Denominazioni di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG)

The DOCG (Denominazioni di Origine Controllata e Garantita) represent the the highest level of the wine classification Italian, reserved for wines of exceptional quality, a strong local identity and a well-established tradition. Introduced in 1980, this category guarantees the origin of the wine not only through strict rules, but also through a a state guarantee of quality, highlighted by the a numbered seal on the bottle neck.

What makes a wine DOCG?

A highly defined, historic production area
Specific, regulated grape varieties
Strict growing and winemaking techniques
Chemical and physical tests and sensory analysis are compulsory before release
State seal which shows that the checks have been passed (numbered seal)

Examples of the most famous Italian DOCGs

Piedmont

• Barolo DOCG

• Barbaresco DOCG

• Asti Spumante DOCG

• Gavi or Cortese di Gavi DOCG

Tuscany

• Brunello di Montalcino DOCG

• Chianti Classico DOCG

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG

• Morellino di Scansano DOCG

Veneto

• Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG

• Prosecco di Conegliano-Valdobbiadene DOCG

• Soave Superiore DOCG

Campania

• Fiano di Avellino DOCG

• Greco di Tufo DOCG

• Taurasi DOCG

Other regions with important DOCGs

• Franciacorta DOCG (Lombardy)

• Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG (Umbria)

• Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG (Sicily, the island's only DOCG)

• Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva DOCG (Marche)

Why choose a DOCG wine?

The highest guarantee of quality and authenticity
A profound expression of the land and of Italian winemaking traditions
Often suited to long ageing
Ideal for special occasions or collecting

How many DOCGs are there in Italy?

There are currently more than 70 DOCGs in Italy, and the number can change slightly over time with any new approvals or amendments to the production rules.

Main differences from the other appellations