The First Growths, or Premiers Crus, represent the top tier of Bordeaux’s 1855 Classification—a system originally created for the Paris Exposition to rank wines by price and reputation. Only five estates earned this highest status, and they remain some of the most recognisable names in fine wine today.

Four of the First Growths are located in the Médoc—Châteaux Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Margaux, and Mouton Rothschild—with the fifth, Château Haut-Brion, situated in Pessac-Léognan. These wines are known for their longevity, structure, and ability to reflect both vintage and terroir with remarkable clarity.

Though the wine world has evolved, the First Growths still set the benchmark for quality in Bordeaux. Each château has its own distinct style, but all share a reputation for precision, age-worthiness, and international acclaim.