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What does DOC mean?
Until the EU wine market reform of 2009, the abbreviation DOC was the designation for the second highest level of the quality system in Italy and means "Denominazione di Origine Controllata" (controlled designation of origin). Although the new designation "Denominazione di Origine Protetta" (DOP - protected designation of origin) has officially applied since then, DOC can still be used.
The same applies to Portugal, where the abbreviation DOC means "Denominação de Origem Controlada" in full.
DOC wines must come from a clearly defined geographical area, which can range from a single vineyard to one or more wine-growing communities to an entire region. In addition, they must meet strict quality standards in terms of authorised grape varieties, cultivation, yield, harvesting and ageing.