Wine Laws and Appellations Flashcards

In France, the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) system regulates which aspects of wine production?

Answer: Geographic origin, permitted grape varieties, yields, and winemaking practices

The French AOC system controls geographic boundaries, permitted grape varieties, maximum yields, minimum alcohol levels, and specific viticultural and winemaking practices.

The 1855 Bordeaux Classification ranked châteaux based primarily on which factor?

Answer: Market prices at the time of classification

The 1855 Bordeaux Classification was created for the Paris Universal Exhibition and ranked châteaux primarily by their established market prices, which reflected their historical reputation.

In Italy, what does the designation 'DOCG' (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) indicate compared to DOC?

Answer: It is the highest classification, with stricter production rules and mandatory tasting approval

DOCG is Italy's highest wine classification, requiring stricter production standards than DOC plus mandatory approval by a tasting committee before release.

What is a 'Grand Cru' designation in Burgundy's classification hierarchy?

Answer: The highest tier, designating specific top vineyard sites

Grand Cru is Burgundy's highest vineyard classification, with only 33 red and white Grand Cru sites in the Côte d'Or, representing the finest terroirs.

The German Prädikat system classifies wines based on what factor?

Answer: The ripeness/sugar level of grapes at harvest

Germany's Prädikat system (Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese, Trockenbeerenauslese, Eiswein) classifies wines by increasing grape must sugar levels at harvest.

In the US, what minimum percentage of a wine's grapes must come from a named AVA (American Viticultural Area) to use that AVA name on the label?

Answer: 85%

US labeling law requires that at least 85% of the grapes used in a wine must come from the stated AVA for that AVA name to appear on the label.