PDO & PGI
To safeguard the uniqueness of products with a Designation of Origin, the European Union has established strict regulations that guarantee their quality and authenticity. These measures ensure consumer confidence by providing transparency and protection throughout the entire production and marketing process.ì
Designations are protected by both European and national institutions, enforcing strict compliance with production rules. This guarantees that certified products maintain their high quality from origin to market.
PDO
Protected Designation of Origin
The PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) is awarded to products whose entire production cycle – spanning cultivation, processing, and preparation – takes place within a specific geographic area. Strict production regulations ensure that PDO-certified products are truly inimitable and cannot be reproduced outside their designated region.
PGI
Protected Geographical Indication
The PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) highlights the strong link between a product and its geographic origin. At least one stage of its production, processing, or preparation must occur in the designated region, following strict quality and production standards. This ensures that PGI products maintain their distinctive characteristics tied to their place of origin.
DOC and DOCG - Wine Designations
In Europe DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) are recognized under the PDO for wine protection.
DOC – Denominazione di Origine Controllata
The DOC (Controlled Designation of Origin) is awarded to wines produced in a specific area, following strict regulations from vineyard to bottle. Before reaching the market, DOC wines undergo rigorous chemical, physical, and organoleptic testing to ensure they meet the established quality standards.
DOCG – Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita
The DOCG (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) represents the highest level of recognition, granted only to wines of exceptional quality, shaped by natural, human, and historical factors. DOCG wines must adhere to even stricter production guidelines and undergo more rigorous testing, ensuring their superior status.
