Crus Bourgeois du Médoc, a prestigious and historic Bordeaux classification and family of châteaux, is a family of wines with roots dating back to the Middle Ages. Crus Bourgeois is made up of 250 châteaux spanning seven appellations on the Left Bank of Bordeaux. Accounting for 31% of the Médoc’s production, Crus Bourgeois is committed to creating high-quality, terroir-driven, and affordable wines. The production is dedicated solely to reds, primarily based on Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Across the 250 châteaux, there are a myriad of styles, winemaking philosophies, and personalities – but all are tied together by their commitment to quality and the incredible value their wines offer. The five-year classification, which was announced in 2020, signals a new era for the largest family of Bordeaux crus. It was instituted to create clear goals for winegrowers, while also giving consumers a better idea of expected quality levels. The criteria for classification includes wine quality, regular tasting checks, and environmentally responsible winegrowing. For these châteaux reshaping Crus Bourgeois, the five-year classification will be crucial both to achieving individual goals and serving the category’s future.
The classification is divided into three quality tiers: Cru Bourgeois, Cru Bourgeois Supérieur, and Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. Consumers wishing to purchase these wines at their local wine shops should simply look for the term “Cru Bourgeois du Médoc” on the bottle and know that there is a standard of quality attached to this label.
The Left Bank of Bordeaux is known for its gravelly soils, stately chateaux, and long-lived wines. Crus Bourgeois du Médoc wines are fitting for consumers who may be interested in exploring the area through authentic, quality wines without the hefty price tag. These expressive and nuanced reds are often available for $35 and under – ideal for a hostess gift during the holiday season. Flavorful and food-friendly, Crus Bourgeois wines pair well with savory braised short ribs or a charcuterie board and will warm up a cold winter night. Crus Bourgeois wines are known as being bold yet balanced, with Merlot adding a touch of softness to a Cabernet Sauvignon blend. The classification is a staple for both everyday sipping and special occasions.
: @MAGRINOPR