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grand cru; pl. grands crus
[grahn KROO]

1. French for “great growth.” 2. Grand cru is used in BURGUNDY for the top ranking a vineyard can receive. It’s only bestowed upon a limited number of vineyards in the CÔTE D’OR and CHABLIS. Because the vineyards of Burgundy are divided among many owners, this top ranking doesn’t always guarantee that the very best wines will be produced by the various vintners. The rank just below grand cru is PREMIER CRU. 3. In France’s CHAMPAGNE region, villages are classified according to wine quality, and a percentage rating is applied, the very best receiving 100 percent. Seventeen villages in Champagne qualify for this highest (grand cru) status, although it’s probably less meaningful in Champagne because the house (producer) is generally considered most important. 4. In ALSACE (as of 1983), the grand cru designation is bestowed upon the top vineyards. To date, fifty-one have qualified and are allowed to put “Grand Cru” on their labels. 5. In BORDEAUX, the designation grand cru (versus GRAND CRU CLASSÉ) is given to some châteaux (such as those in SAINT-ÉMILION), but it has little real meaning.
Related Links: grand cru classé, premier grand cru classé, Cô, Champagne, Alsace
© 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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