Vin de pays

French chard from pay d'oc

Vin de pays is a French term that translates to "country wine" and refers to the classification given to certain French wines that fall between the table wine (Vin de table) and the more strictly regulated appellations of origin (Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC)). The Vin de pays classification was introduced in 1973 to recognize and allow the marketing of wines that were of higher quality than table wines but did not conform to the strict criteria of AOC wines. This classification system was replaced in 2009 by the Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP) as part of a broader reform of the European Union wine regulations.

History

The Vin de pays system was established to provide a level of classification that recognized the quality and origin of wines that did not meet all the requirements for AOC status. Before its introduction, many high-quality wines that did not fit the AOC criteria were classified as simple table wines, which did not reflect their quality. The Vin de pays designation allowed winemakers more flexibility in winemaking techniques and grape varieties used, which encouraged innovation and the production of wines that reflected the characteristics of specific regions.

Classification System

Vin de pays was categorized into three tiers based on the geographical scope of the region:

• Vin de pays d’Oc for wines produced in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, which was the largest area for Vin de pays wines.
• Vin de pays from a specific department, such as Vin de pays de l’Hérault, named after French administrative divisions.
• Vin de pays from a specific locality within a department, offering the most precise origin designation.

Wines classified as Vin de pays had to meet certain criteria regarding grape varieties, yields, and winemaking practices. These regulations were less stringent than those for AOC wines, allowing producers more flexibility.

Transition to IGP

In 2009, the European Union's wine sector reforms led to the replacement of the Vin de pays system with the Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP) classification. This change aimed to standardize wine classifications across the EU and improve the international recognition of these wines. The IGP classification maintains the spirit of the Vin de pays system, recognizing the importance of regional character while allowing winemakers flexibility in production.

Impact

The introduction of the Vin de pays classification had a significant impact on the French wine industry. It allowed for the recognition of diverse wine styles and regional characteristics, contributing to the global reputation of French wines. The system also encouraged innovation and experimentation among winemakers, leading to the development of new wine styles and the improvement of wine quality across the country.

See Also

• Appellation d'origine contrôlée
• Indication Géographique Protégée
• Vin de table
• French wine
• European Union wine regulations