1855 Classification of Bordeaux
The Bordeaux Classification of 1855 is one of the world's most influential wine ranking systems, established at the request of Emperor Napoleon III for the Paris Universal Exposition. Based primarily on historical reputation and market prices, the classification organized Bordeaux's leading red wine estates into five tiers, from First Growth (Premier Cru) to Fifth Growth (Cinquième Cru), covering the Médoc and Château Haut-Brion in Graves. A separate classification recognized the sweet white wines of Sauternes and Barsac, with Château d'Yquem receiving the unique distinction of Premier Cru Supérieur. Remarkably, the classification has remained largely unchanged for more than 170 years, with the promotion of Château Mouton Rothschild to First Growth in 1973 standing as its most significant revision, reinforcing its enduring influence on Bordeaux's prestige, pricing, and global reputation.
Watch in the feed →
