IGP, AOP and Gold Medals: French labels explained simply
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At Le Cornichon , we love good products. But above all, we love knowing where they come from . Today, we're explaining three quality labels you often see on our product pages: PGI , PDO , and the famous medals from the Concours Général Agricole . We promise, it's simple, quick, and very useful for impressing your guests at cocktail hour.
🟡 What is PGI?
IGP stands for Protected Geographical Indication . It is a European label that guarantees that at least one important stage of production takes place in a well-defined geographical area.
👉 It is the recognition of regional know-how , without requiring that everything be done in the same place.
💡 Example at Le Cornichon:
This little gem is hand-harvested, respecting a local tradition. Perfect for finishing off a dish or enhancing a slice of bread and radish. And yes, the jar is made of cardboard, because we care about the planet too 🌍
🔴 And what about the PDO?
AOP stands for Protected Designation of Origin . This is serious business. To obtain this label, all stages (from cultivation to processing) must take place in the area of origin , according to precise rules.
👉 This is the label for ultra-typical products , which tell the story of a region all by themselves.
💡 Example at Le Cornichon:
👉 Domaine Peyre – Gala 2024 – Ventoux AOP
A fruity, elegant red wine, grown at the foot of Mont Ventoux. This Gala 2024 adheres to strict production guidelines. Enjoy it with charcuterie, friends, or both.
🥇 What is the General Agricultural Competition medal?
Created in 1870 , this competition is held annually at the International Agricultural Show in Paris. It rewards the best French regional products: wines, cheeses, cured meats, jams, honeys… The jury is composed of experts, chefs, producers… but also informed consumers.
A medal at the Concours Général Agricole is a guarantee of quality, recognized by professionals and the public. Few products obtain it, and when they do, it's for good reason!
💡 Example at Le Cornichon:
👉 Traditional Terrine – Silver Medal 2024
A generous, rustic and melt-in-your-mouth terrine, made using traditional methods. It's easy to see why it won over the jury.
✅ Why these labels are important:
These labels are more than just marketing gimmicks: they guarantee origin , quality , production conditions , and respect for traditional craftsmanship . At Le Cornichon, we highlight them because they embody what we love: authentic taste, traceability, and well-made products.
🔎 In summary:
| Label | What it guarantees |
|---|---|
| 🟡 PGI | A step taken in a specific region |
| 🔴 PDO | Everything is done in the area of origin |
| 🥇 Medal | Award-winning product recognized for its exceptional quality |
👉 Discover our certified products:
- Ventoux AOP red wine – Domaine Peyre Gala 2024
- Traditional terrine – Gold medal
🍷 A label is good. An aperitif with it is better.
So, ready to taste the real France?
Find all our labeled and award-winning products in the grocery store.
🎯 “At Le Cornichon, the vast majority of our wine selection comes from protected designations of origin (PDO). Because we love terroir wines, with a real identity, and not overly polished ones. We've even created a special collection just for them:”