Médoc Classification - 1st Growth

Médoc Classification - 1st Growth

Create an alert

The classification of the Premiers Crus of the Médoc dates back to 1855, created at the request of Napoleon III for the Paris World Fair. A true global reference, this classification distinguishes the elite of Bordeaux grands crus classés. Remaining almost unchanged since its origin, it now includes five jewels: Château Lafite-Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux, Château Mouton Rothschild — promoted in 1973 — and Château Haut-Brion. These 1ers crus classés embody excellence, prestige and the timeless expertise of the Médoc wines.

  Read more
Read more
Create an alert
Classified Growths of Médoc

Classified Growths of Médoc
Preparing your order

Preparing your order
Great Classified Growths of Bordeaux

Great Classified Growths of Bordeaux

Products (55)

Filter
1 2

Receive our latest arrivals of Médoc Classification - 1st Growth by email!

Sign up and be the first to know about new arrivals.

The F.A.Q

What is a 1er Cru Classé du Médoc?

A 1er Cru Classé du Médoc is one of the five most prestigious estates in the 1855 classification. These châteaux – Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Margaux, Mouton Rothschild and Haut-Brion – embody the excellence of great Bordeaux wines thanks to their consistency, exceptional terroir and ageing capacity.

Why are the 1ers Crus Classés so sought after?

They are sought after for their consistent quality, remarkable longevity and history. Each vintage expresses a perfect mastery of viticulture and maturation, making these wines global references for collectors and lovers of great growths.

How to choose a 1er Cru Classé du Médoc?

The choice often depends on the vintage and the style of the château. Some 1ers Crus are more powerful and structured, others finer and more aromatic. Consulting the expert ratings, vintage profiles and detailed descriptions on SoDivin.fr helps to select the wine most suited to your tastes or a special occasion.

The Premiers Crus of the Médoc classification: symbol of excellence and prestige

The classification of the Premiers Crus of the Médoc embodies the very essence of French wine prestige. Created in 1855 at the request of Napoleon III for the Paris Universal Exhibition, this classification aimed to highlight the grands crus classés of Bordeaux, considered the most renowned wines in the world. Based on the reputation and price of wines at the time, it established a hierarchy that remains an international reference in the wine world today.

A history shaped by tradition and recognition

In 1855, Bordeaux brokers were tasked with selecting the most prestigious estates of the Médoc. Their classification, of exemplary rigour, placed the most esteemed properties at the top: the Premiers Crus Classés. For more than a century and a half, this distinction has symbolised the consistency, quality and expertise of iconic houses that have shaped the legend of Bordeaux wine.

This classification has stood the test of time without undergoing major changes, proof of its solidity and historical legitimacy. The only notable exception is that of Château Mouton Rothschild, initially classified as a Deuxième Cru, promoted to the rank of Premier Cru Classé in 1973, after decades of recognised excellence.

The Premiers Crus Classés of the Médoc: five Bordeaux icons

The 1855 classification distinguishes five exceptional estates that embody French wine perfection: Château Lafite-Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux, Château Mouton Rothschild and Château Haut-Brion. These properties, situated on the most noble terroirs of the Médoc and Graves, produce wines of remarkable elegance, depth and longevity.

Their reputation extends far beyond French borders. Each of these châteaux expresses a unique identity, the result of a distinctive terroir and expertise passed down through generations. Together, they form the pinnacle of the grands crus classés of the Médoc classification, an absolute reference for enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

A living heritage of French wine

More than a simple classification, the Premiers Crus of the Médoc embody a philosophy: that of perfection, patience and loyalty to the terroir. Tasting a Premier Cru Classé means savouring a fragment of history, a rare balance between tradition and modernity.

Even today, these prestigious châteaux perpetuate the spirit of the 1855 classification, guaranteeing Médoc wines their rank among the world's greatest wines. Each vintage tells a story, that of a living heritage where passion for wine combines with French excellence.

Buying your wine from SoDivin

Ordering a 1er Cru Classé wine from the Médoc at SoDivin means choosing an excellent service dedicated to fine wine enthusiasts. Benefit from same-day dispatch for any order placed before 2pm, with next-day delivery. Each bottle receives special care, and our packaging ensures optimal protection during transport.

SoDivin also offers you the possibility to add a personalised message as well as wooden gift boxes, ideal for giving on the occasion of a birthday or other celebration. Furthermore, you can choose the dispatch date for delivery suited to your needs. Our wines are stored in optimal conditions and you can view high-definition photographs online of each bottle before your purchase, for complete transparency.

Read more