French wine regulations

French wine regulations are governed by strict rules to ensure authenticity and quality. Wines are classified by designations like AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée), which define specific geographic regions and production methods. These rules specify permitted grape varieties, yields, aging periods, and processing techniques, maintaining regional characteristics. Producers must adhere to these standards to use regional names, helping consumers trust the origin and quality. Overall, these regulations protect France’s wine heritage, promote consistent standards, and ensure that wines authentically reflect their terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and tradition.