Quality guaranteed
Pays d’Oc Protected Geographical Indication: Quality guaranteed
Since August 1, 2009, Pays d’Oc wines have carried an official quality endorsement recognised at European level – the Protected Geographical Origin (IGP). It is a 100% guarantee of the origin of the wines produced within the Pays d’Oc designated wine region.
Formerly referred to as ‘Vin de Pays’ or regional wine, the Pays d’Oc Protected Geographical Indication was introduced on 1 August 2009, as part of the new wine segmentation designed by Europe. This reorganisation of the French wine proposition led to several name changes:
- AOCs became PDOs/AOPs
- The term Vins de Pays was superseded by Protected Geographical Indication
- Table wine made way for wines without a geographical indication (non-GI).
The Protected Geographical Indication: an official quality endorsement

For Pays d’Oc winegrowers, the recognition afforded by an official quality endorsement is the crowning achievement of thirty years’ work within the Pays d’Oc wine region. The endorsement incorporates the innovative concept of varietal wines into its production specifications. It is the cornerstone of Pays d’Oc’s identity with 58 permitted grape varieties. As with PDOs, wines with a Protected Geographical Indication must comply with precise specifications. Every single IGP Pays d’Oc wine is therefore inspected and certified by Bureau Veritas, the world leader in conformity assessment and certification. Regular checks are carried out on the grape varieties, yields, analytical and organoleptic properties of the wines.
IGP varietal wines - a straightforward approach for consumers
Vintage and varietal statements are authorised for IGP wines, making the approach straightforward for consumers. In terms of flavour, the varietal wine concept provides an alternative tasting experience, based on the sensory characteristics of each grape variety, from the most robust to the fruitiest. By facilitating the interpretation of the wine, this sensory approach is suited to all drinking occasions. Do you fancy a single varietal Merlot or Chardonnay, or would you rather indulge in a more unexpected blend of Cabernet-Sauvignon and Pinot Noir? The list of combinations with Pays d’Oc IGP varietal wines is endless.

The leading French wine region for quality varietals
- N°1 French IGP in export markets.
- N°1 IGP in France.
- 25 bottles of IGP Pays d’Oc wines are sold worldwide every second.
IGP varietal wines - a straightforward approach for consumers
Vintage and varietal statements are authorised for IGP wines, making the approach straightforward for consumers. In terms of flavour, the varietal wine concept provides an alternative tasting experience, based on the sensory characteristics of each grape variety, from the most robust to the fruitiest. By facilitating the interpretation of the wine, this sensory approach is suited to all drinking occasions. Do you fancy a single varietal Merlot or Chardonnay, or would you rather indulge in a more unexpected blend of Cabernet-Sauvignon and Pinot Noir? The list of combinations with Pays d’Oc IGP varietal wines is endless.



The leading French wine region for quality varietals
- N°1 French IGP in export markets.
- N°1 IGP in France.
- 24 bottles of IGP Pays d’Oc wines are sold worldwide every second.


The region, the grape varieties and quality are at the crux of IGP Pays d’Oc wines. In this video, the young, self-assured Pays d’Oc generation illustrates the essence of the Pays d’Oc Protected Geographical Indication.
Winemaker Cyril Payon exemplifies the extremely high standards required for vineyard management and winemaking for wines labelled IGP Pays d’Oc, guaranteeing quality and excellence.