Currently, how many chateaus are under Cru Bourgeois catagory?!
Currently, how many chateaus are under Cru Bourgeois catagory?
Answers:
idk
In 1932 when the Cru Bourgeois classification was introduced, there were 444 chateaux which were allowed to carry that designation on their labels. A great number of those really didn't deserve to be classified as anything better than basic Bordeaux table wine.
In 2003, a new classification was introduced which narrowed the field down to 247 producers in an effort to increase consumer confidence in the quality of the product. The new classification also included an internal classification system which ranked the wines into three categories: Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel, Cru Bourgeois Superieur, and just Cru Bourgeois.
I came across a report that in response to enormous criticism and uproar from the excluded chateaux, this new system has since been annulled. Now it appears that all of the original Chateaux may continue to label themselves as Cru Bourgeois.
A number of Cru Bourgeois have consistently demonstrated their ability to stand up to their classified growth cousins in terms of quality and age worthiness, especially in exceptional vintages like 2000 and 2005. They are always a good value in an overhyped vintage when the big names are overpriced.
Cheers!