AOC/AOP France Wine Law

Question 1

Appellation D’Origine Controlee

Answer 1

France’s Wine Appelation System
Founded in 1935
Ensures Authenticity of place and typicity of style
Creates Connections between quality and appelation

Question 2

Original AOC Classifications

Answer 2

Vin de Table
Vin de Pays
Vin Delimite de Qualite Superieure (VDQS)
Appellation d’Origine Controlee

Question 3

Change to AOP

Answer 3

Appellation d’Origine Protegee
Designated by the European Union
Interchangeable with AOC by 2011
Attempt to simplify branding via one quality system designation for all Europe
Supposed higher standards (testing, applications)
Fewer levels, but most of labeling terminology will remain

Question 4

Appellation d’Origine Protegee Levels

Answer 4

Vin de France
IGP: Indication Geographique Protegee
AOP: Appelation d’Origine Protegee

Question 5

Vin de France

Answer 5

Formely Vin de Table/Ordinaires
18% of all French Wine
the least restrictions: yields( 90 hl/ha), alcohol content (8%min-15% max), winemaking practices (oak chips, acidification)
No place of origin specified/blend of regions allowed
Variety and vintage allowed

Question 6

IGP/Vin de Pays

Answer 6

35% of all french wine
Combo of Vin de Pays&VDQS
Less restrictions and quality varies widely (hybrids allowed, 85% from stated geographical region)
3 zones levels: Regional (Pays d’Oc), Departmental and local

Question 7

AOP

Answer 7

Most former AOC/some VDQS
50% of all french wine (close to 500 total)
Most terminology/regulations remain
Ensures authenticity of place and typicity of style
Must state geographical area
Can only use vitis vinifera grapes

Question 8

AOP Criteria

Answer 8

Geographical Boundaries
Grape Varieties
Yield
Alcohol levels
Viticultural Methods
Winemaking techniques
Quality of finished products