An appellation of origin is a distinguishing sign that identifies a product as originating from the country or a region or town within the national territory, as long as its quality, reputation, or another characteristic of the product is fundamentally attributable to its geographical origin. The natural and human factors that come into play in the characterization of the product are also taken into account.

The place of origin can be a city, a town, a region, or a country.

An appellation of origin lasts indefinitely, as long as the factors that led to its recognition are still present.