PDO, AOC and PGI: understanding wine origin
Read origin and its rules without confusing them with a tasting score.
PDO protects a name tied to a geographical area and specifications. French wines may use the traditional national AOC term. Origin regulates production; it does not promise identical taste.
PGI is also protected origin with its own rules. For wine, harvest through production takes place in the area. Pays d’Oc and a Languedoc PDO therefore have different scopes and rules.
A wine without geographical indication may be sold as Vin de France in that category. Lack of appellation is not a sensory score; a producer may choose grapes or blends outside local rules. Ask for the wine sheet to locate it.
Compare full origin name, producer, vintage and colour first. Add grapes, sugar and maturation where available. PDO, PGI and grand cru are not a ranking of your preferences.
