Demystifying the Classifications of Bordeaux, France – With Jay Youmans MW

$55, 2 1/2 hours

Bordeaux produces some of the greatest wines in the world. It is a large and complicated region with over 60 sub-regions and nearly 8000 producers. Many of the finest Chateau (producers) are ‘classified’. Join Jay Youmans MW via Cisco Webex as he explains the classifications of Bordeaux, assesses the importance of this system, and identifies some of the best wines for the money.

In addition to the different regions in Bordeaux, there are also several classification levels for producers. Suffice to say that Bordeaux classifications only exist to increase demand and cause prices to rise. Perhaps the best takeaway is to realize that the Bordelais use the word “Cru” rather unstintingly; the word means “growth” and not “the best”. Saint-Emilion, Graves, and Médoc all have different classification systems. Médoc even has two!
Suffice to say that Bordeaux classifications only exist to increase demand and cause prices to rise.

THE FIVE BORDEAUX WINE CLASSIFICATIONS

Bordeaux introduced the concept of classification in 1855 under Napoleon III, and it now serves as an expression of quality and prestige worldwide. The principle of the crus classés (“classified growths”) perfectly illustrates the synthesis of a terroir’s typical characteristics and dedicated human intervention over many generations to ensure quality.

It should be emphasized that a wine or appellation can still be outstanding even if it is not a part of these classifications!

There are several classifications in Gironde, listed in order of seniority:

The 1855 classification

The Graves classification

The Saint-Émilion classification

The Crus Bourgeois du Médoc classification

The Crus Artisans classification

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***Cisco Webex invitations will be emailed the day before or the morning of the class date.