Skip to main content

If you enjoy wine, you have probably noticed the acronyms IGP and DOP on wine labels. But what do they actually mean? And why are they so important when choosing a wine?
These designations are closely linked to a wine’s origin, quality, and authenticity. They act as a guarantee that the wine complies with specific production rules, helping consumers identify wines that are tied to a particular place and quality standard.

What Are Geographical Indications (GI)?
Geographical Indications (GI) are used in virtually all wine-producing regions around the world. They appear frequently on labels because the place where grapes are grown — known as terroir — has a direct influence on a wine’s style, aroma, and flavour.
A GI refers to a legally defined wine-growing area. These areas can be: 

  • Very large, covering entire regions
  • Quite small, limited to a sub-region or even a single vineyard

Within the European Union, Geographical Indications do more than simply identify where the grapes are grown. Each GI has a specific set of rules (a product specification) that may define:

  • The authorised grape varieties
  • Vineyard cultivation methods
  • Winemaking techniques
  • Maximum yields per hectare
  • Minimum alcohol levels

Currently, in the EU, there are two main types of Geographical Indications for wine: DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) and IGP (Protected Geographical Indication).

What Is DOP (Protected Designation of Origin)?
DOP is the most demanding and restrictive category. It usually covers relatively small geographical areas and is associated with wines that have a strong regional identity.
Production rules are very strict and typically include:

  • Specific, traditional grape varieties
  • Defined winemaking methods
  • Tight production limits
  • Rigorous quality control

DOP wines closely reflect their terroir and local know-how and are often associated with higher prestige and strong typicity. Examples in Portugal include Douro DOC, Dão DOC, Alentejo DOC, and Vinho Verde DOC.

What Is IGP (Protected Geographical Indication)?
IGP wines cover larger geographical areas and have less restrictive regulations compared to DOP wines.
This greater flexibility allows producers to:

  • Use a wider range of grape varieties
  • Experiment with different winemaking techniques
  • Create more diverse and innovative wine styles

As a result, IGP wines can range from large-volume wines for everyday drinking to small-production wines with a strong identity and excellent quality.
Common examples in Portugal include IGP Alentejano, IGP Lisboa, IGP Tejo, and IGP Península de Setúbal.

Which Should You Choose: DOP or IGP Wine?
Choosing between a DOP or IGP wine mainly depends on your personal taste and the occasion.
If you are looking for a traditional wine closely linked to a specific region, DOP is an excellent choice.
If you prefer to explore different styles, less common grape varieties, or more creative wines, IGP can be a pleasant surprise.
The most important thing to remember is that both designations guarantee origin and regulatory control, making them useful — though not absolute — indicators of quality.
 

Responsible drinking is one of our most important states and one of our commitments.

This site is intended for people of legal drinking age.
Upon entering this website, you confirm that you are of legal age for drinking alcoholic beverages, in accordance with the law in force in the country where you access the site.
Be responsible. Drink with moderation.

Do you confirm your legal age to consume alcoholic beverages in the country where you are located?