quality of the wine.

Importance of Regional Classification

Regional wine classification is important as it guarantees the quality and authenticity of the wine. It ensures that the wine is produced in the specified region using traditional methods. It also protects the reputation of the wine region and prevents misuse of the region's name.

See Also

• Wine
• Wine tasting
• Wine production by country
• List of wine-producing regions