AO VDQS ("Appellation d'Origine - Vins Délimités de Qualité Supérieure")

We have previously discussed the precise definition of "appellation" for wine

The production of AO VDQS wines is strictly regulated and monitored by the INAO, the 'Institut National des Appellations d'Origine’ (National Institute of the original appellations).

The regulations provide for the issue of a seal of approval by the appropriate winegrowers' association, provided that the wine satisfies a number of conditions stipulated by the Ministry of Agriculture.

These conditions concern

• Area under production

• Grape varieties

• Minimum alcohol content

• Maximum yield per hectare

• Methods of cultivation

• Vinification methods

Analysis of the wine and tasting by an official committee of experts which describes whether the "AO VDQS" classification shall be granted.

AOC ("Vins d'Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée")

These wines meet conditions for production established by the INAO and are officially recognised by the Ministry of Agriculture. The rules, which are stricter than those for AO VDQS, cover the following subjects :

• Area under production

• Grape variety

• Minimum alcohol content

• Maximum yield

• Methods of cultivation, pruning and vinification

• Sometimes even conditions for ageing.

All wines seeking an Appellation d'Origine Contriôlée are analysed and officially tasted.

After the official testing, any wines considered worthy receive a certificate of approval. This certificate, issued by the INAO, entitles them to be marketed under the name of the appellation for which they applied. Wines, which are not approved, can not be sold under the name of the appellation.

This very strict legislation guarantees the consistently high quality of AOC wines.
 

Vins de Table, Vins de Pays			Bordeaux Wine

All the French foods