Guide to the classified great growths of Bordeaux by François Martin | Sud Ouest Editions

184 châteaux benefit from the status of "Grand Cru Classé". It should be noted that this classification varies from one appellation to another: the ranking of wines from Médoc dates back to 1855, while that of Saint-Émilion is revised every 10 years, etc.

Each property is presented on a page, with the label as the only illustration. The history, the reality of the vineyard (certified organic or not, consulting oenologist, type of harvest...), the organization of marketing (en primeur sales...), the grape varieties are described.

The "plus" of this work comes from a hierarchy - established from 1 to 3 stars - concerning the vineyard and cellar tour. One star for those who accept visits, without dedicating special resources to them; 2 stars for châteaux with a proactive policy, tours in multiple languages, and a boutique. And finally, the top, 3 stars for properties that offer complete and exceptional services. This last category includes about fifty names.

The guide also recommends good restaurants in the wine-producing villages.