The Saint-Émilion classification
In 1954, in order to incentivise wine estates to strive for excellence, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation classification was established taking into account specific criteria such as soil characteristics, quality of wine produced and assessments after tasting. This classification comes under the authority of the National Institute of Appellations (INAO). The 1st ranking was in 1955.
It distinguishes three levels of quality :
Premier Grand Cru Classé A, Premier Grand Cru Classé (formerly named B) and Grand Cru Classé.
The classification is revised every 10 years. The procedure, entrusted to certifying bodies and with the assistance of the Ministries of Agriculture and Consumer Relations, involves painstaking verifications in the field and devotes a large part of the process to the tasting of the wines.
Following the recent withdrawal of the classification of Château Cheval Blanc, Ausone and Angelus, only one Château is in the race to renew its rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé A: Château Pavie. Other Châteaux may join the A circle after the ranking results in June 2022.
Château TrotteVieille is ranked as a Premier Grand Cru Classé, alongside other great Saint-Émilion names.
Among the Saint-Émilion Grands Crus Classés are Château Grand Corbin, Château Fombrauge and Château La Couspaude.