Sauternes Classification - Premier Cru Classé Supérieur

Sauternes Classification - Premier Cru Classé Supérieur

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The Sauternes classification – Premier Cru Supérieur, established in 1855 at the request of Napoleon III, represents the elite of sweet white wines from Sauternes and Barsac. At the absolute summit, one single estate: the legendary Château d'Yquem, the sole Premier Cru Supérieur ever recognised. Its exceptional status reflects an unequalled quality, stemming from a unique terroir and exceptional expertise, making Yquem the undisputed reference for great Sauternes wines.

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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

Qu’est-ce qu’un 1er Cru Classé Supérieur de Sauternes ?

The title of Premier Cru Classé Supérieur is a unique distinction awarded in 1855 to Château d'Yquem. It is the most prestigious classification of Sauternes, recognising the excellence, finesse and exceptional ageing potential of its sweet wines.

Pourquoi le Château d’Yquem est-il classé supérieur ?

Château d'Yquem obtained this superior status thanks to the consistency of its quality, the precision of its ageing and the uniqueness of its terroir. Its wines are distinguished by a rare concentration, an incomparable aromatic richness and an exceptional ageing capacity, sometimes exceeding a century.

Avec quels mets servir un Sauternes 1er Cru Classé Supérieur ?

An Yquem pairs perfectly with foie gras, roast poultry, blue-veined cheeses or even refined desserts. Its richness and balance also allow it to be savoured alone, as a meditation wine.

The Classification of Premiers Crus Classés Supérieurs of Sauternes

The 1855 classification, established at the request of Napoleon III, has permanently shaped the reputation of great Bordeaux wines. In the category of sweet wines from Sauternes and Barsac, it distinguishes three levels of excellence. At the absolute pinnacle stands the designation Premier Cru Classé Supérieur, a unique distinction that underscores the qualitative supremacy of a single estate. This classification remains today an essential reference point for lovers of great Sauternes and a central element of French wine heritage.

A historic classification at the pinnacle of quality

While the Médoc counts several châteaux per rank, the classification of sweet white wines is distinguished by a much tighter hierarchy. The title of Premier Cru Classé Supérieur has been awarded to only one estate, proof of an exceptional level of exigency since 1855. This uniqueness reflects the desire to distinguish a wine capable of combining concentration, elegance, consistency and exceptional ageing potential. This prestigious classification continues today to reinforce the attractiveness of Sauternes wines among collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.

Château d'Yquem, the sole Premier Cru Classé Supérieur

Château d'Yquem embodies the absolute excellence of Sauternes. Established on a complex terroir perfectly suited to the development of noble rot, it benefits from a rare microclimate that allows for slow and optimal ripening of the grapes. Each vintage of Yquem is distinguished by exceptional aromatic richness, remarkable precision and incomparable longevity, making the estate a world reference for sweet wines. Its status as Premier Cru Classé Supérieur, never shared, reflects not only its history but also the exceptional consistency of its quality.

A world reference for sweet wines

Sought after by collectors, served at the finest tables and recognised as a monument of French viticulture, Château d'Yquem has become the natural ambassador of Sauternes. Its aura reinforces the image of the 1855 classification as a prestigious label and highlights the unique expertise of the region. Thanks to this classification and the excellence of Yquem, Sauternes asserts itself as one of the world's great sweet wine terroirs, combining tradition, rarity and elegance.

Buy a 1er Cru Classé Supérieur from Sauternes at SoDivin

To help you choose your bottle of wine, you can find the ratings of the experts (La Revue du Vin de France, Robert Parker, Jancis Robinson, Wine Spectator) which are available under each product. All our bottles are in stock and dispatched the same day for next-day delivery. You can also add a wooden case and a personalised message to your order.

Our entire team is also at your disposal to advise you. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

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