BORDEAUX CLASSIFICATIONS

Question 1

What are the 2 most generic labels in Bordeaux?

Answer 1

Bordeaux and Bordeaux Superieur are the most generic labelling terms in Bordeaux

Question 2

What are the differences between Bordeaux and Bordeaux Superieur?

Answer 2

Bordeaux is low tannin, fruit forward and tends to be made predominantly from Merlot.

Bordeaux Superieur has slightly stricter rules and a higher ABV %. More ripe fruit charateristics.

Question 3

What does Grand Vin mean in Bordeaux?

Answer 3

Grand Vin means the Chateaux or producer believes that is their best wine.

Question 4

Where does Grand Cru Classé come from?

Answer 4

Grand Cru Classé can only come from H. Medoc and Graves (Pessac-Leognan)

Question 5

When was the Class system established? What does it represent?

Answer 5

It was established in 1855. A ranking system for the best wines of Medoc and Sauternes.

Question 6

What is the Saint-Emilion classification system?

Answer 6

Uses the saint emilion appelation and a smaller Saint Emilion Grand Cru appellation (represents the best land of St. Emilion.).

There is also a Chateaux ranking for Calssé, where the best chateaux receive a 1er Grand Cru Classé A or B ranking.

Question 7

How often do they reclassify the Saint Emilion system?

Answer 7

Every 10 years.

Question 8

What is the Graves classification system?

Answer 8

All listed wines may classify themselves as Cru Classé. There is no hierarchy.

Question 9

Which appellation would a Cru Classé in Graves come from?

Answer 9

Pessac-Leognan