The use of the DOC designation [from the Italian denominazione di origine controllata, meaning “
controlled designation of origin”] is regulated by the Italian Wine Act, Legislative Decree No. 61 of April 8, 2010. This law is based upon the categorization of the wines in a pyramid of quality. The lowest level of the quality pyramid is formed by the table wines, then wines with a typical geographical indication are positioned in the middle, and at the peak of the pyramid are the DOC and DOCG wines as well as wines from single vineyards.
The DOC designation serves on one hand as a protection for consumers. It provides them with the guarantee that the information about the origin and quality of the wine corresponds to the truth.
On the other hand, the DOC functions as an important protection for producers. Lawmakers have thus ensured that only legitimate producers are entitled to the DOC status.