What does AOC represent in French wine law?

In French wine law, AOC stands for "Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée." This designation is crucial as it indicates that the wine has been produced in a specific geographical region using a set of established standards, including permitted grape varieties, winemaking techniques, and regulations focused on the terroir. The system is designed to protect the authenticity and integrity of French wines, ensuring that consumers can trust the quality and origin of the products they are purchasing.

The term emphasizes the importance of geographic origin and traditional production methods in the quality and characteristics of the wine, making it a fundamental aspect of France’s wine classification system.