Classification of wine estates is notoriously tricky. (And of debatable or no value to consumers.) In 2022, Saint Emilion will update its classification, and the drama has already started. When the application for participation in the classification expired on June 30, the two top Chateau Cheval Blanc and Chateau Ausone, had not submitted their application. In other words, they now choose to stand outside the classification.
There were many problems with the previous update (made in 2006, approved, with some changes, only in 2012) because three chateaux were demoted from the classification and started a lawsuit. What also happened was that two chateaux (Pavie and Angélus) were promoted and admitted into the (until then) almost unattainable premier grand cru classé A, previously dedicated to Cheval Blanc and Ausone.
And maybe that’s the problem.
Maybe Cheval Blanc and Ausone are afraid that more chateaux will make it into the A-group, and as a result, they will lose their aura of exclusivity. Cheval Blanc and Ausone may not think they need any classification.
But can the classification survive without them?
Classification otherwise mainly are good for pushing up the prices of the ones that have them. But these two may manage that anyway.
Read our comments on this and on classifications here: Classifications, do they serve any useful purpose.
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