Vin de Pays, translated as "country wine" in French, is a category of wine in France that represents a step above table wine but below the more strictly regulated Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system. This designation allows winemakers greater flexibility in terms of grape varieties and winemaking techniques, providing them with the freedom to experiment and innovate. Vin de Pays wines are often reflective of the specific region where they are produced, allowing for a diverse range of styles across the country. While the Vin de Pays designation has been largely replaced by the broader Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP) system in recent years, it remains a symbol of France's commitment to showcasing the rich diversity of its terroirs and grape varieties beyond the strict AOC regulations.