Designation of Origin

The designation of origin is a geographical in nature, used to designate a country, region or locality and thus a product's place of origin.

The designation of origin thus focuses on natural soil factors, including geological, agronomic, climatic and technical characteristics (production conditions), and also human traits (technical and practical knowledge), all of which serve to define a product's specific characteristics and personality.

In order to obtain an designation of origin, a product should meet four essential conditions. Thus It must:

• originate from a specifically defined geographic region
• meet precise conditions of production
• meet certain duly established conditions of notoriety and antecedence
• be properly approved.

The designation of origin thus implies a very close link between the product, the soil and human know-how.

To find out how to reserve your Appellation of origin, please refer to the section:

How to obtain a reserved designation
Examples of products bearing a designation