Italian Wine Laws

Question 1

What are PDO wines called in Italy and what are the two sub-categories?

Answer 1

DOP - Denominazione di Origine Protetta

• DOC-Denominazione di Origine Controllata
• DOCG-Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita

Question 2

What does Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) mean?

Answer 2

The wines are subject to geographical boundaries as well as limitations on grape varieties and production methods.

Question 3

What does Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) mean?

Answer 3

In addition to meeting the DOC requirements, these wines must be bottled in the area of production and are subject to a Ministry of Agriculture tasting.

Question 4

What are PGI wines called in Italy

Answer 4

IGP - Indicazione Geografica Protetta

IGT - traditional term (Indicazione Geografica Tipica - IGT)

Question 5

What does ‘classico’ mean on a label?

Answer 5

Wines that have been made solely from the original classified land and includes many of the best wines from the area

Question 6

What does ‘riserva’ mean on a lable?

Answer 6

This term acknowledges wines with higher alcohol and longer ageing than minimums stipulated by the appellation laws.