Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG)
Definition - What does Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) mean?
Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) indicates the highest ranking for Italian wines. Under this classification (and labeling), certain production methods and quality is ensured. In order for a wine to be labeled DOCG, the winemaker must adhere to strict grape variety requirements, yields and ripeness during their vinification process; the manner in which they make their wines from fermentation to aging is also regulated.
WineFrog explains Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG)
Under the Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) designation in Italy, producers of these wines must adhere to strict regulation. In order to obtain the DOCG status, one must follow local wine-making laws according to tradition and other rules. Each region has specific varieties which have been traditionally produced for generations. For instance, the Sangiovese grape has been traditionally cultivated in the region of Tuscany. DOCG wines of this region must make their wines with a minimum percentage of Sangiovese. There are also strict terms based on what blending grapes are permitted and with limited percentages.
As Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita is the highest classification of all Italian wines, it also protects the producer and consumer. In addition to strict cultivation and wine-making laws, DOCG wines also undergo official tasting procedures. It is a process to prevent fraudulent wines from being produced outside of their origin and regulations. Each of these wines are numbered with a governmental seal around the bottle's neck. The classification table below notes where DOCG falls in the lineup of wine regulations in Italy.
- Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG
- Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC)
- Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT)
- Vino da Tavola (VdT)
