Appellation

An appellation is a geographically defined region that specifies the specific conditions for growing grapevines and producing wine. This system ensures that the wine has a unique character associated with a particular region and its terroir, that is, the soil, climatic conditions, grape variety composition, and other factors. Appellations are used to precisely determine where the grapes were grown and to ensure the authenticity and originality of the wine.

Appellations are traditionally used in France and Italy, but their principles are applied in other countries as well. The rules for using an appellation may include specifications regarding permitted varieties, maximum grape yields, alcohol content, and other factors that affect wine quality. These rules ensure that wines from a given appellation meet strict standards and reflect the terroir of the region.

In French terminology, the abbreviations IGP and AOP are used for appellations, and the older system also included the designation AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée), which can still be found on some bottles. In Italy, the equivalents are IGT, DOC, and DOCG. An appellation thus not only determines the origin of the wine but also the specific qualities that accompany its cultivation and production, thus protecting and promoting local winemaking traditions.