Italy, with the Alps in the north and the Mediterranean coast in the south, has a wide range of climates, from continental to Mediterranean. This diversity enables the cultivation of a wide range of grape varieties and the production of different wine styles, from fresh white wines to full-bodied red wines.
The quality gradings of Italian wines are organised in a hierarchical system consisting of four main categories:
- Vino da Tavola (table wine)
- Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT)
- Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC)
- Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG)
Vino da Tavola is the simplest category, while IGT wines come from specific geographical areas and must fulfil higher requirements. DOC wines are subject to stricter production regulations and refer to specific areas and grape varieties. Finally, DOCG wines are the highest quality level and fulfil the strictest production requirements and controls.
