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Italian wine labels explained: Understanding DOCG, DOC & IGT

Ever wondered what the letters on your bottle of Italian wine mean? Here are some of the main differences between DOCG, DOC, IGT and VdT.

The eagle-eyed among you may have seen the letters DOCG, DOC, IGT or VdT on Italian wine labels, but what do they mean?

These classifications, based on Italy’s wine system since the 1960s and aligned with EU terminology, indicate quality and control levels. DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) divides into DOCG  and DOC. IGP (Protected Geographic Indication) and VdT (‘table wine’) have fewer restrictions, but some quality wines may be labeled VdT due to producer preferences.

The classifications guide consumers but don’t always guarantee quality, as good wines can exist outside the highest tiers.



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