In order to bear the title D.O.C. (Denominazione di Origine Controllata - Controlled Appellation) or D.O.C.G. (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita - Guaranteed Controlled Appellation) a wine must be produced in accordance with precise regulations governing cultivation and vinification and must subsequently be examined by a committee which is usually controlled by the Chamber of Commerce.
These rules are clearly laid out in the draft of regulations governing production for each D.O.C. or D.O.C.G. and these must be followed by the producers. They clearly state the areas of production, with meticulous definition of the boundaries, indicate which grape varieties may be used in the production of wine, the maximum yield per hectare, types allowed (sparkling, sweet, dry, reserve, superior and so on), the minimum alcohol level, minimum ageing and even the main features of the bouquet and taste.
A recent law, No. 164, changed the way production is controlled (or rather the way the regulations are enforced) by setting up a body which protects and controls the entire production of each D.O.C.
These are responsibilities which, according to the law, may be carried out by setting up a committee which created for the purpose or by a producers' consortium if there is one in the area.