The Grands Crus of Bordeaux Classification Explained
Bordeaux, France's emblematic wine-growing region, is world-renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Grands Crus. These wines, synonymous with quality and prestige, are the fruit of ancestral know-how and a unique terroir.
The classification of Bordeaux Grands Crus dates back to 1855, under the reign of Napoleon III. For the Paris Universal Exhibition, Bordeaux wines were classified into five categories, ranging from Premiers Crus to Cinquièmes Crus, in order to highlight the region's best producers. This classification, based on the reputation of the châteaux and the selling prices at the time, remains a benchmark for wine lovers the world over to this day.
The Grands Crus of Bordeaux come from a number of prestigious appellations, each offering wines with unique characteristics:
Médoc : Situated on the left bank of the Garonne, this region includes renowned appellations such as Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe. Médoc wines are predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, offering structured, tannic wines with great longevity.
Graves : This region, known for its gravelly soils, produces both red and white wines. The reds, often dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, are elegant and well-balanced, while the whites, made from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, are renowned for their freshness and complexity.
Saint-Émilion : On the right bank of the Dordogne, this appellation is famous for its rich, opulent wines, mainly made from Merlot, with hints of Cabernet Franc. The classification of Saint-Émilion wines is reviewed every ten years, guaranteeing a regular assessment of quality.
Pomerol : Although not part of the 1855 classification, Pomerol is a prestigious appellation, renowned for its exceptional wines, dominated by Merlot. Château Pétrus, one of the world's most famous wines, comes from here.
The Grands Crus are often matured in oak barrels, giving them complex aromas and a great capacity for ageing!
The Grands Crus of Bordeaux come from a number of prestigious appellations, each offering wines with unique characteristics:
Médoc : Situated on the left bank of the Garonne, this region includes renowned appellations such as Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe. Médoc wines are predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, offering structured, tannic wines with great longevity.
Graves : This region, known for its gravelly soils, produces both red and white wines. The reds, often dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, are elegant and well-balanced, while the whites, made from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, are renowned for their freshness and complexity.
Saint-Émilion : On the right bank of the Dordogne, this appellation is famous for its rich, opulent wines, mainly made from Merlot, with hints of Cabernet Franc. The classification of Saint-Émilion wines is reviewed every ten years, guaranteeing a regular assessment of quality.
Pomerol : Although not part of the 1855 classification, Pomerol is a prestigious appellation, renowned for its exceptional wines, dominated by Merlot. Château Pétrus, one of the world's most famous wines, comes from here.
The Grands Crus are often matured in oak barrels, giving them complex aromas and a great capacity for ageing!