Understanding the labeling of New World wines is essential for anyone interested in the diverse landscape of modern viticulture. New World wines, defined broadly as those originating outside the traditional winemaking regions of Europe and the Middle East, exhibit a variety of styles, flavors, and techniques reflective of their respective geographies and cultures. These wines […]

The Italian DOCG classification stands as the pinnacle of Italy’s wine quality pyramid, designed to celebrate and protect the country’s most prestigious vinicultural treasures. Standing for Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita, this label is a testament to the highest standards of winemaking. When you see DOCG on a bottle, it signifies adherence to stringent

The period known as Prohibition fundamentally altered the trajectory of the American wine industry. When the 18th Amendment went into effect in 1920, producing, transporting, and selling intoxicating liquors became illegal. This period reshaped the economy and culture, affecting industries across the nation. Winemakers faced a critical challenge: adapt to survive or go out of

The phylloxera epidemic stands as one of the most catastrophic events in the history of viticulture. This tiny aphid, Daktulosphaira vitifoliae, wreaked havoc on European vineyards in the late 19th century, nearly collapsing wine industries and transforming agricultural practices. Initially discovered in the United States, phylloxera’s roots trace back to the Victorian era, when the

Winemaking has undergone transformational changes since its inception, evolving through various eras of technological and methodological advancements. The catalyst for this evolution was none other than the Industrial Revolution, which played a pivotal role in shaping the wine industry into what it is today. As you explore the history, you’ll see that this period brought

The expansion of wine production and consumption in Europe stands as a testament to the continent’s enduring influence on the global wine industry. From its roots in prehistoric times, viticulture has evolved into a sophisticated enterprise that has seen a steady increase, particularly from the 15th century during the age of European expansion. Despite setbacks

Wine, as you might know, stands as not only a beloved beverage but also a symbol of culture and refinement throughout human history. The journey of winemaking has been long, originating thousands of years ago and continuously evolving to meet the sophisticated palates of modern consumers. In the modern era, winemaking has seen significant advances,

The French AOC system, which stands for Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, is a certification granted to certain French geographical indications for wines, cheeses, butters, and other agricultural products, under the auspices of the government bureau Institut National des Appellations d’Origine, now the Institut National de l’Origine et de la Qualité (INAO). This label is a mark