premier cru; pl. premiers crus
[preh-MYAY (preh-MEER) KROO]
1. A French phrase meaning "first growth." 2. In BORDEAUX'S regions of the MÉDOC and SAUTERNES, premier cru is the highest subcategory of CRU CLASSÉ (classed growth), which was established in the Classification of 1855. Bordeaux wines that achieve this ultimate ranking may put "Premier Grand Cru Classé" on their labels. In 1855, four red-wine-producing châteaux were given this top ranking: Lafite-Rothschild, Latour, Margaux, and Haut-Brion. In 1973, Château Mouton-Rothschild was upgraded to premier cru status. There are eleven châteaux in Sauternes with the premier cru designation, plus Château d'Yquem, with its elevated status of premier grand cru (first great growth).
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© Copyright Barron's Educational Services, Inc.
1995 based on THE WINE LOVER'S COMPANION,
by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst.
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