The Bordeaux wine classification system dates back over 150 years. In 1855, Emperor Napoleon III requested the development of a universal Bordeaux Wine Classification system. Bordeaux wine classification is divided into five categories according to price. One of the key aspects of this system is the term 'first growth wines' - signalling the highest quality wines. The first growth red wines are among the most expensive wines in the world. First growth Bordeaux red wines include Château Lafite-Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, Château Haut-Brion, and Château Mouton Rothschild. All of these wines come from the vineyards of Graves and Medoc, situated on the left bank of the river Gironde
Bordeaux wine classification - Pomerol wines
There is no official Bordeaux wine classification applied to the Pomerol wine area. However some Pomerol wines, notably Chateau Pétrus and Château Le Pin, are often considered as being equivalent to first growth Bordeaux wines and often sell for even higher prices.
Bordeaux wine classification - Sauternes wines
Sweet white Bordeaux wines from Sauternes and Barsac are also classified into three categories, with only Château d'Yquem being classified as a superior 'first growth Bordeaux wine'.
Bordeaux wine classification - St Emilion wines
In 1955, St. Emilion AOC were classified into three wine categories, the highest being Premier Grand Cru Classé A. There are currently two Premier Grand cru Class A wines from St Emillon: Château Ausone and Château Cheval Blanc.
Basic Red Bordeaux wines and Bordeaux Superior wine
The "basic" red Bordeaux wines which are produced all over the Bordeaux wine region are often the cheapeast Bordeaux wines available. They tend to be fruity, with a just a slight hint of oak and are meant to be drunk young. Some producers in these locations do however produce Bordeaux Superior in a style more similar to the other classic red Bordeaux wines.
Bordeaux wine classification - Côtes de Bordeaux wine
The eight appellations of the Cotes de Bordeaux wine region situated in the hilly outskirts of the Bordeaux region, do not have an official Bordeaux wine classification. Thes wines are made from a blend dominated by Merlot grapes. The Cotes de Bordeaux wines tend to be intermediate in quality (between the basic red Bordeaux and the more famous appellations of the left and right bank of the Gironde).
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