Quick answer A First Growth is one of the five top-ranked Bordeaux châteaux in the 1855 Classification: Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Margaux, Haut-Brion and, since 1973, Mouton Rothschild.
The 1855 Classification is the most famous ranking in the wine world. It shaped how Bordeaux is bought, sold and collected for more than 170 years, and it is still the reference point for many collectors.
Key takeaways
- The classification dates from 1855 and ranked châteaux of the Médoc, plus Haut-Brion from Graves.
- It ranked wines by price, which at the time reflected quality and demand.
- There are five tiers, from First to Fifth Growth, and five First Growths.
What is the 1855 Bordeaux Classification?
According to Decanter, the 1855 classification ranked the châteaux of the Médoc, plus Haut-Brion from Graves, based on price — a proxy for each wine’s quality and demand. The communes involved include Pauillac, Margaux, St-Julien and St-Estèphe.
Which châteaux are Bordeaux First Growths?
- Château Lafite Rothschild (Pauillac)
- Château Latour (Pauillac)
- Château Margaux (Margaux)
- Château Haut-Brion (Pessac, Graves)
- Château Mouton Rothschild (Pauillac) — promoted to First Growth in 1973
How many classified châteaux are there?
Decanter’s list shows five tiers: five First Growths, 14 Second Growths, 15 Third Growths, 10 Fourth Growths and 18 Fifth Growths, for 62 classified châteaux in total. Cantemerle was added in 1856.
Why does the 1855 classification still matter?
Because the tiers are still printed on labels and used in auction catalogues and price lists, they remain a shorthand for reputation and rarity. Older vintages from these châteaux are among the most sought-after bottles; you can browse Bordeaux wines in our selection and read about collecting and investment.
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Frequently asked questions
How many First Growths are there in Bordeaux?
Five: Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Margaux, Haut-Brion and Mouton Rothschild.
When did Mouton Rothschild become a First Growth?
Château Mouton Rothschild was promoted to First Growth in 1973.
What regions does the 1855 Classification cover?
The Médoc, plus Château Haut-Brion from Graves.
How many châteaux are in the 1855 Classification?
Decanter’s list shows 62 classified châteaux across five tiers, with Cantemerle added in 1856.
What was the 1855 classification based on?
Price, which at the time reflected each wine’s quality and demand.
Sources
- Decanter — The official 1855 Bordeaux classification — Full list of classified châteaux, tiers and the 1973 promotion of Mouton.
Last reviewed: October 2026.
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