What distinguishes AOC from AOP in wine classification?

The answer that highlights the distinction between AOC and AOP hinges on the historical context and regulatory framework. AOC, or Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée, was indeed established in France during the 1930s as a means to control and protect the authenticity and quality of French wines based on specific geographic and production criteria. This designation is deeply rooted in French winemaking tradition.

In contrast, AOP, or Appellation d'Origine Protégée, is a more recent designation introduced as part of EU regulations aimed at harmonizing geographic indications across member countries. While AOP is similar to AOC in that it seeks to protect regional products, it encompasses not only wine but also a broader range of agricultural products and follows EU-wide standards.

The other choices do not accurately convey the distinctions. AOC applies to all types of wines, not just whites, and the classification systems are similar in terms of strictness, with AOP often aligning closely with the AOC’s regulations but being more flexible in certain aspects. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the historical and regulatory differences between these two designations, connecting AOC specifically to France's long-standing wine traditions and AOP to the broader European context.