Definition: Cru (classification)

The terms grand cru, premier cru and premier grand cru classé on labels are typically French. They do not have the same meaning in every region. In Burgundy and Chablis, premier cru and grand cru are terms that classify a hierarchical appellation, collectively owned by several winegrowers. Example: Clos de Vougeot, a grand cru in the Côte de Nuits, comprises 69 hectares of vines, divided into 90 plots, belonging to 80 owners. They produce several wines of the same appellation under the same name, "Clos de Vougeot", signed by each producer who is responsible for the vinification. In contrast, in Bordeaux, a château premier grand cru classé offers exclusively, under its single label, the production limited to that property. See classé - cru.