Vin de pays

French wine classification

Vin de pays is a French wine classification that denotes wines produced in specific regions of France. This classification is part of the larger system of French wine classifications, which also includes Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) and Vin de table. Vin de pays wines are often seen as a step above vin de table, offering more information about the origin of the wine and allowing for a greater variety of grape varieties and winemaking techniques.

History

The vin de pays classification was introduced in 1973 as a way to provide more flexibility for winemakers while still maintaining a level of quality and regional identity. It was designed to bridge the gap between the strict regulations of AOC wines and the more generic vin de table category. Over the years, vin de pays has become an important part of the French wine industry, allowing producers to experiment with different grape varieties and styles while still indicating the geographic origin of the wine.

Classification

Vin de pays wines are classified based on their geographic origin. There are three main levels of vin de pays:

• Vin de pays régional: This is the broadest category, covering large areas such as Vin de Pays d'Oc in the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
• Vin de pays départemental: This category covers wines from specific departments within a region, such as Vin de Pays de l'Hérault.
• Vin de pays de zone: This is the most specific category, covering small, defined areas within a department.

Regulations

Vin de pays wines must adhere to certain regulations, although these are less strict than those for AOC wines. The regulations include:

• The wine must be made from approved grape varieties.
• The wine must be produced within the defined geographic area.
• The wine must meet certain quality standards, including limits on yield and alcohol content.

Grape Varieties

One of the key features of vin de pays wines is the flexibility in grape varieties. Unlike AOC wines, which are often restricted to traditional local varieties, vin de pays wines can be made from a wide range of grapes, including international varieties such as Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This allows winemakers to create wines that appeal to a broader range of tastes and preferences.

Vin de Pays d'Oc

A bottle of Chardonnay from Vin de Pays d'Oc

One of the most well-known vin de pays regions is Vin de Pays d'Oc, located in the Languedoc-Roussillon area of southern France. This region is known for its diverse range of wines, including both red and white varieties. The warm Mediterranean climate and varied terroir allow for the production of a wide array of wine styles, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.

Related pages

• French wine
• Appellation d'origine contrôlée
• Vin de table
• Languedoc-Roussillon