Premiers Grands Crus Classés
The term Premiers Grands Crus Classés refers to the top-ranking wines from the Bordeaux region, particularly from the Médoc and one estate in Graves. This prestigious classification dates back to the 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris, where wines were ranked based on their reputation and trading prices at the time. The five châteaux that hold this highest classification are Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, and Château Mouton Rothschild (all from Pauillac), Château Margaux (Margaux), and Château Haut-Brion (Graves, Pessac-Léognan). These estates produce wines renowned for their complexity, exceptional quality, and aging potential, and they continue to command high prices globally. Château Mouton Rothschild, initially ranked as a Deuxième Grand Cru Classé, was promoted to Premier status in 1973, joining the original four to complete the current list.