Reading an Old World label

Old World labels name the place, not the grape. France's AOC/AOP (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée/Protégée) states that the wine, grapes, and methods are regulated per region. Italy's DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) is the top tier, below which sit DOC and IGT. Spain's DO and DOCa (Rioja, Priorat) are equivalents. Germany's system differs: Qualitätswein and Prädikat (Kabinett–TBA) indicate ripeness level. Austria's DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) regulates regional styles. On all labels: producer, region, and vintage are key information. The grape is rarely stated but is assumed knowledge for the consumer.