An Overview of Argentina's Wine Regulations and Quality Categories
The Instituto Nacional de Vitivinicultura (INV) is an organization in Argentina, established in 1959, that sets the rules for quality winemaking and monitors adherence to those rules. The INV categorizes wine into three groups, each with its standards and purposes.
"Vinos de Corte" are wines primarily produced in the Mendoza and San Juan regions, designed to be mixed with other wines, a process known as blending. The specifics of the grape variety, origin, and vintage (the year the grapes were harvested) aren't as crucial for these wines.
"Vinos Communes" are simpler, everyday wines where the origin, vintage, or specific grape variety isn't considered important. They're typically light and easy to drink.
"Vinos Finos" are high-quality wines with strict rules around vintage, origin, grape variety, and how long they have been aged in the bottle. These wines are often more complex and flavorful.
In 1993, the INV introduced a new quality system based on the origin and characteristics of the wines. This system includes three levels:
"Indicaciones de Procedencia (IP)" indicates the basic origin of the wine.
"Indicaciones Geográficas (IG)" provides more specific geographic origin details.
"Denominación de Origen Controlada (DOC)" is the highest level. Wines with this designation must meet strict rules about origin, grape variety, and production methods. There are rules about how much wine can be produced from a given vineyard area to ensure quality.
The first region to receive the prestigious DOC classification was Luján de Cuyo in Mendoza, back in 1992. This was followed by other regions, including Maipú, Río Negro, San Rafael, and the Valles Calchaquíes area.
In short, Argentina's wine laws, managed by the INV, aim to ensure the quality and authenticity of the wines produced in the country. They oversee everything from grape growing and wine production to how wines are categorized and labeled based on their characteristics and origins.
