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Last Updated: Mar 5, 2026
DOC
DOC
DOC, in Italian Denominazione di Origine Controllata (in English”Controlled Designation of Origin”). It is an Italian wine quality classification system that guarantees the wine was produced in a specific region using authorized grape varieties and methods. It is the second strictest tier in the Italian system (below DOCG) that ensures authenticity and sometimes, a superior taste. DOC wines are recognizable by a numbered light blue paper band on the bottle neck.
See Also
Cru
"Cru" is a French term meaning "growth", referring to a superior, high quality growing site, vineyard, or village.
AVA
An American Viticultural Area (AVA) is a designated and legally defined wine grape growing region in the United States which is identifiable by its geography, soil and climate. A wine labeled with an AVA must use at least 85% grapes grown in the region.
AOC
AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) is a prestigious French wine regulatory system that guarantees that it comes from a specific, defined region and that its production adheres to strict, traditional production standards.
Blend
A blend is the combination of two or more different grape varieties, vineyard parcels, fermented wines or vintages to create a more balanced, complex and consistent wine.
Amphora
Amphora is a traditional clay or terracotta vessel used for fermenting, aging and storing wine. These vessels are neutral and porous, allowing micro oxygenation without adding oak flavors.
Balance
Balance is the proportional relationship between acidity, alcohol, sugar, tannin and fruit concentration in a wine, where no single element dominates.
Irrigation
Irrigation is the artificial application of water to vineyards to provide the necessary 25-35 inches of annual water in dry climates.
Climate
Climate refers to the long term weather patterns, including temperature, sunlight, wind and rainfall of a particular region which directly influence grape growth and decides the wine's style.
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