INAO

The Institut National de l'Origine et de la Qualité (INAO) is an important institution in France that is largely responsible for the regulation and monitoring of designations of origin and quality standards for wines and other agricultural products. With regard to Champagne the INAO plays a central role in defining the guidelines and regulations necessary for the production and classification of Champagne.

Historical background of the INAO

The INAO was founded in 1935 and its mission is to guarantee the quality and authenticity of French food products. The main task of the INAO is to manage the designations of origin (AOP - Appellation d'Origine Protégée) and to ensure that they fulfil the strict legal requirements. This applies not only to wine, but also to cheese, meat products and other specialities.

The INAO and Champagne

Champagne is a specially protected product that comes from the Champagne region in north-east France. Champagne is one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world and the name "Champagne" is legally protected. The INAO monitors and regulates the production of Champagne to ensure that all products bearing this name fulfil the strict quality criteria.

Determination of the appellation

The INAO defines the geographical boundaries of Champagne. The Champagne region comprises four main growing areas: Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs and Côte de Sézanne. The designation "Champagne" may only be used if the wine comes from these defined areas and has been produced according to the specific methods of Champagne production.

Production specifications

The INAO has defined precise regulations for champagne production. These include

• Grape varietiesThree main grape varieties are authorised for the production of champagne: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The proportion and blend of these grape varieties vary depending on the champagne house and style of champagne.
• Cultivation methodsThe INAO sets standards for winegrowing practices, including the maximum harvest per hectare, to ensure the quality of the grapes.
• VinificationThe production of Champagne requires a second fermentation in the bottle, known as the "Méthode Champenoise". This process, in which the bottle is sealed after the first fermentation and stored in a special bottle fermenter, is an essential part of the quality of champagne.
• StorageThe INAO also regulates the minimum storage period for champagne. As a rule, this is at least 15 months for non-vintage (NV) champagne and 36 months for vintage champagne. This long ageing period contributes to the development of the complex flavours and fine perlage that make Champagne so unique.

Quality control

The INAO carries out regular inspections to ensure that all champagne producers comply with the established regulations. This includes checking both cultivation practices and production methods. A strict control system ensures that only champagne that fulfils the quality requirements may be marketed as such.

The role of the INAO for consumers

For consumers, the work of the INAO means a high degree of safety and confidence in the quality and authenticity of champagne. Through strict regulations and controls, the INAO ensures that the name "Champagne" is only used for products that meet the highest standards. This not only protects consumers from inferior products, but also the reputation of Champagne as one of the best and most respected sparkling wine regions in the world.

Challenges and future outlook

The INAO also faces challenges, particularly in terms of global competition and adapting to new market conditions. The demand for champagne is growing internationally, and the INAO must ensure that traditional production methods are maintained while taking innovation and market changes into account.

To summarise, the INAO plays a decisive role in the champagne sector. By regulating origin and quality, the Institute ensures that Champagne meets the highest standards and that the name "Champagne" is only used for genuine, authentic products. The work of the INAO not only ensures the quality of the product, but also protects the heritage and tradition of Champagne as one of the world's leading wine regions.

 

 

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