- Premier Gran Cru Classe A (4 wineries)
- Premier Gran Cru Classe B (14 wineries)
- Gran Cru Classe (63 wineries)
- Gran Cru (large number, just based on specific viticultural practices)
The rankings are redone every 10 years, so wineries have a chance to move between tiers in the rankings or completely out of or into the rankings. Similar to the 1855 Bordeaux rankings, winemakers told me that where you fall in the system is a significant driver for demand for your wine. In an increasingly competitive market for Bordeaux wines, this is very important.
I visited St. Emilion this summer and found these classifications to be a really helpful to guide where to schedule tastings. That being said, I found significant variability in my opinion of the taste of Gran Cru Classe (third tier) wines. While some were fantastic, others were not even something I would want to ever drink. This variability makes me wonder whether a 10-year lag is the right timeframe.
Chateau Pontet-Canet could champion a more dynamic ranking system within Medoc mirroring the St. Emilion system. Perhaps this could limit the effect of the 1855 ranking, particularly among new world wine drinkers who are more responsive to near-term classifications like critic rankings.
Interesting article on classification: http://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/bordeaux-wine-producer-profiles/guide-official-classification-bordeaux-wine/
Winery photos from St. Emilion (in case you're interested!)
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