Bordeaux - Classification Systems
6 important questions on Bordeaux - Classification Systems
Following the 1855 classification, four classifications exist for sub-regions in Bordeaux, which are they?
- The 1855 classification
- The Graves classification
- The Saint Emilion classification
- The Crus Bourgeois du Médoc classification
Which regions (AOC) in Bordeaux, make red wines only?
Haut Médoc crus
Describe the 1855 classification of Bordeaux, what are the five First Growths?
- For 60 estates in Médoc and Graves (left bank)
- 5 tiers; first growths (crus) to cinquièmes crus
- Haut médoc plus sauternes (ch d’Yquem = 1e grand cru superieur)
First Growths
- Ch. Lafite Rotschild
- Ch Mouton Rotschild
- Ch Latour
- Ch Margaux
- Ch Haut Brion
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Describe the Graves classification of Bordeaux
- established in 1959, based on list of 16 classified chateaux (pricing, fame, quality),
- red and white,
- all in Pessac Leognan
Describe the Saint Emilion classification and what is judged on. Name the four tiers of this system and give the names of Classé A chateaux.
4 tiers:
- Premier grand cru classé A: Chateaux Ausone, Cheval Blanc, Pavie, Angélus
- premier grand cru classé B
- Grand cru classé
- Grand cru – basic wine, misleading wording
Chateaux are judged on:
- terroir
- method of production
- reputation
- commercial considerations
- blind tasting of at least 10 vintages
Crus Bourgeois is a classification specific for Médoc wines (not individual chateaux), where is it based on and what are the tiers?
- Created in 1932, revised in 2010
- Level below Grand Cru Classé but still superior quality
- for individual wines awarded annually
- Assessment based on 1) production method, 2) finished product
3 tiers of quality, since 2018:
- Crus Bourgeois
- Crus Bourgeois Superieur
- Curs bourgeois exceptionnel
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