Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)

Definition - What does Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) mean?

Protected Designation of Origin or PDO is a classification system used to identify a product which is produced within a determined geographical area using well-recognized wine making processes. This system is used and regulated within the European Union. A product with PDO classification is used for wine produced exclusively with the grapes from a specific area. PDO status can only be acquired by one wine producer in the demarcated geographical area. The wine produced at a PDO must also have different characteristics in comparison to that of the surrounding PDOs.

WineFrog explains Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)

PDO is a regulatory method used for the products which are closely associated with their labelled area. The production process, which includes processing of the raw materials and producing the final product, must take place in a pre-determined geographical area. Wine making in the geographical area is affected by natural factors as well as human factors, such as soil quality, topography, climate, and the local method of production.

The regulation is stringent to ensure the quality of its labelled products. However, there is one exception. A non geographical product could qualify to register as PDO if it is traditionally associated with a PDO geographical area.