Grands Crus Classés Masterclass showcases legendary French wines

This exclusive experience was reserved for a distinguished gathering of wine aficionados, trade professionals, and select members of the media. On 28 November, the Hall of Honour at the Embassy of France in New Delhi hosted a remarkable masterclass showcasing eight illustrious Grands Crus Classés from Bordeaux’s historic 1855 classification.

Each pour offered a rare glimpse into the Left Bank’s most revered terroirs-wines that embody the region’s storied heritage and timeless winemaking tradition. For those fortunate enough to attend, the tasting left not only a lasting impression but also an undeniable desire for more encounters with Bordeaux’s finest.

The proceedings kicked off with a welcome note by Vianney Meynier, Head of Agrotec and Market Entry Strategy at Business France India. This was followed by an opening address by Philippe Casteja, President of the Conseil des Grands Crus Classés 1855 and owner of Château Batailley. Philippe gave the audience an overview of the masterclass and highlighted the essential elements that shape Bordeaux's terroir, such as the soil, climate, and most importantly, the people behind the vineyards and winemaking. Emphasising the century-old expertise and tradition upheld by Bordeaux's vignerons, he expressed confidence in India's rapidly maturing luxury wine market, stating the need for more educational events like this masterclass to increase awareness and appreciation of Bordeaux wines in the country.

Château Marquis d'Alesme Becker, an elegant blend from Margaux; Château d'Issan, offering structured wines charged with cassis and mineral notes; Château Pédèsclaux from Pauillac, which brings modern intensity and polish; Château Lafon-Rochet, a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant wine from Saint-Estèphe characterised by its cassis, licorice and structured palate; and finally Château d'Arche from Sauternes known for its luscious, botrytis-affected sweet wines formed by the misty convergence of the Garonne and Ciron rivers.

Present at the tasting were eight famous wines from the 1855 classification, including Château Batailley of Pauillac, with its historical association to the Battle of Castillon in 1453; Château Branaire-Ducru of Saint-Julien, whose wines are renowned for their elegance and refinement. Others included Château Giscours from Margaux, a biodynamically farmed estate known to make wines with finesse and rich texture; Château Marquis d'Alesme Becker, an elegant blend from Margaux; Château d'Issan, which offers structured wines charged with cassis and mineral notes; Château Pédèsclaux in Pauillac, adding modern intensity and polish; Château Lafon-Rochet, a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated wine from Saint-Estèphe characterised by its cassis, liquorice, and structured palate; and Château d'Arche from Sauternes, with its luscious botrytis-affected sweet wines from the misty convergence of the Garonne and Ciron rivers.

Later in the evening, the gathering of lucky wine lovers and wine trade people shifted to The Lalit, New Delhi for a specially curated dinner with the highest rated Grand Cru Classés wines from Bordeaux's1855 classification. The wine pairing with the food was done under the guidance of The Lalit’s Chief Sommelier, Donnadieu Charles and top chefs of the hotel.

The wine tasting itself gave guests the opportunity to interact face-to-face with the winemakers and representatives of the châteaux, an immersive meeting with the best traditions of Bordeaux. The event marked the strong Indian-French partnership in the realm of fine wines and spirits, similar to earlier successful initiatives like Tastin’France.

The guests departed the masterclass and the dinner with an increased understanding of Bordeaux's legendary classified growths, their terroir-driven characteristics, and the centuries of passion and experience sealed in every glass poured at the event.