The greatest wines in Bordeaux
The classification of the Médoc’s wines was created on the occasion of the Universal Exposition of 1855 in Paris ordered by Emperor Napoleon III. By considering not only the price of the wines, but also their quality and their renown, the brokers established their list of classed growths of the Médoc and Sauternes—in other words, the greatest wines in Bordeaux at that time. These wines made up the celebrated 1855 classification, as presented in a document dated April 18th of that year.
A reference still valid today
This classification has enjoyed an exceptional longevity. It was revised only once, in 1973, when Château Mouton Rothschild was promoted from a second growth to the rank of a first. With this exception, the Médoc’s 60 Classified Grands Crus appear today in the same order as in the 19th century. There are five first growths — including Haut Brion (Pessac-Léognan) — 14 second growths, 14 third growths, 10 fourth growths, and 18 fifth growths.
Pedigree and quality guaranteed!
Throughout the world, the 1855 classification is still an authoritative guide for negociants and wine lovers. The quality of these classed growths is beyond question and a guarantee to the consumer of an exceptional wine.
The principle behind the classification has been imitated around the world.
But the Médoc’s classed growths are nonetheless recognized as occupying a superior level, just as the nobility and the architecture of their châteaux are without equal. Today, these legendary properties still brilliantly express an image of the French ‘art de vivre’ in all the major export markets around the world. These are wines that will not disappoint…