Burgundy Grand Cru

Less than two percent of Burgundy's vineyards are Grand Cru (great growth), the highest level in the vineyard classification of Burgundy. The Grand Cru origin can be traced to the work of the Cistercians who were able to delineate and isolate plots of land based on their distinct character. Following the French Revolution, many of these vineyards were broken up and sold as smaller parcels to various owners. Furthermore, the Napoleonic inheritance law equally divided the land among heirs, contributing to the atomization of Burgundy's vineyards. This is why the single 125 acres Clos Vougeot vineyard initially run by the monks, today is parceled into plots owned by approximately 80 different owners, some of whom only own enough vines to make a few cases of wine per year. Each owner or producer has total independence to make its own wine, resulting in variance in the quality, style, price, and reputation. Only thirty-three vineyards have the privilege of being "Grand Cru". Only the name of the vineyard figures on the label. They are the best among the best!