Grand Cru
The highest classification in Champagne — and Burgundy
In Champagne
Champagne uses a village-based classification system (the échelle des crus, or "scale of growths") that was formalized in the early 20th century. Grand Cru villages — there are 17 — received 100% of the standard grape price. Premier Cru villages received 90–99%.
The key Grand Cru villages include: - Ay — primarily Pinot Noir; home to Romain Henin - Chouilly — primarily Chardonnay; source of Henin's Blanc comme Neige - Ambonnay, Bouzy, Verzy — Montagne de Reims Pinot Noir - Avize, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger — Côte des Blancs Chardonnay
In Burgundy
Burgundy's Grand Cru classification applies to specific plots (lieu-dits), not villages. 33 Grand Cru vineyards exist, including Chambertin, Romanée-Conti, Montrachet, and Clos de Vougeot. These are among the most expensive wines on earth.
What It Actually Means
Grand Cru is a statement about terroir — historically, which plots produce the most complex, age-worthy wines. Whether that complexity is realized depends entirely on the producer.