26. Introduction to Italy

Question 1

What is the Italian term for PDO? What are the related terms more commonly seen on wine labels?

Answer 1

Denominazione di Origine Protetta (DOP)
More Common:
-Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC)
-Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOGC)

Question 2

What is the difference between Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) wines and Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOGC) wines?

Answer 2

Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC):

• subject to geographical boundaries
• limitations on varieties and production methods

Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOGC)

• must meet all DOC requirements
• must be bottled in the area of production
• subject to a Ministry of Agriculture tasting

Question 3

What is the Italian term for PGI? What is the traditional term?

Answer 3

Indicazione Geografica Protetta (IGP)

Traditional: Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT)

Question 4

What does “Classico” mean when seen on an Italian wine label?

Answer 4

Acknowledges wines that have been made solely from the original classified land and includes many of the best wines from the area
(overtime, boundaries of regions have expanded)

Question 5

What does “Riserva” mean when seen on an Italian wine label?

Answer 5

Acknowledges wines with both

• higher alcohol levels &
• longer aging than the minimums stipulated by the appellation laws