A Complementary Geographical Denomination (CGD) of an AOC identifies wines whose identity is linked to a more restricted territory than that of the AOC. DGCs have proliferated over the years, but to date have lacked visibility with consumers. Indeed, the DGC alone does not highlight the hierarchical, pyramidal organization of the AOC. The term "cru" is designed to better identify the hierarchical DGCs recognized in an AOC. In concrete terms, it takes the form of "AOC name + cru DGC", making it possible both to provide a valorizing mention while underlining the link with the AOC.

Valuing particularities, without creating new appellations

Access to this valorizing mention is limited only to small DGCs (from lieu-dit to 10 communes), which are based on a specific parcel delimitation associated with more restrictive production conditions that must reflect a reality and not be an objective to be achieved :

• Anteriority of the presence of vines
• Implication of operators (area claimed with DGC name / DGC area in production)
• Number of operators using the name in relation to the number of operators in the DGC area
• Continuity and seniority of the claim to the DGC name
• Notoriety of the DGC and products (citations in the press, reference works, current or past, ...)
• Tasting (verification of the exceptional character of the wines)
• Homogeneous terroir unit, terroir not being limited to the characteristics of the natural environment.

As part of the hierarchical strategy

This development was decided by the Comité national des appellations d'origine relatives aux vins at its meeting on February 9, 2022. The proposed use of the term "cru" remains at the discretion of the organisme de défense et de gestion. Any request to set up a pyramid organization in an AOC must be submitted for the formal opinion of the CRINAO, guarantor of the hierarchical strategy in its territory before being examined by the national committee.