Origin
In the hierarchical structure of Bourgogne’s wine classifications, Premier Cru appellations are situated directly above village appellations. These appellations are associated with vineyard sites renowned for producing consistently high-quality wines over centuries, making them some of the most esteemed French Burgundy wines. Premier Cru wines are almost exclusively made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, though a minor percentage of Aligoté may be present. It is rare for a Premier Cru vineyard to be a monopole; instead, most are owned by multiple proprietors, each tending to their own vineyard parcels.
There are over 600 Premier Cru vineyards located within Chablis, the Côte d’Or, and the Côte Chalonnaise, constituting approximately one-tenth of Burgundy’s overall wine production. The term “Premier Cru” must be clearly stated on the wine label. When the wine originates from a single vineyard, the vineyard’s name, such as Gevrey-Chambertin Champeaux or Morey-Saint-Denis Les Millandes, is also featured on the label. Conversely, when wines are blended from several Premier Cru vineyards within a village, the individual vineyard names are typically not included.
