Sauternes Classification - 1st Classified Growth

Sauternes Classification - 1st Classified Growth

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The Sauternes classification of 1855, created to promote the greatest sweet white wines of Sauternes and Barsac, is organised into three levels: Premier Cru Supérieur, Premiers Crus and Deuxièmes Crus. At the top, Château d'Yquem remains the only Premier Cru Supérieur. The Premiers Crus rank brings together 11 prestigious properties, including Château Climens, Château Coutet, Château Guiraud, Château Suduiraut, Château Rabaud-Promis and Château Rieussec, which embody the aromatic richness and historical excellence of the Sauternes terroir.

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Classified Growths of Sauternes

Classified Growths of Sauternes
Grand Crus Classés of Bordeaux

Grand Crus Classés of Bordeaux
Sauternes Appellation

Sauternes Appellation
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The F.A.Q

What is a Premier Cru Classé de Sauternes?

A Premier Cru Classé de Sauternes belongs to the prestigious 1855 classification, established to distinguish the finest sweet wines of the region. These estates are characterised by wines of great aromatic richness, produced from noble rot, and by an exceptional ageing capacity.

What is the difference between Premier Cru Classé and Premier Cru Supérieur?

The Premier Cru Supérieur is a unique rank, reserved exclusively for Château d'Yquem. The Premiers Crus Classés, on the other hand, constitute the second level of the classification and bring together several historic châteaux. They offer wines of great intensity, but without reaching the exceptional singular status of Yquem.

Why are the Premiers Crus Classés of Sauternes so renowned?

These wines owe their reputation to an exceptional terroir, climatic conditions favourable to botrytis, and expertise passed down through generations. Their complexity, their balance between sugar and acidity, as well as their exceptional longevity make them essential references for lovers of sweet wines.

The classification of Premiers Crus Classés de Sauternes

The 1855 classification, established at the request of Napoleon III, remains one of the major references for understanding the hierarchy of great Bordeaux wines. For sweet white wines, only those from Sauternes and Barsac were selected. This classification aimed to distinguish properties recognised for the consistent quality of their wines, their historical reputation and their ability to produce exceptional sweet wines. The Premiers Crus Classés occupy a central position, just below the legendary Château d'Yquem, the only Premier Cru Supérieur.

A wine-growing heritage founded on excellence

The Premiers Crus Classés de Sauternes represent the heart of the region's sweet wine expertise. Their inclusion in this category rests on three pillars: a unique terroir, a microclimate favourable to the development of noble rot, and a meticulous wine-growing tradition. These estates benefit from rare conditions that enable them to obtain botrytised grapes of exceptional richness every year. Their recognition in 1855 reflects an excellence already established for centuries, often linked to demanding cultivation practices and perfect mastery of harvesting through successive pickings.

Iconic châteaux of the Sauternes style

Eleven estates make up this wine-growing elite: Climens, Coutet, Guiraud, Lafaurie-Peyraguey, Rayne-Vigneau, Suduiraut, La Tour Blanche, Rieussec, Rabaud-Promis and Sigalas-Rabaud. Each of these châteaux offers a unique interpretation of the Sauternes style. Some are renowned for their crystalline finesse and freshness, whilst others stand out for their aromatic opulence or exceptional ageing potential. Their diversity demonstrates the richness of the Sauternes terroir, capable of producing both delicate wines and powerful, complex sweet wines.

A classification that remains relevant for enthusiasts

More than 150 years after its creation, the Premiers Crus Classés de Sauternes category remains a reliable reference for enthusiasts and collectors. These châteaux continue to embody the consistency, precision and refinement that have built the region's reputation. Their production, often limited and highly sought after, confirms the importance of the 1855 classification as a buying guide and as an international reference in the world of great sweet wines. Through these estates, the entire identity of Sauternes is expressed: a rare terroir, ancestral expertise and a constant quest for perfection.

Buying your wine from SoDivin

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

SoDivin also offers you the option to add a personalised message as well as wooden gift boxes, ideal for birthday or other special occasion gifts. In addition, you can choose the delivery date to suit your needs. Our wines are kept in optimal conditions and you can view high-definition photographs online of each bottle before purchase, for complete transparency.

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