The 1855 Classified Growths : history and classification
Discover the history behind the 1855 Classified Growths, a symbol of the prestige of Bordeaux wines, from Médoc to Sauternes.
The history of this classification
During the universal exposition of Paris in 1855, Napoléon III requested wine regions to create a classification. It is based on the wineries reputation and the middle sale price of the wine at the time.
This classification only regroups the red wines of the Medoc, the sweet white wines of Sauterne and Barsac, but also a red cru of the Graves.
The differents wineries of the 1855 Classified Growths
There is 60 differents Grands Crus Classés of the Médoc and 1 Cru of Pessac-Léognan –
Red wines :
– The Five First Growths,
– 14 Second Growths,
– 14 Third Growths,
– 10 Fourth Growths,
– 18 Fifth Growths.
Also, there is 27 Crus of Sauternes et Barsac appellations – sweet wines :
– Superior First Growth,
– 11 First Growths,
– 15 Second Growths.
Even after more than 150 years, the 1855 Classification remains an essential benchmark. It still influences the prices, reputation, and global perception of Bordeaux’s finest wines today. And if you’d like to explore wine appellations and visit beautiful estates, take a look at these private wine tours in Bordeaux : https://www.bordeauxwithelodie.com/en/private-wine-tours-list/
