DOC is an acronym for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which means Controlled Designation of Origin in English. “It consists of a legally defined zone (defined by law) where grapes can be grown and producers must follow rigid production standards to produce their wines.” The ultimate goal of these production standards is to protect consumers from being sold lower quality wine by requiring wineries to follow strict guidelines about what they product and how they care for the grape vines themselves. These safeguards provide assurance that the wine purchased meets not only taste but also integrity requirements, meaning consumers can have peace of mind knowing they’re getting an authenticated Italian wine.