Classified Growths of the Médoc

Classified Growths of the Médoc

The Crus Classés du Médoc, from the famous 1855 classification, comprise 61 prestigious châteaux spread across six appellations, including Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe. Recognised for their exceptional quality, these grands crus classés are divided into five levels, from Premier to Cinquième Grand Cru Classé. The Médoc is distinguished by its gravel terroirs, ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. Legendary names such as Château Margaux, Lafite Rothschild or Latour have earned these crus classés worldwide renown, sought after for their finesse, power and remarkable ageing potential.

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First Classified Growth

First Classified Growth
Second Classified Growth

Second Classified Growth
Third Classified Growth

Third Classified Growth
Fourth Classified Growth

Fourth Classified Growth
Fifth Classified Growth

Fifth Classified Growth
Great Classified Growths of Bordeaux

Great Classified Growths of Bordeaux
Preparation of your SoDivin order

Preparation of your SoDivin order

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The F.A.Q

What is a cru classé of the Médoc?

A cru classé of the Médoc is a prestigious red wine from Bordeaux, originating from the famous 1855 classification, established for the Paris Universal Exhibition at the request of Napoleon III. This classification distinguishes 61 châteaux spread across six appellations of the Médoc (Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, Saint-Estèphe, Haut-Médoc and Moulis), classified into five categories: from First to Fifth Grand Cru Classé. The crus classés stand out for the quality of their terroir, their consistency, their ageing potential and their international reputation. This label guarantees a high level of excellence in the great red wines of the Médoc, sought after by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

What makes the 1855 classification so important in the wine world?

The 1855 classification is crucial in the wine world as it established a hierarchy of the best crus from Bordeaux, based on their reputation and quality at the time. This classification influenced prices and the perception of wines, and the Crus Classés remain among the most prestigious and sought-after. Although it has been modified only slightly since, it remains a strong symbol of the Bordeaux terroir and has inspired other classifications around the world.

What is the role of "Crus Bourgeois" compared to classified wines?

The Grands Crus Classés of the Médoc are the most prestigious wines, classified since 1855 into five levels. Since 1932, the Crus Bourgeois have grouped together high-quality but unclassified wines, offering good value for money, often close to the Grands Crus Classés, but at more affordable prices.

The Crus Classés of the Médoc: the elite of Bordeaux red wines

A historic classification since 1855

The Crus Classés of the Médoc have their origins in the famous 1855 classification, established at the request of Napoleon III for the Paris Universal Exhibition. This classification aimed to showcase the best red wines of the Médoc according to their reputation and price at the time, considered as indicators of quality. It includes 61 châteaux, spread across the major appellations of the Médoc: Pauillac, Margaux, Saint-Julien, Saint-Estèphe, Haut-Médoc and Moulis.

A hierarchy in five levels of prestige

The Grands Crus Classés of the Médoc are divided into five levels:

Exceptional terroirs in the heart of the Médoc

The Médoc benefits from a unique terroir, composed of gravel (pebbles and stones), ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape variety in the region. This well-drained soil, combined with a temperate oceanic climate, allows for slow and regular ripening of the grapes, producing powerful, elegant wines crafted for ageing.

Wines crafted for ageing and tasting

The Crus Classés of the Médoc are renowned for their exceptional longevity. When well preserved, certain vintages can develop favourably for several decades. Their aromatic profile evolves over time: aromas of black fruits and spices in their youth, then notes of leather, undergrowth, and truffle with age.

For enthusiasts, choosing a quality vintage is essential. Years such as 2005, 2010 or 2016 are particularly sought after for their balance and ageing potential.

The great châteaux of the Médoc: 

The best wines of the Médoc come from iconic estates that combine expertise, exceptional terroir and tradition. Among them, the Premiers Grands Crus Classés such as Château Margaux, Château Latour, Château Lafite Rothschild or Château Mouton Rothschild stand at the summit. Renowned for their elegance, power and long ageing potential, these exceptional red wines symbolise the excellence of the Bordeaux vineyard. Other classified growths, such as Château Pichon Baron, Château Palmer or Château Léoville Las Cases, rival in complexity and offer remarkable tasting experiences, especially in great vintages such as 2010, 2016 or 2019. Whether one is looking for a collector's wine or a refined table pleasure, the Médoc abounds with essential references.

Discover our Crus Classés of the Médoc currently in our cellar:

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) 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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