Understanding Italian Wine Classifications

[Maria P. Shaver]

If you’re a serious wine drinker or wine gift buyer, you have likely come across the terms “DOC” and “DOCG.” These Italian wine classifications refer to specific rules for wine production that are intended to ensure a wines quality and origin. While DOC is similar to France’s AOC system, DOCG goes a step further by stating a level of quality that many believe is the pinnacle of Italian wines.

DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata which means “controlled designation of origin.” There are currently 329 DOC wines in Italy and each one must adhere to a set of laws regarding vineyard trellising, permitted grape varieties, maximum harvest yields and other wine production requirements. DOC wines must also pass government testing and display a colored government seal on their label.

Some of Italy’s most sought-after wines such as Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vin Santo fall under this category. While there are some debates over the prestigiousness of this classification, it is clear that these wines have proven themselves over time.

The second tier is a bit more open and allows for greater creativity from producers. The IGT (“Indicazione Geografica Tipica”) category is for those wine producers who wish to release wines that are not considered traditional but still meet the strict criteria for a particular style or region. These wines are typically a little cheaper than DOC and DOCG wines and may be labelled as Classico, Superiore or Riserva depending on the wine style.

Lastly, the highest tier is DOCG, which was established in 1980. These wines are considered to be the best of the best and are only available at top restaurants, premium wine shops or from the producers themselves. DOCG wines must meet the same high standards as DOC, but can be awarded either Classico or Superiore status based on the wine.

As the highest tier of Italian wine, DOCG wines have garnered international recognition and have proven themselves as some of the world’s best. While it is a tad bit more expensive than a DOC bottle, you will find that it is a lot easier to get a hold of and is worth the extra expense.

As the world becomes more curious about the amazing wines that come from this country, there is no doubt that these two categories will continue to grow in popularity and demand. Understanding these classifications will help you make better informed buying decisions and enjoy the incredible variety that Italy has to offer. Happy tasting!