Argentina

Argentine appellation system is based on a combination of geographical areas and quality classifications. The system is regulated by the National Institute of Viticulture (INV), which is responsible for establishing the rules and regulations that govern the production of wine in Argentina

The geographical areas in the Argentine appellation system are divided into four main categories:

1. Region is the largest geographical area, which includes multiple provinces or states. Argentina has five main wine regions: North, Cuyo, Atlantic, Patagonia, and Buenos Aires
2. Subregion is a smaller geographical area within a region, which is defined by specific environmental factors such as soil type, climate, altitude, and topography
3. Department is a smaller administrative area within a subregion, which may have its own specific wine regulations and quality standards
4. Geographic Indication is the smallest and most specific geographical area, which may be a single vineyard or a small area within a department.

The quality classifications in the Argentine appellation system are based on the level of control and regulation over the production of the wine, and are as follows:

1. Vino de Mesa is the lowest quality classification, and refers to table wine that does not meet the requirements for any of the higher quality categories.
2. Vino de Calidad con Indicación Geográfica (VCIG is a quality classification that indicates the wine is made from grapes grown in a specific geographical area. VCIG wines must meet specific production standards and be approved by the INV.
3. Vino Varietal indicates that the wine is made primarily from a single grape variety, and must contain at least 85% of that variety.
4. Vino de Corte indicates that the wine is a blend of two or more grape varieties
5. Denominación de Origen Controlada (DOC) is the highest quality classification, and indicates that the wine is made from grapes grown in a specific geographic area that has established regulations and quality standards. DOC wines must meet strict production standards and be approved by the INV