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An event to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the first six wine AOCs
In 2026, the first six wine appellations—Arbois, Cassis, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Cognac, Monbazillac, and Tavel—will celebrate their 90th anniversary. To mark the Wine Paris trade show, a festive event was held on February 10, 2026, to highlight this wine-growing heritage and underscore the resolutely innovative and modern spirit of the AOCs.
The First 6 French Appellations d'Origine Contrôlées
The decree of May 15, 1936, marked the official recognition of the first six Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in France. This decree established a legal framework designed to protect agricultural products whose quality and characteristics depend on their terroir of origin. Six wine appellations were thus established: Arbois, Cassis, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Cognac, Monbazillac, and Tavel. These first AOCs reflected a desire to preserve local expertise and protect against fraud. They heralded the gradual creation of a national system of appellations, which was quickly extended to other major terroirs.
A symbolic anniversary focused on promoting SIQO
Held in conjunction with the Wine Paris trade show, this anniversary highlights the modernity of the appellation concept. This recognition is built on identity, origin, a committed community, and protection granted by the French government—and, since 1992, by the European Union. Nearly 300 guests—including winemakers, industry representatives, professionals, and partners—attended and had the opportunity to taste these wines, celebrating these founding terroirs. It was an opportunity to highlight the richness and longevity of these historic appellations.
In 2025, the INAO celebrated its 90th anniversary
This anniversary marks the 90th anniversary of the INAO, to be celebrated in 2025, whose creation paved the way for the emergence of these first six appellations. For nine decades, the Institute has been at the heart of France’s policy to promote agricultural products through official quality and origin identification marks (SIQO). Its work has helped preserve and promote France’s culinary heritage. As part of this anniversary, the Institute and its history committee have created a traveling exhibition highlighting, in particular, the first six French appellations contrôlées.