26 - Introduction to Italy

Question 1

What is the Italian for PDO?

Answer 1

Denominazione di Origine Protetta (DOP)

Question 2

What does the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) category control?

Answer 2

Wines in this category are subject to geographical boundaries as well as limitations on grape varietals and production methods.

Question 3

If a bottle is labelled Denominzione di Origine Controllata a Garantita (DOCG) what does it mean?

Answer 3

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

Question 4

PGI wines in Italy are called what?

Answer 4

Indicazione Geografica Protette (IGP), but IGT is more commonly used.

Question 5

What does Classico mean in Italian wine law?

Answer 5

Over time, boundaries of a number of different appellations have expanded to allow new plantings. The term classico indicates that wine has been made made from vines on the original land.

Question 6

What does Riserva mean on Italian labelling?

Answer 6

Wines with both higher alcohol levels and longer ageing than the minimum requirement stipulated by appellation law.