What is the primary focus of AOC regulations?

The primary focus of AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) regulations is indeed to ensure high-quality wine production in designated regions. AOC regulations are designed to protect both the name of the wine and the methods of production. They establish strict criteria that must be met for a wine to be labeled with a particular AOC designation, which may include rules about grape varieties, vineyard practices, geographic boundaries, and winemaking techniques. This system is aimed at maintaining the reputation and integrity of wines from specific regions, thereby ensuring that consumers receive a product that is representative of its origin.

The other options do not align with the primary objectives of AOC regulations. Promoting international grape varieties is not a focus of AOC, as the system is typically centered on indigenous varietals that best express the terroir of the region. Standardizing wine pricing across regions is also not within the scope of AOC, which allows market forces to dictate the price based on quality and demand. Finally, AOC regulations do not prohibit organic farming practices; rather, they may include provisions that allow for various vineyard management methods, which can include organic practices aimed at sustainability and quality enhancement.