Classifications of vineyards (Château) or wines in Bordeaux have been made since the 18th century. Today there are five systems; the most famous dates back to 1855. However, only wines from the left bank (Rive gauche) of the Gironde were considered, which include the areas of Médoc, Graves, and Sauternes.
Of course, excellent wines also grow on the right bank (Rive droite), such as Fronsac, Pomerol, and Saint-Émilion. The classification, which is over one and a half centuries old, is valid regardless of the quality of the wines, which can vary from year to year. So far, there has been only one absolute exception where Château Mouton-Rothschild rose from 2nd to 1st rank. It still holds great significance and is therefore used by the vineyards for marketing purposes, indicating the rank on the label.
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The glossary is a monumental achievement and one of the most important contributions to wine knowledge. Of all the encyclopaedias I use on the subject of wine, it is by far the most important. That was the case ten years ago and it hasn't changed since.
Andreas Essl
Autor, Modena