ITALIAN DESIGNATIONS: D.O.C., D.O.C.G. and I.G.T.

Vini dell'Italia

The D.O.C. & D.O.C.G. designations for Italian wines refer to the degree to which a producer adheres to a strict traditional process for a region and wine--and the specific varietals used--not quality. The I.G.T. designation allows for more creative blends outside of strict traditional processes, while remaining typical of a region. When buying Italian wine, keep in mind that these designations, while communicating something about the nature of the wine, are not ratings. As one Italian producer explained, "Just because I paint a picture with the same ingredients and tools and methods as Pablo Picasso, does not mean that my work will produce a masterpiece."